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chris coonan » Profile

Architecture and Development in China & USA.

You can visit my complete profile on Linked IN under Chris Coonan.

32 people have recommended Chris

"Chris is a very skilled, respected and dynamic professional who lead several successful complicated projects while at Target. He has strong technical knowledge, extensive real estate

development skills and is focused on the overall progress and concerns of the project. His drive

towards positive results is relentless while building and maintaining strong working relationships

with his project teams. Chris was recognized as a top performer among many very talented

individuals at Target's Property Development Department. I highly recommend Mr. Coonan for your

next project."

— Dennis Anderson, Director of Architecture, Target, managed Chris at Coonan DC Limited

"I had the pleasure of working with Chris at MBH Architects. I worked under Chris’s supervision for

one and a half year during which I learned and grew tremendously. Chris is a very patient teacher.

He provided me with many unique opportunities, trusted my professional opinion, and encouraged

my performance. Chris is very professional and knowledgeable with a great personality and a great

style of leadership, which brought him success in brining the firm many new projects."

— Leily Vassigh Montana, LEED GA, Job Captain, MBH Architects, reported to Chris at Coonan

DC Limited

"I have had the distinct pleasure in working with Chris Coonan in several capacities within the last

10 years on multiple proejcts. In one capacity as his architect and in another capacity jointly as he

served as Owner's representative. He continues to serve as a vital resource to me as he fully

devotes himself to the retail/ mixed-use industry. He maintains a design sensitivity while focused on

the economic drivers that all projects are dependent upon. The biggest endorsement of Chris I can

offer is that I look forward to the opportunity to work with him again in the near future!"

— Leo Mendez, was Chris's client while Chris was VP of Design at RED Development

Leo Mendez is a Principal with OWP&P/Cannon Architecture

"Chris and I worked together for almost 6 years while at Target. Chris proved himself to be a

creative and innovative architect who always delivered a high quality product on time and on

budget. Chris is a critical thinker who can problem solve for all of your design needs."

— James Reuter, Vice President, Development, Safeway Stores

"Chris is an extremely capable, creative and charasmatic individual whose ability to visualize and

then create complex multi-use spaces is unparalleled in my estimation. Chris worked the northern

California team at Target that I vertically managed, and together we were able to come up with

some very creative sites that he was able to readily adapt for the inclusion of very attractive, yet

visually integrated, Target stores. The San Francisco Metro is one of the most difficult markets for

retailers to break into, and Chris is one of the main reasons for Target's successful market

penetration. I look forward to again collaborating on a project with Chris at our first opporunity."

— Jeff Middlebrook, Regional Real Estate Manager, Target Corporation, worked with Chris at

Coonan DC Limited (currently a Partner with McVicker's in Chicago)

"It is my pleasure to provide this recommendation for Chris Coonan with whom I have been

associated at RED Development. I have known and worked with Chris for approximately two years

as his architectural consultant on several RED Development retail and mixed-use projects. As the

Vice President of Design, he has successfully demonstrated the knowledge, skill and creativity

necessary for the complete development of retail centers, from site acquisition to substantial

completion. His interactive skills regarding decision making, leadership, dependability, and initiative

have contributed greatly to the success of each project. Chris anticipates needs, determines

priorities, establishes courses of action and schedules activities so as to achieve the desired

results. I believe he considers and uses good judgement when deciding between available

alternatives and can direct, delegate and control the work of others, while generating respect,

commitment and support from the people he works with. I believe in his capabilities and have no

doubt he will serve any organization well. You couldn't make a better choice than Chris Coonan."

— Denis Moncion, Director of Retail Development, DFD CornoyerHedrick, worked directly with

Chris at Coonan DC Limited

"I worked with Chris for several years at Target. His projects were always well detailed, distinctive,

innovative and sensitive. Chris is a passionate advocate for quality, and I'm confident that whatever

project he tackles will provide continuing opportunities to showcase his many talents. In addition to

his design skills, Chris also has a keen eye for business. He understands the intricacies of the

real-estate market, and knows how to unlock hidden value by developing assets to their full

potential. Finally, Chris is a people person. His friendly, outgoing manner made it fun to be with him

in work and social settings. He's a great story teller and a clear communicator. I highly recommend

him as a creative soul, a business man, and as a human being."

— Sixto Beltrandy, Project Architect, Target, worked directly with Chris at Target Corporation

"Chris was a pleasure to work with and assist in his on-boarding to RED Development. He is

professional, dedicated and showed commitment to the projects at RED. Chris is an individual that I

would highly recommend in a senior position."

— Alexandra De La Paz, Benefits Coordinator, RED Development, LLC, worked directly with Chris

at Coonan DC Limited

"I had the pleasure of working with Chris at BTR in the mid 90's, and it was easy to see his keen

interest in design and architecture. In addition to working diligently on various projects in 3D CAD,

he also made time to contribute to the smooth operation of the firm in other ways."

— Jack Seaborne, Architect, Bentz Thompson Rietow, worked directly with Chris at Bentz

Thompson Rietow

"Chris Coonan was one of the most talented Architect I ever worked with. He represented Target to

hire MBH Architects as consultant for many projects. I have the honor to handle a few of Chris'

projects. He is truly professional. He has my total recommendation."

