Skip to main content
Founder/Board of Directors

Joseph Vajda, AIA, LEED APBD+C

In 1989, Joe became a founding member and Principal of Aria Group. As a member of the Board of Directors, Joe advises on the operational strategy and direction of the firm. Previously as a principal, Joe provided Aria Group with a firm foundation of technical understanding and ecological efforts. He focused on implementing office wide quality control procedures and standards as well as the technical education of the team. It is this high regard for thorough documentation, diligent construction administration and interest in conservation which has helped fuel Aria Group’s reputation and growth since the start of the firm.

Over the years, Joe has managed the development and growth of a number of national multi-unit clients as well as working with independent restaurateurs, including Cooper’s Hawk, Dave & Buster’s, True Food Kitchen, and PF Chang’s.  Joe also oversees numerous international projects with locations as diverse as the Middle East, Mexico, Canada, Puerto Rico, Panama, Costa Rica and South America. In 2009, Joe also became a LEED©Accredited Professional and has completed two LEED©Certified Gold projects in the firm.

Joe previously worked at Bernheim & Kahn Architects in Chicago where he met his future partners Walt and Jim.  He received his architectural license in 1995 and is licensed in multiple states as well as qualified for self-certification work in the City of Chicago. Joe is a member of the American Institute of Architects and the National Fire Protection Association.  He has served as a board member on the Hammond Historic Preservation Commission, where he wrote numerous articles on technical issues for the newsletter.  Joe is also a past member of Vistage, an executive organization that meets monthly to discuss business strategies, best business practices, leadership styles, and other leadership training topics to enhance decision making and business performance.

Education

Bachelor of Science with Honors in Construction Technology – Purdue University

Key Projects
P.F. Chang’s, Dave & Buster’s, True Food Kitchen