Principals

In 1986, Forum founders R. Norman Stoehr and James B. Black instilled a simple business philosophy that still guides us today: Deliver world-class architecture and design at the highest possible level. Living up to this standard requires an extraordinary level of organization, expertise, and communication. When you partner with Forum, you are immediately aware of our elevated commitment to you and your project. Introducing forward thinking architecture and design, superior attention to detail and outstanding communication are the pillars to Forum’s success.
Andrew Roark, AIA
roark

Andrew has over 23 years of professional experience and currently leads all aspects of corporate operations while building upon the client-centric foundation laid by Forum’s founders over 35 years ago. Among his strengths are a strong commitment to team communication, broad working knowledge of building codes and construction methods, and steadfast devotion to cementing the firm’s position as one of the leading multifamily design firms in the Southeast. Andrew believes the design process is one of creative problem-solving throughout all phases of every project, and promotes Forum’s talented team of employee owners as the ultimate competitive advantage.

Jeffrey Suchan, AIA, NCARB, CRRP
Jeff Suchan FINAL web

Jeff, Principal, comes to Forum with extensive architectural, business development and executive experience in a broad range of sectors across the country. At Forum, Jeff will be working closely with the teams with the primary focus on corporate operations. Jeff will utilize his architectural experience to provide mentoring to staff and help with professional development. Jeff is a registered Architect in Colorado, South Carolina, Utah, Indiana, Maryland and Florida.

Kathryn Trentley, RID, IIDA, NCIDQ
Katie Trentley

Katie has 20 years of experience and currently oversees the design and management of Forum’s Interior Design Studio and Design Resource Group (DRG), our purchasing and procurement company. Her leadership strength resides in mentoring the interior designers and staff to think like owners and create like artists. Katie reviews overall design for projects, develops client relationships, and manages project development. She has extensive experience in model merchandising, high-end residential, interior detailing, commercial projects, and renovations. Katie is a member of the National Trust for Historical Preservation and a licensed and certified Interior Designer in the state of Florida.

Karen V. McIntyre, Principal (Retired)
Karen McIntyre 1

Karen McIntyre, Principal,  joined Forum in 2001.  Karen’s responsibilities include managing multifamily, single family, commercial and renovation projects. She enjoys and is intensely involved in the programming and design phase of many projects; working closely with the clients and her team at Forum to develop a complete, well organized set of construction documents. Karen holds a Bachelors Degree in Architecture from the Pratt Institute. Karen is a Licensed Architect in the states of Florida and Connecticut.

R. Norman Stoehr, Founding Principal (Retired)
stoehr

Norman Stoehr, Founding Principal, has over 40 years of professional experience in architectural design, interior design and corporate business management. He is a Registered Architect in 15 states, a Licensed Interior Designer in Florida and also a Licensed Real Estate Broker in Florida. Norman is involved in the corporate management and operations of Forum and also is responsible for the overall design initiatives on a wide variety of projects. Through his extensive experience Norman has refined his focus and specialized in the area of programming and design of resort/hotel, commercial, residential and interior design projects. Norman holds a Master’s Degree in Architecture from Clemson University.

 

James B. Black, Founding Principal (Retired)
Jim Black 2020

Jim Black, Founding Principal, has over 37 years of professional experience.  He is a Registered Architect in 16 states and a Certified Building Contractor in both Florida and North Carolina, as well as a LEED Accredited Professional.  Jim’s primary responsibilities include strategic planning, business development, corporate management, daily operations and the firm’s sustainability initiatives.  Jim’s portfolio of clients and projects encompasses all multifamily market segments with ongoing client relationships of over 26 years. Jim holds a Master’s Degree in Architecture from the University of Florida.

 

Leadership Team

Our Studio Directors are the heart of Forum’s leadership and take personal interest in the successful outcome of the firm. Working alongside their teams of architects and designers, they ensure Forum delivers projects of the highest quality through open communication with the entire project team.

A Studio Director is involved in every project from inception through the end of construction, providing reliable continuity while maintaining and fostering relationships with clients, consultants and contractors. These individuals rely on diversity of experiences and varied skill sets, but they share a common passion and dedication when it comes to providing the best service to our clients. Their management style underscores the firm’s overall philosophy of developing long-term relationships built on trust and service with our clients.

Employee Owners