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Culture

Omni celebrates 50 years of design excellence with new website

Omni Architects is celebrating 50 years of providing design excellence, outstanding client service, and exacting technical execution for projects throughout Kentucky and surrounding states.
March 2025
[Read time insert]

2025 marks a monumental milestone for Omni Architects as we celebrate 50 years of visionary design and community impact. Now in our third generation of ownership, we proudly reflect on a legacy that has shaped Kentucky’s architectural landscape through significant landmarks and award-winning projects.

Over the past five decades, Omni Architects has been at the forefront of innovation. Our portfolio of projects spans educational institutions, cultural centers, and civic spaces that continue to define and enhance the communities we serve. We are especially proud of having received more design awards from AIA Kentucky than any other firm in the commonwealth—a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence and creativity.

As we honor our rich history, we are equally excited about our future. In celebration of our 50th anniversary, we have launched a new website that encapsulates our values, vision, and mission today. Our refreshed online presence not only showcases our storied past but also highlights our ongoing commitment to designing facilities that advance education, bring communities together, and foster a stronger Kentucky.

The new website offers an engaging experience, featuring in-depth profiles of our landmark projects, insights into our design process, and the latest news on our initiatives. It is designed to serve as a resource for clients, partners, and community members who share our passion for transformative architecture. With an emphasis on sustainability, innovation, and community engagement, our digital platform reflects the spirit of Omni Architects—always looking forward while honoring our legacy.

We invite you to explore our new website and join us in celebrating the past, present, and future of Omni Architects. As we continue to push the boundaries of design and contribute to Kentucky’s growth, we remain dedicated to creating spaces that inspire, educate, and connect people across generations.

Here’s to 50 years of excellence and to many more years of building a stronger, more vibrant Kentucky together.

Work

JCTC announces name for new STEM Facility

Jefferson Community and Technical College has officially named its new STEM facility The Center for Science and Discovery. Designed by Omni Architects, the state-of-the-art building will feature modern classrooms, advanced laboratories, and collaborative learning spaces, all aimed at fostering innovation and workforce development. The project, part of Jefferson’s strategic expansion, reflects a strong commitment to STEM education and sustainability. Scheduled for completion in early 2026, this facility will provide students with cutting-edge resources to prepare for careers in science, technology, and research.
March 2025
[Read time insert]

Omni Architects is proud to share that Jefferson Community and Technical College (Jefferson) has officially named its new STEM facility The Center for Science and Discovery. Currently under construction, this state-of-the-art building will provide cutting-edge labs and educational spaces, empowering students, faculty, and program participants to engage in innovative learning and research.

Designed with modern classrooms, advanced laboratories, and collaborative spaces, the new facility will support hands-on STEM education while incorporating sustainable building practices for an environmentally responsible learning environment.

“We are honored to be part of this initiative to provide Jefferson students with a facility that supports a robust and dynamic curriculum,” said Jody Boelhauf, AIA, principal at Omni Architects. “The new Science Building will not only enhance Jefferson’s educational offerings but also serve as a hub for community engagement and workforce development.”

This facility represents a significant investment in science and technology education, expanding Jefferson’s existing STEM programs and introducing new curriculum opportunities that align with industry needs. Its presence on the downtown Louisville campus is expected to attract more students and strengthen the region’s workforce in critical STEM fields.

“Our goal is to create a space that meets the needs of both students and faculty while fostering collaboration and innovation,” said Erin Ruhl, AIA, project manager at Omni Architects. “We’ve enjoyed working closely with Jefferson and KCTCS to bring this vision to life.”

Omni Architects has a long history of designing STEM facilities across Kentucky, partnering with institutions to create environments that inspire learning and drive workforce development. We are grateful for the opportunity to work with Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) and Jefferson to bring this transformational project to life.

Slated for completion in early 2026, the Center for Science and Discovery will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of STEM education and workforce readiness in Kentucky.

