THROWBACK THURSDAY: Interns Then, Partners Now
Many of you may recognize Brian Risley and Chris Mannino as the current partners and principal architects of CRP Architects...
But you may not realize that their journey with this firm began over 20 years ago...
CHRIS MANNINO
BEGAN WORK AT CRP: 1990
BECAME A PARTNER: 2014
EDUCATION: Associate of Applied Science in Architecture - Pikes Peak Community College (1990)
LICENSE: Colorado & Arizona
BRIAN RISLEY
BEGAN WORK AT CRP: 1998
BECAME A PARTNER: 2013
EDUCATION: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Architecture & Bachelor of Architecture - Rhode Island School of Design (1998)
LICENSE: Colorado & Wyoming
Brian and Chris were both hired out of college by the firm's original partners, Holger Christiansen and Leland Reece (both now retired). The two young architects started their careers in a time where computer software was newly surfacing and most projects were entirely hand-drawn. They both found a resonating passion for the work they were doing and for the Colorado community they lived in - a catalyst to their futures in becoming fellow partners and principals of CRP Architects.
What was the very first project you worked on?
CHRIS: Douglas County High School
BRIAN: Phase II of the Center for Creative Leadership
How has the office/culture evolved since you began working here?
CHRIS: It’s been amazing to experience the technological transformation of the office and industry. I would spend endless hours drafting by hand and running blueprints.
BRIAN: It has been fascinating watching technology evolve both in the world and in this profession since starting almost 20 years ago. The office culture has also grown to have more of a family/team feel and our reputation has evolved into being strong and widely-known stewards of this community.
What made you passionate about staying with CRP and becoming a partner?
CHRIS: Being able to experience all aspects of Architecture and developing personal relationships with each community has kept me passionate with CRP. I love Colorado and all the culture that goes with living in the West.
BRIAN: I was drawn to the company's philosophy of actively listening to clients and fulfilling their needs through the innovative design of their facilities. I grew to love being an advocate for community members when it came to the built world. I had the option of staying in Boston which inevitably meant I would've become a small fish in a big pond. Working for CRP allowed me to wear many hats I may have never had the opportunity to wear elsewhere and I was able to have a greater impact on the Colorado region.
