Today we’d like to introduce you to Anna Rynders
Hi Anna, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Amidst the unexpected professional shifts of 2020, we found an opportunity to pursue our long-held dream of establishing an architecture firm. As a licensed architect in Minnesota and New Jersey, this has always been a dream for me and I am still amazed at what we have created. What began as a family-owned venture assisting designers with developing drawings has since evolved into a full-fledged practice. Today, we collaborate closely with clients, investors, and contractors, bringing projects to life with a commitment to innovation and excellence. Our journey has been one of growth, adaptability, and passion for architectural design, and we continue to build spaces that inspire.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Growing faster than expected was both exciting and overwhelming, and I quickly realized I needed help. In 2022, my husband joined the practice full-time, spearheading the business and administrative side, which has allowed me to focus more on design and client collaboration. Working together has been a blessing, but it also comes with the challenge of maintaining a work-life balance since we’re constantly in both roles—partners in business and in life.
As our family has grown alongside our firm, we’ve learned the importance of stepping away, putting down our business owner hats, and simply living in the moment—whether that’s dancing around the house with our daughter or cherishing time together as a family. Now, as we prepare to welcome our son in just a few days, this balance has become even more meaningful. It’s a reminder that while we love what we do, family will always be at the heart of everything we build.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
At our firm, we specialize in residential architecture, bringing our clients’ visions to life through projects that range from four-season porch additions to custom 5,000-square-foot new-build homes. The most rewarding part of our work is the close collaboration with homeowners, guiding them through the process and seeing their dreams take shape in a finished space.
Recently, our scope has expanded to include more commercial projects, thanks to strong relationships with contractors. These projects allow us to take on full coordination with other disciplines, making for an exciting and dynamic process. One area we’ve particularly enjoyed is converting single-family dwellings into assisted living facilities. We’ve had the privilege of helping over 100 facilities obtain licensing, allowing them to serve their clients in the comfort of a home-like setting.
Whether designing a custom residence or adapting a space for new possibilities, our passion lies in creating environments that are both functional and inspiring.
Of course, no mention of our firm would be complete without recognizing our two golden retrievers, the official company mascots and forever Employees of the Month. They bring endless joy to our days, remind us to take breaks, and ensure there’s always a little extra love (and fur) in the office.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
From a young age, I was fortunate to know that architecture was my calling. I was always sketching houses and floor plans, and when my mom casually mentioned architecture as a career, it immediately clicked—I never looked back. My passion led me to earn a Bachelor of Science in Architecture from the University of Minnesota, followed by a Master of Architecture from Iowa State University, staying fully committed to the path to licensure.
Even as a kid, I found joy in attending open houses and the Parade of Homes, simply to immerse myself in the world of design. I always say that if this weren’t my career, it would absolutely be my hobby. Creating spaces that inspire and function beautifully has always been at the core of who I am.
Contact Info:
