People

Robert Stevenson, AIA

Principal | President

Robert began his professional career in 1980 while still in School of Design at North Carolina State University. After graduating he worked for architects in Raleigh and Atlanta, becoming licensed to practice architecture in 1991. He started and co-owned a licensed design build/general contracting business in 1994 until 1997 when he joined Davis Kane Architects. His early experiences include master planning and site development for multi-tenant business campuses including design and construction administration services of multi-tenant office buildings. More recent experience includes design and construction administration service of private client business, educational and municipal facilities. His involvement with the construction industry and field experience have provided a platform for developing his strong construction administration skills.

Robert is a dedicated father who enjoys projects at home including home and furniture construction and renovation. He particularly enjoys the outdoors while backpacking, camping, cycling and fishing and when indoors he enjoys cooking and music.

Jimmy A. Edwards, AIA

Principal | Vice President | Architect

Jimmy is a North Carolina native from Goldsboro, growing up in the Raleigh/Wake Forest area. His path towards a career in design began at Louisburg College, where he enrolled in the Associates of Art program. He was there for one year before transferring to NC State University’s College of Design where he double majored in Architecture and Industrial Design. His professional career in architecture began after graduation, in 2002.

Jimmy joined Davis Kane Architects in 2008 and has worked professionally on projects with great variation in scale and end-user type across the east coast, for both public entities and private company clients. He is a self-motivated, creative, detail-oriented, and organized design professional who practices with a strong focus on public safety, heavy-equipment, higher education, and athletics facility design. His excellent interpersonal skills and strengths in programming, project design, building detailing, and visual representation help our clients realize their vision.

When not working on the great projects at Davis Kane, Jimmy enjoys taking trips with his wife, hanging with their pets, tinkering with home repair projects, and checking things off his endless “Honey-Do” list.

Beth King, AIA

Associate | Architect

Beth grew up in the Midwest, living most of her life in the suburbs of St. Louis before attending college at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. After graduating with a Master’s Degree in Architecture, she relocated to North Carolina in 2002 and began working with Davis Kane Architects. She completed her internship with Davis Kane and became a licensed architect in 2007.

Beth has been managing public projects since her early years with the firm; enjoying long-standing relationships with such clients as Wake County Public School System, City of Raleigh, and Wake Technical Community College. She has extensive experience in project planning and design for both new construction and complex renovation projects. Her strength and success are built upon positive team collaboration, clear communication, and thorough document review. Beth is a self-motivated and organized design professional intent on improving communities.

Chad M. Volk, AIA

Associate | Architect

A native of Ohio, Chad has been calling Raleigh home since 2001, and his experience in the architectural field began in 2000. His professional experience includes the design and construction administration of many commercial building types, including K-12 Schools, Higher Education Facilities, Municipal projects, and multiple renovation projects.

Chad brings excellent leadership and communication skills to all phases of the design and construction process, and his always-positive attitude is greatly appreciated by all members of the design team, including consultants and clients.

Outside of the office, Chad volunteers his time for a variety of causes. He was a past Director on the AIA Triangle Board and has served on the following AIA Triangle committees: Residential Tour, Young Architects Forum, Leadership Forum, Mentorship Program, and K-12 Educational Outreach. Chad is also active in the Triangle Buckeyes Alumni Club, serving as Club President.  When not working or volunteering, he enjoys cheering on the Buckeyes and Wolfpack, quality time with friends and family, good food and drinks, and exploring new places near and far.

Jackson Wall, AIA

Associate | Architect

Jackson has played an essential role at Davis Kane since 2017. His specific skill set in 3D modeling and graphic rendering allows his clients to imagine the vast potential of their projects. In his field of architecture, Jackson’s biggest passion is creating solid, long-lasting client relationships. His ultimate goal in every project is to ensure that his clients love the spaces we’ve created for them.

Outside of the office, Jackson enjoys traveling with his wife, Briana, and playing various musical instruments including guitar, bass, drums, violin, and piano!

Jeremy Franklin, AIA, NCARB, CDT, LEED AP

Architect

Jeremy is an Illinois native. He was born with architecture in his blood and spent much of his childhood perusing and sketching residential floor plans. He attended the University of Florida for his bachelor’s and master’s degrees, before relocating from Chicago to Raleigh in 2019.