Work

Expanding Our Impact: Omni Architects to Design Workforce Training Facility in Mississippi

Omni Architects is expanding its impact beyond Kentucky with the design of a new workforce training facility in Carthage, Mississippi. Drawing from extensive experience with KCTCS, Omni specializes in creating tailored spaces that support advanced manufacturing and skill development. These centers include classrooms, labs, and high-bay areas for training on robotics, renewable energy, and industrial equipment. Using a collaborative design approach, Omni works closely with colleges and manufacturing partners to create dynamic, student-focused environments. Partnering with Jackson-based Canizaro Cawthon Davis (CCD), Omni is excited to bring this transformative facility to life.
January 2025
[Read time insert]

At Omni Architects, we are committed to designing workforce training centers that provide access to education, skill development, and pathways to higher wages. These facilities play a crucial role in strengthening communitiesby equipping individuals with the skills needed for high-demand careers.

Our expertise in advanced manufacturing and workforce training facilities has led to an exciting milestone—we are designing our first workforce training center outside Kentucky for the City of Carthage, Mississippi. This new facility will serve as a hub for innovation and skill development, supporting the local workforce and driving economic growth in the region.

Omni Architects has extensive experience designing workforce training centers, particularly through our collaboration with the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS). These facilities provide a wide range of learning environments, from traditional classrooms, labs, student lounges, and support spaces, to large-scale, high-bay training areas designed for:

  • Oversized vehicles and transportation equipment
  • Full-scale robotics and automation systems
  • Renewable energy training, including solar arrays and wind turbines

A Collaborative and Customized Approach

Workforce training centers are by no means a one-size-fits-all initiative. The success of these projects lies in listening to and working closely with colleges and manufacturing partners to design spaces that truly meet their needs. At Omni, we employ a collaborative design process that engages:

  • Owner representatives
  • The entire design team
  • Most critically, representatives from each of the primary manufacturing partners

This collaborative methodology ensures that our designs respond to the pedagogical needs of faculty while addressing the specific skill sets required by industry partners. At the same time, we focus on creating inviting, vibrant environments that stimulate and encourage student success.

For this milestone project in Mississippi, we are proud to collaborate with Jackson-based architects Canizaro Cawthon Davis (CCD) to bring this vision to life. Together, we aim to design a cutting-edge training center that empowers students, strengthens the workforce, and enhances the local economy.

Work

Sustainable Library Design: Omni Architects shares insights at KLA Conference

At the Kentucky Library Association Conference, Omni Architects shared strategies for integrating sustainability into library design, whether through new construction or renovations. Chad Gallas, AIA, and Mark Manczyk, AIA, highlighted key approaches such as solar energy solutions, biophilic design, natural lighting, flexible spaces, and outdoor programming areas. By embracing these strategies, libraries can reduce their environmental impact while enhancing community engagement and education. Omni Architects remains committed to designing innovative, sustainable spaces that support the future of libraries.
October 2024
[Read time insert]

At a recent Kentucky Library Association Conference, Chad Gallas, AIA, Partner at Omni Architects, and Mark Manczyk, AIA, Project Manager, shared strategies for integrating sustainability into library design—whether through new construction or renovations of existing facilities.

Libraries naturally support sustainability by providing shared resources, but they can also reduce their environmental footprint through thoughtful design. The presentation outlined key strategies, including:

  • Solar Power Solutions - Installing rooftop PV panels or solar-covered parking to generate renewable energy.
  • Biophilic Design - Incorporating natural materials, indoor greenery, and outdoor spaces to enhance well-being and en ergy efficiency.
  • Maximizing Natural Light - Using strategic window placement and skylights to reduce energy use.
  • Flexible, Multi-Use Spaces - Designing adaptable areas for meetings, workshops, and events to ooptimize space and resources.
  • Outdoor Program Areas - Creating functional outdoor spaces for librry programs that foster community engagement whie reduce reliance on indoor energy use.
  • Educational Opportunities - Using the library itself as a teaching tool to showcase sustainability and educate ptrons on green practices.

“Libraries have a unique opportunity to model sustainability for the communities they serve,” said Omni president Eric Zabilka, AIA. “By incorporating sustainable strategies, they can reduce their environmental impact while inspiring patrons to embrace greener practices in their daily lives.”

At Omni Architects, we are committed to designing innovative, environmentally responsible spaces that support the evolving needs of libraries and their communities. We’re proud to collaborate with Kentucky’s libraries to create a more sustainable future.

