Alameda-based architecture and design firm MBH Architects appoints former Senior Associates, Kevin Albaugh and Monica Jamlang Do, as Principals. With over four decades of experience in retail design, Kevin and Monica will provide guidance as the firm continues to navigate through the many facets of the COVID-19 pandemic and its effect on the built environment. As leaders of MBH’s internal training program, Framework, the two will continue to help employees through mentorship and technical proficiencies.

“We are a firm that prides ourselves on upholding the highest professional standards of the industry and internal development,” says John McNulty, Founding Principal at MBH Architects. “Throughout their tenure at MBH, Kevin and Monica have demonstrated tremendous growth by developing strategies that effectively tackle problems faced in our industry. I am excited to see what the future holds for both new principals and the value they will bring to our leadership team.”

Kevin began his career at MBH as a project architect before becoming a technical director. Throughout his tenure at MBH, Kevin has become an integral part of the Retail and Restaurant Studio—often called upon to consult and provide guidance on complex projects in other studios, most recently overseeing the completion of 300 Grant, the first ground-up development in San Francisco’s Union Square in twenty years. In addition to his expertise in architecture, Kevin is well-versed in building codes and applications and possesses a strong ability to solve complicated technical challenges, making him the ideal choice for the instructor of the Framework program.

“Having been with the firm for nearly twenty years, it is satisfying to join the leadership team that has influenced me throughout my career,” says Kevin Albaugh. ”I look forward to working in my new role and mentoring the next generation of architects at MBH.”

Monica Jamlang Do previously served as studio director of a single-brand international retail studio at MBH. As director, Monica proved to be an invaluable asset overseeing the operations of this high volume, fast-paced studio, growing the team to 27 while collaborating closely with the client on the worldwide program. With an extensive background in retail and a complex understanding of space planning and program operations, Monica maintains the breakneck workflow of a global program with a high standard of care while using her business acumen to keep projects on schedule and build long standing client relationships. Together with her professional work, Monica inspires her fellow employees to reach their full potential by serving as a role model and mentor for the next generation. In addition to starting and leading the Framework program with Kevin, Monica also helped create a lunchtime forum where employees can participate in discussions about fairness and equality in the workplace.

“Using tactics and habits I developed as studio director, I look forward to inaugurating these strategies across different studios in my new role as principal, '' says Monica Jamlang Do. “I take great pride in streamlining workflow, easing the work burden for those in my departments, allowing me to focus on mentorship.”

As part of a key initiative for MBH, Kevin and Monica will create new communication channels, bridging across market sectors and practice areas to bring a holistic approach to design for current and future clients.