John believes great design starts with curiosity and conversation. From his first visit to a construction site as a kid, watching a home take shape and a team bring ideas to life as architecture, he was hooked. That early spark grew into a lifelong fascination with how people come together to solve complex problems through design.
At Explore Design, John leads with transparency and collaboration, guiding the firm toward new ways of thinking and creating spaces that connect communities across Alaska. His approach is shaped by travel and changing perspectives, whether exploring museums around the world or learning from local voices at home. What he’s most proud of isn’t a single project, but the culture he’s helped build at ExD: one rooted in care, curiosity, and shared purpose.

John took a deep dive on this project and visited several museums for research and inspiration. The result created something that feels truly Alaskan. This project will always have a special place in John’s heart.

A collection of thoughts that drive the team at Explore Design.