Culture

Hibberd selected for CKLDP

Teddi Hibberd, AIA, has been selected to participate in the Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program.
August 2024
[Read time insert]

Teddi Hibberd, AIA, has been selected to participate in the AIA Kentucky 2024/25 Christopher Kelley Leadership Program. This prestigious program focuses on core professional skills such as entrepreneurship, firm management, teamwork, collaboration, negotiation, client development, and community engagement. The 16 participants were chosen based on their career achievements, community involvement, and passion for the future of the architectural profession.

Hibberd is a Senior Associate and shareholder at Omni, and a key member of the firm's leadership committee. Through exemplary project management skills and professional demeanor, she provides outstanding leadership and guidance to Omni's emerging professionals. Since 2020, she has dedicated herself to the profession by serving in various roles for AIA EKC and AIA National. Beyond her professional contributions, Hibberd also leads on non-profit boards such as The Planbtor and the United Way of the Bluegrass Get on Board program, supporting Lexington's non-profit community and training effective community leaders. Additionally, she is a graduate of Commerce Lexington's Leadership Lexington and Leadership Central Kentucky programs.

In his letter of support, Omni president Eric Zabilka stated, "Teddi has the heart of a mentor and freely shares her accomplishments, struggles, failures, and triumphs with her younger colleagues. She does this with facts, details, and humility, inspiring and encouraging others to do the same.

Culture

Boelhauf elevated to Principal

Jody Boelhauf is Omni's newest Principal.
July 2024
[Read time insert]

Jody Boelhauf, AIA, LEED AP, is Omni Architects' newest principal. A member of the firm for eighteen years, Boelhauf serves as a member of its esteemed leadership team and mentors emerging professionals. Over his career, Boelhauf has managed a wide spectrum of project types and sizes, with a focus on STEM education and research facilities. He specializes in guiding clients through the most complicated projects, working with stakeholders to identify key priorities and goals. Boelhauf has served in a variety of capacities for AIA Kentucky and the AIA East Kentucky Chapter and has organized industry-related events such as Design Slam and CANstruction, and Habitat for Humanity volunteer activities. Boelhauf also leads Omni Architects' initiatives related to the AIA 2030 Commitment, an actionable climate strategy that implements a set of standards and goals to reach net zero emissions in the built environment.

Work

Arnold becomes firm shareholder

Arnold becomes a firm shareholder
July 2024
[Read time insert]

Amy Arnold is Omni Architects' newest shareholder. Arnold joined the firm in 2017 and became a Senior Associate in 2022. As Omni's Director of Finance & Operations, Arnold oversees the firm's financial and human resources initiatives, and is a valuable member of its leadership team. She is instrumental in advising emerging professionals on the financial aspects of project management and profitability, as well as contract development and execution. Arnold is an Associate AIA member, Treasurer of the Construction Financial Management Association Bluegrass Chapter, and a member of the Bluegrass Society for HR Management.

Work

Fire Academy of Kentucky Opens

Firefighter training facility opens in Greenville
May 2024
[Read time insert]

Ribbon Cutting Day is the moment our client’s aspirations are realized and they can begin to fulfill their mission in a building that’s been custom-designed for their unique activities. May first was that day for the Fire Academy of Kentucky, a project that is the result of a collaboration between the Kentucky Community & Technical College System (KCTCS) and the Kentucky Fire Commission. The Academy trains and certifies responders to save lives, property & the environment - the fundamentals of their mission. This new state-of-the-art facility will allow the Academy’s highly motivated and skilled instructors to provide quality training programs and certification to the fire service.

Working in collaboration with client representatives, the Omni Architects design team achieved the goals identified by the agency, which were twofold: quantitative goals that included classrooms, high-bay spaces, a mock fire station, and a burn tower; and qualitative goals such as a state of the art building that is professional, functional, and instills a sense of pride in program attendees.

