About Us

Ed Kurtz, President

Ed Kurtz is the creative principal of Design Group Architects Ltd. and has led the efforts of the firm since 1989. The firm was relocated to Bolivar, Missouri in the fall of 1993 and continues to base their four-state operations out of that location today.

Ed developed an interest in architectural drawing during his high school years and tuned those skills through his college years.  He first obtained a degree in Architectural Drafting Technology from the University of Central Missouri in 1978 which started him on his journey to drawing as an art form.  Wanting more from his drafting experience, he pursued and earned a Bachelor of Architecture from Kansas State University in 1983.  After working for two of the top architectural firms in the Midwest, Ed earned his license to practice architecture in 1994 from the State of Kansas.  That has since grown to architectural certification in four states.  He continues to commit his professional involvement to the American Institute of Architects and the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards.

Ed has acute skills in leading design teams on a variety of project types, including retail, healthcare, hospitality, foodservice, and high-touch residential projects.  His clients include Citizens Memorial Healthcare and Foundation, Pizza Hut, Dillons Foodstores, Super 8 Hotels, and numerous distinguished land developers and home builders in the Midwest.  Many of his clients are loyal repeat and referral clients that have honored him with cherished relationships since the inception of his business.

Ed’s “Makin’ Things Happen” philosophy is simple: Surprise your clients everyday with how enjoyable it is to create a distinctive project with Design Group Architects Ltd.  It worked in the beginning of the business and it continues to work today.

Karen Kurtz, Vice-President

Karen has been the sounding board for Design Group Architects Ltd. since its inception.  Her ability to calmly evaluate distinctive designs or address the next rising office issue, lends a certain credibility and calm to the office environment.

As Vice President in charge of Human Resources and Benefits, she artfully takes care of our valued employees.  Her capable skills in developing and communicating caring policies for employee care have led to a committed team approach in our office.  As the co-director here at DGA, Karen has been a guiding force in the strong company that has become what it is today.  Her ability to careful consider options and evaluate opportunities has lead to positive and sustained growth.

Her journey began in southeast Kansas with a well-rounded education at Neosho County Community College and Wichita State University, preparing her for her role as a director of this company.  Karen understands that success only comes to those who decide to commit to the fruition of an idea.  Her caring relationship with our many clients is vital to the continued vibrancy of DGA.
 

Support Staff:

Fred Decker, Associate Architect / Designer

Steve Podhola, CADD Production Technician

Les Schulz, Architect / Design Consultant

Grant Brandon, CADD Production Consultant