The Future of Hummel Architects
Discover how Hummel Architects’ new leadership team is continuing its 128-year legacy in the industry by steering the firm toward design excellence and exceptional customer service.
In an exciting new chapter for a firm deeply embedded in architectural history, Hummel Architects proudly announces the appointment of its new team, including two trailblazing female leaders. This pivotal moment reflects the firm’s commitment to innovation, diversity, and forward-thinking design, marking a significant milestone in its 128-year history. This change is part of a strategic succession plan designed to ensure the firm’s continued growth and adaptation in an evolving industry landscape.
Historical Context and Evolution
Founded in 1896, a year notable for significant events such as the first working escalator at Coney Island and the invention of X-ray imaging, Hummel Architects has been a beacon of architectural excellence. At that time, the world was witnessing the dawn of modernity, yet the idea of women in leadership roles within an architecture firm would have seemed a distant dream. Fast forward to today, Hummel Architects stands as a testament to progress and inclusivity, celebrating the remarkable achievements of its diverse team.
“Having been with Hummel Architects for over three decades, I’ve seen firsthand the importance of succession planning,” said Scott Straubhar, Partner. “The introduction of our new leaders ensures that our rich heritage is preserved while infusing the firm with new ideas and energy essential for our future success.”
“Bringing in new owners to a firm like Hummel is essential for fostering innovation and positioning ourselves to face the next 128 years. This latest generation of owners honors the foundation established by our founders while navigating the future,” Ed Daniels, Partner said while discussing the transition.
Fifth Generation of Leaders
This new group at Hummel represents the fifth generation of leaders, continuing a storied tradition of excellence and longevity that began 128 years ago. Each generation has built upon the foundations laid by its predecessors, adapting to changing times while maintaining the firm’s core values of innovation, integrity, and high-quality design. This seamless transition highlights the firm’s commitment to nurturing talent and ensuring continuity in its mission to deliver innovative design. In addition to Scott Straubhar and Ed Daniels as Partners, the new leaders bring fresh perspectives and a diverse wealth of experience, promising to uphold the firm’s prestigious reputation and drive it forward into the future.
New Leadership Team:
Mandy Boam, NCIDQ, AIA, IIDA – Principal: Since joining Hummel Architects in 2005, Mandy has played a pivotal role in the firm, bringing her expertise as both a licensed Interior Designer and Architect in Idaho. She excels in commercial and institutional design across a variety of public sector projects. Mandy’s comprehensive services encompass community outreach, planning, programming, space planning, adaptive reuse, interior finishes, furniture, and artwork. Her recent work includes numerous projects for St. Luke’s Health System, Idaho State University, and Boise State University. Mandy is dedicated to delivering designs that meet the highest standards of functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Zacharia Lester, AIA, NCARB – Principal: Since joining Hummel Architects in 2017, Zacharia has specialized in planning and programming healthcare and laboratory spaces. His design philosophy centers on fostering and facilitating team collaborations to uncover creative solutions that offer higher quality and greater value for clients. Beyond his project work, Zacharia is passionate about mentoring emerging architects, guiding them to develop their skills and contribute meaningfully to the field. His recent projects include multiple initiatives for St. Luke’s Health System, such as the Center for Orthopedic Sports Medicine and the McCall Hospital Expansion.
Rob Beusan, AIA, NCARB – Principal: Rob joined Hummel Architects in 2013 and has since taken on the role of Director of Design, leading the creative direction and conceptualization of client projects. With a track record of innovation and commitment to excellence, Rob has guided his design team in delivering compelling and visionary architectural solutions. His recent achievements include overseeing the development of concepts and animations for Treasure Valley Community College, Idaho State University, Boise State University, and the College of Western Idaho’s Boise campus. Rob is crucial in effectively communicating vision and goals for planning and design projects.
Brian Coleman, AIA, NCARB – Principal: Brian joined Hummel Architects in 2014 and specializes in providing exemplary leadership and project management for heathcare, the public sector and adaptive reuse projects. Known for his commitment to excellent customer service and client management, Brian ensures projects exceed expectations while maintaining effective communication and collaboration throughout. His recent projects include the expansion of the downtown campus for St. Luke’s Health System, Desert Sage Health Clinic, Fire Station No. 5 in downtown Boise, and the Elko County Justice Center.
Brian Riopelle, AIA, NCARB – Principal: Since joining Hummel Architects in 2016, Brian has brought his dynamic leadership and exceptional project management to our public and private institutional clients in healthcare and higher education. In his role as principal, he oversees the company’s staffing resources in his key management role, skillfully matching our staff’s talents with client and project needs. He has completed dozens of successful projects for the Idaho Division of Public Works and various state agencies such as Idaho State University, Boise State University, Idaho Department of Correction, and Idaho Department of Labor. This underscores his commitment to innovative design and client satisfaction.
Gwen Andrews, Associate: Since joining in 2012 as the Director of Finance and Administration, Gwen has been instrumental in overseeing day-to-day financial management and assisting ownership in strategic planning. Gwen manages Human Resources and leads the administrative team that supports every project within the firm. Her holistic oversight ensures that Hummel Architects maintains robust financial health and operates efficiently and effectively in project execution, ultimately benefiting each client served.
Commitment to Excellence and Innovation:
As Hummel Architects embarks on this new era, the leadership team is committed to honoring the firm’s rich heritage while propelling it toward a future of limitless possibilities. With a renewed focus on community-oriented projects, high standards of design, and technological advancements, Hummel Architects aims to continue the tradition of architectural excellence for the next century and beyond.