November 6, 2024
Reading Time: 3 minutesBy William J. Martin AIA
Photo credits: Taryn Carroll Photography
Parts composed with assistance from Google Gemini AI
A Dynamic Duo: The Kliesch Family’s Architectural Vision
Ridgewood Living recently featured the talented Kliesch family, highlighting their passion for design and significant contributions to the architectural landscape. Stacey and Gary Kliesch and their lovely daughters embody the vibrant spirit of Ridgewood, New Jersey.
A Dream Realized
Stacey Kliesch, having grown up nearby, always harbored a dream of calling Ridgewood home. The town’s lively atmosphere and stunning architecture captivated her young imagination, inspiring a future architect. Now, she and her family are living that dream, immersed in a community that nurtures creativity and innovation.
A Powerhouse Partnership
Both Stacey and Gary are esteemed members of AIA New Jersey, and their collaborative approach to design is truly inspiring. While they each head their own firms—GK&A Architects and Stacey Ruhle Kliesch Architect—they often join forces on projects within their household.
Gary Kliesch: An Architect of His Time
Gary, a graduate of NJIT, leads GK&A Architects, where the firm specializes in commercial and higher education projects. His firm’s innovative designs have made a significant impact on the New Jersey landscape and beyond.
Stacey Kliesch: A Creative Force
Stacey, who earned her architecture degree from Catholic University, focuses on residential and commercial projects at Stacey Ruhle Kliesch Architect. Her designs are not only aesthetically pleasing but also deeply rooted in the concept of creating spaces that nurture and support individuals and families.
Beyond her architectural endeavors, Stacey is a dedicated advocate for the profession. As AIA New Jersey’s hardworking advocacy consultant, she tirelessly promotes architecture through media engagement, public outreach, and active participation on various social media platforms.
The Kliesch family’s passion for design, coupled with their commitment to community and professional advancement, makes them a true inspiration. Their story is a testament to the power of creativity and the enduring impact of architecture.
A Legacy of Design and Community
After becoming engaged, Stacey and Gary embarked on a quest to find their ideal Ridgewood home. They stumbled upon a charming Victorian gem, a circa 1890 house in need of tender care. With meticulous research, they uncovered the home’s original color palette and architectural details. The couple, working together, lovingly restored and updated the home, breathing new life into this historic property. Their dedication to preserving the home’s character while infusing it with modern comforts is an inspiration to the entire Ridgewood community.
Within the walls of this 19th-century home, they raised their two daughters, fostering their creativity and independence. In a bold and contrasting move, the Kliesch duo also designed and built an ultra-modern home on Long Beach Island. This stark stylistic departure from their Victorian residence showcases their versatility and unwavering commitment to innovative design. The LBI home, a bridge between the 20th and 21st centuries, has been featured in several New Jersey design magazines.
Always active in their community, the Kliesch family is dedicated to improving Ridgewood’s environment and fostering a strong sense of neighborliness.
AIA New Jersey is proud to celebrate the Kliesch family’s recognition in Ridgewood Living Magazine.
By Stacey Ruhle Kliesch, AIA, AIA NJ Advocacy Consultant | Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged: #GaryKlieschAIA, #StaceyRuhleKlieschAIA | Comments (0)
Architects are creative professionals, educated, trained, and experienced in the art and science of building design, and licensed to practice architecture. Their designs respond to client needs, wants and vision, protect public safety, provide economic value, are innovative, inspire and contribute positively to the community and the environment.
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