The project was led by Omni partner Chad Gallas as principal in charge, with Erin Ruhl as Project Manager. According to Chad, ‘It was a pleasure working with the Kentucky Fire Commission to bring this project to life. The design process started in the midst of the Covid pandemic and the original bidding timeline landed directly in the heart of the subsequent global supply chain meltdown. Through all of it, Pat Thompson, Marc Henderson, and the Fire Commission remained passionate about the impact this project would have on the statewide training program. It was an honor to share that journey and participate in the creation of a facility that will impact responders and the communities they serve and protect throughout the Commonwealth.”

Work

Omni Receives Two Awards from AIA Kentucky

Two projects merited awards at the AIA IN/KY Convention
October 2023
[Read time insert]

Omni Architects received two of six design awards bestowed by AIA Kentucky during the institution's 2023 awards season. The Jefferson Community and Technical College Advanced Manufacturing and Information Technology Center in Louisville received an Honor Award, and the Bullitt County Central Library in Shepherdsville, Kentucky, was recognized with a Merit Award. The honors were presented at the 2023 AIA Indiana/Kentucky annual conference in Indianapolis, Indiana. The awards jury comprised AIA members from greater Washington, DC, who evaluated the anonymous entries after reading project descriptions and viewing photographs supporting the design solution.

The Advanced Manufacturing and Information Technology Center (AMITC) is on JCTC's downtown Louisville campus, just off First Street near Broadway. The facility provides educational and training opportunities for Jefferson Countians while supplying a steady stream of work-ready graduates to the regional manufacturers that advance Kentucky’s economic growth. Designed in collaboration with regional manufacturers and AMITC faculty, the building facilitates the college's academic and societal mission in a technology-rich space that simulates the real-world manufacturing environment and prepares students for a successful transition to a lucrative manufacturing career. In response to the building's design, the jury commented, "The building is a thoughtfully composed project where the diagram reinforces the architectural solution. The scale of the building fits nicely into its context, and it is not over-designed. There is a strong relationship between the exterior and interior spaces, and the simplicity and selective use of color in the interior spaces make the project stronger. We appreciate the idea of exposing training spaces to the exterior spaces toward the street. The use of a high-performing envelope and on-site energy generation add to a wonderful community story.”

The Bullitt County Central Library is a civic destination that establishes BCPL as a leader in sustainability while creating a distinctive and inviting community crossroads through features like a maker space, a Library of Things, an after-hours multipurpose suite, a history room, and casual seating areas throughout the building. Because the site is surrounded by big-box stores that hinder the views of the nearby rolling hills, the design recreates a lost landscape through four inward-looking, distinctive courtyards that support discovery, interaction, and connection to the natural landscape. Patrons encounter the impact of sustainability through the high-performance envelope and an energy dashboard showcasing numerous sustainable systems, such as an acre of solar panels and a geothermal well field. Upon reviewing the design, the jury commented, “Just an overall strong project. There are several nice gestures nodding toward sustainability coupled with civic fun. It is a clear, legible solution that many would feel comfortable navigating through and experiencing.”

The Honor Awards Program of AIA Kentucky, the Kentucky Society of Architects, seeks to honor and bring to public attention distinctive works of architecture created by Kentucky AIA Architect Members. For over 50 years, the program has been dedicated to recognizing and applauding works of architecture exhibiting design excellence and promoting public awareness and appreciation of the diversity, quality, and scope of Kentucky architecture. The Kentucky Society’s “Honor Award for Achievement of Excellence in Architectural Design” is the highest professional honor bestowed upon a Kentucky architect by their peers, and it distinguishes the architect as one who is dedicated to making architecture the best it can be. The Merit Award recognizes projects that demonstrate a level of design that exemplifies superior achievements, and the Citation Award acknowledges projects of notable accomplishment, similar to Honorable Mention.

Long recognized as one of Kentucky's leading design firms, Omni Architects has received more awards from AIA Kentucky than any other firm in the Commonwealth. According to Omni president Eric Zabilka, "The success of these two projects was only possible with the collaboration of a dedicated team of architects, designers, and partners. Their collective expertise and commitment to realizing these exceptional designs have been instrumental in achieving these prestigious accolades."

Omni Architects looks forward to continuing its mission of reshaping the architectural landscape, creating inspiring spaces, and delivering architectural excellence to clients and communities across the region.