— Jack Wong, Senior Associate, MBH Architects, was a consultant or contractor to Chris at MBH

Architects

"I have known Chris Coonan since 1984, and he has always been a consistent, driven and talented

person. While he was at MBH Architects in the Bay Area, I got the pleasure to interact with him on a

large lifestyle development project to be built in Texas. As a structural engineer, I would endorse

Chris as a Designer and as a Project Manager for your next project. You won't be disappointed

after hiring Chris to lead your team."

— David McMillan, Structural Engineer, KPFF Consulting Engineers, was a consultant or

contractor to Chris at MBH Architects

"Chris Coonan and I worked together at BTR Architects where, among other projects, he was

responsible for designing and managing the Mepkin Abbey Library project featured in Architecture

Minnesota Magazine and a PBS television special. Chris is a thoughtful and talented designer, a

team player and a hard working project architect. Chris and I have maintained our friendship since

our meeting in 1995 at the firm, and have enjoyed other various collaborations."

— Larry Fredlund, Rep with Pell Windows

"Chris is a very capable and experienced professional who is client focused. He brings a wealth of

knowledge to any project due to his substantial expertise in architecture, design, development, and

project management."

— Chris Callas, VP - Planning & Logistics, Artissimo Designs, was with another company when

working with Chris at Coonan DC Limited

"Chris Coonan was hired to develop a plan to remodel an existing 115,000 sf urban mall. We

wanted a new look at a reasonable price. Chris and his team developed a new color palette for both

the interior and exterior and a new lighting scheme that made our shopping center look like it had a

million dollar facelift for a fraction of the cost. He was great to work with. Chris has a great sense of

humor and a great deal of patience. He understands the retail world extremely well. I highly

recommend him!"

— Aline Estournes, was Chris's client, Aline is a Property Manager with Wilsey Bennett in San Francisco

"I worked with Chris Coonan at a corporate architectural firm for several years and highly

recommend him as a designer, project manager and firm principal. He has extraordinary drive,

problem solving skills, ability to do complex projects and strong abilty to get things done on time

and budget. Chris would be an asset to your project, company or team to produce high quality and

well executed work. Finally, he is a pleasure to work with and brings a personality of fun and

excitement to the group! Eames Gilmore Design Manager"

— Eames Gilmore, Architect, Target, managed Chris indirectly at Coonan DC Limited

"Chris was a great resource for Target's successful expansion efforts in Southern California. He

was creative and flexible but understood how to preserve the brand. He helped recreate the retail

landscape of SoCal by helping us get into sites we normally couldn't make work, establishing great

relationships with developers and cities and playing a key role in designing great buildings."

— Brad Syverson, Vice President of Real Estate, JC Penney Corporation

"Chris Coonan is an innovator in commercial and retail architecture design and planning. With over

18 years experience as a Developer, Owner and Consultant, working for companies such as Target

Corporation and RED Development LLC that featured a number of LEED certified projects. Chris

brings a holistic approach to all his work from Lifestyle Centers, Libraries, Power Centers, retail

buildings, pharmacies, housing and education buildings. Chris is the designer that will enhance

your architectural vision."

— Paul Sterner, AIA, LEED AP, President, Oculus Architecture, worked directly with Chris at

Coonan DC Limited

"Chris was an innovative and creative designer at RED Development. He sought input from other

departments and worked to create a unified vision for the projects he worked on."

— John Bacon, Vice President of Marketing & Communications, RED Development, LLC, worked

with Chris at RED Development

"Chris and I have worked on more than 20 retail projects over the years. I enjoyed working with

Chris because I always received great work product that was completed on time. He is a talented

designer, a great collaborator and a tremendous communicator. I was always impressed by his

presentation skills. Chris is able to create, communicate and sell his vision as well as anyone I have

ever worked with."

— Dean Zurmely, Regional Real Estate Manager, Target Corporation, worked directly with Chris at

Coonan DC Limited

"Chris is a very smart, highly motivated and tallented architect. His positive attitude is one of the

qualities I've always admired about him as he always has everything under control. Besides that, he

is very personable and a sincerely good guy."

— Jeff Sprout, Lead Project Architect, Target, worked directly with Chris at Target Corporation

"Chris' stellar reputation is founded in his years of experience working on diverse projects,

charismatic leadership style and consistent follow through. Moreover, it's just more fun to have

Chris on your team."

— Lauren Glick, Founder, Marketing consultant., was with another company when working with

Chris at Coonan DC Limited

"Chris is a very capable Architect who puts emphasis on obtaining the desired result on each and

every project he is a part of. Chris has the experience and know how to complete large scale

projects, thriving on the complexities inherent in their scope. I have had the privilege to work

alongside Chris, who brings a positive can-do attitude coupled with knowledge and experience.

Chris is a pleasure to work with and I would recommend him to any potential client or employer."

— Ian Bowen, LEED AP, Assoc. AIA, Architectural Drafter, MBH Architects, worked indirectly for

Chris at Bentz Thompson Rietow

"Chris is a hands-on individual and a pleasure to work with."

