Our History
Founded in 1999, Thinktank Design Group has always been Erik R. Nelson and Brian Caldwell. The office started small, in a tiny space tucked deep within the Story Mill building. Perseverance and vision led to several successful projects, and the office is today located in the heart of downtown Bozeman. Throughout the years, Thinktank has kept its primary focus on providing service to clients. Thinktank is a licensed AIA architecture firm, is a member of the American Planning Association, the US Green Building Council, and participates in the Partners in Energy Star for Homes Program. Over the years Thinktank has developed a reputation for strong relationships with city planners, developers, and homeowners. This, plus countless hours of volunteering within the community, helps shape the direction and scope of work at Thinktank.

Erik R. Nelson
Erik was born and raised in Bozeman, Montana. Upon receiving his Masters degree in architecture from Montana State University in 1999, Erik embarked upon an “architecture roadtrip.” The purpose of this was to study successful offices throughout the mountain west. He recognized in himself the design ability and creative ideas to develop a similarly successful office in his hometown. Erik specializes in project management and creating successful development concepts. Erik has worked as an adjunct professor of architecture at MSU and is currently the president of the Northeast Urban Renewal Board.

Brian T. Caldwell
Brian moved to Montana in 1993 from Grand Rapids, Michigan. Brian received his Master’s degree in architecture from Montana State University in 1999. Brian has made it his focus to not only understand good design, but to understand how it all fits together. He builds furniture as a hobby, has worked many construction jobs, and is currently building his second home. His passion for the construction process is reflected in his architecture, and he is known to be incredibly thorough and realistic in his designs. Brian specializes in project review and construction documents. Brian gives back by volunteering to mentor aspiring architects at MSU and is currently the president of the City of Bozeman Planning Board.