Member Spotlight - Travis Williams
Meet One of Worklab’s Members,
Travis Williams!
Introducing the founder and managing partner of In Parallel Architects + Builders, Travis!
The name of Travis' business is called In Parallel Architects + Builders. They are a full-service architecture firm with offices in Ann Arbor and Grand Rapids (at Worklab!). They are also a certified builder and carry out the majority of their design work on-site, particularly in the Ann Arbor region. They are referred to as an "Architect-Led Design-Build Practice" in the construction sector. The company performs a lot of residential work, from minor additions and repairs to whole new construction. The group also focuses on commercial projects, which can be for practically any form of structure, from retail to industrial to educational.
What Does Travis Do?
Travis co-manages a team of five employees with his business partner, Kasey Vliet, including architects, designers, project managers, and expert carpenters. In light of architecture being a "team sport," Travis is committed to working with teammates both inside and outside of IP-AB. He values the project-specific settings that distinguish each client relationship and design project and is drawn to design solutions that imaginatively handle input from various sources. He actively participates in the debate, comprehension, and problem-solving surrounding the part-to-whole links implied by architectural projects. His work aims to engage with projects technically, geographically, and philosophically.
Along with working as an architect, Travis has taught as an adjunct professor at the Boston Architectural College and the Kendall College of Art & Design at Ferris State University in Grand Rapids, Michigan. At the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, he worked as a research assistant and a teaching assistant, which added to his teaching expertise. He enjoys being outside, contemplating patterns, and both Star Wars and Star Trek, and he resides in Grand Rapids, Michigan with his wife and children.
Travis pictured with his wife.
Interview Questions - Asked by Us, Answered by Travis!
What drew you to Worklab? Was there something in particular that you loved about the space?
“We wanted to find a place that would allow us to host client meetings, work outside of the home, and have a business address in Grand Rapids. We also wanted a place that allowed for flexibility and had a built-in sense of community that would help us grow our staff.”
Why do you personally enjoy a coworking space?
“Personally, I appreciate the energy that comes with a shared office space. It's fun to be a part of a community with many types of work all happening simultaneously.”
What is one thing you think that Worklab does really well with (e.g., hospitality, service, cleanliness, ect.)?
“I appreciate the level of detail that Worklab brings to hospitality. I also think there is intention put into creating a lot of flexibility and variety in seating and types of workspace.”
What has been your favorite snack or beverage that Worklab has put out in the café?
“Tough choice, but it has to be the peanut butter-filled pretzels. Although maybe I should say the fresh fruit - in case my kids hear this answer ;).”
What is your favorite part about having an office space downtown?
“Being downtown is my truly favorite part of Worklab. I enjoy the urban energy of the city, walking around downtown, and being able to take public transportation to work.”
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