Dan Kessler Joins Otak to Lead Firm’s Architecture Practice
September, 2025
Otak welcomes the leadership of Dan Kessler as its new director of architecture.
We’re excited to announce the appointment of Dan Kessler as director of architecture, leading the firm’s direction in design as well as the growth of our people and projects.
Bringing nearly three decades of design leadership to guide the firm’s architecture practice, Dan’s career includes leadership roles at organizations ranging from DLR Group to Fentress Architects, as well as the founding of his own practice, Element Design Works. His portfolio spans a wide breadth of project types and scales—from the complexity of LAX Airport to the refined detail of multifamily housing.
“I’m excited for our teams to collaborate around and leverage Dan’s extensive multi-family and mixed-use experience on current and future projects.”
– Chad Weiser, Executive Management Team
In addition to his professional work, Dan served for 11 years as an Honorarium Instructor at the University of Colorado, his alma mater. His ongoing engagement with higher education has allowed him to stay connected to emerging trends while mentoring the next generation of designers.
At the core of Dan’s leadership philosophy is a commitment to helping others succeed. He believes in empowering individuals with the knowledge and insight gained from real-world experience, encouraging each person to define their own professional path. “It’s about balancing ability with desire,” Dan says, “and recognizing that every individual brings something unique to the table.”
Dan’s arrival signals a deepened focus on Otak’s integrated, multidisciplinary approach—particularly in the public sector. He is eager to collaborate across teams to deliver thoughtful, community-centered design solutions that reflect the diverse needs of the people they serve.
“We’re delighted to have Dan become part of Otak’s leadership team and to help grow our multidisciplinary practice both in Colorado and firm wide.”
– Nico Vanderhorst, Executive Management Team
With Dan’s passion for mentorship and a commitment to cultivating a creative culture, Otak is poised to further elevate its design impact—both through the architecture projects it delivers and the people it empowers.