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Kimmel Studio Architects

Is this your company?

A place where beautiful dreams go to die. - Employee Kimmel Studio Architects Employee Review

1.0
15 Mar 2025
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Visually impressive renderings and sketches. Working overtime is uncommon due to lack of incoming projects.

Cons

While there are undeniably talented and creative individuals within its ranks, their efforts are doomed from the start by a catastrophically flawed business model and a sales team that overpromises and underdelivers. What could be an innovative and dynamic workplace is instead a case study in mismanagement, unethical practices, and an unsustainable business model built on deception. They funnel absurd amounts of money into flashy renderings, yet rarely, if ever, deliver a completed project. Employees invest their time and creativity into work that will never see the light of day, only to face constant departmental conflict—where backstabbing is not only tolerated but necessary for survival. Leadership is a revolving door of either incompetent or overworked individuals. They fail to recognize or retain real talent and reward toxicity and mediocrity. Expect no performance reviews, no meaningful feedback, and your salary will always be dangled over your head like a sick joke with no real room for growth. If you’re hoping for actual career growth, look elsewhere—this place will drain your passion and leave you with nothing to show for it. HR does NOT exist and it never will because that would require accountability—something this company actively avoids. Instead, the owner’s wife, Maria, has an unchecked authority over operations, meddling and making decisions far beyond her expertise while running off any employee who dares to question her. The number of people who have been kicked to the curb under her so-called “leadership” is staggering. Allegations of discrimination, and harassment will continuously be swept under the rug, Speak up? You’re out the door. This isn’t just a toxic workplace—it’s an abusive, lawless free-for-all where employees are quickly disposable. When it comes to the work itself, the designs may look impressive on screen, but that’s where they stay—on a screen. If you think you’ll ever see a project through to completion, think again. The company thrives on illusion, pushing fake progress and empty deliverables while churning out drawing sets with no time allocated for oversight or quality control. At the end of the day, this isn’t a real company—it’s an expensive facade, a glorified fantasy land where beautiful ideas go to die.

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Kimmel Studio Architects Response
3mo
Thank you for sharing your thoughts. We are glad you recognized the visual quality of our projects. Our track record as an award-winning studio is built on the fact that we don't just create renderings; we deliver exceptional, completed architecture that stands out in the industry. As a boutique firm, our absolute priority is client satisfaction; when a team member does not align with this commitment, we must make decisions for the benefit of the project and the collective team. Our current management team is stable, with all key members having been here for over two years, but we recognize that reaching this stability required difficult transitions. We wish you the best in your next chapter.

Explore other reviews about Kimmel Studio Architects

2.0
8 July 2024
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

- Projects are enjoyable and visually appealing. I find great satisfaction in working on them. The company's owner, a skilled architect, pays meticulous attention to detail.

Cons

- Work Environment: Regrettably, the workplace culture is toxic. The head of HR, who is the owner's spouse and co-founder, maintains a significant distance from employees. This limits open communication and problem-solving. Seeking feedback from her often results in harsh responses or even dismissal. There's a belief that minimal interaction with employees enhances professionalism. She frequently takes more leave than allowed and occasionally works from home, against company policy. Despite the presence of friendly colleagues, the overall atmosphere is marked by toxicity and frequent conflicts. - Salary Reviews: Expect delays in receiving raises, especially if your review coincides with the HR head's frequent absences due to vacations or travel. This can prolong the process by several weeks. - Job Security: The company has a notably high turnover rate. Employees can be terminated abruptly and frequently, often without prior explanation or warning. This abruptness can significantly impact employee morale and job stability. In summary, while the work itself and some colleagues are positive aspects, the workplace environment and job security concerns are significant drawbacks.

4
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Kimmel Studio Architects Response
3mo
Thank you for your comments regarding the quality of our projects. Regarding your comments about management and HR, we would like to highlight that our COO holds her position backed by extensive professional and academic credentials, including a JD and a PhD. These qualifications provide the firm with a strong legal and operational framework, ensuring that we maintain the professional rigor required for a luxury studio. We have worked hard to build the positive, stable environment we have today, and we have implemented more consistent review processes and clearer communication channels to ensure our team feels supported and properly compensated for their contributions. We remain committed to our high standards and to making Kimmel a place where talent can thrive. We wish you continued success in your career.
1.0
30 Apr 2026
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Definitely get to work on projects, just not yours and they might just stay as renderings

Cons

Just really wouldn’t give it a go unless you want your time and career to be wasted due to management. They hire and fire a lot, not stable.

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