Enrique Vela Joins Olson Kundig as Director of Interiors
2020/10/20
Olson Kundig is pleased to announce that Enrique Vela, AIA, IIDA, has joined the firm as Director of Interiors. In this role, Enrique will lead the firm’s Interior Design studio, collaborating with interior designers, architects, clients and partners across Olson Kundig’s portfolio of projects. As Olson Kundig continues to grow its interior design work in the hospitality and commercial sectors – supported by ongoing projects with leading brands like One&Only, Miraval, Hyatt, Six Senses and others – Enrique will work closely with design principals and Claudia Maggiani, Senior Project Manager for Hospitality, to target new projects in these vital markets and support the firm’s high-end residential design work for clients around the globe.
“I am happy and humbled to begin the next chapter in my career with Olson Kundig, a firm I have admired since I began studying architecture,” shares Enrique. “It’s an incredible honor to be welcomed into this team and to work with such a talented group of designers and craftspeople. I am excited to help shape the evolution of Olson Kundig’s Interior Design studio and continue the firm’s timeless design legacy that spans decades, continents and market sectors.”
Enrique brings over 15 years of design and project management experience on corporate, hospitality and residential projects. His creative approach to design and leadership within the industry has impressed clients and peers alike. He was honored on Boutique Design magazine’s ‘Boutique 18’ list in 2014, which recognizes rising stars within the hospitality industry.
Prior to joining Olson Kundig, Enrique worked for Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), ICRAVE Design in New York, Wilson Associates in Los Angeles and most recently as Principal and Design Director for Rottet Studio in Los Angeles.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Enrique Vela to Olson Kundig,” says principal and owner Kevin M. Kudo-King. “As Director of Interiors, Enrique will help grow our hospitality portfolio, while continuing to build on our reputation for residential design excellence by offering our clients holistic solutions that span architecture and interiors.”
“This recent growth within our interiors and hospitality teams – including Senior Project Manager Claudia Maggiani – contributes to our collective experience with branded hospitality at a variety of scales,” adds COO/CFO Hemanshu Parwani. “I’m excited to have Enrique join us at Olson Kundig as we work to expand our reach in this exciting, competitive sector.”