Our team is a tight knit group of architectural and interior designers based in Bozeman, Montana. We thrive on collaboration, knowing that our diverse skills and collective energy are the foundation for the most innovative design solutions.
Meet Our PRINCIPALS
LARRY PEARSON
Founding Principal
LARRY PEARSON
Founding Principal
University of California, Santa Cruz
Larry Pearson loves to ask questions. His favorite ones start with the same word: “How.” How do we define yet integrate space: space for solitude, space for family, space for friends? How do we tie the lines of architecture to this natural backdrop? How can we authentically connect humans with design—physically, visually, socially, and emotionally?
For more than three decades, these are the design puzzles Larry has worked to solve, one structure at a time, each a unique answer in itself. Influenced by his clients’ dreams; his travels in the US, Asia, and Europe; and a palpable fascination with regional materials and settings, Larry thirsts to create bespoke designs that enrich human patterns of life…or even create new ones.
JUSTIN TOLLEFSON, AIA
Principal
JUSTIN TOLLEFSON, AIA
Principal
University of Colorado Boulder & University of Minnesota
Justin steps into the practice of architecture with a comprehensive and balanced perspective, serving in multiple leadership roles within Pearson Design Group. With a focus on design direction, business development, sales and marketing, and team collaboration, he works to unify both people and ideas across every project. As a proud member of the American Institute of Architects and former President of the Montana Chapter of the AIA, Justin also looks outside the office to inform how architectural practice is done. He is deeply interested in the future of architecture and sustainability, striving to build stronger relationships between clients, peers, and the environment.
This holistic approach is central to Justin’s creative process. As the son of an architect and now a principal of the firm he joined in 2004, he brings decades of experience rooted in quality, integrity, and professionalism.
PATRICK JOHANSON, AIA
Principal
PATRICK JOHANSON, AIA
Principal
Montana State University
A Principal and long-tenured leader at Pearson Design Group, Patrick Johanson has been a defining architect in the firm’s evolution since 2005. His work exists at the intersection of artistic vision and operational precision; he was instrumental in developing the PDG methodologies that ensure creative concepts are delivered with technical excellence.
With a deep mastery of regional influences and material innovation, Patrick’s approach is rooted in the philosophy that great design must instill a sense of timelessness. Beyond his project work, he is committed to the stewardship of the profession, mentoring the next generation of architects, and fostering an inclusive culture where creativity thrives.
JOSH BARR, AIA
Principal
JOSH BARR, AIA
Principal
Montana State University
Josh Barr brings purpose and momentum to every project, embodying the firm’s philosophies through action. Since joining the practice in 2002, he has been a driving force, championing the thoughtful use of regional materials and contributing to the firm’s evolving design voice. As a principal, Josh is reinforcing our commitment to collaborative client-architect practices with new approaches and formalizing our project delivery methods for the next generation of designers.
Functionality sits at the core of Josh’s design philosophy. In environments where luxury, lifestyle, and recreation intersect, uninterrupted livability is essential. Spaces must be practical yet refined, materials durable yet appropriate, and performance is never optional
CHRISTI BRADBURY
CPA, CFO, Principal
CHRISTI BRADBURY, CPA
Principal & Cfo
Montana State University
After 12 years working in a public accounting firm, Christi Bradbury was selected by Pearson Design Group for her professional abilities and familiarity with the business of architecture firms. Christi’s responsibilities range from budgeting projects, cash flow management, tax planning, and implementing policies to increase efficiencies. While the majority of the staff live in their creative minds, Christi lives through numbers, which has been invaluable in her transition to PDG’s Chief Financial Officer in 2011.
A true Montanan, Christi grew up in Havre, MT, where her parents instilled in her a true work ethic, always striving to be her very best. She received her Bachelor of Science and a Master of Professional Accountancy from Montana State University.
Meet Our Architecture Team
JED THOMAS, AIA
JED THOMAS, AIA
Project Architect
Since joining Pearson Design Group in 2005, Jed has established himself as a versatile and dedicated team member of PDG. With nearly two decades of experience, Jed’s expertise spans the entire project lifecycle—from preparing complex planning documentation and detailed working drawings to coordinating contractors and solving on-site construction challenges directly with the contractors.
