A Parallel Architecture

When founding partners Eric Barth and Ryan Burke established the firm in 2008, they rejected the industry convention of emblazoning their surnames above the door. Instead, they envisioned an identity that would capture the essence of their collaborative philosophy. They wanted to recognize that exceptional projects arise not from individual brilliance but from collective intelligence and collaboration - architects, clients, consultants, and craftspeople.

The name "a|parallel" draws from cognitive science, where Parallel Architecture describes how the mind processes information through multiple simultaneous pathways rather than sequentially. Similarly, a|parallel operates on the principle that expertise isn't centralized in a single authority but distributed across a network of talented contributors, each adding unique value and expertise.

This networked approach grows more powerful over time as connections strengthen, reflecting how the firm's collaborative process continually builds on accumulated knowledge and shared experiences. The name a|parallel thus represents both the working methodology and the fundamental belief in the power of integrated teamwork, linked by shared purpose rather than hierarchy.

A Parallel Architecture values its professional staff, including registered architects, LEED-accredited professionals, and national committee members for the American Institute of Architects. By leveraging a collaborative process with clients and consultants - as well as within the office - they foster an environment and design approach that invites ideas to flourish.