Rich Varda Rejoins RSP
After 16 years with Target Corporation, the designer will lead a variety of efforts for the national firm.
MINNEAPOLIS (16 January 2018) – Rich Varda, FAIA, ASLA, has returned to RSP as a Design Principal working out of the firm’s Minneapolis and Phoenix offices. Most recently a Senior Vice President and Senior Advisor for Target Store Design, Varda will supervise an expansive array of work that includes retail, corporate, hospitality, higher education and planning. Varda served as Principal at RSP 1998-2001 and was instrumental in founding the firm’s Phoenix office.
“Rich’s experience and design expertise expands far beyond retail, so he is a real asset to our team,” said Dave Norback, AIA, RSP President. “We will leverage his talents across offices, studios and markets. His experience on the client side has enriched his perspective and it aligns perfectly with RSP’s vision. He has much yet to design and many to mentor. We’re very pleased to have him back.”
While at Target, Rich supervised an internal staff of almost 300 architects, engineers and planners. Under his design leadership, Target dramatically evolved store concepts. Highlights include the small format urban prototype and a commitment to the shopping experience. Varda collaborated regularly with RSP design teams and led the design of the award winning Musical Instrument Museum in Phoenix. His previous experience includes the design and construction of more than five million square feet of workspace for American Express, Target and others.
“I’m committed to designing buildings that work functionally for their owners and users, but also to infuse the solution with beauty and form that attracts and teaches,” said Varda. “There’s tremendous opportunity at RSP to do so, to focus on the complete needs of the client and deliver designs that address real business objectives. I’m equally looking forward to serving as a consultant, provocateur, and mentor to the next generation of great designers.”
Varda will split his time between RSP’s Minneapolis and Phoenix offices. He is currently engaged in various business development opportunities as well as unique design challenges.
