Where Passion Meets Practice: BNIM’s 2025 Summer Interns
This summer, our five talented interns — Ameera Ali, Olivia Anderson, Michael Folsom, Seoyeon Jeon, and Olivia Krueger — have been immersed in our studio teams, lending their talents, passions, and fresh perspectives to shape our projects and practice.
We are excited to share a collaborative blog post written by BNIM’s Architectural Intern, Michael Folsom, and designed by our Graphic Design Intern, Olivia Krueger, reflecting on and sharing experiences from BNIM’s 2025 summer intern group!
My name is Michael, and I’m one of the five interns at BNIM this summer. I’m excited to share a closer look at our experience—what we worked on, what we learned, and how we contributed to the firm’s creative and collaborative culture. This blog offers just a glimpse into our collective journey, where we’ve been able to create and share spaces, and ultimately grow as both designers and people.
Spaces and Places
At BNIM, we believe that places where people want to be are born from a rigorous, empathetic design approach. This summer, we joined project teams where we have been able to contribute to the goals of multiple pursuits. Under the guidance of architects, landscape architects, and business development professionals, our intern cohort has lent our skills to illustrating and designing beautiful expressions of the built environment—meaningful spaces and places.
A Seat at the Table
“No one knows as much as everyone” isn’t just a motto; it’s how BNIM designs. From day one, we have been empowered to speak up, provide input, and contribute ideas — seeing that true innovation lies in collective intelligence. We were welcomed not just as students, but as active contributors to the work and culture of the firm. This summer’s cohort spans architecture, landscape architecture, and graphic design. Over the past several weeks, we have had the opportunity to step into real design challenges and a range of projects, helping create the kinds of spaces BNIM is known for: thoughtful, inclusive, and deeply human. By weaving our diverse skill sets together, the intern group has illustrated how a multidisciplinary approach leads to a greater impact.
Discovery in Design and Community
Like any design challenge, an internship is a process of iteration and discovery. As we’ve iterated designs, we’ve also iterated ourselves: honing design skills, building confidence in communication, and learning to navigate the integrated, experimental process that defines BNIM’s work.
Beyond the design studio, our intern cohort has also had opportunities to connect with the firm’s culture and the cities that surround our studios. Whether exploring Kansas City through a guided tour of past BNIM projects, hopping on the streetcar for a summer outing through the River Market, playing yard games, or taking Friday afternoons to enjoy local Des Moines breweries and restaurants, these moments outside the office helped deepen connections—with both the people at BNIM and the communities at the heart of BNIM’s work.
Making Positive Change
Above all, I believe that our intern cohort has been a group of change-makers. Our drive and passion have contributed to BNIM’s mission and commitments to inclusive design and sustainability. As we prepare to return to our universities, we leave behind tangible contributions that will hopefully continue to ripple through both projects and the firm. As the summer concludes, we carry with us more than experience. We take with us lasting lessons, ideas, and values: a commitment to growth, a deep care for our planet and its resources, and a shared responsibility to design with equity at the forefront.
This summer’s internship at BNIM was a chance for us not only to gain hands-on experience, but also to explore what it looks like to design with care, intention, and purpose. Here’s to a summer of learning, growing, and laying the groundwork for what’s next.
Meet the 2025 BNIM Intern Cohort
What is your biggest takeaway from your time so far at BNIM?
My biggest takeaway from my time so far at BNIM is the importance of working with people that have the same values in relation to design. I’ve been exposed to team meetings and collaborations which have showcased how it can make a healthy workspace and produce cohesive work.
What is a value of BNIM that has had an impact on the way you think about design?
A value of BNIM that has had an impact on the way I think about design is the commitment to sustainable practices in every aspect. The consideration of the way architecture influences the users, and the environment is a driving force that results in innovative and effective work which inspires me to push myself as a designer.
Outside of work and school, what activities do you enjoy?
Outside of school and work, I like to attend a majority of the Iowa State sporting activities throughout the year. I grew up playing basketball and volleyball, so it’s something I’ve continued to enjoy playing leisurely and watching at my university. I also enjoy traveling as I get to experience new environments and cultures. My favorite place I’ve traveled to is Greece; the food and scenery there is remarkable.
What is your biggest takeaway from your time so far at BNIM?
One of the biggest takeaways from my internship at BNIM is how deeply workplace culture shapes collaboration, care, and daily presence. From the start, I saw a team committed not just to good work, but to creating a space where everyone feels valued and supported.
More than just exposure to real projects, this internship offered a glimpse into a studio that brings joy, openness, and humanity to the design process. I felt encouraged to learn, contribute, and connect—whether through design conversations, site visits, or simply sharing lunch.
What I’ll carry forward is the belief that great work grows from trust, humility, and intention—in both relationships and design. This summer affirmed the kind of environment I hope to find: one of creativity, care, community, and challenge.
What is a value of BNIM that has had an impact on the way you think about design?
One value at BNIM that has reshaped my view of design is the emphasis on collaboration and open dialogue. Design thrives on shared ideas, not isolation, and working through challenges with others leads to deeper, more creative solutions.
