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A R C H I T E C T U R E
Stretching limits The Collaborative strives for constant improvement through recruitment, retention, a commitment to excellence, and constantly seeking new ways to impress clients.
By Liisa Andreassen Correspondent
T eamwork is its guiding principle. And the name – The Collaborative Inc . – is a literal reflection of how this firm came to be and continues to operate. Based in Toledo, Ohio, this 45-person architectur- al and design firm is a fellowship of diverse design professionals committed to: ❚ ❚ creating environments of excellence and distinction that enrich the human experience
❚ ❚ exceeding client expectations ❚ ❚ thriving on team relationships
❚ ❚ fostering environmental stewardship ❚ ❚ enhancing the value of the organization
In the late 1960s, three design firms worked to- gether on a major resort in Durango, Colorado. In the 1970s, their client decided to develop a second resort north of Tampa, Florida, and the three com- panies opted to merge together to facilitate design and coordinate efforts. In 1973, The Collaborative was born.
“We are always striving to be better, to retain and recruit
principals of the firm are true leaders and men- tors. They lead by example and encourage the bet- terment of the employees. The strong emphasis on culture reflects throughout our internal and ex- ternal firm perception. We are ‘The Collaborative’ – one firm comprised of multiple talents, varying personalities, and collective passion for incompa- rable design.” The Collaborative’s principals are dedicated to the well-being of its employees. They are a family; they work hard and play hard as a team. In addition to the already generous benefits, the attention paid to extra benefits and professional training out-shines most other companies of the same size. For exam- ple, each employee is given an AAA membership annually. “As The Collaborative pursues a growth strategy, by opening new offices and recruiting talent, the Best
IT TAKES A VILLAGE. Brook Jones, director of market- ing and perceptions, says that the firm has gradu- ally matured into a recognized multi-disciplined practice that is known for its design excellence, cli- ent service, and an innovative management style. “We are always striving to be better, to retain and recruit exceptional talent, and to find ways to continuously impress our clients,” she says. “The leaders and mentors. They lead by example and encourage the betterment of the employees.” exceptional talent, and to find ways to continuously impress our clients. The principals of the firm are true
See THE COLLABORATIVE , page 12
THE COMPLETE LIST OF ZWEIG GROUP’S 2015 BEST FIRMS TO WORK FOR
8. EAPC Architects Engineers 9. SHP Leading Design 10. ROSSETTI
13. McMillan Pazdan Smith Architecture STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING 1. Huckabee 2. Mulhern & Kulp Structural Engineering
3. Hinman Consulting Engineers 4. Barrish Pelham & Associates 5. SidePlate Systems 6. KL&A 7. Ehlert/Bryan
3. Huckabee 4. FKP Architects 5. English + Associates Architects
THE ZWEIG LETTER AUGUST 10, 2015, ISSUE 1115 11. Cuhaci & Peterson Architects 12. Bergland & Cram Architects
6. JLG Architects 7. KSQ Architects
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