Brett Grinkmeyer
AIA, LEED AP
Instructor at Southeast Tech and Architect at Brett Grinkmeyer Architecture
Why did you decide to become an architect/design professional?
I’ve always loved drawing. I’ve been drawing for as long as I can remember. In high school I took a drafting class where I learned about architecture, in particular about Frank Lloyd Wright, who had designed a couple homes in my hometown. That started my interest in architecture. It wasn’t until my first year of architecture school when I learned about Mies van der Rohe, Alvar Aalto, and LeCorbusier when I felt confident in my decision to pursue architecture.
What excites you about your industry? What type of projects do you most like to engage in?
In 2004 I went to work for a residential design firm and since then residential architecture has always been my primary interest. Residential projects are small enough to where you can get involved in all aspects of the design. I enjoy the collaborative relationship with clients. Taking an inventory of their needs and fusing it together to create something unique and particularly suited to them.
What excites you most about AIA South Dakota?
As a transplant, I really like it here in South Dakota. I recently started my new position as the Architecture Instructor at Southeast Tech. I’m excited about educating students about the profession. Introducing them to new architects and new ideas. I look forward to teaching and getting involved in the Sioux Falls architectural community.
Tell us about your path to licensure and/or your work history.
I earned my undergraduate degree in architecture from the University of Houston and my master’s degree from Southern California Institute of Architecture (SCI-Arc). I passed all of my exams and became licensed in Texas in 2007. In 2012 I started my own practice in Austin, Texas. I moved to Sioux Falls to start teaching at Southeastern Technical College.
How do you spend your free time?
In my free time I like to play music and spend time with my wife and daughter who is 7 years old.
AIA South Dakota is the professional non-profit membership association of architects, future architects, and partners in the building and design industries, and the state chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) AIA South Dakota advances the mission that design matters in every South Dakota community.
Welcome to AIA South Dakota Brett!