Today we’d like to introduce you to John Wankner.
Hi John, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
After earning my Bachelor of Architecture degree from California Polytechnic State University in 2005, I moved to Los Angeles to immerse myself in the southern California, modernist style of architecture. I joined a boutique design-build firm that specialized in custom residential homes. While there, I honed my skills and developed a deep appreciation for their wholistic approach to design, which incorporated not only architecture but landscape, interior and furniture design. In 2010, I took a brief work hiatus to travel and gain new perspectives. After six months of exploration, I returned to Southern California, this time to Orange County. I was offered a unique opportunity to work for a general contractor while completing the final steps for my architectural licensure exams. The hands-on experience in construction was invaluable, expanding my understanding of how a business operates coupled with the logistics behind transforming plans into buildings. The ability to look at design through the eyes of an architect and a builder would become the most defining qualities I bring to my clients’ projects.
In 2018, my life took a personal turn with the birth of my first daughter. My wife and I decided to move to Carlsbad to be closer to her family, and I transferred to the San Diego division of my company. This shift was not only a significant life change but also an opportunity to adapt and grow professionally in a new environment.
In May of 2021, amidst the challenges of the pandemic, I took a leap of faith and founded Wankner Architecture + Landscape Designs. This was the beginning of my journey as a business owner. Today, I feel extremely grateful for all the relationships made over the last 3 + years that have allowed me to continue my practice and grow the firm’s reputation and portfolio.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Balancing workload has been the primary challenge in my architectural practice. I carefully manage the number of projects I take on to avoid overloading myself, as I know delivering high-quality, thoughtful designs requires time and focus. At the same time, I am cautious not to under-commit, as staying engaged with enough work ensures I continue to grow. Striking this balance is a delicate act, one that requires constant attention and adjustment to maintain both professional growth and the quality of my work.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
WAL Designs is an architecture firm first and foremost, specializing in curating custom residential and commercial designs, tailored to the unique needs of each client. Our work ranges from intimate, contemporary homes to branded commercial spaces. In addition to our architectural services, we also offer landscape design for select projects, particularly residential and small commercial, ensuring a seamless integration of the built environment with its surroundings. Stylistically, we draw inspiration from the clean lines and open spaces of Southern California Modernism and the timeless elegance of Mid-Century Modern architecture. These movements, with their emphasis on light, functionality, and a connection to nature, resonate deeply in our approach. We strive to create spaces that not only reflect these influences but also adapt to the present-day needs of our clients, blending modern sensibilities with a sense of place and history.
I am most proud of the relationships created from successful projects. I pour a lot of care into my designs, making sure they are thoughtfully detailed, while also considering constructability and sequencing. When the job runs smoothly, stays on schedule, and both my client and the contractor are happy, I know my plans were of good quality. Executing that time and again has been the cornerstone of my relationships.
What’s next?
Lately, I have become intensely interested in the topic of building science. Across the world, the construction industry is innovating far more efficient building products and assemblies to create better buildings. These practices have become standardized in more severe climates, but in southern California, our temperate climate can mask a building’s poor performance. I suspect this is the reason I commonly see old building assemblies still used in construction. I am focusing on expanding my knowledge of how to apply these advanced building techniques, and integrating them into my work here in San Diego. By doing so, I will offer clients more sustainable, energy-conscious, and all-around better-quality designs, built to last generations.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.wal-designs.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wal_designs/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/wal-designs-carlsbad?osq=ARCHITECT&override_cta=Ask+for+information
- Other: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/wankner-architecture-landscape-designs-pfvwus-pf~1992514884
Image Credits
Haley Hill Photography
