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K-State Today

November 6, 2024

Michael McClure and Ursula Emery McClure recognized by Forbes as two of America’s Top 200 residential architects

Submitted by Thom Jackson

Winning entry

Kansas State University announces that Michael McClure, dean of the College of Architecture, Planning & Design, and Ursula Emery McClure, teaching professor in architectural engineering and construction science, have been named among America's Top 200 Residential Architects by Forbes magazine. This recognition highlights their dedication to innovative design and sustainability, both in academia and professional practice.

Now based in Manhattan, Kansas, and Lafayette, Louisiana, Michael McClure and Ursula Emery McClure have been transforming common materials into extraordinary designs through their firm, emerymcclure architecture, since 1996. Their recent project, Fontana Place, a 4,900-square-foot residence in rural Zachary, Louisiana, exemplifies their unique approach. The project merges traditional regional architecture with contemporary aesthetics, harmonizing the structure with its environment.

"Fontana Place is a continuation of our work exploring the unique social, cultural and environmental landscape of Southern Louisiana," said Ursula Emery McClure. "We aim to reinterpret vernacular architecture, blending lessons from tradition with forward-thinking design. emerymcclure strives to adapt these architectural practices for a contemporary world, preserving their essence while pushing boundaries."

As dean, Michael McClure has brought his vision and leadership to Kansas State University, advancing the College of Architecture, Planning & Design with strategic direction and engagement. He oversees more than 1,000 students and nearly 90 faculty and staff across nine degree programs. Prior to joining K-State, McClure served as associate dean and distinguished professor of architecture at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, where he made substantial contributions to architectural education and research.

Both Michael and Ursula hold a Bachelor of Arts in architecture from Washington University in St. Louis and master's in architecture from Columbia University. Michael McClure has previous professional experience at prominent firms such as Robert A. M. Stern Architects and Richard Gluckman Architects, he brings a wealth of professional insight to his role as dean.

Ursula Emery McClure, a distinguished fellow of the American Institute of Architects, brings her extensive expertise in climate resiliency and adaptive preservation to her students at K-State. She previously held the Ralph Hawkins Visiting Professorship of Architecture at the University of Texas at Arlington and was a longtime professor at Louisiana State University. Her work has garnered numerous awards, and she was recognized by ArchDaily as one of the Most Innovative Practitioners in 2018.

Kansas State University celebrates the achievements of Michael and Ursula Emery McClure and their ongoing contributions to the fields of architecture, planning and design. Their inclusion in Forbes Top 200 Residential Architects list underscores the impact of their academic leadership and professional practice on future architects and the wider community.

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