History
Pat and Cynthia first met in the early 1980’s while serving as board members for the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Architectural Alumni Association. Presented with the opportunity to launch their own firm in 1986, PACE Architects was established. Enthusiastic about their new opportunities, they started to break through stereotypical barriers as one of the first women owned architectural firms in Wisconsin.
The idea of reshaping work environments within a city to promote creativity, learning and productivity, is an engaging venture to everyone that works at PACE. Building on a strong sense of community and family, it became second nature for PACE to pursue designing for educational, child care, and office facilities. Pat loves to see a space come alive with movement and activity; especially when it makes a positive “ripple effect” on the community, neighborhood, and the individuals it was intended for.
Cynthia’s dual background in architecture and interior design allows her to find a perfect match between a space and the client’s needs. She understands that listening to the client is the key to creating a great project.
Brian Kobasick became a partner in 2007 and continues to build on the philosophy that personal attention to a client's specific needs is crucial in the solution of any design problem. Brian is dedicated to making the client’s needs, timelines, and budgets a priority.
The success of PACE Architects continues to grow thanks to the support of our clients and their generous referrals.
Testimonials
“I have been particularly impressed with their thoroughness of research, attention to detail and timely response in every aspect of these projects… I am confident that you will find their superior level of service, dedication, and attention to detail will make your project a success.”
Facilities Architect, Public School System
“We would highly recommend PACE Architects for any project and feel that they are particularly responsive to the needs of youth or non-profit organizations.”
CEO/Executive Director, Non Profit Organization
“The design team at PACE each brought unique perspectives and skills which collectively covered all of the issues we deemed vital.”
Property Manager, Non Profit Organization
“PACE Architects philosophy of placing the interests of the Owner above everything else was a contributing factor to the project being finished on time, and on budget.”
Senior Project Manager, National Construction Company
“They took our ideas and transformed them …Their design work is innovative, interesting, and sensitive to the environment.”
Chairman – Property Task Group, Non Profit Organization
“It is a small, responsive firm with a unique history of involvement with accessibility design and a sincere professional attitude toward why it should be done right and well.”
Director of Campus Services, Milwaukee Regional Medical Center
“(They understand) the importance of designing a facility that can be maintained and operated efficiently after the building is occupied.”
Manager of Design and Construction, Public School System
- Established in 1986
- Founded by Patricia Frost and Cynthia Ethington
- Corporate, Public, and Commercial Experience