TMP staff

Bachelor of Science in Architecture, University of Michigan, 1982 Master of Architecture, University of Michigan, 1984 Joined TMP in 1985 Eric comes from a family of educators, so he feels at home in schools among teachers. As a young student, he was naturally drawn to the idea of building things as a creative act with pragmatic constraints. And now, Eric loves that he gets to perform this civic act of architecture, which he feels imposes significant social responsibilities. His high school designs in particular reflect his thought that schools are the front parlor of a community at-large; a place where community members meet, receive guests and celebrate civic events as they prepare their young adults to go out into the world. Bachelor of Architecture, University of Michigan Areas of specialty: healthcare, college and university Joined TMP in 1969 Kent's approach to design can be summed up in his favorite quote, "I don't want to be interesting, I want to be good" (Mies van der Rohe). For over forty-two years, Kent has created an array of unquestionably, really good projects. If you look closely at his buildings, you can't miss his consistent attention to detail and careful selection of materials. If you ask him to single out a significant project from his diverse portfolio, he'll always answer with the name of the project he's working on right now. Now, here's a man who lives in the moment, and enjoys it. Bachelor of Architecture, Kent State University; Master of Architecture, University of Illinois Areas of specialty: K-12 educational facilities Joined TMP in 1972 Among those in the realm of educational facilities design, John Castellana is a household name. His peers have validated his contribution by awarding him the Detroit Chapter AIA Gold Medal in recognition of his exceptional design talents and commitment to educational planning and design. But from where John sits, his work is all about kids. If the building he designs nurtures students' minds and stimulates their ability to learn, than he's hit one out of the park. Bachelor of Science/Architecture, University of Virginia; Master of Architecture, University of Michigan Areas of specialty: K-12 educational facilities Joined TMP in 1983 The architect of the world's largest wooden dome structure? TMP's own Steve Smith. He would tell you that as significant as that project was for him, there's a long list of others that rise to the top because they have impacted young people's lives. Steve excels as a project manager in the educational realm where his organizational and communication skills make it possible for the project to come together smoothly. Bachelor of Architecture with Honors, University of Detroit Areas of specialty: institutional projects Joined TMP in 1964 During his tour of duty in Japan, Larry discovered the simplicity, thoughtful use of space, and exquisite gardens that characterize that country's built environment. It was a pivotal experience in his decision to be an architect. Larry admits that being able to point to a landmark building, like the Cancer and Geriatric Center in the University of Michigan Medical Center, as one of his projects is ample payback for the demanding work of an architect. Ranking high on his list of accomplishments is seeing TMP being designated Firm of the Year in 1999 by the AIA. Bachelor of Architecture, Kent State University; Areas of specialty: municipal and university facilities Joined TMP in 1976 Dave speaks from decades of experience when he says that designing recreational facilities is not a one-size-fits-all proposition. In order to match the facility to the culture and lifestyle of the community it will serve, he invests a lot of time early in the process in understanding clients' value systems, goals and dreams. He often takes them on a tour of recreational facilities he has designed and observes their reactions to different aspects of the building as a way of understanding their perspective. Bachelor of Science in Architecture, University of Michigan; Master of Architecture with high distinction, University of Michigan Areas of specialty: college and university facilities, especially performing arts Joined TMP in 1976 Tim believes that becoming an architect is a calling ... that it's not a career you stumble into. With his impressive list of professional honors and awards, its clear he did not become an architect by default. It's a case of total immersion. Tim is captivated by the complexities of performing arts projects, particularly the integration of specialized systems like rigging, lighting and acoustics. And since his wife is a musician, they can "talk shop" in the same language. Bachelor of Architecture, Miami University Areas of specialty: K-12 and higher education projects Joined TMP in 2001 Michael's career includes 25 years as the president of Marshburn/Bunkley Associates. Leadership, whether of his business or his projects, suits him well. While staying vigilant about the details he looks at a challenge from 5,000 feet. At that viewpoint, he sees the dreams of his clients taking shape and how his work contributes to their satisfaction. Michael is devoted to the profession and has demonstrated that commitment by contributing his time and talents to many professional organizations. Bachelor of Science in Marketing and Human Resource Management, Wayne State University Joined TMP in 1986 When Gail's not leading marketing efforts at TMP, she's promoting bond issues for its school district clients. In either role, she is a model of enthusiasm and chutzpah. As Chief Marketing Officer at TMP, she both leads the cheers and calls the plays that win them new projects. Although it's unusual for marketers to have a long tenure with one company, Gail has been with TMP since 1986. Her #1 reason: "a staff that is dedicated, responsive, creative and most importantly, warm and caring. They truly believe every project and every client is special." Bachelor of Architecture, Lawrence Technological University Areas of specialty: K-12 educational facilities Joined TMP in 1987 Gary believes, as many experienced architects do, that awards are not the ultimate measure of good building design. So what is? Simplicity (as opposed to plainness); timelessness (not being able to tell exactly when it was built); and putting the user in the forefront, not the design. In the case of Gary's projects, students are the focus. He measures success on how well the design works for them. Bachelor of Science in Architecture, University of Michigan, 1982 Master of Architecture, University of Michigan, 1984 Joined TMP in 1985 Eric comes from a family of educators, so he feels at home in schools among teachers. As a young student, he was naturally drawn to the idea of building things as a creative act with pragmatic constraints. And now, Eric loves that he gets to perform this civic act of architecture, which he feels imposes significant social responsibilities. His high school designs in particular reflect his thought that schools are the front parlor of a community at-large; a place where community members meet, receive guests and celebrate civic events as they prepare their young adults to go out into the world.