Principal, Val Thomas Inc., a firm specializing in development of urban mixed use projects and in-city redevelopment. BA, BArch Rice University 1966; March. MCP U. of Pennsylvania 1972. Currently serves on Professionals Council, UW School of Architecture and Urban Planning. Five-year member of Seattle Planning Commission. Began work in Seattle as Development Manager for rehabilitating the Pike Place Market for the Market PDA. Professional work focuses on projects that can rehabilitate and enliven in-city neighborhoods through direct development.

Since housing is a key component of my work, I have served on numerous panels in the region for producing market rate and affordable housing that works economically. I have used my experience to advocate for regulations and incentives that show that mixed use projects in the right location can be economically viable and exciting architecturally, contributing to neighborhoods beyond their own site boundaries. This includes both historic and adaptive rehabilitation and new construction that consciously aims to fit into the character of these areas.

I am convinced that increasing the density and livability of existing urban areas is perhaps the most important key in managing growth in the state and in the country. I believe my benefit to AIA Seattle is to be a reference guide and advocate for architects interested in participating directly as developers as well as designers for other developers.

This organization is a fine and very active forum for Seattle's architects, and I believe my participation can add to the healthy mix of professional involvement and viewpoints on the board. I appreciate the opportunity to serve the community of AIA Seattle.