CULTURE | YOW Architects

OUR CULTURE

At YOW we firmly believe that creativity, collaboration, and passion are at the core of everything we do. We want our clients and employees to feel valued and empowered in order to spark creative exchanges and drive the best results. We believe that we hire the best, and that our employees should have the freedom to create their own schedules and run their own projects, while providing them the support to do so. With our convenient downtown location (free parking included), dog friendly office, beer fridays, and work-life balance, we are able to provide a thriving culture.

WHY THE NAME
Y | O | W ?

In 1978, Gene Yergensen, joined by Steve Obering and Larry Whittaker, founded Yergensen Obering and Whittaker. The founders bought land in Colorado Springs and designed their very own downtown headquarters. The firm quickly became one of the most pre-eminent firms in Colorado Springs for architecture and planning services, even winning “Best Architecture Firm in Colorado Springs”. All three founders have played an integral role through their efforts in serving on the Planning Commision, Regional Building Department Board of Review, and the Historic Preservation Society as well as forming lasting relationships with some of the most major players in the Colorado Springs market.

GENE YERGENSEN

STEVE OBERING

LARRY WHITTAKER

Y | O | W TODAY

The firm name changed to YOW Architects in 2008, and is now assumed by Jonathan Whittaker, the son of founding Principal Larry Whittaker. Jonathan, along with the YOW team, have remained dedicated to continuing the collaborative working relationships with clientele as well as growing the firm to meet the needs of the expanding future of the city.

“The legacy of YOW has put us in a great position to continue our long-standing reputation in the community, while simultaneously pushing our creative boundaries towards new growth. We are very excited to see what the future holds.”– Jonathan Whittaker, Principal-In-Charge