About Nate

Nathan Wight, Principal, Unfolding Architecture

Nathan Wight is a seasoned architect with a unique focus within the profession. Unlike many architects whose aspirations revolve around creating new buildings, Nathan's revolve around reusing our existing building stock in practical and affordable ways, and modifying the profession of architecture itself to be more adaptable and client-driven.

His career trajectory has led him to specialize in the process of managing and renovating existing structures in phases with clients who are on budgets, often changing their tacks, and grappling with municipal buearocracy.

Background and Education

Nathan holds a Bachelor's degree in Architecture from Cornell University and is a licensed Architect in Michigan. His diverse interests include tutoring, writing, and sociology, which all intersect with architecture in profound ways. He is adept at software like Autodesk Revit, Adobe Indesign, and Microsoft Excel.

Professional Experience

Nathan's career spans almost two decades, primarily focusing on the rehabilitation of buildings and spaces for small businesses and developers in urban settings. From 2006 to 2014, he was based in New York City, managing various projects from multi-tenant residential and commercial building gut renovations to retail fit-outs. He also worked closely with the NYC Department of Buildings to secure necessary occupancy certificates. Between 2014 and 2016, Nathan worked in Philadelphia, overseeing new residential builds and adaptive-reuse projects, gaining insight into the construction industry and the challenges faced by contractors and developers.

Current Work

In 2016, Nathan relocated to Detroit. He founded his firm, Unfolding Architecture, in 2018, in Southwest Detroit. He moved to Roscommon, Michigan, in 2019, where he now works primarily in Detroit and the small communities of Northern Michigan.