I consider myself extremely fortunate to have had an exciting and varied 50-year
career in architecture and construction, a career which continues to the present day.

At present I especially enjoy applying my 50 years of experience to assisting others who have encountered obstacles or snags in their construction projects, whether residential or commercial. Upon graduating from UCLA’s School of Architecture in 1976, I was fortunate to have
been hired and mentored by Peter Choate, one of the most talented and sought-after residential architects in Los Angeles. The firm’s work was frequently featured in
prestigious publications such as Architectural Digest and House Beautiful. Within 3
years Peter made me his first partner. Over the next seven years, we expanded the
firm from a modest two-person team to a thriving 12-member practice before I
ventured out to establish my own firm in 1986. I am profoundly grateful for that
foundational experience provided by working so closely with such a talented designer and unique individual.

The firm I founded in 1986, Rick Colman AIA & Associates, endures to the present day, with staffing levels having been adjusted as needed to accommodate client demands. The business was always maintained for “side projects” during periods when I was contracted to other firms. Those other firms have exposed me to a varied range of project types and specialized skill sets needed for successful project delivery.

One of the more interesting projects I was involved in was the year 2000 renovation of the
original Charlie Chaplin studios on Sunset and La Brea in Los Angeles, when the site
was purchased and upgraded for Henson Studios, founded by Muppet creator Jim
Henson. Other firms have provided valuable experience in other construction
specialties from historical restoration to construction forensics. In the latter capacity I
have provided expert witness testimony in a few different construction litigations.
In my final seven years in Los Angeles before relocating to the Pacific Northwest, I
was a Project Manager involved in the $15 billion bond program passed by L.A. County

voters to renovate and upgrade the 9 campuses of the L.A. Community College District.
Stationed on one of the inner-city campuses, my responsibilities included management
of several campus design and construction projects, as well as frequent interaction
with campus administration, faculty, and other project stakeholders.
In summary, I’ve had a very well-rounded career in design and construction, and I am
eager to apply the skills acquired and experience gained to the next project. Let’s
discuss your needs! Anything from space planning, design, & drafting to owner’s
representation in construction litigation scenarios. Send inquiries to:
info@RDCarchitect.com.

I maintain active architectural licenses in Washington and Idaho. Detailed CV available
upon request. Fee proposals provided upon submission of project subscription.