
President
UpStreet Architects
Since 1994, Karen has led the firms of UpStreet Architects, Inc. and its predecessor firm Welsh + Harley Architects, providing complete architectural planning, design and contract administration services. She balances aesthetic and programmatic aspects while meeting the requirements of developers, contractors, financing agencies, government programs and their oversight. She is a registered architect in PA, WV, TN, OH and MD and has NCARB certification, which facilitates reciprocal registration in other states. Karen is focused on ensuring client satisfaction by implementing strategies for communication, project management, quality control and quality assurance. She has worked hard to develop strong relationships with repeat clients, consultants and financing agencies. The developments and buildings she designs are a mix of new construction, Historic Preservation and adaptive reuse. Special attention is paid to the project’s integration with the community, energy efficiency and constructability.
Karen is an active member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) National and PA Chapters, National Council of Architectural Registration Boards, The Pennsylvania Builders Association, National Association of Home Builders, Pennsylvania Housing Research Center, Women in Housing and Finance PA, Housing Alliance of Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania Association of Housing and Redevelopment Authorities, Indiana County Chamber of Commerce and the Cambria Regional Chamber.
Code development and adoption is another passion. Her volunteer service includes participation on the Multi-Family Housing Task Force for the development of the ICC-700 National Green Building Standard in 2008 and 2012, to ensure a rural/suburban viewpoint was represented. From 2011-2015, she was appointed by the Governor to serve on the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code Review and Advisory Council, which adopts the building codes in Pennsylvania, and represented commercial architects. She continues to work with PBA and the American Institute of Architects in PA on legislative issues relating to building code adoption and especially the impacts on existing buildings, rural communities and economic development.
Currently she serves on the Industry Advisory Council for the Pennsylvania Housing Research Center.