Client Oriented. Architect Led. About KOAL
Thoughtful Design Grounded in Practical Experience
KOAL, PLLC is a New Hampshire-based architectural firm providing residential, commercial, institutional, and planning services throughout northern New England. Since 2015, the firm has been guided by a straightforward principle: successful architecture begins with listening.
Every project presents its own combination of goals, opportunities, and constraints. We work closely with our clients to understand what matters most and to develop thoughtful solutions that balance design, function, constructability, durability, code compliance, budget, and schedule.
Our practical, collaborative approach carries each project from initial planning through design and construction. By combining creative thinking with technical knowledge and real-world construction experience, we produce architecture that is attractive, purposeful, and built to perform.
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
The Laconia Daily Sun · November 3, 2018 · By Adam Drapcho · PDF
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
Picture Yourself Running an Architecture Firm in Gilford
The Laconia Daily Sun · November 3, 2018 · By Adam Drapcho · PDF
Our Team
Donald W. Blajda AIA, LEED AP BD+C | Principal
Donald founded KOAL, PLLC in 2015 and brings more than 40 years of experience in architectural design, project management and construction. Licensed in New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont and Connecticut, he remains directly involved throughout each project—from initial planning and code review through construction documentation and administration. His background in architecture, public works and design-build construction provides a practical perspective that helps KOAL develop thoughtful, well-coordinated solutions for residential, commercial and public-sector clients.
Kenneth B. Tatro Assoc. AIA | Senior Project Designer / Manager
Ken brings more than 30 years of architectural design and project-management experience to KOAL. His work includes custom residences, renovations, hospitality, civic, commercial and higher-education projects, with extensive experience throughout New Hampshire’s Lakes Region. Ken works closely with clients from early programming and concept development through permitting, construction documentation and construction. His expertise includes building science, energy-efficient design, complex renovations and projects involving Shoreland and Wetland requirements.
Christopher R. Garian Assoc. AIA | Project Designer
Chris joined KOAL in 2021 and contributes to public, institutional, commercial, hospitality and residential projects. He supports projects from existing-condition documentation and design development through construction documents and construction-phase services. A graduate of Keene State College with a Bachelor of Science in Architecture and a minor in Environmental Studies, Chris has particular strengths in building information modeling, technical documentation, consultant coordination and the continued development of KOAL’s Revit standards.
Michele M. Blajda Office Manager
Michele oversees KOAL’s day-to-day office administration and financial recordkeeping. Her varied professional background includes managing a family-owned business, working as a human resources manager and operating her own recordkeeping service, where she helped small-business owners manage accounts payable, accounts receivable and other financial responsibilities. Michele also holds degrees in business management and nursing, bringing strong organizational, communication and problem-solving skills to her role at KOAL.
Architecture That Works
Good architecture must do more than look right. It must work for the people who use it, respond appropriately to its surroundings, make responsible use of the client’s resources, and remain functional and durable over time.
At KOAL, thoughtful design is supported by practical problem-solving, technical rigor, clear communication, and an understanding of how buildings are constructed. We identify challenges early, develop buildable solutions, and provide clear, coordinated documents that help carry the design intent through construction.
That is what we mean by Architecture That Works—thoughtful design, practical solutions, and buildings that continue to serve their owners and occupants long after construction is complete.