Professional Staff
Erik Kantola, AIA, LEED AP
Erik began working with NorthWind as an intern in 2005. He received his architectural license in 2009. A University of Idaho graduate with a B.S Arch and a M. Arch., his design taste is best defined as eclectic. Erik has a hands-on approach to design that is practical, artistic and sustainable. This approach was further developed when he built a house with his brother Shawn, largely during evenings and weekends from 2008-2010.
Erik was born and raised in Juneau and considers southeast Alaska to be one of the most beautiful places in the world.
Fran Downey
Fran has been an intern with Northwind since 2009. She is excited about the collaborative process of architecture and believes it is a vital social art that addresses universal issues. Fran has been involved in project assessment, research, proposals, design, detailing and construction documents, marketing and general office management. She attended Lehigh University in Pennsylvania and has studied architecture in Denmark, Spain, and Italy.
Originally from the Washington, DC area, Fran is enjoying the slower pace of life, hiking, and staring at mountains. She is currently synthesizing her travels and architectural experiences as she applies to go back to school for her Masters in Architecture. When not drafting, Fran may be seen playing ping pong or exploring the trails of Juneau.
Russel Echiverri
Russel has a B.S. Architecture Degree from the NewSchool of Architecture and Design. After graduating, he moved back to Juneau, his hometown, and is currently working on his Intern Development Program with NorthWind Architects. He plans to get his professional license in Alaska after finishing his IDP. Russel also plans to expand his professional skills to include construction administration and special inspection. Russel strives for quality in each project with a simple and unique approach to design.
Russel was born in the Philippines and has resided in Juneau since he was 5 years old. Russel is an avid sports fan and enjoys local recreational sports.
Shannon Dore
Shannon, a third generation Alaskan, has worked at NorthWind Architects during the summers of 2005, 2006 and 2011. She is currently attending the University of Oregon for a Bachelors of Architecture and Masters in Historic Preservation. Shannon's professional interests include vernacular architecture, sustainable design, adaptive reuse of historic sites and design/build projects. She is heavily involved with the DesignBridge program at the U of O, dedicated to the design and construction of projects for clients who cannot afford professional services.
When she graduates, Shannon plans to design projects using the passive environmental control systems of historic buildings for daylighting, heating, and cooling. She hopes to breathe new life and use into historic properties through adaptive reuse. When not working, Shannon enjoys hiking all over Juneau's beautiful mountain ranges, exploring the local mine ruins, and salmon fishing.