— Craig Lebsack, Senior Leasing Associate, RED Development, worked directly with Chris at

RED Development

"Chris is an exceptional leader and talented Architect. While working with him at Target, he

contributed to the successful development and completion of numerous complex projects. Chris is

responsive, intelligent and driven. He has a complete understanding of the complexities of project

leadership and partners extremely well to maximize the relationships of everyone involved in a

project. I've worked with a lot of architects, designers and developers during my career; few perform

at Chris's level in all three areas."

— William Ferris, AIA, Senior Manager Store Design, Target, worked directly with Chris at Target

Corporation

"Chris does an terrific job of consulting with the client to find out what issue he is solving, than uses

a great design sense to creativilty and tastefully provide the design solution. He is great to work

with and you can tell he loves design and architecture."

— Brian Buscher, was Chris's client

"I worked with Chris for several years while he was a DPM at Target Corporation. He is

knowledgeable in the field and excellent to work with. His design skills are very good and he works

well as a team leader. I would enjoy working with Chris again."

— Nicole Nebelung, Project Architect, RSP Architects, was a consultant or contractor to Chris at

Target Corporation

"Mr. Coonan is one of the most dynamic individuals I have worked with in the design industry.

Development and design projects change constantly, especially in retail, and he has the energy and

flexibility to keep the project moving ahead."

— Jay Richardson, was Chris's client

"Chris combines the experience of a developer, owner and architect in one package, and performs

his work extremely well. In his role as studio director at MBH, Chris was exceptionally successful at

working with clients to understand their goals, and then formulate a design execution that exceeded

their needs in very creative and effective ways. I was very impressed at how efficeintly Chris

worked hand in hand with our design team to develop beautiful design solutions imbued with smart

planning and over achieving metrics. Chris expertly worked with governing agencies and advisory

groups to gain approvals and move his projects forward, on time and on budget. Chris was a

pleasure to work with and is a well respected architect, project manager and professional."

— Bruce Greenfield, Principal with Cubellis Architects, Newport Beach, CA

"Chris is a very skilled, respected and dynamic professional who lead several successful

complicated projects while at Target. He has strong technical knowledge, extensive real estate

development skills and is focused on the overall progress and concerns of the project. His drive

towards positive results is relentless while building and maintaining strong working relationships

with his project teams. Chris was recognized as a top performer among many very talented

individuals at Target's Property Development Department. I highly recommend Mr. Coonan for your

next project."

— Dennis Anderson, Director of Architecture, Target, managed Chris at Coonan DC Limited

"I had the pleasure of working with Chris at MBH Architects. I worked under Chris’s supervision for

one and a half year during which I learned and grew tremendously. Chris is a very patient teacher.

He provided me with many unique opportunities, trusted my professional opinion, and encouraged

my performance. Chris is very professional and knowledgeable with a great personality and a great

style of leadership, which brought him success in brining the firm many new projects."

— Leily Vassigh Montana, LEED GA, Job Captain, MBH Architects, reported to Chris at Coonan

DC Limited

"I have had the distinct pleasure in working with Chris Coonan in several capacities within the last

10 years on multiple proejcts. In one capacity as his architect and in another capacity jointly as he

served as Owner's representative. He continues to serve as a vital resource to me as he fully

devotes himself to the retail/ mixed-use industry. He maintains a design sensitivity while focused on

the economic drivers that all projects are dependent upon. The biggest endorsement of Chris I can

offer is that I look forward to the opportunity to work with him again in the near future!"

— Leo Mendez, was Chris's client while Chris was VP of Design at RED Development

Leo Mendez is a Principal with OWP&P/Cannon Architecture

"Chris and I worked together for almost 6 years while at Target. Chris proved himself to be a

creative and innovative architect who always delivered a high quality product on time and on

budget. Chris is a critical thinker who can problem solve for all of your design needs."

— James Reuter, Vice President, Development, Safeway Stores

"Chris is an extremely capable, creative and charasmatic individual whose ability to visualize and

then create complex multi-use spaces is unparalleled in my estimation. Chris worked the northern

California team at Target that I vertically managed, and together we were able to come up with

some very creative sites that he was able to readily adapt for the inclusion of very attractive, yet

visually integrated, Target stores. The San Francisco Metro is one of the most difficult markets for

retailers to break into, and Chris is one of the main reasons for Target's successful market

penetration. I look forward to again collaborating on a project with Chris at our first opporunity."

— Jeff Middlebrook, Regional Real Estate Manager, Target Corporation, worked with Chris at

Coonan DC Limited (currently a Partner with McVicker's in Chicago)

"It is my pleasure to provide this recommendation for Chris Coonan with whom I have been

associated at RED Development. I have known and worked with Chris for approximately two years

as his architectural consultant on several RED Development retail and mixed-use projects. As the

Vice President of Design, he has successfully demonstrated the knowledge, skill and creativity

necessary for the complete development of retail centers, from site acquisition to substantial

completion. His interactive skills regarding decision making, leadership, dependability, and initiative

have contributed greatly to the success of each project. Chris anticipates needs, determines

priorities, establishes courses of action and schedules activities so as to achieve the desired

results. I believe he considers and uses good judgement when deciding between available

alternatives and can direct, delegate and control the work of others, while generating respect,

commitment and support from the people he works with. I believe in his capabilities and have no

doubt he will serve any organization well. You couldn't make a better choice than Chris Coonan."

