History

Robert Minch and Paul Voelckers

MRV Architects, one of the oldest and most stable architectural firms in Alaska, was established in 1952. Since then, our broad list of project types, including schools, museums, housing, hotels, and libraries, have shared common design priorities. Each project we design strives to be appropriate in scale and character to its setting, pleasing in form, carefully detailed for the Alaskan Southeast Climate, and sensitive to issues of light and view--an issue which often sets apart our most successful building projects. MRV offers a wide range of professional services, including programming, planning, conceptual design, construction drawings, construction management, interior design and space planning.  

MRV Architects is a mid-sized firm with a consistent average of 10-12 employees. We find this to be an optimum size to best perform professional design services; it allows us the benefit of principal involvement and continuity, with the capacity to produce Southeast Alaska's largest projects. Principals Robert Minch and Paul Voelckers bring over 40 years of combined experience to the firm, and have extensive knowledge on local issues of climate, appropriate materials, and energy-conscious design.

MRV invests continually in current technology for CAD production and 3-D imaging. We utilize a high-speed cable modem with full-time Internet access on high-end workstations at every desk. An in-house FTP site facilitates access to current CAD files for consultants and owners.

We have the breadth of experience to give every project an opportunity for excellence. MRV has achieved a record of design distinction among Alaskan architects, with five top regional and state honor awards. In addition to design skill, this success underscores our ability in overall project delivery, including the practical aspects of project management, cost control, and construction practices.  Our staff is known for hard work, dedication to project success and client satisfaction.

Design Philosophy

We believe that the design process itself is critical to the final quality of the building produced.  MRV Architects is committed to an inclusive process, involving the Owner throughout the project evolution to ensure that the finished building fulfills the client's vision and intent. To support this continuity, MRV principals work "hands-on" during design, developing an understanding of issues not possible in the typical separation of management and design tasks.

To maintain a high standard of construction quality, MRV performs internal reviews of technical and design issues related to constructability, life cycle costs, and material appropriateness, involving the client fully in cost/quality decisions. Our history of long client relationships and repeat project referrals support this technical competence and attention to owner needs.

Our approach to document production and construction services is simple: we know from experience what is important to a successful building project, and we deliver.  MRV Architects' record of success on projects is due in large part to our ability to meet project budgets and schedules. 

A common theme which links all the buildings produced by MRV Architects is our commitment to professionalism. The resulting quality of the finished project is evident in each of our projects, spanning many building types and locales. Above all, we make Southeast Alaska our home, and are committed to strengthening the enviable reputations our firm has acquired through years.

Back to the Top