Our People are dedicated to their practice and particular expertise. From planning through design, to construction
oversight, we surround ourselves with the most creative, conceptual, hard-working people in Architecture.
Elizabeth Amirahmadi, AIA, a founding partner of International Architects Atelier, attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln where she received a Master of Architecture degree. Elizabeth has designed award-winning cultural centers, higher education, and corporate projects.
She served for 10 years on the board of the Kansas City Municipal Art Commission. Her true passion is creating innovative architecture, but a good mystery novel runs a close second.
Majid Amirahmadi, AIA, a founding partner of International Architects Atelier, attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln where he received a Master of Architecture degree. Majid is passionate about exploring design solutions that both fit our client’s program needs, and exceed their expectations. Majid is as humble as they come, still trying to prove to his first-year design studio instructor that he is talented, despite over three decades of award-winning work.
Andy Short, AIA, a Senior Associate with IAA, graduated from the University of Kansas with a Bachelor of Architecture degree. He consistently develops an atmosphere of collaboration amongst the design team, contractor, and client. His coordination skills ensure that work performed by various disciplines comes together logically to form a cohesive and functioning result. Since fatherhood is such a breeze, he derives all his drama in life from a good movie now and then.
Jordan Lake, AIA, graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a Master of Architecture degree. An Associate at IAA, Jordan made his way to Kansas City not too long after, bringing along with him a broad range of project experience, from college campus master planning to historic restoration. Away from IAA, you will most likely find Jordan with a good sci-fi novel, or cheering for his Nebraska Cornhuskers. Go Big Red!
Sarah Tappe graduated from the University of Arkansas Fay Jones School of Architecture + Design where she spent time abroad in Rome, Italy, and the Nordic countries. She is especially interested in the revitalization of old industrial and warehouse districts within cities, and their adaptation into contemporary and sustainable designs. Sarah views architecture as a critical tool in addressing the larger issues of today and helping to move cities forward by inspiring change that is focused on a better way of living. When Sarah is away from the office she is likely exploring. Whether it’s a concert in the Crossroads, a walk through the Nelson-Atkins lawns or a road trip adventure, Sarah keeps busy soaking in the culture around her.
Autumn Olsen graduated from the University of Kansas School of Architecture and Design with a Master of Architecture degree and business minor. During her time at KU, she spent a semester in Copenhagen learning about Danish design and studying examples of how sustainable architecture can be achieved. Autumn is passionate about improving people’s lives and our environment through creative, intentional design. Beyond the office she enjoys kayaking, creative projects, and working on puzzles with close friends and family.
Isaí Castañeda graduated from the University of Arkansas Fay Jones School of Architecture and Design with his Bachelor of Architecture degree. Prior to graduation, he got the incredible opportunity of studying abroad in Rome. Isai is fascinated by the constant evolution of cities and neighborhoods and how people interact with their built environment. He is inspired by design styles such as Brutalism, Japanese Metabolism, and the conceptual work of groups like Archigram and Superstudio. Outside of Architecture, he loves music, drawing and tabletop RPG games.
Ava Amirahmadi, AIA holds a Bachelor of Arts with a Major in Architecture from Columbia University, and received her Master of Architecture at Yale University. During her time practicing in New York City, she worked on a wide range of projects, from the façade of a supertall tower now seen on the Manhattan skyline to the interiors of the Summit Observation Deck visited by millions of visitors each year. When not designing, Ava tries to keep up with as many childhood hobbies as she can. She still enjoys playing soccer, taking ballet classes, and baking. Ava loves playing board games with friends and family, particular favorites are The Settlers of Catan and Pandemic Legacy.
Ben Jensen earned his Master of Architecture from the University of Kansas in 2018. While he admires many architectural design styles, Ben has an admiration for Art Deco, Miesian and both Ancient & Contemporary Japanese. Ben is a student at heart – he loves studying & learning the history of different art forms such as cinema, music and more recently painting. He is also proud of his ever-expanding vinyl record collection that just crossed the 400+ mark.
Lyzzet Samples, Office Manager at International Architects Atelier, graduated from Colorado Technical University with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. Lyzzet is a Kansas City native and comes to IAA with an extensive background in legal office administration and operations. Her responsibilities include Human Resources, Accounting and Office Management. Outside of IAA Lyzzet finds the greatest joy in spending quality time with her three children and their fur babies.
Kiana Amirahmadi serves as the Business Development Director at International Architects Atelier. She graduated from Princeton University, where she studied Art History. Having always had an appreciation for architecture and design, Kiana enjoys finding opportunities for the IAA to flex its creativity in design. Outside the office, Kiana spends her time trying new restaurants or watching reality tv.
International Architects Atelier (IAA) is a leading architectural firm and a team of technical experts with an unparalleled dedication to our client's visions and needs while contributing our creativity to produce solution-oriented, award-winning, and innovative designs.
Founded in 1988 and headquartered in Kansas City, IAA has accrued a portfolio of clients with whom our experienced team collaborates for productive, lifelong partnerships to shape our communities for the future.
The breadth of expertise within our team means that we are able to provide the extensive resources of a full-service firm with the personalized service of a small studio.
Our approach manifests in cohesive, forward-thinking solutions of timeless design and relevance within their communities.
International Architects Atelier offers a variety of planning and design solutions including the following:
International Architects Atelier (IAA) is a leading design firm and team of technical experts with an unparalleled dedication to our clients’ visions and needs while contributing our creativity to produce solution-oriented, award-winning, and innovative designs.
Founded in 1988 and headquartered in Kansas City, IAA is a team of passionate and creative individuals with diverse voices and perspectives. Our collaborative environment means that each team member has meaningful involvement in all stages of our projects.
Our approach manifests in cohesive, forward-thinking solutions of timeless design and relevance within their communities.
We’re always looking for talent.
If interested in joining the IAA team send your cover letter, resume and work samples to iaa@i-a-a.com.
International Architects Atelier is an equal opportunity employer.
