Posts by Catherine McAndrews

Alliiance is pleased to welcome Amanda Aspenson, AIA, as a principal and Academic Studio co-leader. Amanda has extensive experience in higher education and is highly regarded by her clients. Her keen talent for project management, ability to address complex issues with clarity and precision, unwavering commitment to design excellence, and aptitude for building lasting client…

From our founding as The Architectural Alliance, we have embraced the principle of shared leadership, fostering a culture of partnership and smooth transitions throughout the firm’s evolution. In keeping with this tradition, we are proud to announce that Mamie Harvey is the new president of Alliiance, signifying a new chapter for the firm. Mamie is…

On November 7, 2024, the Louisville Regional Airport Authority hosted a groundbreaking ceremony to officially launch the Security Checkpoint Expansion project at Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF). This $45 million initiative marks the most significant update to the Jerry E. Abramson Terminal in over 35 years. The expansion will add a 30,000-square-foot addition to…

Alliiance is excited to announce that several of our team members will be featured speakers and panelists at the upcoming A’24 MN Conference on Architecture, taking place from November 11-13, 2024. This annual gathering is an important platform for thought leadership, innovation, and collaboration in the local architecture and design community—and our team will be…

Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) has been named the Top Mega Airport in North America in the prestigious Airport Satisfaction Study by consumer barometer J.D. Power. Known for its seamless blend of smart design and customer-focused amenities, the airport continues to set the standard for world-class travel experiences. Working on Terminal 1 since 1978, Alliiance…

We are deeply saddened by the passing of John Lackens, FAIA. John co-founded our firm, The Architectural Alliance in 1970, alongside Herb Ketcham, FAIA and Bob Bell, AIA, building a legacy that has shaped our firm’s culture, values, and approach to architecture for over five decades. From the very beginning, John embraced a team-oriented approach…

With heavy hearts, we mourn the loss of former Alliiance Principal, Tom DeAngelo, FAIA. Tom served as our firm’s president from 1993 to 2009 and retired in 2023. Tom’s passion for design excellence left a lasting impact on our firm and the world of architecture. His design contributions represent a holistic commitment to the art,…

Alliiance is committed to designing spaces that ensure accessibility, dignity, and comfort for all. Our latest projects at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) exemplify this commitment. Universal Changing Stations To date, three Alliiance-designed Universal Changing Stations are open at MSP Terminal 1, with one at Concourse G finishing design, and two more scheduled for…

The Alliiance designed Hennepin County Public Works Facility received the 25 Year Award by AIA Minnesota. This prestigious award celebrates projects that have withstood the test of time through exceptional architecture. Completed in 1998, the Hennepin County Public Works Facility was a groundbreaking project—redefining maintenance facilities as high-performing and environmentally friendly. Nestled atop a natural…

The 2024 Travel+Leisure World’s Best Awards surveyed 186,000 readers on their travel experiences—everything from hotels to cruise ships and airports. Survey respondents rated airports based on access, check-in/security, restaurants/bars, shopping, and design. Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport claimed the top spot! With many regional airports—known for being more convenient and less crowded—dominating the list, it is…

The Barkley Regional Airport new terminal was awarded a 2024 AIA Minneapolis Merit Award! This honor recognizes projects that embody excellence beyond design, emphasizing public interest and the varied forces that shape a building. Here’s how the terminal excelled across the award’s key criteria: Client The terminal design prioritizes passenger and staff well-being with technologies…

We are thrilled to announce the completion of the newly expanded and renovated terminal at Lincoln Airport this May. In response to the anticipated increase in passengers and airlines services, Alliiance planned and designed the $40 million project. The project enhances the passenger experience from curbside arrival to gate departure with features including: Upgraded curbside…

Alliiance, along with local architectural partner, Wolfe Architectural Group (WAG), joined airport representatives and community leaders to celebrate the completion of the first phase of Spokane International Airport’s Concourse C six-gate expansion. This important milestone marks the halfway point of the Concourse C Terminal Renovation and Expansion (TREX) program. Highlights include: Inclusive and accessible features catering…

Construction is officially underway for the Washington County Central Service and License Center. Project team members Amber Egofske, Ernesto Ruiz-Garcia, and Julie MacLeod attended the groundbreaking ceremony. This mass timber structure consolidates community services, including the License and Passport Center; Property Records and Taxpayer Services; Career Force Center with Career Lab; Public Health Clinic; Community…

This week, AIA Minnesota’s ENTER features the MnDOT Clear Lake and Des Moines River Safety Rest Areas near Jackson, MN, designed by Alliiance. In a few short vignettes, readers can get a glimpse into the unique design elements of each location and further understand how these spaces fit into their surroundings. Read all about it…

The competition challenged participants to create an innovative and iconic landmark skyscraper. Oleg sought to combat issues of urban density, gentrification, and depersonalization in his design by “empowering a vibrant, interconnected, and inclusive community” within the typical rigid and unlively fabric of a skyscraper. His modular concept maximizes flexibility and returns agency to residents to…

The Memphis International Airport Concourse B Modernization received a People’s Choice Award for the Renovation and Restoration category at this year’s AIA Memphis Awards Gala! Since 2013, we have worked in close partnership with UrbanARCH to design a world-class passenger experience through state-of-the-art amenities, regional character, and enhanced convenience. Congrats to the team for this…

At Alliiance, collaboration isn’t just a buzzword—it’s an active practice and key component of our project process and success. In the Center for Performing Arts expansion, we worked closely with the organization to develop the best solutions for the building tenants, artists, staff, and visitors, as well as the broader performing arts community and Kingfield…