— Denis Moncion, Director of Retail Development, DFD CornoyerHedrick, worked directly with

Chris at Coonan DC Limited

"I worked with Chris for several years at Target. His projects were always well detailed, distinctive,

innovative and sensitive. Chris is a passionate advocate for quality, and I'm confident that whatever

project he tackles will provide continuing opportunities to showcase his many talents. In addition to

his design skills, Chris also has a keen eye for business. He understands the intricacies of the

real-estate market, and knows how to unlock hidden value by developing assets to their full

potential. Finally, Chris is a people person. His friendly, outgoing manner made it fun to be with him

in work and social settings. He's a great story teller and a clear communicator. I highly recommend

him as a creative soul, a business man, and as a human being."

— Sixto Beltrandy, Project Architect, Target, worked directly with Chris at Target Corporation

"Chris was a pleasure to work with and assist in his on-boarding to RED Development. He is

professional, dedicated and showed commitment to the projects at RED. Chris is an individual that I

would highly recommend in a senior position."

— Alexandra De La Paz, Benefits Coordinator, RED Development, LLC, worked directly with Chris

at Coonan DC Limited

"I had the pleasure of working with Chris at BTR in the mid 90's, and it was easy to see his keen

interest in design and architecture. In addition to working diligently on various projects in 3D CAD,

he also made time to contribute to the smooth operation of the firm in other ways."

— Jack Seaborne, Architect, Bentz Thompson Rietow, worked directly with Chris at Bentz

Thompson Rietow

"Chris Coonan was one of the most talented Architect I ever worked with. He represented Target to

hire MBH Architects as consultant for many projects. I have the honor to handle a few of Chris'

projects. He is truly professional. He has my total recommendation."

— Jack Wong, Senior Associate, MBH Architects, was a consultant or contractor to Chris at MBH

Architects

"I have known Chris Coonan since 1984, and he has always been a consistent, driven and talented

person. While he was at MBH Architects in the Bay Area, I got the pleasure to interact with him on a

large lifestyle development project to be built in Texas. As a structural engineer, I would endorse

Chris as a Designer and as a Project Manager for your next project. You won't be disappointed

after hiring Chris to lead your team."

— David McMillan, Structural Engineer, KPFF Consulting Engineers, was a consultant or

contractor to Chris at MBH Architects

"Chris Coonan and I worked together at BTR Architects where, among other projects, he was

responsible for designing and managing the Mepkin Abbey Library project featured in Architecture

Minnesota Magazine and a PBS television special. Chris is a thoughtful and talented designer, a

team player and a hard working project architect. Chris and I have maintained our friendship since

our meeting in 1995 at the firm, and have enjoyed other various collaborations."

— Larry Fredlund, Rep with Pell Windows

"Chris is a very capable and experienced professional who is client focused. He brings a wealth of

knowledge to any project due to his substantial expertise in architecture, design, development, and

project management."

— Chris Callas, VP - Planning & Logistics, Artissimo Designs, was with another company when

working with Chris at Coonan DC Limited

"Chris Coonan was hired to develop a plan to remodel an existing 115,000 sf urban mall. We

wanted a new look at a reasonable price. Chris and his team developed a new color palette for both

the interior and exterior and a new lighting scheme that made our shopping center look like it had a

million dollar facelift for a fraction of the cost. He was great to work with. Chris has a great sense of

humor and a great deal of patience. He understands the retail world extremely well. I highly

recommend him!"

— Aline Estournes, was Chris's client, Aline is a Property Manager with Wilsey Bennett in San Francisco

"I worked with Chris Coonan at a corporate architectural firm for several years and highly

recommend him as a designer, project manager and firm principal. He has extraordinary drive,

problem solving skills, ability to do complex projects and strong abilty to get things done on time

and budget. Chris would be an asset to your project, company or team to produce high quality and

well executed work. Finally, he is a pleasure to work with and brings a personality of fun and

excitement to the group! Eames Gilmore Design Manager"

— Eames Gilmore, Architect, Target, managed Chris indirectly at Coonan DC Limited

"Chris was a great resource for Target's successful expansion efforts in Southern California. He

was creative and flexible but understood how to preserve the brand. He helped recreate the retail

landscape of SoCal by helping us get into sites we normally couldn't make work, establishing great

relationships with developers and cities and playing a key role in designing great buildings."

— Brad Syverson, Vice President of Real Estate, JC Penney Corporation

"Chris Coonan is an innovator in commercial and retail architecture design and planning. With over

18 years experience as a Developer, Owner and Consultant, working for companies such as Target

Corporation and RED Development LLC that featured a number of LEED certified projects. Chris

brings a holistic approach to all his work from Lifestyle Centers, Libraries, Power Centers, retail

buildings, pharmacies, housing and education buildings. Chris is the designer that will enhance

your architectural vision."

