Cultivating Craftmanship
When a curious Quonset sprouted up in West Fargo, we couldn’t help but dig a little deeper. What we unearthed was the story of Strom Architecture, a young boutique firm rooted in craftsmanship, community, and a deep connection to the land. The firm was founded by Jackson Strom, whose South Dakota farming roots have shaped a residential design philosophy as grounded as it is innovative. Nestled along the Sheyenne River neighboring Enclave, this Quonset isn’t just a workspace for the firm’s principal architect and his team of 11 — it’s a creative greenhouse where ideas flourish, collaboration thrives, and client visions take root from the heart of the city.
by TRACY NICHOLSON | firm photos by SCOTT AMUNDSON | portraits by DAN FRANCIS PHOTOGRAPHY
Jackson Strom, Principal Architect, Strom Architecture
AGRARIAN INSPIRATION
“The Quonset form pays tribute to farm roots, but inside, the focus is on crafting projects that reflect the way our clients live,” said Jackson Strom, Principal Architect, Strom Architecture.
Raised in Groton, SD, Jackson found his architectural interest and influence between working on the farm, building homes with his dad in the summer, and pouring concrete for a local contractor. After high school, he studied at NDSU, earning his Master of Architecture in 2009. Jackson then spent several years fine-tuning his talent before branching off on his own in 2019.
“Growing up on a farm taught me values that still guide me today,” said Strom. “From a young age, my brother and I would help our dad, often spending time with him and his colleagues. Those experiences instilled in me a strong work ethic — there was no clocking out early, and the job wasn’t done until the day was done. My dad led by example, showing us what it meant to put in the effort, stay committed, and take pride in what you do.”
Strom Architecture has come a long way in a relatively short time, from a spare bedroom office in his 9th Street Fargo home to a biophilic Quonset fit-up in West Fargo. “We started off with a simple home setup, but it got us to where we are today,” said Strom.
QUONSET COLLABORATIONS
As Jackson’s firm expanded, his team needed a space that better reflected their values — a foundation that was both functional and inspiring. Enclave Development had the existing Quonset shell when Jackson inquired about the space. “The location felt like a perfect fit—not only was it just a five-minute walk from our home, but its proximity to nature and the river made it an easy decision,” said Strom. “It checked all the boxes for what we wanted in a workspace: inspiring, convenient, and connected to the landscape.”
“I’ve swept out countless Quonsets on the farm, and now our office is in one,” laughed Strom. “It’s a daily reminder of where I came from — of the values that shaped me and the work ethic that got us here. Our office is a physical representation of our design philosophy: thoughtful, timeless, and rooted in place. The large studio has allowed for better collaboration and teamwork — it’s a space where ideas flow more freely. That has made a big impact on the way we work together, not to mention we are now eager for clients to visit us in the new space.”
Strom Architecture’s Team - Back, from left: Nate Wanner, Reed Reller, Grant Willert, Jonathan Deitz, and Chris Kumpula. Middle, from left: Kaitlyn Foss, Grace DeJong, Shea Selly and Ali Messner. Front, from left: Jackson Strom and Mackenzie Coombs
When Jackson’s team first moved in, he wasn’t sure if they would ever fill the space. Now, just over a year later, it’s brimming with talent. “It’s been great to see how quickly we’ve grown and how this space has become such an important part of our team and the work we do,” added Strom. Jackson’s design concept maintained the majority of Enclave’s existing Quonset shell, keeping the design simple and intentional.
“We inserted the conference room, bathrooms, and my personal office as a box that stretches from side to side while leaving the rest of the space wide open,” explained Strom. “This approach preserved the character of the structure while creating a functional and collaborative workspace.”
REIMAGINING RESIDENTIAL
At Strom Architecture, residential design has been the primary focus, yet the team also takes on select commercial projects. The firm’s home, lake home, and commercial designs now span North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Montana, Iowa, and New Jersey, among other states.
To their team, residential architecture is where they find the deepest personal connections, collaborating with clients to create homes that tell the story of their lifestyles, aspirations, and personalities. Regardless of a project’s residential or commercial status, Jackson and his team are determined to deliver the same level of thought, creativity, and attention to detail.
“There’s nothing more rewarding than bringing a client’s vision to life and helping them discover the full value an architect brings to the process,” said Strom. “Our role extends far beyond creating drawings — we guide homeowners through key decisions on proportion, functionality, materials, and long-term livability, ensuring their home is both beautiful and practical. As more homeowners recognize the impact of thoughtful design, we see a shift toward a greater appreciation for architecture’s role in shaping not just individual homes but better-built environments as a whole. By working closely with our clients, we bring their vision to life while enhancing the quality and longevity of their investment.”
SHINGLE STYLE – WEST FARGO
Dietrich Homes
This shingle-style home is a perfect blend of timeless coastal charm and modern convenience, designed with a young family in mind. A warm, neutral palette enhances its classic architectural details, while expansive windows invite natural light. Seamlessly connected indoor and outdoor living areas make this home ideal for both everyday life and entertaining.