Culture

Omni celebrates 50 years of design excellence with new website

Omni Architects is celebrating 50 years of providing design excellence, outstanding client service, and exacting technical execution for projects throughout Kentucky and surrounding states.
March 2025
[Read time insert]

2025 marks a monumental milestone for Omni Architects as we celebrate 50 years of visionary design and community impact. Now in our third generation of ownership, we proudly reflect on a legacy that has shaped Kentucky’s architectural landscape through significant landmarks and award-winning projects.

Over the past five decades, Omni Architects has been at the forefront of innovation. Our portfolio of projects spans educational institutions, cultural centers, and civic spaces that continue to define and enhance the communities we serve. We are especially proud of having received more design awards from AIA Kentucky than any other firm in the commonwealth—a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence and creativity.

As we honor our rich history, we are equally excited about our future. In celebration of our 50th anniversary, we have launched a new website that encapsulates our values, vision, and mission today. Our refreshed online presence not only showcases our storied past but also highlights our ongoing commitment to designing facilities that advance education, bring communities together, and foster a stronger Kentucky.

The new website offers an engaging experience, featuring in-depth profiles of our landmark projects, insights into our design process, and the latest news on our initiatives. It is designed to serve as a resource for clients, partners, and community members who share our passion for transformative architecture. With an emphasis on sustainability, innovation, and community engagement, our digital platform reflects the spirit of Omni Architects—always looking forward while honoring our legacy.

We invite you to explore our new website and join us in celebrating the past, present, and future of Omni Architects. As we continue to push the boundaries of design and contribute to Kentucky’s growth, we remain dedicated to creating spaces that inspire, educate, and connect people across generations.

Here’s to 50 years of excellence and to many more years of building a stronger, more vibrant Kentucky together.

Culture

Hibberd selected for CKLDP

Teddi Hibberd, AIA, has been selected to participate in the Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program.
August 2024
[Read time insert]

Teddi Hibberd, AIA, has been selected to participate in the AIA Kentucky 2024/25 Christopher Kelley Leadership Program. This prestigious program focuses on core professional skills such as entrepreneurship, firm management, teamwork, collaboration, negotiation, client development, and community engagement. The 16 participants were chosen based on their career achievements, community involvement, and passion for the future of the architectural profession.

Hibberd is a Senior Associate and shareholder at Omni, and a key member of the firm's leadership committee. Through exemplary project management skills and professional demeanor, she provides outstanding leadership and guidance to Omni's emerging professionals. Since 2020, she has dedicated herself to the profession by serving in various roles for AIA EKC and AIA National. Beyond her professional contributions, Hibberd also leads on non-profit boards such as The Planbtor and the United Way of the Bluegrass Get on Board program, supporting Lexington's non-profit community and training effective community leaders. Additionally, she is a graduate of Commerce Lexington's Leadership Lexington and Leadership Central Kentucky programs.

In his letter of support, Omni president Eric Zabilka stated, "Teddi has the heart of a mentor and freely shares her accomplishments, struggles, failures, and triumphs with her younger colleagues. She does this with facts, details, and humility, inspiring and encouraging others to do the same.

Culture

Boelhauf elevated to Principal

Jody Boelhauf is Omni's newest Principal.
July 2024
[Read time insert]

Jody Boelhauf, AIA, LEED AP, is Omni Architects' newest principal. A member of the firm for eighteen years, Boelhauf serves as a member of its esteemed leadership team and mentors emerging professionals. Over his career, Boelhauf has managed a wide spectrum of project types and sizes, with a focus on STEM education and research facilities. He specializes in guiding clients through the most complicated projects, working with stakeholders to identify key priorities and goals. Boelhauf has served in a variety of capacities for AIA Kentucky and the AIA East Kentucky Chapter and has organized industry-related events such as Design Slam and CANstruction, and Habitat for Humanity volunteer activities. Boelhauf also leads Omni Architects' initiatives related to the AIA 2030 Commitment, an actionable climate strategy that implements a set of standards and goals to reach net zero emissions in the built environment.

