Architect Kwendeche artfully greets admirers

He’s known for his unusual, booted bench in the South Main district along with other notable chair art. He’s known also for his African masks, handmade from unusual elements.

But the single-named Kwendeche is also an architect, and a darn good one. So good that in April, he became the second black architect from the Natural State to be elevated to the American Institute of Architects’ prestigious 2017 College of Fellows. For this, he was honored Aug. 12 at a well-attended reception at Mosaic Templars Cultural Center.

Guests enjoyed traditional and vegan hors d’oeuvres served by Kwendeche’s sister and event host, Myra Lacy, and niece Melanie Lacy, proprietor of Harambee Market in North Little Rock. Music was provided by the Danny Fletcher Trio. A short program included remarks outlining Kwendeche’s accomplishments, along with the reading of congratulatory letters from several dignitaries, a certificate of recognition from Gov. Asa Hutchinson and a proclamation from Little Rock Mayor Mark Stodola.

Kwendeche has more than 36 years of experience in commercial and hospitality design, as well as historic preservation, on an international scale. His handiwork graces the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site, the Daisy Bates House and the Trust Fund Headquarters in Abuja, Nigeria.

Rory Hill, Piccola Hill and Richard Green

Melba Henderson, Jackie Parham, Regina Ricks and Myra Lacy, Kwendeche’s sister, all of Houston

Helen Davis, Gladys Davis, Gladys Jordan and Phillip A. Jordan

Kwendeche (center) with Charles Witsell and J. Odell Lamb, a 1949 graduate of Tuskegee University’s School of Architecture

Glenda Wilson and Keitha Wilson, both of Fairfax, Va., with Linda McDowell

Thelma and Theotis King