LAKE MINNETONKA TRANSITIONAL
Fox Homes
Designed to embrace its stunning waterfront setting, this transitional home captures breathtaking views of Lake Minnetonka through expansive walls of glass. Multiple outdoor spaces enhance the connection to nature, while a sophisticated mix of clean lines and rich materials bring warmth and refinement. Blurring the boundaries between inside and out, this home offers an effortless lakefront lifestyle.
RIVERS BEND TRANSITIONAL – WEST FARGO
Radiant Homes / Domestic Studio / AGL Landscape Architects
Balancing modern elegance and timeless comfort, this transitional home is tailored for a young family. The open and airy main floor creates an inviting space for gathering and entertaining. Large windows flood the home with natural light, blending indoor and outdoor living. Upstairs, private retreats offer a quiet escape.
TIMELESS DESIGN PRINCIPLES
“Timeless design is about balance, proportion, and connection to the site,” explained Strom. “While trends come and go, certain principles always hold true. Centerlines, sightlines, and clearances all play a critical role in creating a home that feels intentional and well-proportioned. A well-placed window or an aligned hallway can frame a perfect view, create symmetry, and establish a sense of order that feels natural and effortless.” Scale is another key factor for the Strom Architecture team. “Rooms that are too large can feel empty and uninviting, while spaces that are too small can feel cramped and inefficient,” explained Strom. “It’s about getting the balance just right so a home functions well and feels comfortable to live in.”
BLACK HILLS RETREAT - SOUTH DAKOTA
Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Black Hills, this modern retreat embraces its surroundings with panoramic views in every direction. A striking architectural link connects the main house to the Primary Suite, while expansive sliding doors dissolve boundaries between indoors and out.
TIMELESS ESTATE - NORTH DAKOTA
Mark Fleck Construction / Lindsey Grace Interiors
This stately residence combines brick, stone, and slate for a refined yet enduring aesthetic. A covered entry, expansive patio, outdoor pool, and a breathtaking rooftop terrace create a luxurious retreat. Inside, a grand two-story entry leads to a private Primary Suite wing, while elegant glass hallways connect to the garage and sports court. Seamlessly blending sophistication with functionality, this home is both a sanctuary and an entertainer’s dream.
PRAIRIE POOLHOUSE
Eric Berg Construction / Belle Kitchen / AGL Landscape Architects
Built for year-round enjoyment, this pool house is the ultimate retreat for relaxation and entertainment. A spacious indoor pool area, inviting fireplace, and ample seating create a cozy yet social atmosphere. In warmer months, an operable door system opens to extend the space outdoors, while cooler days transform it into a private sanctuary. Outside, a sunken fire pit and patio set the scene for effortless outdoor gatherings.
THE DESIGN PROCESS
As part of a highly collaborative and client-focused design process, Strom’s projects begin with a site study to analyze the land, sun, wind, views, and unique opportunities. In the first design meeting, Jackson sketches the initial floor plan in real time while gathering client input to ensure their vision is at the heart of the design. The team then guides clients through schematic design, 3D modeling, and construction documents, carefully refining the details before construction begins. Strom also includes high-quality renderings—often mistaken for real photos—to help the client fully visualize their project and make decisions with confidence.
“Beyond the design itself, our process is all about relationships,” said Strom. “We listen, care, communicate, and stay committed to timelines and budgets. People like working with people they enjoy, and we strive to develop genuine friendships throughout the process. We don’t just see these as professional relationships—they’re friendships because that’s what they truly become.”
“We’re grateful to be part of a region with many talented architects and take pride in creating thoughtful, well-executed designs that blend beauty and functionality,” added Strom. “There’s plenty of work to go around, and we’re especially fortunate to have clients who entrust us with some of the largest investments of their lifetime.”
When the 39-year-old is not spending time with his wife, Lindsey, and their sons, Sully (5)and Oliver (2), Jackson is leading his team, meeting with homeowners, and redefining home. “Our family has given me a new perspective on how important good design is in everyday life. A home isn’t just about how it looks — it needs to work for the people living in it,” explained Strom. “No matter how busy work gets, nothing matters more than coming home to our family. They remind me why I do what I do. Because at the end of the day, a house is just a building — it’s family that makes it a home.”
CREATIVITY + COMMON GROUND
Jackson’s diverse experience and humble outlook have gifted him the ability to find common ground with everyone, an invaluable skill that helps him embrace learning in life and business. While his upbringing has influenced his approach to architecture—blending practicality with craftsmanship and teamwork—his loved ones have influenced the ambitious drive and well-rooted values he holds near and dear.
“Life on the farm meant making your own fun, and that led to imagining what was possible beyond what was right in front of us,” added Strom. “My mom taught me to think creatively and never put limits on what I could do. That balance—dreaming big while staying grounded in hard work—has shaped the way I approach both architecture and business today.”
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:
Strom Architecture
250 23rd Ave. E., West Fargo, ND
701.446.6347
hello@stromarch.com
stromarch.com
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Insta: @stromarch