It all started in high school working at Karlson’s Home Center in north Evanston drafting kitchens and family room additions. Andy joined OKW in 1989 and served as OKW’s president until early 2024. As one of the firm’s four partners, he directs OKW’s retail and mixed-use project group. He is recognized for his expertise in mixed-use urban infill developments and knowledge of the development and entitlement process; providing a strategic voice to our client’s efforts. His 30+ years of experience span a multitude of building types including residential, retail, institutional and office. Andy also provides mentorship to his fellow OKWers in the day-to-day operation of the firm, including financial oversight, strategic planning, and client relationships.
As a University of Illinois and Yale University alum, Andy serves as a member of the Yale Alumni Schools Committee, and is a frequent participant in student design reviews at the University of Illinois graduate school. He has written articles for various trade publications and continues to serve on various design competition juries.
Always looking for a reason to swing a hammer, he has led construction teams on behalf of Habitat for Humanity having made seven trips to rural Louisiana since hurricane Katrina. He donates his time to church, various community boards, and civic organizations.
Cubs or Sox: Cubs and Red Sox
Favorite movie: Das Boot or Stranger than Fiction
If I were not an architect, I would be: a Formula 1 driver
Growing up, I always wanted to be: An architect; I was always fascinated by the blue prints and drawings my architect-father, Norm Koglin, would bring home. Having Stanley Tigerman as our neighbor didn't hurt either.