— Paul Sterner, AIA, LEED AP, President, Oculus Architecture, worked directly with Chris at

Coonan DC Limited

"Chris was an innovative and creative designer at RED Development. He sought input from other

departments and worked to create a unified vision for the projects he worked on."

— John Bacon, Vice President of Marketing & Communications, RED Development, LLC, worked

with Chris at RED Development

"Chris and I have worked on more than 20 retail projects over the years. I enjoyed working with

Chris because I always received great work product that was completed on time. He is a talented

designer, a great collaborator and a tremendous communicator. I was always impressed by his

presentation skills. Chris is able to create, communicate and sell his vision as well as anyone I have

ever worked with."

— Dean Zurmely, Regional Real Estate Manager, Target Corporation, worked directly with Chris at

Coonan DC Limited

"Chris is a very smart, highly motivated and tallented architect. His positive attitude is one of the

qualities I've always admired about him as he always has everything under control. Besides that, he

is very personable and a sincerely good guy."

— Jeff Sprout, Lead Project Architect, Target, worked directly with Chris at Target Corporation

"Chris' stellar reputation is founded in his years of experience working on diverse projects,

charismatic leadership style and consistent follow through. Moreover, it's just more fun to have

Chris on your team."

— Lauren Glick, Founder, Marketing consultant., was with another company when working with

Chris at Coonan DC Limited

"Chris is a very capable Architect who puts emphasis on obtaining the desired result on each and

every project he is a part of. Chris has the experience and know how to complete large scale

projects, thriving on the complexities inherent in their scope. I have had the privilege to work

alongside Chris, who brings a positive can-do attitude coupled with knowledge and experience.

Chris is a pleasure to work with and I would recommend him to any potential client or employer."

— Ian Bowen, LEED AP, Assoc. AIA, Architectural Drafter, MBH Architects, worked indirectly for

Chris at Bentz Thompson Rietow

"Chris is a hands-on individual and a pleasure to work with."

— Craig Lebsack, Senior Leasing Associate, RED Development, worked directly with Chris at

RED Development

"Chris is an exceptional leader and talented Architect. While working with him at Target, he

contributed to the successful development and completion of numerous complex projects. Chris is

responsive, intelligent and driven. He has a complete understanding of the complexities of project

leadership and partners extremely well to maximize the relationships of everyone involved in a

project. I've worked with a lot of architects, designers and developers during my career; few perform

at Chris's level in all three areas."

— William Ferris, AIA, Senior Manager Store Design, Target, worked directly with Chris at Target

Corporation

"Chris does an terrific job of consulting with the client to find out what issue he is solving, than uses

a great design sense to creativilty and tastefully provide the design solution. He is great to work

with and you can tell he loves design and architecture."

— Brian Buscher, was Chris's client

"I worked with Chris for several years while he was a DPM at Target Corporation. He is

knowledgeable in the field and excellent to work with. His design skills are very good and he works

well as a team leader. I would enjoy working with Chris again."

— Nicole Nebelung, Project Architect, RSP Architects, was a consultant or contractor to Chris at

Target Corporation

"Mr. Coonan is one of the most dynamic individuals I have worked with in the design industry.

Development and design projects change constantly, especially in retail, and he has the energy and

flexibility to keep the project moving ahead."

— Jay Richardson, was Chris's client

"Chris combines the experience of a developer, owner and architect in one package, and performs

his work extremely well. In his role as studio director at MBH, Chris was exceptionally successful at

working with clients to understand their goals, and then formulate a design execution that exceeded

their needs in very creative and effective ways. I was very impressed at how efficeintly Chris

worked hand in hand with our design team to develop beautiful design solutions imbued with smart

planning and over achieving metrics. Chris expertly worked with governing agencies and advisory

groups to gain approvals and move his projects forward, on time and on budget. Chris was a

pleasure to work with and is a well respected architect, project manager and professional."

— Bruce Greenfield, Principal with Cubellis Architects, Newport Beach, CA

Chris Coonan

Principal, Design & Project Management, CDC Limited

chris.coonan@live.com

Summary

I have had a career which has given me experience at major Architecture firms as a studio leader,

corporate Architecture for Target & Dayton Hudson, and as VP of Design for RED Development, a

major lifestyle center builder. While I currently call Los Angeles and Chicago home, I have been in Asia for 7 months, primarily in China. My career in Architecture has included designing a major library for a Trappist monestery near Charleston, SC - designing Target stores all over the US and numerous lifestyle, mixed use and shopping centers.

I had the honor of managing Target's first LEED project which gained LEED Silver status, built in

Allen Park, Michigan. In addition to Target's first "Green Roof" project on the new Addison &

Sacramento store on Chicago's North side. Another accomplishment was innovating a Target store in Redondo Beach, CA which had a totally elevated sales floor, parking on grade. This was the first of it's type for the retailer, and they have built many more since. One of my most challenging projects was directing a team of Architects on a two restaurant job on the Embarcadero in San Francisco. Two new buildings built in Rincon park, onPort Authority land, enough said!

In addition, I have had success as a Project Manager, studio leader and in business development.

Design and Design Management have been a focus for me.

