After more than 35 years with RLPS, Associate Partner Paul Nikolaus retired at the end of June. Known for his thoughtful approach, attention to detail, and genuine relationships with clients and colleagues, Paul worked with senior living organizations as resident expectations, technology, and campus planning continued to evolve. Before he stepped away from daily practice, we asked Paul to talk about the changes he’s witnessed, what has remained constant, and the lessons he’ll carry with him from more than three decades in the profession.
Here’s what he had to say:
- American Institute of Architects
- U.S. Green Building Council
Over your years at RLPS, what has changed most in senior living design?
From a client perspective, the resident profile has changed dramatically. When I started practicing in the 1980s, we were designing for people who lived through the Depression and often had modest expectations. Today, residents and their families expect high-end, hospitality-focused environments and a much broader range of amenities. From a hands-on design perspective in our practice, clearly the evolution of technology – going from hand drafting to 3D modeling and AI-assisted design capabilities – is the most significant change.
What has remained surprisingly consistent throughout your career?
The ability to have good work to do through several serious economic downswings has been a blessing in my career.
Looking back, is there a project or client relationship that stands out as especially meaningful to you?
Generally, the project types that have brought new life to existing buildings are memorable. On the other side of the spectrum, work on senior living master plans that have been successfully built out over time have been especially rewarding.
What advice would you give a young architect beginning a career in senior living design?
I would say to surround yourself with people who are smarter and more talented than you are (as has been my case). You will be inspired every day!
What are you most proud of when you reflect on your time at RLPS?
It has been especially rewarding to have shared a 37-year career with my co-workers at RLPS, some for nearly that entire time. Both personally and professionally, I’ve had the privilege of watching their families grow while sharing so many successful projects and experiences together.
Thank you, Paul, for the perspective, thoughtful approach, and lasting impact you’ve had on our clients, our firm, and the people we’ve had the privilege to serve. We wish you all the best in retirement.