Work

JCTC announces name for new STEM Facility

Jefferson Community and Technical College has officially named its new STEM facility The Center for Science and Discovery. Designed by Omni Architects, the state-of-the-art building will feature modern classrooms, advanced laboratories, and collaborative learning spaces, all aimed at fostering innovation and workforce development. The project, part of Jefferson’s strategic expansion, reflects a strong commitment to STEM education and sustainability. Scheduled for completion in early 2026, this facility will provide students with cutting-edge resources to prepare for careers in science, technology, and research.
March 2025
[Read time insert]

Omni Architects is proud to share that Jefferson Community and Technical College (Jefferson) has officially named its new STEM facility The Center for Science and Discovery. Currently under construction, this state-of-the-art building will provide cutting-edge labs and educational spaces, empowering students, faculty, and program participants to engage in innovative learning and research.

Designed with modern classrooms, advanced laboratories, and collaborative spaces, the new facility will support hands-on STEM education while incorporating sustainable building practices for an environmentally responsible learning environment.

“We are honored to be part of this initiative to provide Jefferson students with a facility that supports a robust and dynamic curriculum,” said Jody Boelhauf, AIA, principal at Omni Architects. “The new Science Building will not only enhance Jefferson’s educational offerings but also serve as a hub for community engagement and workforce development.”

This facility represents a significant investment in science and technology education, expanding Jefferson’s existing STEM programs and introducing new curriculum opportunities that align with industry needs. Its presence on the downtown Louisville campus is expected to attract more students and strengthen the region’s workforce in critical STEM fields.

“Our goal is to create a space that meets the needs of both students and faculty while fostering collaboration and innovation,” said Erin Ruhl, AIA, project manager at Omni Architects. “We’ve enjoyed working closely with Jefferson and KCTCS to bring this vision to life.”

Omni Architects has a long history of designing STEM facilities across Kentucky, partnering with institutions to create environments that inspire learning and drive workforce development. We are grateful for the opportunity to work with Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) and Jefferson to bring this transformational project to life.

Slated for completion in early 2026, the Center for Science and Discovery will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of STEM education and workforce readiness in Kentucky.

Work

Expanding Our Impact: Omni Architects to Design Workforce Training Facility in Mississippi

Omni Architects is expanding its impact beyond Kentucky with the design of a new workforce training facility in Carthage, Mississippi. Drawing from extensive experience with KCTCS, Omni specializes in creating tailored spaces that support advanced manufacturing and skill development. These centers include classrooms, labs, and high-bay areas for training on robotics, renewable energy, and industrial equipment. Using a collaborative design approach, Omni works closely with colleges and manufacturing partners to create dynamic, student-focused environments. Partnering with Jackson-based Canizaro Cawthon Davis (CCD), Omni is excited to bring this transformative facility to life.
January 2025
[Read time insert]

At Omni Architects, we are committed to designing workforce training centers that provide access to education, skill development, and pathways to higher wages. These facilities play a crucial role in strengthening communitiesby equipping individuals with the skills needed for high-demand careers.

Our expertise in advanced manufacturing and workforce training facilities has led to an exciting milestone—we are designing our first workforce training center outside Kentucky for the City of Carthage, Mississippi. This new facility will serve as a hub for innovation and skill development, supporting the local workforce and driving economic growth in the region.

Omni Architects has extensive experience designing workforce training centers, particularly through our collaboration with the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS). These facilities provide a wide range of learning environments, from traditional classrooms, labs, student lounges, and support spaces, to large-scale, high-bay training areas designed for:

  • Oversized vehicles and transportation equipment
  • Full-scale robotics and automation systems
  • Renewable energy training, including solar arrays and wind turbines

A Collaborative and Customized Approach

Workforce training centers are by no means a one-size-fits-all initiative. The success of these projects lies in listening to and working closely with colleges and manufacturing partners to design spaces that truly meet their needs. At Omni, we employ a collaborative design process that engages:

  • Owner representatives
  • The entire design team
  • Most critically, representatives from each of the primary manufacturing partners

This collaborative methodology ensures that our designs respond to the pedagogical needs of faculty while addressing the specific skill sets required by industry partners. At the same time, we focus on creating inviting, vibrant environments that stimulate and encourage student success.

