DESIGN TEAM

Sears Barrett, A.I.A
Principal Architect

Master of Architecture
University of Oregon

Bachelor of English Literature and Fine Arts
Colgate University, Hamilton, NY

Sears began his architectural career working as a Vista volunteer in the poorest neighborhoods in Denver.  Similar to legal aid, the Community Design Center offered free architectural services to neighborhood organizations focused on improving their facilities.  This led to a leadership position at Denver Free University where he coordinated the educational program of the nations largest community based free school. 

An interest in construction and a fascination with solar design inspired the next chapter in Sears’ career.  In 1978 he founded one of the first design-build firms specializing in Passive Solar design.  After completing a number of earth integrated, passive solar homes Sears was asked to join the staff of The Solar Energy Institute (now known as The National Renewable Energy Institute).  Sears was responsible for conceiving and managing research programs on the performance of passive solar designs. 

In 1984 Sears decided to return to his primary love of design.  His goal was to fuse the lessons learned at the Solar Energy Institute with elegant, site sensitive residential design.  For over twenty years his firm has built a reputation for designs that demonstrate creativity, an artful use of materials, and a fine sense of proportion. 

What is most exciting to Sears is the increasing interest among his clients in conservation and sustainability.  “We have always applied passive solar design principles to our work when the site allowed.  Now we have many clients who are looking for that unique blend of sustainability and elegant design.

Sears Barrett's resume

Jeff came to Denver in 1981 after earning a Bachelor of Architecture degree at Montana State University. He worked for a number of large and small architectural firms and has worked on various projects which include: office buildings, retail centers, restaurants, schools and houses  Jeff was licensed to practice architecture in 1986 and has more than twenty years of architectural experience.

Jeff has been with Sears Barrett Architects since 2003.  He has worked on all phases of housing design projects, including schematics, design development, construction documents and construction administration.

Jeff is married, has a young child, and lives in Centennial.  He likes to travel, ski, bicycle and garden.

Mike Awn, A.I.A.
Project Architect

Master of Architecture, University of Colorado
Bachelor of Environmental Design, University of Colorado

Mike is an energetic and creative licensed professional with thirteen years of practical experience in the profession. Over half of his career has been spent in the resort and residential sector, which he finds the most challenging and personally gratifying area of work.

Mike is married to a design professional and has a two-year-old daughter and a newborn son. Outside the office, when he has the time, Mike enjoys getting outdoors whether it is golfing, mountain biking, camping or an occasional volleyball tournament.

Josh Rudolph
Project Architect

Master of Architecture-University of Maryland
Bachelor of Arts in Architecture-Princeton University

Josh is a third generation architect and a recent transplant from the East Coast.  He has spent the past fifteen years working in a variety of design-oriented firms in Manhattan and on a wide array of project types.  His particular strengths in high-end custom residential projects have landed him at Sears Barrett Architects.

Previously, Josh served on the Planning Board for the Borough of Red Bank, NJ as well as on the Historic Preservation Committee.

While studying architecture at Princeton University, Josh played varsity football and was a member of the University Cottage Club.  He is an avid golfer and fly fisherman and a member of the Anglers’ Club of New York.

Josh and his wife Jennifer have two young children, Braedon and Georgia.  They currently live in Denver.

Kristie is the Office Manager for Sears Barrett and is just thrilled with the job!  A native of Colorado, Kristie moved to Chicago to complete her BA and pursue an acting career.  After living in the city for twelve years, running a theatre company, marketing for the original Chicago Style pizzeria, coordinating the annual fundraiser with the Chicago Bears’ Wives she decided to move back home to be closer to her family.  Now Kristie enjoys the calmer side of life, working part time for Sears and juggling the activities of her three-year-old daughter and four-year-old son, along with her husband’s hectic work schedule.