Joan Bren
AIA, LEED AP, CID, Associate
Educational Background
  • Bachelor of Architecture, With Distinction, Institute of Technology, University of Minnesota, 1976
Professional Registration
  • Architectural License, State of Minnesota, 1982
  • Certified Interior Designer, State of Minnesota, 1994
  • US Green Building Council, LEED Accredited Professional, 2004

Professional Background

  • American Institute of Architects, AIA Minnesota
  • Lake Superior Design Retreat Committee (LSDR), AIA Minnesota
  • US Green Building Council, Mississippi Headwater Chapter
  • Communications Committee, Mississippi Headwater Chapter
  • Preservation Alliance of Minnesota, Member
  • National Trust for Historic Preservation, Member
  • Walker Art Center Information Guide

About Joan Bren

Ms. Bren has been an architect for 23 years, during most of which she acted as a Project Architect. The range of projects has been wide, encompassing educational, medical, commercial, municipal and industrial buildings. Joan applies her talents in all phases of practice, from programming and design through contract documents and construction observation. She has been a leader at Kodet Architectural Group in quality control and contract documents. Ms. Bren has received awards for her work in adapted reuse, interior architectural design and lighting design.

Ms. Bren has been involved in sustainable building and green design projects for nearly 10 years.  Working as the project architect for an early Minnesota Sustainable Design Guide pilot project, she was involved in the development of the precursor to the current State Guidelines.  She is knowledgeable in both the LEED Rating System and the State of Minnesota Sustainable Building Guidelines.