For this milestone project in Mississippi, we are proud to collaborate with Jackson-based architects Canizaro Cawthon Davis (CCD) to bring this vision to life. Together, we aim to design a cutting-edge training center that empowers students, strengthens the workforce, and enhances the local economy.

Work

Sustainable Library Design: Omni Architects shares insights at KLA Conference

At the Kentucky Library Association Conference, Omni Architects shared strategies for integrating sustainability into library design, whether through new construction or renovations. Chad Gallas, AIA, and Mark Manczyk, AIA, highlighted key approaches such as solar energy solutions, biophilic design, natural lighting, flexible spaces, and outdoor programming areas. By embracing these strategies, libraries can reduce their environmental impact while enhancing community engagement and education. Omni Architects remains committed to designing innovative, sustainable spaces that support the future of libraries.
October 2024
[Read time insert]

At a recent Kentucky Library Association Conference, Chad Gallas, AIA, Partner at Omni Architects, and Mark Manczyk, AIA, Project Manager, shared strategies for integrating sustainability into library design—whether through new construction or renovations of existing facilities.

Libraries naturally support sustainability by providing shared resources, but they can also reduce their environmental footprint through thoughtful design. The presentation outlined key strategies, including:

  • Solar Power Solutions - Installing rooftop PV panels or solar-covered parking to generate renewable energy.
  • Biophilic Design - Incorporating natural materials, indoor greenery, and outdoor spaces to enhance well-being and en ergy efficiency.
  • Maximizing Natural Light - Using strategic window placement and skylights to reduce energy use.
  • Flexible, Multi-Use Spaces - Designing adaptable areas for meetings, workshops, and events to ooptimize space and resources.
  • Outdoor Program Areas - Creating functional outdoor spaces for librry programs that foster community engagement whie reduce reliance on indoor energy use.
  • Educational Opportunities - Using the library itself as a teaching tool to showcase sustainability and educate ptrons on green practices.

“Libraries have a unique opportunity to model sustainability for the communities they serve,” said Omni president Eric Zabilka, AIA. “By incorporating sustainable strategies, they can reduce their environmental impact while inspiring patrons to embrace greener practices in their daily lives.”

At Omni Architects, we are committed to designing innovative, environmentally responsible spaces that support the evolving needs of libraries and their communities. We’re proud to collaborate with Kentucky’s libraries to create a more sustainable future.

Work

Arnold becomes firm shareholder

Arnold becomes a firm shareholder
July 2024
[Read time insert]

Amy Arnold is Omni Architects' newest shareholder. Arnold joined the firm in 2017 and became a Senior Associate in 2022. As Omni's Director of Finance & Operations, Arnold oversees the firm's financial and human resources initiatives, and is a valuable member of its leadership team. She is instrumental in advising emerging professionals on the financial aspects of project management and profitability, as well as contract development and execution. Arnold is an Associate AIA member, Treasurer of the Construction Financial Management Association Bluegrass Chapter, and a member of the Bluegrass Society for HR Management.

Work

Fire Academy of Kentucky Opens

Firefighter training facility opens in Greenville
May 2024
[Read time insert]

Ribbon Cutting Day is the moment our client’s aspirations are realized and they can begin to fulfill their mission in a building that’s been custom-designed for their unique activities. May first was that day for the Fire Academy of Kentucky, a project that is the result of a collaboration between the Kentucky Community & Technical College System (KCTCS) and the Kentucky Fire Commission. The Academy trains and certifies responders to save lives, property & the environment - the fundamentals of their mission. This new state-of-the-art facility will allow the Academy’s highly motivated and skilled instructors to provide quality training programs and certification to the fire service.

Working in collaboration with client representatives, the Omni Architects design team achieved the goals identified by the agency, which were twofold: quantitative goals that included classrooms, high-bay spaces, a mock fire station, and a burn tower; and qualitative goals such as a state of the art building that is professional, functional, and instills a sense of pride in program attendees.