Specialties

Site Planning, Design, Entitlement Coordination, Project Management, Development Consulting,

Studio Leadership, Business Development and Design Management.

Retail, Mixed Use, Housing, Health Care.

Experience

Principal, Design & Project Management at Coonan DC Limited, CDC

March 2008 - Present (1 year 9 months)

Development, Design and Masterplan Consulting

Current & Past Clients: Westfield, Shea Properties, Miller Weingarten, Doug Miller, JMA Ventures,

SIMON, Duke, Opus, Alberta Development, Brian Buscher, Target, SyWest, SPI Holdings, RED

Development, Walgreen's

Select Projects: Shea's Marina University Town Center, JMA's Rincon Restaurants (San Francisco

Embarcadero), Redondo Beach Target, Mepkin Library, Perky Parrot Cafe & Martini Bar, Buscher

Residence, 194 Target Stores nationwide including Target's first LEED Silver store.

Vice President of Design at RED Development

February 2007 - February 2008 (1 year 1 month)

Vice President of Scottsdale HQ Design staff, project management, internal site planning and

design.

Studio Director of Retail Development at MBH Architects

March 2005 - February 2007 (2 years)

Led a studio of 15 Architects on mixed use projects with Shea, Simon, Alberta, Opus, and other

developers.

Sr. Design Project Manager at Target Corporation

September 1997 - February 2005 (7 years 6 months)

Design, Project Management

Architecture Staff at Bentz Thompson Rietow

1993 - 1997 (4 years)

Graduate Teaching Assistant at University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Education

University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

Master of Architecture, Architecture, 1992 - 1993

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Bachelor of Science in Architecture, Architecture, 1987 - 1992

Activities and Societies: Tau Sigma Delta, Triangle Fraternity

Creighton Prep

High School Diploma, 1986 - 1987

Activities and Societies: Highest Honors

St Thomas Academy

1983 - 1986

Honors and Awards

Eagle Scout, Gold Nugget Award, Pella Design Competition First Place, NCAA Design Competition

Second Place, Building Design & Construction Honorable Mention

Interests

skiing, yachting, green technology, Architecture, Design

Chris Coonan

Principal, Design & Project Management, CDC Limited

chris.coonan@live.com

30 people have recommended Chris

"Chris Coonan is a talented Studio Director and a joy to work with. In the retail development studio,

there was always challenging projects that allowed me growth in the profession. In knowing Chris

Coonan for the past 10 years as a collegue, he has always provided plenty of support throughout

my stages in my career. I look forward to working with him in the future."

— Cliff Sorrell, Senior Job Captain, MBH Architects, reported to Chris at MBH Architects

"As Studio Accounting Manager for the Target and RE Developer studios at MBH Architects, I had

the great pleasure of working with Chris Coonan for several years, first when he was with Target

Stores, and later on when he joined MBH Architects as Studio Director. Chris was always a true

professional; he consistently showed understanding of both the creative and business aspects of

the projects he managed. At the same time he was also refreshingly direct and funny. Given the

opportunity, I would be very pleased to work with him again."

— Pallas Pulling, Studio Accounting Manager, MBH Architects, worked directly with Chris at MBH

Architects

"Chris is a very skilled, respected and dynamic professional who lead several successful

complicated projects while at Target. He has strong technical knowledge, extensive real estate

development skills and is focused on the overall progress and concerns of the project. His drive

towards positive results is relentless while building and maintaining strong working relationships

with his project teams. Chris was recognized as a top performer among many very talented

individuals at Target's Property Development Department. I highly recommend Mr. Coonan for your

next project."

— Dennis Anderson, Director of Architecture, Target, managed Chris at Coonan DC Limited

"I had the pleasure of working with Chris at MBH Architects. I worked under Chris’s supervision for

one and a half year during which I learned and grew tremendously. Chris is a very patient teacher.

He provided me with many unique opportunities, trusted my professional opinion, and encouraged

my performance. Chris is very professional and knowledgeable with a great personality and a great

style of leadership, which brought him success in brining the firm many new projects."

— Leily Vassigh Montana, LEED GA, Job Captain, MBH Architects, reported to Chris at Coonan

DC Limited

"I have had the distinct pleasure in working with Chris Coonan in several capacities within the last

10 years on multiple proejcts. In one capacity as his architect and in another capacity jointly as he

served as Owner's representative. He continues to serve as a vital resource to me as he fully

devotes himself to the retail/ mixed-use industry. He maintains a design sensitivity while focused on

the economic drivers that all projects are dependent upon. The biggest endorsement of Chris I can

offer is that I look forward to the opportunity to work with him again in the near future!"

— Leo Mendez, was Chris's client while Chris was VP of Design at RED Development

Leo Mendez is a Principal with OWP&P/Cannon Architecture

"Chris and I worked together for almost 6 years while at Target. Chris proved himself to be a

creative and innovative architect who always delivered a high quality product on time and on

budget. Chris is a critical thinker who can problem solve for all of your design needs."

