Peace Studio Architects, Inc. is a group of dedicated professionals who are passionate about design and committed to excellent communication and client service. Award-winning architect and designer Gill Peace is the co-owner of Peace Studio Architects, Inc.
Tell us a little bit about your business. – ‘Because Design Matters’ is our mantra. We work on a diverse range of projects with a common focus; to improve the built environment and exceed expectations. Project types include commercial, cultural, hospitality, adaptive re-use interiors, tenant finish, landscape, master planning and more. I am fortunate to have the opportunity to design structures that unite communities and create strong bonds with the citizens who live and raise families in those communities, mine included.
A few of the diverse range of our projects include: Bubbles & Blocks Daycare; adaptive re-use of old Swanson Russell Building; Joysticks Arcade Bar; Kingery Construction’s new corporate site; the new PRI building; Century House Apartments remodel; Lead Designer of the Pinnacle Bank Arena Envelope; Frontier Bank; master planning and residential design at Village Gardens; Sterling Public Schools renovation; residential homes in Fallbrook.
How did you get started in the business? – Well, it all started with a Lego building set a long, long time ago. I have always known that architecture is my calling. I graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with an undergraduate and master’s degree in Architecture. After working 23 years for other firms we decided it was time to hang out our shingle.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – Becoming an entrepreneur and running a successful firm with my partner and wife, Samantha Peace.
Tell us a little about your family. – Samantha and I met in college at the University of Nebraska. We have been married for 20 years. Together we have remodeled five homes and are currently updating our home in Woodsshire. We have three wonderful, spirited children. Our eldest, Guinn, is a senior at Pius X and on her way to college. Our son Joe is a sophomore at Pius X and learning to drive a car and ‘life.’ When not in school or studying for tests, Guinn and Joe take flying lessons. Our youngest daughter Natalie is a 6th grader at Scott Middle and is learning how to navigate school, work, sports, and her active social scene.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – I enjoy going on bike rides around Lincoln with my children and nephews. We stop at the Lincoln Children’s Museum, Sunken Gardens, then pedal over for a snack at the local Amigos, trek downtown for a granita at The Mill, and if we are early enough, the Farmers Market.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – Question everything. Listen to what people say. You can learn just as much by what people don’t say.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – Maverick.
What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? – I grew up playing soccer. My parents, Dave and Theresa Peace, were active in coaching my soccer teams so coaching my children was a natural progression for me. I have been coaching soccer and basketball for all three of our children through YMCA youth sports since 2003.
What is your favorite local restaurant? – It’s a toss-up between Bread & Cup and Lazlo’s.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – By phone at (402) 217-1830, via email at gill@peacestudioarch.com, or visit peacestudioarch.com. You can also follow Peace Studio Architects, Inc. on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and Instagram.