DENVER — JLA Architects is proud to announce the addition of Katja Harguth as a Project Manager in the firm’s Denver office. Katja brings over two decades of experience leading complex, community-focused projects across the multifamily, affordable housing, retail, municipal, and senior living sectors.
Over the last 25 years, Katja has played a critical role in delivering several transformative developments across Colorado. These include Clara Brown Commons, a green affordable housing community in Denver’s Cole neighborhood; Paloma Garden, a senior living campus in Colorado Springs; and The Irving, an all-electric, 102-unit affordable housing project on West Colfax currently under construction.
Vice President & Denver Office Director, Erik Jansson, had this to say about the addition of Katja:
“Katja’s expertise aligns seamlessly with our mission to design with purpose. She brings not only technical precision but a deep understanding of how architecture can positively impact neighborhoods—especially in the affordable housing space.”
Katja’s portfolio also includes work on the City and County of Denver’s first Net Zero building, the Smith Road Office Facility for Denver Parks & Recreation, as well as leading assessments for several of the city’s homeless shelters to guide future improvements in emergency preparedness and accessibility.
Educated in Germany, Katja holds a Master of Science in Architecture and Urban Renewal from the University of Applied Sciences in Kiel. Her career has spanned the globe—from luxury developments in South Africa to major commercial campuses in the U.S.—and she brings a multidisciplinary, cross-cultural perspective to her work.
When asked why she chose JLA, Katja explained: “I’m thrilled to join JLA Architects and continue to contribute to projects that have a lasting impact across Colorado. Whether it’s designing affordable housing, civic buildings, or schools, I’m passionate about creating thoughtful, high-quality environments that serve the people who live, learn, and work in them.”
Katja joining JLA underscores the firm’s continued investment in expanding its Denver-based team with leaders committed to thoughtful design, equity in the built environment, and long-term community impact.
Learn More About Katja
What drew you to architecture?
I learned about architecture from my dad, who was an architect and ran a small architecture firm in Germany. I was born and lived in Germany through my college years, then moved to Cape Town South Africa, before I moved to Denver in 2000.
What’s your favorite (or most unique) project you’ve worked on and why?
I was fortunate to have worked on an affordable housing project called Clara Brown Commons, here in Denver. It encompasses a whole city block. The project was led by Mile High Ministries who is heavily invested in the community and focused on re-energizing the neighborhood. The project was many years in the making, involving efforts to raise capital and navigate the entitlements process.
What do you do for fun? Do you have any hobbies or special interests?
My husband and I love to travel. We have two Irish Terriers we love to spend time outdoors with. I am passionate about professional Football (soccer), mainly watching the German/European leagues and international games.
Are you involved in the community? What causes mean the most to you?
I used to volunteer at my kids’ schools and volunteered with their soccer club when they were younger.