— James Reuter, Vice President, Development, Safeway Stores

"Chris is an extremely capable, creative and charasmatic individual whose ability to visualize and

then create complex multi-use spaces is unparalleled in my estimation. Chris worked the northern

California team at Target that I vertically managed, and together we were able to come up with

some very creative sites that he was able to readily adapt for the inclusion of very attractive, yet

visually integrated, Target stores. The San Francisco Metro is one of the most difficult markets for

retailers to break into, and Chris is one of the main reasons for Target's successful market

penetration. I look forward to again collaborating on a project with Chris at our first opporunity."

— Jeff Middlebrook, Regional Real Estate Manager, Target Corporation, worked with Chris at

Coonan DC Limited (currently a Partner with McVicker's in Chicago)

"It is my pleasure to provide this recommendation for Chris Coonan with whom I have been

associated at RED Development. I have known and worked with Chris for approximately two years

as his architectural consultant on several RED Development retail and mixed-use projects. As the

Vice President of Design, he has successfully demonstrated the knowledge, skill and creativity

necessary for the complete development of retail centers, from site acquisition to substantial

completion. His interactive skills regarding decision making, leadership, dependability, and initiative

have contributed greatly to the success of each project. Chris anticipates needs, determines

priorities, establishes courses of action and schedules activities so as to achieve the desired

results. I believe he considers and uses good judgement when deciding between available

alternatives and can direct, delegate and control the work of others, while generating respect,

commitment and support from the people he works with. I believe in his capabilities and have no

doubt he will serve any organization well. You couldn't make a better choice than Chris Coonan."

— Denis Moncion, Director of Retail Development, DFD CornoyerHedrick, worked directly with

Chris at Coonan DC Limited

"I worked with Chris for several years at Target. His projects were always well detailed, distinctive,

innovative and sensitive. Chris is a passionate advocate for quality, and I'm confident that whatever

project he tackles will provide continuing opportunities to showcase his many talents. In addition to

his design skills, Chris also has a keen eye for business. He understands the intricacies of the

real-estate market, and knows how to unlock hidden value by developing assets to their full

potential. Finally, Chris is a people person. His friendly, outgoing manner made it fun to be with him

in work and social settings. He's a great story teller and a clear communicator. I highly recommend

him as a creative soul, a business man, and as a human being."

— Sixto Beltrandy, Project Architect, Target, worked directly with Chris at Target Corporation

"Chris was a pleasure to work with and assist in his on-boarding to RED Development. He is

professional, dedicated and showed commitment to the projects at RED. Chris is an individual that I

would highly recommend in a senior position."

— Alexandra De La Paz, Benefits Coordinator, RED Development, LLC, worked directly with Chris

at Coonan DC Limited

"I had the pleasure of working with Chris at BTR in the mid 90's, and it was easy to see his keen

interest in design and architecture. In addition to working diligently on various projects in 3D CAD,

he also made time to contribute to the smooth operation of the firm in other ways."

— Jack Seaborne, Architect, Bentz Thompson Rietow, worked directly with Chris at Bentz

Thompson Rietow

"Chris Coonan was one of the most talented Architect I ever worked with. He represented Target to

hire MBH Architects as consultant for many projects. I have the honor to handle a few of Chris'

projects. He is truly professional. He has my total recommendation."

— Jack Wong, Senior Associate, MBH Architects, was a consultant or contractor to Chris at MBH

Architects

"I have known Chris Coonan since 1984, and he has always been a consistent, driven and talented

person. While he was at MBH Architects in the Bay Area, I got the pleasure to interact with him on a

large lifestyle development project to be built in Texas. As a structural engineer, I would endorse

Chris as a Designer and as a Project Manager for your next project. You won't be disappointed

after hiring Chris to lead your team."

— David McMillan, Structural Engineer, KPFF Consulting Engineers, was a consultant or

contractor to Chris at MBH Architects

"Chris Coonan and I worked together at BTR Architects where, among other projects, he was

responsible for designing and managing the Mepkin Abbey Library project featured in Architecture

Minnesota Magazine and a PBS television special. Chris is a thoughtful and talented designer, a

team player and a hard working project architect. Chris and I have maintained our friendship since

our meeting in 1995 at the firm, and have enjoyed other various collaborations."

— Larry Fredlund, Rep with Pell Windows

"Chris is a very capable and experienced professional who is client focused. He brings a wealth of

knowledge to any project due to his substantial expertise in architecture, design, development, and

project management."

— Chris Callas, VP - Planning & Logistics, Artissimo Designs, was with another company when

working with Chris at Coonan DC Limited

"Chris Coonan was hired to develop a plan to remodel an existing 115,000 sf urban mall. We

wanted a new look at a reasonable price. Chris and his team developed a new color palette for both

the interior and exterior and a new lighting scheme that made our shopping center look like it had a

million dollar facelift for a fraction of the cost. He was great to work with. Chris has a great sense of

humor and a great deal of patience. He understands the retail world extremely well. I highly

recommend him!"

