“If somebody wants something, I’ll work on it,” he said, as he tailors his work for each client.
While this has become part of family lore, it is his attention to detail that has served him well as he has worked on all types of architectural projects throughout the country.
About three years ago, he opened JRK Architecture Studio in Prescott. He works on both commercial and residential projects, remodels and new builds.
“If somebody wants something, I’ll work on it,” he said, as he tailors his work for each client.
In high school, Kimery liked to work on cabinets. He also became a drafter and worked as an intern for civil and electrical engineers. After studying architecture in San Diego, he found a job in Montana.
In 2012, he started working for a Prescott architectural firm. “I would design something unique – different building types for different jurisdictions. Each city and county is a bit different and the codes are open to interpretation, but Prescott and Yavapai County are not that much different from other places,” he said.
In 2014, Kimery left to work on bigger projects in Glendale, as he worked on medical facilities for Banner Health and the Mayo Clinic. After that, he worked on a 550-apartment complex with buildings that were four to six stories.
After those projects, Kimery and wife, Sue, went on the road in an RV for three years as they worked as far east as Tennessee. They eventually ended up in San Diego, where he worked on high-end residential projects. However, in 2022, they returned to Prescott in 2022 and opened their own firm.
Currently, JRK’s biggest project is an 81,000-square-foot building near Prescott Airport, expected to be completed in nine months. Kimery also is working on upgrading a home on Marina Street so that it can be certified as a historic home.
“I’m creative at heart and I wouldn’t do this work if it wasn’t fun,” he said.
The best part of being an architect, he says, is seeing a project completed. “You have this weird vision when you start and when you finish it, you’re in awe. At the end, I’m trying not to kick myself for not doing something I might have done.”
Kimery serves as an ambassador for the Prescott Chamber of Commerce and enjoys helping other businesses. He especially likes the weekly ribbon cuttings and the annual salute to teachers that the chamber sponsors. “I like bringing the community together.”
In addition, Kimery is a member of the Prescott Power Partners, a business networking group that meets each month.
Kimery continuously studies other architects and their styles. He believes the way a building looks is as important as how it functions. And now, with JRK Architecture Studio, he’s found he has had to learn business skills. He emphasizes customer service.
“I try to meet all the customer’s needs. I’m friendly and it works because I have a lot of repeat customers,” he said.
The most challenging part of his architecture business is meeting the customer’s needs while staying within their budget. “I tell clients we can build anything, but it will cost them money and time.”
Kimery advises clients not only on design, but also on what materials are best to use. He also promotes projects that fit with the environment.
For young people considering a career as an architect, he recommends they study various types of architecture. “If you don’t get enthused, don’t go into it, because architects are not rich,” he said. QCBN
By Stan Bindell, QCBN
For more information about JRK Architecture, email rick@jrkarchitecture.com.
Photo by Stan Bindell: Architect Rick Kimery promotes projects that fit with the environment.
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