Val Thomas FAIA

A Texas native, Val Thomas FAIA received the BAArch from Rice University in 1966, and the MArch/MCP from the University of Pennsylvania in 1972.  In a career combining design and development, Val Thomas has materialized significant projects that bring grace to Seattle neighborhoods and a sense of community to visitors and residents alike.

Val's early work in Seattle 1975-79 involved directing seven major pieces of renovation with associated new construction in the Pike Place Market, then newly "saved" through public initiative.  This complex public endeavor, involving projects with various architects including George R. Bartholick, Arne Bystrom, Bassetti Norton Metler Rekevics, and Harader Mebust, brought back to life the very heart of downtown Seattle, an achievement meriting recognition by an AIA national Honor Award in 1985.

Currently (2005) Principal of Val Thomas, Inc., a firm specializing in development of urban mixed-use projects and in-city redevelopment, Val also serves on the UW College of Architecture and Urban Planning Professionals Council, and recently completed a five-year term on the Seattle Planning Commission.

His more recent projects have involved creative use of tax incentives and other investment strategies to achieve design excellence.  Their residents and his fellow professionals alike recognize the design quality of Woodland Place, the Broadway Market, West Queen Anne School Condominium, Pike Lofts, Klee Lofts, and numerous similarly successful projects recognized for design excellence as well as their return on both public and private investments.

In August 2005, Val completed a term as AIA Seattle Secretary and on the AIA Seattle Executive Committee.

David Wright FAIA sponsored Val's nomination to the AIA College of Fellows, resulting in his 2003 induction.