Ohio architectural firm acquires Kienle & Associates-WEB ONLY

Columbus, Ohio-based architectural firm Moody Nolan Inc. has recruited veteran Indianapolis architect Jim Kienle to spearhead its historic preservation practice.

Kienle operates James T. Kienle & Associates Inc., which has been acquired by Moody Nolan, the firms announced yesterday. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Moody Nolan, which has seven U.S. locations, appointed Kienle to lead its firm-wide historic preservation efforts from Indianapolis.

“This is the first time Moody has focused a practice group outside of the Ohio office,” Kienle said. “It’s a step for them, but it’s good news for us because it allows us to expand the practice in Indianapolis.”

Kienle, who formerly headed the local office of Kansas City, Mo.-based HNTB Corp., founded his local preservation and urban design firm in 2003. Kienle will vacate his space at 200 S. Meridian St., where the local office of Moody Nolan also is located.

The Ohio firm has had a presence in Indianapolis since 2004.

Kienle is well-known for his preservation work and headed the design team for restoration of the Indiana Statehouse, Hilbert Circle Theatre and Morrison Opera Place.

In 2004, the American Institute of Architects elected Kienle into its College of Fellows. The honor recognizes members who have made national contributions to the profession.

Moody Nolan said it expects the demand for historic preservation work to increase, as more buildings constructed after World War II become eligible for protection. Buildings must be at least 50 years old to be considered for protection as historic landmarks.

Kienle is the lone architect at his three-person firm. The other two employees will not be retained. Moody Nolan has seven employees in Indianapolis, including three architects. Overall, the firm has more than 160 employees.

Besides Columbus and Indianapolis, Moody Nolan has offices in Washington, D.C.; Cleveland; Nashville, Tenn.; Kansas City, Mo.; and Covington, Ky.