1956 – 1965

260 projects

Fifty years ago, Robert Bergland and Harold Bianco started an architectural firm at 11 1/2 South Federal Avenue in Mason City. The very first project on the books was the ‘Hansen Residence’ although the firm worked on all project types including many banks, churches and commercial facilities. In the beginning, Bergland & Bianco Architects remained a small firm. Their intimate working environment became the cornerstone for the level of teamwork and personal service that embodies the business even today.

1966 - 1975

163 projects

During this time period, the preparation of construction documents was quite different when compared to today’s methods. Drafting consisted of meticulously measured hand drawings rendered in ink or pencil on linen which were then converted into blueprints. Specification books for each project were typed from front to back cover – a couple at a time thanks to carbon copy paper - until the firm obtained a mimeograph machine. In 1974 Randy Cram joined BBA and as the firm became more established, a wider variety of substantial civic projects were commissioned.

1976 - 1985

131 projects

The firm changed its name to Bergland & Cram Architects after Randy became partner in 1981. Harold Bianco left the firm while Bob Bergland stayed on for another year before phasing into retirement. At this time of heightened energy awareness, BCA began applying passive solar design techniques to a variety of projects. Continuing a trend of growth, space in the office became limited and the firm moved to 206 3^rd Street, an 1892 Greek Revival house which was converted into a suitable office.

1986 – 1995

387 projects

The introduction of Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) forever changed the profession of architecture worldwide. BCA announced its own plans to implement CAD software in 1991. While a majority of work was completed on the computer, the firm also continued, as it does today, to utilize hand drafting techniques in the preliminary stages of projects, recognizing the advantages of both systems of design.

In 1995, BCA remodeled the former Kellum Interior Building and moved into their current location at 1002 East State Street. Their client base continued to grow in both numbers and in geographic area.

1996 - 2005

788 projects

During this time, the firm was commissioned for larger projects than ever before and received substantial business from repeat clients. Such growth called for a larger staff and by 2005 the firm was one of the largest in north Iowa, employing 10 full time professionals as well as summer interns. BCA’s projects were published in magazines such as Iowa Architect and The Iowan and the firm was honored with several design awards.

Positioning the firm right on track for the future, the 2005 Roosevelt Schools project in Mason City proved to be the firm’s largest to date at just under $20 million in construction value.

The next fifty years

Over the last year, we have reflected much on where we came from and where we would like to go. The name change to Bergland + Cram indicates our desire to provide a wider range of services to our clients in addition to architecture. In the years ahead we hope to combine our diverse experiences and points of view and continue to evolve into a company dedicated to our customers and our own personal and professional growth.

Design, like any business, will always be about the relationships between people. We would like to thank our clients, family and friends for all of their continued support.