Project Manager: Kirk Robinson
Kirk Robinson, President of The Robinson Company recently spoke about being selected as VAA Project Manager. The 25 year old, 12 person Seattle-based firm specializes in working with non-profit organizations. They helped Vashon Community Care Center in the construction of their new facility. Other long–term clients include Highline School District, Swedish Medical Center and Mount Saint Vincent. Robinson is currently Project Manager for Ballard’s Nordic Heritage Museum and is subcontracted with the architects for Vashon High School’s project and the work at Vashon Library. Since 1985 the group has worked on 40 performing arts, cultural and community centers.
“We like the spirit of non-profits, the volunteers, the energy and the good causes. It can be a cumbersome and difficult process and we can help the transition go smoothly,” says Robinson.
The company will handle project management duties, cost estimating, constructability, value engineering and assist with fundraising for the VAA building project. “In other words, we will find the easiest, fastest and most economical way to create a sustainable design,” Robinson explains. “We weigh economics and quality and address life-cycle costs.” Financial Analyst Jim Blumenthal (Martin Nelson & Co) is already working side-by-side with Robinson and Craig Sheets will be involved in the project’s construction aspects.
“This is the first time we’ve worked with LMN; I don’t think you can get a better architectural firm for this kind of building; their track record is phenomenal,” he adds.
VAA Board President Scarlett Foster Moss lauds Robinson, “He is great choice and a great match for VAA and Vashon. Selecting the Project Manager is a big step. Now with Robinson and Alford [The Alford Group is a Seattle based consulting firm that assists not-for-profit organizations on management and resource development issues] we have added much needed expertise that allows us to move forward.”
Paul Martinez, VAA trustee and building committee member explains the process, “After a review of 23 proposers to a Request for Proposals published in the Beachcomber and Daily Journal of Commerce the interview committee seven candidates were selected for interviews. Of the four Island proposers two were selected for interviews. From the seven interviews three candidates made a top group from which the Robinson Company was selected. Kirk Robinson made a very favorable impression on the committee. Having completed project management locally on the Community Care Center his skill in cost estimating, understanding entitlements and clear communication skills made him a great fit. Kirk’s understanding of arts buildings and the public process make us excited to have him and the Robinson Team part of another Vashon project.”
Robinson, who grew up in Chicago, earned his degree in architectural engineering at University of Colorado in Boulder. He moved to Seattle in 1980 with his wife and business partner, Jean. Their daughter Sarah attends Seattle University.
