Wallis Design Studio Architects
Leadership Through Listening
Pictured : Sierra Central Credit Union Wheatland Branch ; photo by Kial James Photography
Wallis Design Studio Architects was launched in 2010 in the midst of the recession as a bold step by founder Robert Wallis . In 12 years , Wallis has steadily grown the firm , adding another licensed architect and several
design staff , and offering services that span planning , design and construction phases .
The firm takes on projects throughout California in residential , municipal , education , retail , office and health care markets . “ We focus on truly listening to clients ,” Wallis says . “ We want them to feel heard and we let that inform our approach to design and achieving their visions .”
That attention to clients ’ needs is rooted in Wallis ’ s approach to his own team . Known for his ability to bring people together with compassionate leadership , he listens to each team member ’ s needs and strives to align their long-term career goals with the firm ’ s goals . The result is an enthusiastic company culture with passion for the job .
This summer , the firm will be busy in their hometown of Grass Valley , moving into their new downtown office space and beginning the city ’ s Downtown Streetscape Improvement Project , a pedestrian revitalization of Mill Street . “ This will be an iconic placemaking project that will benefit our local community and downtown businesses ,” Wallis says .
The firm is also focusing on new multifamily affordable housing , currently working with the nonprofit Hospitality House to design an apartment building through a grant process . Wallis has a long history with Hospitality House , having helped them with their original shelter in 2012 and acting as a board member and board president for years .
“ Architecture is gratifying for me ,” Wallis says . “ There is no end to the learning involved in this work because no two projects are the same , which keeps it fresh and exciting . In addition , I ’ m able to meet people from all walks of life in many industries and communities and help them realize their goals through design .”
“ We focus on truly listening to clients . We want them to feel heard and we let that inform our approach to design and achieving their visions .”
— Robert Wallis , Founder
415 W Main St ., Grass Valley , California 95945 I ( 530 ) 264-7010 www . wallisdesignstudio . com
58 comstocksmag . com | August 2021
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