Posen People: Meet Kosta Koulouris
Kosta Koulouris, AIA has become a Partner in the firm. Kosta joined the firm in 2004 and was named a Principal in 2016. He has skillfully guided many of the firm’s largest projects from conception through completion, including commercial, residential, and institutional projects throughout New York and New Jersey. As Partner, Kosta will be involved in helping to set the strategic direction of the firm and mentor staff. He will continue to manage projects and lead the in-house QA/QC and Technology Committees as well as manage the day-to-day staffing of the firm. Below find out a little more about Kosta’s background and goals in his new role.
What made you decide to become an architect?
An obsession with drawing buildings at the age of five and a light nudge from my parents later on certainly paved the way. I think our summer trips to Greece and seeing classical architecture firsthand probably had something to do with it as well. By the time I started high school I knew architecture was for me.
When did you join Posen Architects and why did you decide to come to work here?
I joined Posen Architects in 2004. After having worked in a Manhattan, I thought I would give the other side of the river a shot. Two of my colleagues had recently joined the firm so it was a word of mouth kind of deal. I knew after the first two minutes of casual conversation with Dennis that it was a good fit for me. After 17 years, I have never looked back.
What has your focus been at the firm?
Day to day? Making sure we are all rowing in the same direction. It has been an absolute pleasure mentoring our younger staff (some who started as student interns) and watching them grow into talented architects. I was fortunate enough to have had great mentors so my focus has been to return the favor as best as I can.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
You mean career…? Getting things done on time and on budget. There is a sense of personal accomplishment when things get done according to plan.
Please explain your new role.
Dennis and I have been talking about growth and the future of the firm for some time. Transitioning into a partnership we believe will allow the firm to grow. It’s all about having skin in the game as they say. Together we are stronger!
How do you see your focus changing with your new role?
I wouldn’t say changing my focus but rather a focus on broadening it. I am all eyes and all ears moving forward!
What do you anticipate being one of the biggest challenges of your new role?
The “challenge” both in life and at work has always been what can you do better today than yesterday. Personal and professional growth is paramount for the firm as a whole. We have faced every challenge head on and are excellent problem solvers. So, I say, new challenge? Bring it on!
How would you describe your leadership philosophy/style?
Blunt and to the point.
What stands out over the course of your career with Posen?
Growing our community portfolio and work in New York for sure. Having been born, raised, and educated in New York I knew we could successfully grow in that market. Our projects that focus on drug and alcohol treatment and rehabilitation have been an enormous achievement for the firm and for me personally. We really have become experts and it is satisfying to be able to play a small role in the fight against an epidemic that has taken so many lives.
What advice would you give to somebody new to architecture or even five years into their career?
Get an internship while in school and get ahead of the game. Be curious, be vocal, find an interest in something and run with it. There is real value in being a true expert.
Where do you see Posen Architects in the next five years?
Great question! Having just celebrated our 25th anniversary, we are already planning on number 30! We will continue to grow the firm with strong leadership, adding a new portfolio of work and hopefully expand our footprint in the market. It takes time but slow and steady wins the race!