Jeremy has been working in architecture since 1999, designing a broad spectrum of commercial and community projects. He feels the most satisfaction working at a locally-focused architecture firm, creating projects that impact the community, which makes Davis Kane feel like home. With a passion for all things technical (efficiency, quality, processes, detailing, construction, technology, Revit), Jeremy’s value is helping to streamline our production of high-quality work, while he brings his experience and constructive approach to the success of his projects.

Outside of architecture, Jeremy passes time with painting, disc golf, genealogy research, and renovation/woodworking projects. He also loves adventuring with his son and relaxing with his dog and two cats.

Devanshi Kesaria, AIA

Architect

Devanshi came to the United States to attend Graduate school at the Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta. After graduating with a Master of Architecture in 2020, she worked in Atlanta in the healthcare industry before moving to Raleigh and joining Davis Kane Architects in 2021. Devanshi was born and raised in India, holds a Bachelor of Architecture from CEPT University, and is a licensed professional in India and USA.

Devanshi is an organized, self-motivated architect and has worked primarily on public projects, including K-12 schools, higher education facilities, and fire stations. She has also worked on public hospitals and wellness community centers in India. Devanshi also brings a comprehensive knowledge of BIM/ CAD and various 3D modeling software to the team.

Outside of work, Devanshi enjoys traveling, trying new restaurants and wineries, and has a liking for spicy Asian food. She also enjoys trying out various aerial adventure sports, skydiving being her favorite.

Bradley McClung, AIA

Architect, NCARB

Bradley is originally from Middle, Georgia but has called Raleigh home since 2018! With an architecture career spanning over 18 years, Bradley’s diverse background includes a wide range of project types, including offices, automotive, industrial, ecclesiastical, mixed-use, medical, higher education, municipal, K-12, retail, single and multi-family residential, and restaurant design.

In his role as a Senior Architect at Davis Kane Architects, he combines complex problem-solving abilities with a creative mind and attention to detail. Bradley enjoys collaborating with clients and team members to deliver impactful, cost-effective, and innovative solutions.

Bradley is licensed in Georgia and North Carolina and holds a Bachelor of Architecture from Southern Polytechnic State University in Marietta, Georgia. In addition, he is NCARB certified and a member of the American Institute of Architects.

Outside of work, Bradley enjoys exploring the Triangle with his wife and children, tinkering on home renovation projects, and attending or watching sporting events.

Alexandre Penegre, AIA

Architect, LEED AP, BD+C

Alexandre joined Davis Kane Architects in 2019 after graduating with a Master of Architecture degree from UNC Charlotte. He also holds a Bachelor in Environmental Science with minors in Sustainable Energy and Renewable Energy Site Assessment from NC State University. Before pursuing his career in architecture, he was heavily involved in sustainability as a solar panel system installer.

Alexandre was born in Paris, France and still frequently visits Antigua to see family. His experiences have exposed him to different cultures and demonstrated how context impacts architecture. In addition, his love for travel led him to study abroad, which developed his affinity for contemporary and traditional Japanese architecture.

Alexandre has a passion for all aspects of soccer and is an avid PSG fan. In his free time, he enjoys running, reading, gaming, and watching NC State basketball.

Jeff Ford, AIA

Architect, LEED BD+C, NCARB

Originally from rural Northwest Ohio, Jeff’s career took him from Boston to Hartford to Dayton, finally settling in Raleigh to raise a family.  Jeff is a graduate of MIT with an M. Arch. from Clemson University, where he studied architecture in Genoa, Italy.

Jeff joined Davis Kane in 2024.  He has 30 years of experience with over 100 commercial, medical, community, and industrial projects across the Carolinas.  His projects have earned multiple Triangle Business Journal and community awards.

When not designing, Jeff enjoys mountain biking, 3D printing new worlds, updating source code for classic video games , and volunteering with local youth organizations to teach design and building skills.

Jason Milstead, AIA

Architect

Jason brings a wealth of experience in multifamily, mixed-use, and K-12 design, with a strong background in project management and BIM leadership. With degrees in architecture from the University of Kentucky, he has contributed to a range of projects across Kentucky and North Carolina, leading teams through all project phases—from schematic design to contract administration. His expertise extends to mentoring junior designers, managing complex workflows, and ensuring seamless collaboration between clients, contractors, and project teams.