— Aline Estournes, was Chris's client, Aline is a Property Manager with Wilsey Bennett in San Francisco

"I worked with Chris Coonan at a corporate architectural firm for several years and highly

recommend him as a designer, project manager and firm principal. He has extraordinary drive,

problem solving skills, ability to do complex projects and strong abilty to get things done on time

and budget. Chris would be an asset to your project, company or team to produce high quality and

well executed work. Finally, he is a pleasure to work with and brings a personality of fun and

excitement to the group! Eames Gilmore Design Manager"

— Eames Gilmore, Architect, Target, managed Chris indirectly at Coonan DC Limited

"Chris was a great resource for Target's successful expansion efforts in Southern California. He

was creative and flexible but understood how to preserve the brand. He helped recreate the retail

landscape of SoCal by helping us get into sites we normally couldn't make work, establishing great

relationships with developers and cities and playing a key role in designing great buildings."

— Brad Syverson, Vice President of Real Estate, JC Penney Corporation

"Chris Coonan is an innovator in commercial and retail architecture design and planning. With over

18 years experience as a Developer, Owner and Consultant, working for companies such as Target

Corporation and RED Development LLC that featured a number of LEED certified projects. Chris

brings a holistic approach to all his work from Lifestyle Centers, Libraries, Power Centers, retail

buildings, pharmacies, housing and education buildings. Chris is the designer that will enhance

your architectural vision."

— Paul Sterner, AIA, LEED AP, President, Oculus Architecture, worked directly with Chris at

Coonan DC Limited

"Chris was an innovative and creative designer at RED Development. He sought input from other

departments and worked to create a unified vision for the projects he worked on."

— John Bacon, Vice President of Marketing & Communications, RED Development, LLC, worked

with Chris at RED Development

"Chris and I have worked on more than 20 retail projects over the years. I enjoyed working with

Chris because I always received great work product that was completed on time. He is a talented

designer, a great collaborator and a tremendous communicator. I was always impressed by his

presentation skills. Chris is able to create, communicate and sell his vision as well as anyone I have

ever worked with."

— Dean Zurmely, Regional Real Estate Manager, Target Corporation, worked directly with Chris at

Coonan DC Limited

"Chris is a very smart, highly motivated and tallented architect. His positive attitude is one of the

qualities I've always admired about him as he always has everything under control. Besides that, he

is very personable and a sincerely good guy."

— Jeff Sprout, Lead Project Architect, Target, worked directly with Chris at Target Corporation

"Chris' stellar reputation is founded in his years of experience working on diverse projects,

charismatic leadership style and consistent follow through. Moreover, it's just more fun to have

Chris on your team."

— Lauren Glick, Founder, Marketing consultant., was with another company when working with

Chris at Coonan DC Limited

"Chris is a very capable Architect who puts emphasis on obtaining the desired result on each and

every project he is a part of. Chris has the experience and know how to complete large scale

projects, thriving on the complexities inherent in their scope. I have had the privilege to work

alongside Chris, who brings a positive can-do attitude coupled with knowledge and experience.

Chris is a pleasure to work with and I would recommend him to any potential client or employer."

— Ian Bowen, LEED AP, Assoc. AIA, Architectural Drafter, MBH Architects, worked indirectly for

Chris at Bentz Thompson Rietow

"Chris is a hands-on individual and a pleasure to work with."

— Craig Lebsack, Senior Leasing Associate, RED Development, worked directly with Chris at

RED Development

"Chris is an exceptional leader and talented Architect. While working with him at Target, he

contributed to the successful development and completion of numerous complex projects. Chris is

responsive, intelligent and driven. He has a complete understanding of the complexities of project

leadership and partners extremely well to maximize the relationships of everyone involved in a

project. I've worked with a lot of architects, designers and developers during my career; few perform

at Chris's level in all three areas."

— William Ferris, AIA, Senior Manager Store Design, Target, worked directly with Chris at Target

Corporation

"Chris does an terrific job of consulting with the client to find out what issue he is solving, than uses

a great design sense to creativilty and tastefully provide the design solution. He is great to work

with and you can tell he loves design and architecture."

— Brian Buscher, was Chris's client

"I worked with Chris for several years while he was a DPM at Target Corporation. He is

knowledgeable in the field and excellent to work with. His design skills are very good and he works

well as a team leader. I would enjoy working with Chris again."

— Nicole Nebelung, Project Architect, RSP Architects, was a consultant or contractor to Chris at

Target Corporation

"Mr. Coonan is one of the most dynamic individuals I have worked with in the design industry.

Development and design projects change constantly, especially in retail, and he has the energy and

flexibility to keep the project moving ahead."

— Jay Richardson, was Chris's client

"Chris combines the experience of a developer, owner and architect in one package, and performs

his work extremely well. In his role as studio director at MBH, Chris was exceptionally successful at

working with clients to understand their goals, and then formulate a design execution that exceeded

their needs in very creative and effective ways. I was very impressed at how efficeintly Chris

worked hand in hand with our design team to develop beautiful design solutions imbued with smart

planning and over achieving metrics. Chris expertly worked with governing agencies and advisory

groups to gain approvals and move his projects forward, on time and on budget. Chris was a

pleasure to work with and is a well respected architect, project manager and professional."

— Bruce Greenfield, Principal with Cubellis Architects, Newport Beach, CA

Contact Chris on LinkedIn

Snapshot
  • Company executive
  • Trading frequency: Daily
Interests:
  • Real Estate and REITs
  • Stocks - short