One Year In: A Thank You from Bonesteel Architects

This week, Bonesteel Architects is celebrating one year in business!

When I opened the doors in October 2025, I knew starting my own firm would be a big step. What I didn't fully understand was just how big. Going from a W-2 employee to founder and owner has been the hardest thing I have ever done, and at the same time, the most freeing.

The hardest year

For years, I showed up, did good work, and trusted that the rest of the business was handled by someone else. Owning the firm changed that overnight. Suddenly I was the architect, and also the one finding the next project, writing the proposals, sending the invoices, keeping the books, and building the website. There were weeks when the to-do list felt endless, and moments when I wondered if I had made the right call.

The most freeing year

And yet, I have never felt more like myself. I get to choose the projects I believe in, the clients I partner with, and the way I want to practice architecture. I get to build a firm around the things that matter most to me: listening carefully, designing thoughtfully, and treating every client's project as if it were my own.

That freedom has changed me in ways I didn't expect. This year has made me a better mother, a better wife, a better friend, and a better architect - just a better person overall. Running my own practice has taught me to be present where it counts, to set priorities with intention, and to trust my own judgment.

Thank you to my family and friends

To my husband, Michael: you have believed in me for years, long before I took the leap to start my own practice. You have empowered me in so many ways, some you may not even know. Thank you for always being in my corner.

To my daughter, Zoey: thank you for helping me become the type of person I want you to look up to. I hope this first year shows you what is possible when you believe in yourself.

And to my amazing family and friends who have stood by me through every step: the late nights, the leaps of faith, and the small wins worth celebrating. Your encouragement carried me through the hard days, and I don't take it for granted.

Thank you to my clients and partners

To my clients: thank you for trusting a brand-new firm with your vision. In our first year, Bonesteel Architects has had the privilege of working on school, commercial, and residential projects, and every one of them has taught me something. To the consultants, contractors, and business partners I have worked alongside: thank you. The relationships we continue to build are the foundation this firm will grow on.

Looking ahead

As I look toward year two, I am wide-eyed and excited about what's next. I'm looking forward to new projects, deeper relationships with the clients and communities we serve, and continuing to grow Bonesteel Architects into a firm that makes a lasting difference, one building at a time.

Thank you for being part of our first chapter. The best is yet to come.

If you have a project in mind, or just want to say hello, I would love to hear from you. Reach out anytime through bonesteelarch.com.

Kira Bonesteel, Bonesteel Architects, LLC