His passion for architecture was sparked by a trip to Florence, Italy, where he was captivated by the city’s historic spaces, and later reinforced through his work on the University of Kentucky’s Solar Decathlon team.

Outside of work, Jason enjoys restoring vintage synthesizers, experimenting with video synthesis, and composing electronic music. A dedicated tinkerer, he finds satisfaction in repairing old electronics and expanding his collection of architectural books. When he’s not immersed in design or technology, he enjoys hiking, camping, and spending time outdoors. He lives in North Carolina with his wife and son, where he also stays busy with DIY projects and home improvements.

Brittany Gagne

Design Professional, LEED GA

Brittany is a North Carolina native from Mount Airy, NC. She attended the University of North Carolina at Greensboro where she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Interior Architecture. After graduating, Brittany worked at an architecture firm in Greensboro where she honed her computer and design skills before relocating to join the DKA team. Brittany is a team player who is hardworking, organized, and passionate about the impact of sustainability and inclusivity in the built environment.

While in college, Brittany met her husband who was an exchange student from Portugal. They often travel together to his home Madeira Island, where she continues to learn about their culture. Brittany loves to watch documentaries, create artwork, spend time with their dog and, of course, have a sense of humor! Brittany continues to grow by currently pursuing her Master of Architecture degree at Arizona State University. Her final goal is to become a licensed architect and continue to help design impactful spaces for people to experience their best lives.

Vatsal Kesaria

Design Professional

Vatsal completed his Master of Architecture from NC State University in 2023 with certifications in both Energy + Technology in Architecture and City Design. Vatsal was born and raised in India, graduated from Nirma University with a Bachelor of Architecture, and is a Registered Architect in India.

Vatsal joined Davis Kane in the summer of 2022 as an intern. After showing his quick learning skills and enthusiasm over the year as an intern, he came back post-graduation as a full-time Design Professional. Vatsal has worked on various public projects, including K-12 schools and recreational facilities. In addition, he brings an extensive knowledge of 3D modeling and rendering software to the team.

Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his friends and family, trying new cocktails, and traveling.

Ryan Mlott

Design Professional

Ryan is a North Carolina native from Eastern NC. He moved back to NC in 2021 after living in Atlanta, GA for several years. His love for design led him to study architecture at Coastal Carolina Community College and UNC-Charlotte. After college, he began his career in design.

His experience includes working alongside software engineers to help develop 3D scanners and software used to create more accurate as-built plans. He also designed flooring layouts and created 3D renderings/visualizations for a flooring manufacturer. Ryan displays his skills at Davis Kane with his impeccable 3D renderings and graphic design.

In his free time, Ryan enjoys woodworking, photography, fishing, exploring the outdoors, and spending time with his wife, dog, and cat.

Scott Krabath

Design Professional

Scott joined the Davis Kane team in 2024 and has four years of experience working in the Triangle. He is a skilled design professional who has worked on various higher education, K-12 education, residential, and commercial developments. His previous work includes residential renovations, multi-family developments, and mixed-use projects in Brooklyn and Manhattan. Scott has contributed to all project stages, from feasibility studies through project close-outs.

Scott is known for his collaborative approach while working with clients and contractors. He has extensive knowledge of various 3D software tools and BIM management. He enjoys communicating complex ideas through representational and modeling techniques.

Leydi Mazur-Yatsko

Design Professional

Leydi Mazur-Yatsko earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture from Atlantic University and a Master’s Degree in Architecture from Lawrence Technological University. She has gained experience in various types of architecture since 2016, including mixed-use, multi-family, commercial, and education. She recently joined Davis Kane Architects to provide her expertise in the industry and help the firm continue to deliver excellent work across North Carolina. Leydi’s skills include coordinating and communicating with clients, contractors, and in-house team members during each phase of the project, from start to finish. She has excellent knowledge of software such as AutoCAD and Revit, which allows clients to visualize the project in 3D and ensure they are satisfied with the results.

Becca Ymker

Design Professional

Becca is originally from rural South Dakota and graduated from South Dakota State University with a master’s degree in architecture in 2022. After graduating, she moved to northern Colorado, where she gained project experience in the healthcare, municipal, commercial, and faith sectors. Becca relocated to the Raleigh area and joined Davis Kane in 2024. She brings excellent communication skills, project understanding, and drive to the team. She is excited to work on new project types and getting to know her new community in North Carolina.

