Caoimhín has brought a unique blend of international perspective and hands-on expertise to Schmidt Associates since joining the team. Originally from Northern Ireland, his journey has taken him from Belfast and London to New York City, and now to our Louisville office. Alongside his passion for sustainable design, Caoimhín is an avid outdoorsman, dedicated family man, and soccer enthusiast. Read his Q&A below to learn more about his journey, design philosophy, and insights into the evolving field of architecture!

From Belfast to Louisville: A Journey in Design

Q: You grew up in Northern Ireland and studied architecture at Queen’s University in Belfast and the Architectural Association in London. How did you end up in Louisville working with Schmidt Associates? I grew up in Northern Ireland and studied architecture in Belfast and London, but my journey to Louisville began with my family’s emigration to the U.S. in the mid-1970s to escape the Troubles. We returned to Northern Ireland in 1987, where I began my studies in 1996, eventually working across Ireland and Germany. When the 2008 recession hit, I relocated to New York City for work and met my wife, Danielle—who happened to be from Kentucky.

Q: Having experienced both Irish and American cultures, how do these diverse perspectives shape your approach to architecture and design? I’m finding that the differences between these cultures are more about tonal shades than fundamental contrasts. We’re not so different after all. Many social and cultural issues vary along a sliding scale, but they balance out when you consider the whole story of a community—or even a country. As designers, the more we can gain new perspectives, the more we can understand the why behind the why, the better designers we become, it’s an automatic thing.  

Q: What are some of the key design differences or trends you’ve noticed between Ireland and the U.S.? How do you incorporate both perspectives into your work? Sustainable design is a significant trend I notice evolving on both sides of the Atlantic, especially here in Kentucky, my second “coal country.” In Europe, sustainability has been ingrained in architectural education and practice for years. Here in the U.S., it’s gaining ground, not only among my friends and neighbors but also with clients and projects.

Shaping Spaces with Experience

Q: You’ve traveled the world, which has undoubtedly shaped your approach to design. What are some life lessons you’ve gained from your travels that influence your architecture? Everyone who emigrates or immigrates is searching for something. For me, it began as a career pursuit but grew into a journey of self-discovery. Carving my path was its own creative endeavor, which today includes play and art time with my daughter, Niamh. The most important life lesson—and one that should inspire all of us—is to stay curious.

Q: With a background in construction, how does this hands-on experience help you when designing buildings for Schmidt Associates’ clients? My construction background is invaluable—it’s about understanding details, material qualities, and how they connect. My father, an incredible carpenter, taught me early lessons that now help me understand construction sequencing and how things are built—especially when suggesting something unorthodox to meet budget and create an interesting look. Reinforcing conceptual thinking with nuts-and-bolts knowledge is essential.

Q: Before you start putting pen to paper, what is your visioning process? How do you engage with owners to understand their goals and bring them into the design? The first step is getting to know each other. Building rapport is essential; understanding the client’s motivations helps me see the challenge or opportunity clearly. My process includes research, analysis, notes, sketches, reading, site visits, solo thinking, and constructive critiques with trusted colleagues. It’s a layered approach, each step bringing us closer to a vision that reflects the client’s goals.

Project Highlights and Evolving Trends

Q: You’ve worked on a variety of projects, from the Louisville Zoo’s Kentucky Trails exhibit to Congo Brands’ headquarters. Which of your projects stand out to you the most, and why? Working on the Kentucky Trails Exhibit at the Louisville Zoo feels like a gift—this is the project of my career, and I’m so proud to be part of this incredible team. It’s a 25-acre project with multiple buildings, all designed with a cohesive architectural language inspired by “Kentucky constructivism.” This style draws from the region’s industrial heritage, using materials and forms that echo Kentucky’s landscape and craftsmanship traditions. I’m thrilled with how it’s coming together, and I can’t wait to experience it with my daughter, Niamh, riding the train through this thoughtfully designed landscape.

Q: As a senior architectural designer, how has your role evolved over the years? What new trends or technologies have you had to adapt to in the field? Since I started out, I’ve seen many changes—from drawing tables and ammonia printers to today’s Revit software. I’ve used AutoCAD, ArchiCAD, Vectorworks, and now Revit, but my role has come full circle with the resurgence of hand drawing, now done on iPads. Today’s digital tools make it easier than ever to sketch and refine details, transforming my design process.

Q: Schmidt Associates operates across Indiana and Kentucky. How has cross-office collaboration influenced your work or brought new ideas to the table? This is the largest firm I’ve been a part of and the first with in-house engineers and landscape architects. Having that breadth of expertise within the team is reassuring, and I’m eager to collaborate even more across disciplines on future projects.

Work Culture and Collaboration

Q: How has Schmidt Associates’ work culture supported your growth as a designer, and what sets the firm’s approach to teamwork apart from others you’ve experienced? Schmidt Associates is THE most supportive employer I’ve ever had! When I expressed my goal to get my architecture license, the firm fully backed me, and I completed all my NCARB exams within a year. Schmidt Associates empowers its team members through a culture of support, education, and mentorship, enabling us to thrive and grow as professionals. I’m deeply grateful for that investment in my journey to becoming an architect.

Balancing Creativity and Life Outside of Work

Q: Outside of architecture, what hobbies do you have? I’ve always loved sports, especially soccer, which I played until recently. Growing up with three brothers and a sister, we were always active. I’m also drawn to camping, hiking, and spending time outdoors. I used to rock-climb and still enjoy biking whenever I can.

Q: You also renovated your own historic home. Do you see any parallels between home renovation and your professional design work? Absolutely. I think every young architect could benefit from buying a fixer-upper, if possible. Working through the renovation process is invaluable for learning about moisture barriers, HVAC systems, and the many intricacies that make a building function.

Q: Looking back at your career so far, what advice would you give to someone just starting out in architectural design? I’d say, get out there, soak it all in, and never take feedback personally. It’s all part of the journey.

Caoimhín’s journey shows us that impactful design blends practical expertise with a broad, insightful perspective. His deep understanding of construction—the “nuts and bolts” of how things come together—elevates his creativity, making bold ideas achievable. Paired with his diverse experiences across cultures, Caoimhín’s approach reminds us that thoughtful design thrives on both technical skill and a rich appreciation for people, places, and the stories they tell.

Schmidt Associates is lucky to have Caoimhín as part of our team, bringing this depth of knowledge and unique perspective to every project.