40 Under 40 Alumni Spotlight: Brian Kubik, 2004

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Then: Principal and architect, Buxton-Kubik Interior Inc.
Now: Principal and architect, Buxton Kubik Dodd Design Collective

Brian Kubik had just hit the year mark with his architecture and design firm when he was honored as a 40 Under 40. At the time, the firm was made up of of himself, partner Joyce Buxton and one employee. Today, Buxton Kubik Dodd Design Collective is one of the largest architecture firms in the area with 42 employees.

“Being able to drive around Springfield and to see the number of buildings and the number of people that I’ve affected through my work is one of my favorite things about what I do,” Kubik, 52, says.

The work has been personal, too. Kubik says he renovated his former high school, Kickapoo. He also helped design a St. Jude clinic at Mercy – his son received care at St. Jude. And his firm is the go-to for renovations and additions at his church, James River.

Back in 2004, Kubik had set a professional goal to become a one-stop shop for residential and commercial building projects. He says he met that goal by providing interior design, architecture and engineering all in-house.

Advice to young professionals? Be honest and nice. Be on time and be fair. Do the things you say you’re going to do. People will realize you’re genuine, and that’s when your clients come back to you.