Souliyahn Keobounpheng

Water Buffalo, and Rice Fields Born in Vientiane, Laos, Souliyahn's fondest experiences of his childhood home-land were the pleasures of a rural existence. He reminisces about a simple life where basic necessities and a deep connection to the earth were luxuries. Prairie Metropolis A Minnesota resident since 1979, Souliyahn has a perspective that is entirely fresh and yet in-tune with the heart and culture of the Midwest. He is captivated by the "sublime" beauty of ice houses on grey frozen lakes, and of windswept farmsteads, of silos, barns and sheds. To him they were the first skyscrapers to dot the expansive prairie. Alvar Aalto: Antonio Gaudi With a Master of Architecture degree from the University of Minnesota, Souliyahn is inspired by modern sensibility and design that celebrates our daily life, and strengthens our connections to the elements of nature and light. He also believes that design should inspire and transcend our visions of what is possible. One at a Time In collaborations, Souliyahn has a breadth of insight and experiences that range from a small garden structure, a meaningful home, a celebrated restaurant, to a large medical facility. Live to Work Souliyahn has been in the design profession since 1993. He has had experience with Ellerbe Becket architecture, Coenpartners landscape design, and recently completed an apprenticeship with David Salmela, FAIA. He continues to collaborate on projects with Salmela architect. Design is Good In an ever so trend-driven environment, where labels such as "green design" or "green living" have been misappropriated, Souliyahn believes that great and thoughtful design are inherently beautiful, relevant, sustainable, and life enhancing.