Today we’d like to introduce you to Jake Groth-kyle
Hi Jake, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I graduated from Iowa State University in 2013 with a degree in architecture, eager to take on the world. Initially, my sights were set on moving to Chicago or New York—cities synonymous with iconic architecture and vibrant opportunities. But life had other plans, and Dallas offered me an amazing position right after graduation. I moved here with the mindset that it would be a 3-to-5-year chapter, just a stepping stone in my career.
However, something unexpected happened. Dallas grew on me. I found a vibrant and welcoming LGBTQIA+ community, a chosen family that has made this city feel like home. Beyond that, I couldn’t ignore the buzz of opportunity here—just look around, and you’ll spot a building crane. Business is thriving, and so is architecture.
What started as a temporary stop has turned into a place where I’ve built both my career and my life. I’ve come to appreciate not just the opportunities but the sense of belonging I’ve found here. Dallas wasn’t my first choice, but it’s turned out to be the best choice.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The road hasn’t always been smooth, particularly when it comes to work/life balance. Early in my career, I was overworked, pouring everything I had into building a foundation for my future in architecture. That effort paid off—I managed to secure my license at just 25, an achievement I’m incredibly proud of.
However, the sacrifices were real. When I moved to Dallas, I didn’t have family or friends here. It was challenging to start fresh in a new city without a support network. Over time, though, I found my place. The LGBTQIA+ community welcomed me, and I built relationships that now feel like family.
These experiences taught me a lot about perseverance and the importance of carving out time for personal connections and well-being, even amidst professional ambition. Finding that balance remains a work in progress, but it’s something I prioritize much more today.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Gensler?
At Gensler, we believe that design has the power to transform lives and shape a better world. As a dynamic and collaborative architecture firm, we specialize in uniting creativity, research, and innovation to solve complex problems for our clients. Our work goes beyond designing buildings—we aim to reimagine cities, spaces, and environments that make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
Personally, I work in hospitality design, where I focus on crafting unique and impactful experiences for our clients. To me, great design should feel deeply connected to its place and audience—it should tell a story and resonate with the people who interact with it. Whether it’s a hotel, a resort, or a restaurant, my goal is to create spaces that leave lasting impressions and elevate the human experience.
What sets Gensler apart is our mission: to create a better world through the power of design. With over 6,000 professionals partnering with clients in more than 100 countries, our firm leverages a global perspective while tailoring solutions to local needs. What I’m most proud of is our commitment to not just meeting expectations but pushing the boundaries of what design can achieve.
I want readers to know that Gensler isn’t just a firm that delivers projects; we’re a partner in shaping environments that inspire and connect people. Every space we design is a chance to make a positive impact, and that’s what drives me and my work every day.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
I’ve been fortunate to have mentors, supporters, and advocates who have shaped my journey in architecture and played a crucial role in my success. Throughout my practice, I’ve had guidance from strong women on construction sites who showed me how to respond under pressure, as well as thoughtful project managers who taught me the importance of data and managing expectations. These mentors helped me refine my skills and approach, enabling me to navigate the complexities of the architecture world.
I also owe a great deal to my colleagues and teammates at Gensler, who are not just collaborators but sources of inspiration. We constantly challenge each other to think bigger and push boundaries in our designs, which is critical in a firm that thrives on creativity, research, and innovation.
But perhaps the most unexpected source of inspiration and insight has been found on the dance floor, a hobby of mine. Through conversations with a diverse range of people, I’ve learned countless lessons about life, both positive and negative. You’d be surprised at the depth of understanding you can gain with a drink in hand. These personal interactions provide me with valuable data that helps me become a better designer, allowing me to approach architecture with a more empathetic and informed perspective.
In the end, it’s the blend of these mentors, teammates, and life experiences that have helped me get to where I am today. They’ve taught me that great design is not just about the built environment—it’s about the people and stories behind it.
Pricing:
- Architecture
- Interiors
- Consulting / Space Planning
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.gensler.com/offices/dallas
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jake_not.from.state.farm/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jake.groth
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaketgroth/
Image Credits
All images are by M. Arthur Gensler Jr. & Associates (Gensler).
