Heather Whalen
AIA · NCARB · CID · LEED AP
Heather Whalen is the founder and principal architect of Reviver Architecture + Development. With over 25 years of experience across commercial, hospitality, and adaptive reuse projects, she brings a rare combination of design vision and technical depth to every engagement.
Her work is defined by a belief that architecture should tell a story — that the built environment is one of the most powerful ways we communicate who we are and what we value. That conviction shapes every project, from the first sketch to the final detail.
Heather holds a Bachelor of Architecture from Iowa State University College of Design, including study abroad in Rome and Paris, and is licensed in multiple states.
The Practice
Reviver Architecture + Development is a full-service architecture and development firm based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. We specialize in commercial renovations, adaptive reuse, hospitality, and interior design — projects where an existing space is transformed into something new.
We work closely with owners, developers, and contractors to deliver projects that are thoughtfully designed, practically executed, and built to last. Our process is collaborative by nature and rigorous by discipline.
Whether you are reimagining a historic building, launching a new hospitality concept, or building out a professional office, we bring the same level of care and craft to every scale of work.
Resume
- Reviver Architecture + DevelopmentOwner / Architect2024 – Present
- ESG Architecture & DesignVice President and Partner2003 – 2024
- MSR DesignArchitectural Designer2000 – 2002
- David Goehring ArchitectsArchitectural Designer1998 – 2000
- BSB Design, Des MoinesArchitectural Designer1996 – 1998
- B Arch, Iowa State University College of DesignIncluding study abroad in Rome and Paris1993 – 1998
- University of Northern IowaPursuit of a Business Major1992 – 1993
Media
Awards
Jasper Hotel, Fargo*
2022 – HD Awards Finalist: Midscale Hotel & Public Spaces
2022 – Gold Key Awards – Midscale Guestroom Finalist
Borough & Parlour Bar*
2017 FAB Award, People's Choice
Links
Articles
Best new restaurants 2019
Mpls St Paul magazine, December 2019, by Stephanie March
featuring Graze Provisions + Libations*
Old World | New Eatery
Architecture MN magazine, Jan/Feb 14, by Joel Hoekstra
featuring Borough and Parlour*
Truck to Table
Architecture MN magazine, Jan/Feb 14, by Camille LeFevre
featuring Smack Shack (North Loop Mpls)*
Podcasts
Abogados Cafe St. Paul* — Meet the Architects behind our buildout
Facebook Live Linkfeaturing Heather Whalen and Ted Kisner
AIA Women in Architecture MN A'24 Conference on Architecture
Linkfeaturing Heather Whalen and Katie Kangas
Flying Solo (An EntreArchitect Podcast)
Flying Solo LinkHeather Whalen (Barred Owl) — Monday December 08, 2025