We recently toasted a milestone: Architect and Associate Scott Clarke’s 25th anniversary at PIVOT!

“PIVOT has been an essential part of my life, and a place where I have been able to grow, learn, and (I hope) contribute,” Scott told the staff. “May you all benefit from your time here as much as I have.”

Scott is analytical by nature. We rely on him to evaluate, extrapolate, and get to the root of our clients’ desires to ultimately deliver projects they envision which suit their needs and accommodate the future.

A lifelong learner and deep thinker, he is drawn to architecture’s seemingly endless knowledge basis. And as a result, his colleagues at PIVOT and our clients have benefited from his ability to explore options and fundamentally understand how creative design solutions can serve communities for decades.

Scott’s link to the University of Oregon’s school of architecture has remained strong since he graduated from the program. He helped launch the PIVOT Fellowship program, which is going into its seventh year, and has regularly taught classes at the UO.

We are all extremely grateful to have worked side-by-side with you, learned from your knowledge and example, and the friendships formed throughout the years. Cheers to Scott!

Thirty years ago, the first flip phones went on sale, the Spice Girls released their debut album, and Bill Clinton was re-elected president.

It also was when Toby Barwood, who touted his fluency with Microsoft Excel 4.0, joined PIVOT (then WBGS). He cited career goals of improving the nature of Northwest cities through architecture and to, “Generally, solve more problems than I create.”

Thirty years on, Toby has led us on an adventure of endless creativity. He’s designed buildings that stand tall with purpose, spaces that feel like a hug, timeless transit stations, and conference rooms that seem to generate great ideas out of thin air.

“The ideas behind architecture are what intrigue me,” Toby said. “Architecture based on ideas tends to be more successful. When we’re able to weave together multiple ideas into a physical, functional form that resonates with clients and allows them to see their values in their project.”

One thing that makes his 30-year (and counting!) journey remarkable isn’t just the spaces he’s brought to life, it’s the spirit he brings to our team. His love for architecture is contagious, his curiosity is endless, and his ability to grasp the big picture and the smallest design detail simultaneously is inspiring.

“You’ve led us with a steady hand, a guiding presence, and an unmatched level of creativity,” Principal Kelley Howell said. “When your whimsical sense of humor shines through it brightens the room.”

“Toby, you’re one of a kind,” said Principal John Stapleton.

He joined the firm when drafting tables were de rigueur and “cut and paste” involved actual scissors. Through changing trends starting with hand-drawn drafts, the charge of CAD, and the rise of Revit, Toby has applied his intellect overseeing PIVOT’s technology efforts. When a login fails, the WiFi crashes, or a password is needed, Toby is our first call. To commemorate his milestone, we rewarded him with a wireless set of a golden mouse and keyboard.

“I’ve been honored to work side-by-side with Toby since I was hired more than 25 years ago,” said Associate Scott Clarke. “And what has amazed me is the kindness and patience that he has always displayed.”

Here’s to thirty years of drafting, dreaming, and daring to design differently. We’re celebrating the steady hand and imaginative heart that has helped shape PIVOT’s portfolio and culture and are looking forward to Toby’s continued ideas, kind mentorship, and laughter in the years to come.