I’ve seen how meaningful conversations at BNIM result in designs that truly enhance the human experience—not just meet requirements. This approach has shown me that great design is rooted in diverse perspectives and thoughtful engagement. It’s a reminder that listening, asking questions, and staying open are essential to creating work that is both functional and impactful.
Outside of work and school, what activities do you enjoy?
Outside of school and work, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, whether it’s catching up over a meal or just relaxing together. I also like being outdoors—going for walks, exploring nature, or simply enjoying fresh air. Lately, I’ve taken up wakeboarding, which has been a fun and active new challenge. In my downtime, I like watching documentaries to learn about different topics, or diving into new TV series to unwind. I also enjoy reading contemporary novels when I have time—most recently, I finished the new Hunger Games book over spring break.
What is your biggest takeaway from your time so far at BNIM?
Every voice matters. I have learned how each person can greatly impact a project, no matter their role. Even as an intern I’ve felt that I can contribute my thoughts to advancing a project or thinking about it differently. The voices of clients, interns, architects–all the way up to principals–shape a project. It’s not one voice that dictates architecture; it is all of us. Being in many types of meetings and various communication settings as an intern has shown me that it truly is a multiplicity of thought that creates beautiful spaces.
What is a value of BNIM that has had an impact on the way you think about design?
Shared responsibility is one value that’s shaped how I think about design. We have a responsibility as designers not only to the client, but also each other, the environment, and a global community. One message related to this really stuck out to me which was when a mistake is made, we don’t focus on who made the mistake as much as we focus on how we can right the error. In this way, the collaborative spirit of BNIM particularly stands out to me. I can ask anyone for help and I know that they’ll be willing, or will find someone who can. There is a strong sense at BNIM that when one person learns something, the whole firm is better because of it – meaning, it is worth the time to mentor, train, and educate.
Outside of work and school, what activities do you enjoy?
My hobbies and interests seem to rotate on a weekly basis – recently, I’ve been very into reading and book collecting. Other interests of mine include writing, motorsports, camping, hunting, hiking, playing guitar, and going on road trips.
What is your biggest takeaway from your time so far at BNIM?
I think the biggest takeaway for me was the opportunity to learn from people with different backgrounds, disciplines, and age groups. BNIM is a large office filled with talented individuals who bring a wide range of experiences. I really enjoyed being part of the office by joining various meetings, observing thoughtful conversations, and engaging in design processes.
I learned a lot by observing how work is done in a professional setting, especially since most of my time has been spent in school. My experience at BNIM has definitely helped me take meaningful steps toward my future career as a landscape architect. One of the most valuable lessons I learned is that teamwork and clear communication are essential skills in this profession.
What is a value of BNIM that has had an impact on the way you think about design?
As a landscape architect with a background in horticulture, I’ve always believed in the importance of harmonizing nature, people, and the built environment. At BNIM, I had the opportunity to collaborate with professionals such as architects and planners, which helped me develop a more holistic and realistic understanding of how these elements come together.
Also, BNIM is deeply committed to sustainability, even having a Director of Sustainable and Regenerative Design. Witnessing the extensive research and studies conducted from a sustainability perspective was truly inspiring. It motivated me to think about how, as a future landscape architect, I can contribute to sustainability in drastically changing modern environments through design.
Outside of work and school, what activities do you enjoy?
When I’m not immersed in landscape architecture, I love reading books of all genres. Recently, I’ve been reading Biotic Borders by Jennie N. Shinozuka, The Color of Law by Richard Rothstein, and The Art of Loving by Erich Fromm. I also enjoy taking care of my betta fish, Frank, and I’m excited to try aqua scaping when I have more time. Also, since moving to KC, I’ve been enjoying exploring new restaurants, bars, cafes, and shops on my bike. Pryde’s Old Westport is one of my favorites. It’s a cute kitchenware shop with a wide selection, helpful employees, and they even have a pie shop inside!
What is your biggest takeaway from your time so far at BNIM?
One of the most impactful parts of my internship at BNIM has been experiencing multidisciplinary collaboration. Working within a firm that brings together diverse teams with different backgrounds and areas of expertise has shown me how important it is to have a variety of perspectives in the design process. I’ve learned so much from each team, including my own, by seeing how many different roles come together to bring projects to life. It’s truly a team effort. Being part of that process has helped me learn from the work of others, recognize where I add value, and see how collaboration leads to stronger, more meaningful outcomes.
What is a value of BNIM that has had an impact on the way you think about design?
A value of BNIM that has deeply impacted the way I think about design is the belief that everything is interconnected. From the diverse skill sets across the teams to the work we create, there’s a strong sense that we’re all contributing toward a shared purpose. What stands out to me about BNIM is that they’re creating spaces with purpose and intention to improve the lives of the people who they are built to serve. This mindset has encouraged me to think more holistically, to consider every element in the broader context, and to view constraints not as limitations, but as opportunities to enhance the design solution.
Outside of work and school, what activities do you enjoy?
After closing Adobe Suites for the day, I like to unplug by spending time outdoors, whether that’s camping, paddle boarding, or going for a run. I also love music, especially going to concerts with friends and experiencing my favorite artists live. When I’m in a more relaxed mood, I enjoy diving into a good book or watching a movie or show. A daily ritual for me is making sure to get in a run to relieve any stress and recharge my energy.