Kurtis Nishiyama died suddenly at the age of 32 years old in Fairmont Hot Springs, BC, on Saturday, August 15, 2020.

Kurtis started with our firm in the summer of 2012 as a student, bringing with him a background in Civil Engineering and an unparalleled eagerness to learn all he could and develop creative solutions. In 2015, Kurtis returned to the firm as an Intern Architect. Working closely with Partner Stephen Bugbee, Kurtis was involved in some of our largest retail developments in Western Canada including Cooper’s Town Promenade, Springbank Village, Sobeys and Sage Hill Quarter. In 2017, Kurtis became a registered architect with the Alberta Association of Architects.

Taking on a more significant leadership role within project teams and within our studios, Kurtis was named an Associate of the firm in 2018 and subsequently a Senior Associate in 2019. He was known to go above and beyond what was asked of him. Kurtis was reliable. You could ask something of Kurtis and know with confidence that it would be completed—and completed well.

Beyond his professional commitment, Kurtis was dedicated to ensuring the well-being of those around him. He was genuinely kind and caring. His laughter could fill a room. His ambition, infectious smile, kind heart and creative talents will be greatly missed. Our thoughts are with all who knew Kurtis.

Condolences can be left for the family here: Kurtis’ obituary