The project was led by Omni partner Chad Gallas as principal in charge, with Erin Ruhl as Project Manager. According to Chad, ‘It was a pleasure working with the Kentucky Fire Commission to bring this project to life. The design process started in the midst of the Covid pandemic and the original bidding timeline landed directly in the heart of the subsequent global supply chain meltdown. Through all of it, Pat Thompson, Marc Henderson, and the Fire Commission remained passionate about the impact this project would have on the statewide training program. It was an honor to share that journey and participate in the creation of a facility that will impact responders and the communities they serve and protect throughout the Commonwealth.”

Work

Omni Receives Two Awards from AIA Kentucky

Two projects merited awards at the AIA IN/KY Convention
October 2023
[Read time insert]

Omni Architects received two of six design awards bestowed by AIA Kentucky during the institution's 2023 awards season. The Jefferson Community and Technical College Advanced Manufacturing and Information Technology Center in Louisville received an Honor Award, and the Bullitt County Central Library in Shepherdsville, Kentucky, was recognized with a Merit Award. The honors were presented at the 2023 AIA Indiana/Kentucky annual conference in Indianapolis, Indiana. The awards jury comprised AIA members from greater Washington, DC, who evaluated the anonymous entries after reading project descriptions and viewing photographs supporting the design solution.

The Advanced Manufacturing and Information Technology Center (AMITC) is on JCTC's downtown Louisville campus, just off First Street near Broadway. The facility provides educational and training opportunities for Jefferson Countians while supplying a steady stream of work-ready graduates to the regional manufacturers that advance Kentucky’s economic growth. Designed in collaboration with regional manufacturers and AMITC faculty, the building facilitates the college's academic and societal mission in a technology-rich space that simulates the real-world manufacturing environment and prepares students for a successful transition to a lucrative manufacturing career. In response to the building's design, the jury commented, "The building is a thoughtfully composed project where the diagram reinforces the architectural solution. The scale of the building fits nicely into its context, and it is not over-designed. There is a strong relationship between the exterior and interior spaces, and the simplicity and selective use of color in the interior spaces make the project stronger. We appreciate the idea of exposing training spaces to the exterior spaces toward the street. The use of a high-performing envelope and on-site energy generation add to a wonderful community story.”

The Bullitt County Central Library is a civic destination that establishes BCPL as a leader in sustainability while creating a distinctive and inviting community crossroads through features like a maker space, a Library of Things, an after-hours multipurpose suite, a history room, and casual seating areas throughout the building. Because the site is surrounded by big-box stores that hinder the views of the nearby rolling hills, the design recreates a lost landscape through four inward-looking, distinctive courtyards that support discovery, interaction, and connection to the natural landscape. Patrons encounter the impact of sustainability through the high-performance envelope and an energy dashboard showcasing numerous sustainable systems, such as an acre of solar panels and a geothermal well field. Upon reviewing the design, the jury commented, “Just an overall strong project. There are several nice gestures nodding toward sustainability coupled with civic fun. It is a clear, legible solution that many would feel comfortable navigating through and experiencing.”

The Honor Awards Program of AIA Kentucky, the Kentucky Society of Architects, seeks to honor and bring to public attention distinctive works of architecture created by Kentucky AIA Architect Members. For over 50 years, the program has been dedicated to recognizing and applauding works of architecture exhibiting design excellence and promoting public awareness and appreciation of the diversity, quality, and scope of Kentucky architecture. The Kentucky Society’s “Honor Award for Achievement of Excellence in Architectural Design” is the highest professional honor bestowed upon a Kentucky architect by their peers, and it distinguishes the architect as one who is dedicated to making architecture the best it can be. The Merit Award recognizes projects that demonstrate a level of design that exemplifies superior achievements, and the Citation Award acknowledges projects of notable accomplishment, similar to Honorable Mention.

Long recognized as one of Kentucky's leading design firms, Omni Architects has received more awards from AIA Kentucky than any other firm in the Commonwealth. According to Omni president Eric Zabilka, "The success of these two projects was only possible with the collaboration of a dedicated team of architects, designers, and partners. Their collective expertise and commitment to realizing these exceptional designs have been instrumental in achieving these prestigious accolades."

Omni Architects looks forward to continuing its mission of reshaping the architectural landscape, creating inspiring spaces, and delivering architectural excellence to clients and communities across the region.