In her free time, Becca is an avid sports fan, a traveler, a sourdough baker, and a photographer. Her favorite city is Chicago, and she visits multiple times a year. She desires to help people and strives to do that through architecture.

Natalie Khmara

Interior Designer

Natalie is a creative interior designer with a strong space planning, project management, and computer-aided design background. She moved to North Carolina from New York City and joined Davis Kane Architects in 2022. She has experience assisting in the entire design process, from design development to construction administration. Her strength and success are built upon her professional design skills, space planning ability, knowledge of commercial finishes, and passion for serving clients. In addition, she brings a comprehensive knowledge of design elements, creative problem-solving skills, accomplished design sense, and attention to detail to each of her designs. Natalie is a self-motivated and organized design professional with a great work ethic, making her a great asset to the project team.

Jane Karatu

Construction | Project Administrator

A Nairobi native who has been raised in multiple countries, Jane has developed a unique ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Her diverse upbringing has enriched her perspective and communication skills, allowing her to lead and collaborate effectively in any setting. In her twenties, she co-owned and managed restaurants with her sister, an experience that sharpened her business acumen, honed her multitasking abilities, and laid the foundation for her exceptional leadership skills.

After relocating to Washington, DC, she transitioned into property management, where she led a team of 15, mastering the art of operational efficiency, logistics, and strategic problem-solving to ensure smooth and effective team performance.

A twist of fate brought Jane to Raleigh, where her passion for navigating complex challenges and organizing large-scale projects truly took off. Known for her ability to oversee multiple moving parts with precision, she leverages her extensive background in leadership and logistics to drive results. With a degree in Public Relations, she brings a unique combination of communication skills and organizational expertise to her role as Construction/Project Administrator, ensuring that every detail aligns seamlessly to deliver successful outcomes.

Outside of work, Jane enjoys tackling DIY projects, paddleboarding, traveling, and spending quality time with her husband and bonus son.

Victoria White

Marketing Professional | HUB Coordinator 

Victoria White is a passionate marketing professional promoting Davis Kane’s architectural expertise in K-12, higher education, athletics, public safety, and parks/recreation. In addition to her marketing role, Victoria brings experience in website design, SEO link building, social media campaigns, event coordination, and graphic design. A longtime North Carolina resident, she spent her final two years of high school in Quebec, Canada. She holds two associate degrees from Wake Technical Community College and graduated with honors in 2020 from the University of North Carolina Wilmington, where she studied interactive graphics and computer science. She currently resides in Raleigh with her two dogs, Rona and Lily.

Sheridan Young

Marketing Professional

Sheridan was born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and resides in North Carolina. She graduated from Central New Mexico Community College with a degree in Computer Information Systems (AAS), with a Digital Media Concentration. She has worked for a range of industries to capture brand identity. Six years of professional work in graphic design, marketing, communications, and community public relations. Utilizing problem-solving skills with creative knowledge to create elaborate print and digital materials curated to achieve business goals. Highly driven work ethic, dynamic team player, collaborative and interpersonal skills. Sheridan constantly pushes for the highest quality level to represent small local businesses and large organizations.

In her free time, she likes to spend time with her friends and family. Additionally, she ensures that her two exotic pets, chinchillas, receive the necessary care they require. She loves to crochet, paint, and try other art-related projects. Sheridan also travels to New Mexico a few times a year to visit and eat all the Southwestern cuisine. Her favorite New Mexican dish is Huevos Rancheros, smothered in Christmas (Red Chile and Green Chile) topped with shredded cheese.

Kim Conard

Office Manager

Kim is a graduate of West Virginia University with a Bachelor of Science degree in International Studies in December 1992. Kim grew up as a “Navy brat”, has lived in Alaska, Hawaii and Germany to name a few, but considers Maryland her home state before moving to Raleigh in 1994. She tries to keep the office running smoothly by taking care of the day-to-day operations, bookkeeping, invoicing and proposals.

In Kim’s spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, traveling, quilting, trying to revive a barren yard, and of course shopping. Kim is also the Co-Chapter Director of Flashes of Hope for the NC Triangle at NC Children’s Hospital.