About Us

Design Philosophy – Horizon Architecture engages you in a collaborative design and build environment to create delightful and durable solutions.

Mike Nolan

Principal

Mike Nolan is a native of West Virginia and attended the United States Air Force Academy where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Engineering. Mike served for over ten years as a pilot in both the F-16 and T-38 in assignments across the globe including combat missions as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom.


Seeking a challenge that would meld his experience, technical expertise and passion for design, Mike enrolled in the Master of Architecture program at Virginia Tech. Mike earned his Architect Registration in Fall of 2012, just over two years after completing his degree.

Prior to founding Horizon Architecture, Mike practiced architecture in a variety of firms gaining extensive experience in a broad variety of projects. Projects include Modernization to the Eisenhower Executive Office Building in Washington, DC, the Moss Center for the Arts at Virginia Tech and Gateway Ticketing Systems Global Headquarters in Pottstown, PA. Mike founded Horizon Architecture to continue his mission of bringing thoughtful design and an unparalleled experience to his clients.

Along with his wife and Air Force Veteran Sarah and their daughters Molly and Eleanor, Mike resides in Iowa City and is an enthusiastic ambassador and proud transplant to this wonderful community. They can be found cycling, gardening or in the midst any number of projects around the house.


Lena Michalek

LEED BD+C

Project Designer

Lena Michalek is a graduate of the University of Kansas with a Master of Architecture and certificates in Historic Preservation and Project Management, she is excited to continue building on her experience and knowledge in the industry. Lena earned her LEED GA shortly after graduation and completed her LEED BD+C credential a few month after. She is currently working on her registration examinations.

Growing up in high deserts of New Mexico Lena formed a passion for sustainability and environmental preservation. Recognizing the large impact that buildings have on the environment led her to pursue a career in architecture with the goal to help create a sustainable built environment.

After a recent move to Iowa City as her husband starts his PhD program at the University of Iowa; Lena and Alexander have been renovating their home and exploring the unique areas of the city.

Rawya Osman

Project Designer




Rawya Osman is the newest addition to the Horizon Architecture team. Rawya is a Sudanese Trained Architect with extensive experience with single and multi-family residential design. Practicing architecture in a hot arid climate with unpredictable energy availability instills Rawya with an innate sense of the necessity of passive, energy conserving and resilient design. Rawya holds a Master and Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Khartoum.

Rawya brings a wealth of experience to the team and is quickly becoming familiar with local building practice and convention. She brings a tireless energy and motivation to the team along with a keen eye for detail and a passion for design.

Rawya recently moved to Iowa to join her husband Wael. They are both exploring the states and enjoy travelling, meeting new people, and learning about new cultures.

What We Do

  • Architecture
  • High Performance Building Design
  • Construction Project Management
  • Master Planning
  • Feasibility Studies
  • Code Review and Analysis
  • Facility Analysis and Documentation
  • Development Advisory Services

Company Profile

Certifications

  • Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB)
  • State of Iowa Targeted Small Busines (TSB)

Registrations

  • Registered Architect - Iowa, Illinois, Colorado and Massachusetts
  • LEED Accredited Professional
  • Certified Passive House Consultant (PHIUS)

NAICS Codes – 541310, 541540, 541430

CAGE Code - 7RNW7

DUNS Number - 079098790

Drop me a line and let’s discuss how we can put our experience to work for you!