ALSC Architects PS, of Spokane, has helped shape skylines across the Inland Northwest by pairing its deep-rooted history with forward-looking design for over seven decades, says ALSC President and CEO Indy Dehal.

Dehal, who has 26 years of experience in the building design industry, says the goal for every project is to emphasize community impact, a spirit of collaboration, and modern functionality.

"We want to take each project vision to the next level," Dehal says. "Our goal is to create spaces that have a meaningful and lasting impact on the people who use them."

Founded in 1948 by Thomas Adkison and Royal McClure, ALSC has grown from a small firm into a prominent, established architectural practice in the Spokane area. Throughout its history, ALSC has played a key role in the design and development of many learning centers, civic buildings, and athletic facilities in Eastern Washington.

ALSC specializes in design work for the education, public health, essential services, and youth empowerment sectors, which Dehal says are sectors meant to connect people. Bringing people together is a significant part of the company's culture, which stems from the founder's work helping to design facilities for the 1974 World's Fair in Spokane.

The design company has earned multiple industry awards over time, a track record that Dehal attributes not just to technical expertise, but to a workplace that prioritizes teamwork and shared vision.

Today, under Dehal's leadership, ALSC continues to evolve while maintaining its foundational values. The company's longevity is attributed to the people who keep the company functioning, says Dehal, who became president and CEO in 2024.

"We have some of the most creative, innovative, and caring individuals working here," he says. "That culture is what allows us to consistently deliver strong work."

That philosophy is prevalent in the company's involvement in major projects such as the Doris Morrison Learning Center, at 1330 S. Henry Road in Spokane Valley, and Ridgeline High School, at 20150 E. Country Vista Drive in Liberty Lake. Dehal also helped design football facilities at Washington State University in Pullman, Washington, which he says was a meaningful experience because the university is his alma mater.

Education, in particular, is central to ALSC's portfolio, explains Dehal.

"We really value education, public service, and athletics," he says. "A lot of our work is centered around youth development because the kids are our future."

For instance, designing a rebuild of a kindergarten-through-eighth-grade school in the small community of Almira, Washington, has been one of the most memorable projects for Dehal, he says. Following a fire that destroyed the property in October 2021, ALSC worked with the community to help plan and design a new school, which was rebuilt within two years.

Dehal says everyone involved wanted to help the community, including Spokane-based Garco Construction Inc., which went above and beyond to get the school built quickly.

"When we took on the Almira project, we immediately connected with the community," Dehal says. "It wasn't just about rebuilding a school, it was about restoring an essential part of the community. In the end, it is all about making sure people and their needs are taken care of. Our relationships and connections are paramount in everything we do."

Dehal's introduction to design and architecture began at an early age. Dehal's father, an electrical engineer, gave him an opportunity to be involved at 12 years old, when his father was working on a house design. Dehal recalls that the chance to provide some input sparked his interest in the field.

Although he explains that he wasn't very interested in the technical aspects of the job, as his father wanted him to become an engineer, eventually, Dehal pursued design and architecture and brought those interests to Spokane.

Looking ahead, ALSC is positioning itself to meet the increasingly challenging demands involved with modern and inclusive design principles, Dehal says. He adds that the firm is working to create spaces that foster a sense of belonging as well as serve practical needs.

"We want to help make Spokane the best place it can be," says Dehal. "That means designing spaces that are inclusive, modern, and welcoming, places where people feel connected."