ZYG WOTZAK, AIA
ZYG WOTZAK, AIA
Project Architect
With a background shaped by many cities and a couple of countries, Zyg’s architectural strength lies in his adaptability – a trait further cultivated during his time at Montana State University. He embraces a flow state throughout the conceptualization, creation, and facilitation of a project, focusing on the subtle nuances and atmosphere that make each project unique.
DEREK TICE, AIA
DEREK TICE, AIA
Project Architect
Growing up in Great Falls, Montana, Derek has always called the mountains home. He received his BA in Environmental Design and a Master’s degree in Architecture from Montana State University. He is most intrigued by the initial stages of the project’s realization and understating how a building interacts with its surroundings is a critical step for a successful project. His favorite part of his job is seeing his ideas becoming a reality
JEROME STECKLER, AIA
JEROME STECKLER, AIA
Project Architect
A Missoula native, Jerome came to Bozeman to pursue his interest in architecture earning a degree in Environmental Design and Masters of Architecture from Montana State University. He finds the intersection of art and science in architecture endlessly interesting, with both fields coming together seamlessly on site.
MITCHELL WARTHEN
MITCHELL WARTHEN, AIA
Project Architect
Born in Illinois, Mitchell moved to Montana to align his professional career with his deep appreciation for the mountainous landscape. He earned a Bachelor’s in Environmental Design and a Master’s in Architecture from Montana State University. Mitchell finds fulfillment in the collaborative, dynamic nature of design and specializes in bringing a client’s unique vision to life.
JONATHAN WEBER, AIA
JONATHAN WEBER, AIA
Project Architect
A Colorado native and Montana State Alum, Jonathan revels in the art of transforming ideas into built reality. Whether he’s translating a sketch into 3D space or tackling a new furniture piece in his home woodshop, he remains dedicated to the magic of iterative design—always aiming to outdo his last project.
Grant Morthland, AIA
Grant Morthland, AIA
Project Architect
Grant brings miles of experience to PDG, starting with his Midwestern upbringing, which laid the foundation for a design journey that led him to Bozeman. He earned his Bachelor of Architecture from Iowa State University, complemented by experiences studying abroad in Rome and practicing commercial Architecture in Miami. Grant views every piece of input as an opportunity to refine and evolve any project, ensuring that every space is unique and deeply personal.
SAM TEWSON
SAM TEWSON
Executive Administrative Assistant
Sam is the office’s jack of all trades, seamlessly supporting the design team and day-to-day functions of the office. She has a diverse background that spans culinary arts, concept development, and high-end residential concierge services. She also has a natural familiarity with home design, which was shaped early by parents deeply involved in custom homebuilding and interior design.
OUR INTERIOR DESIGN TEAM
KATARA CADE
KATARA CADE
Interior Designer
Raised in small-town Newcastle, Wyoming, Katara grew up with wide-open skies, creative parents, and a curiosity that extended far beyond the prairie. Katara earned her degree from the University of Wyoming in Design, Textiles, and Merchandising. Now a lead designer at PDG, she approaches her work with energy, intuition, and the belief that great design requires a willingness to take creative risks.
DANI FLAX
DANI FLAX
Interior Designer
Born and raised in Steamboat Springs, CO, Dani received her degree from Colorado State University for Interior Architecture + Design and Construction Management. She believes that interiors and architecture are the most functional expressions of art. As a lead designer at PDG Interiors, she’s focused on bringing fresh and new ideas to the table, and her clients’ vision to life.
RACHEL WHIPPLE
RACHEL WHIPPLE
Office Manager
The daughter of an Army serviceman, Rachel grew up in Texas, Georgia, Germany, Kansas, and Minnesota before settling in Massachusetts, where she earned a BS in Education from Westfield State University. As PDG’s Office Manager, Rachel handles all the bookkeeping for both the Architecture and Interior Design departments. She also assists the Interior Design team on project contracts, budget planning, and in procurement efforts.