NK Architects Founder Allen Kopelson Honored with NJBIZ 2023 Icon Award
Published August 16, 2023
NK Architects congratulates Founder, Allen Kopelson, on his recent recognition by NJBIZ at their seventh annual Icon Award ceremony. Each honoree was nominated as a leader over the age of 60 from New Jersey. These select individuals showcased in their nomination what it takes to become a positive, passionate and influential leader.
Over his 50 years with NK Architects, Allen has completed many significant design projects that drove his firm to success. From the beginning, Allen envisioned NK Architects as a “personal” architecture practice, rooted in its community and focused on developing long-lasting relationships – A business technique passed down from his father that always stuck with him throughout his career.
Because relationships are a two-way street, community has always been a cornerstone of Allen’s character. He has served on numerous nonprofit boards throughout New Jersey and has been deeply committed to the revitalization of downtown Morristown, home to NK’s first office. Allen helped found the Morristown Partnership and was also a founding member of First Night Morris as well as past co-chairman of the Morris 2000 Housing Partnership for Morris County Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, Allen has consistently involved NK Architects in CANstruction – a global non-profit charity that creates large structures out of full cans of food which are then donated to local foodbanks.
Aside from being a successful business leader, Allen is an avid hiker and adrenaline enthusiast. Recently climbing Mount Rainier and now preparing for the Himalayas, he consistently reminds others to never give up on their dreams and passions in life. He relates his climbs to running a successful firm for 50 years, “Everyone has the ability to do it if they’re motivated. It’s like anything else in life – set your mind to do something and you’ll find a way to accomplish whatever it is.”
Q&A: Describe your leadership style and how it has helped you be successful.
My leadership style is one of building trust in both employees and colleagues, as well as clients. I pride myself on developing long-lasting, personal relationships. These valuable bonds have strengthened my business and have enriched my personal life. I have continued to maintain contact with many of the individuals who have moved on from NK Architects. Some, after leaving, have even become our clients. I also enjoy mentoring young professionals, helping them become successful in their professional development, which has led me to accept a position teaching a studio course at New Jersey Institute of Technology, School of Architecture this coming fall, appropriately named “Building Trust.” – Allen Kopelson
2023 NJBIZ Honorees
Photography Credits - Christopher Flanegan Photography LLC