OUR STORY
JRMA design studio is run by its partners, Architect John Rooney and Michael Alvanos.
John Rooney
John Rooney is a Vermont architect with more than thirty years of experience in residential architecture, commercial design, and complex development projects. Raised in Ontario, Canada, John grew up in a family rooted in the building trades. His family owned a lumber yard, and he spent his early years learning the fundamentals of construction, materials, and the craft of building. These early experiences shaped his lifelong interest in how thoughtful design and strong technical knowledge come together to create meaningful architecture.
John studied architecture at the University of Waterloo, where he developed a rigorous design foundation and a deep respect for context driven architecture. Drawn to the outdoors, he moved to Vermont to ski, live, and eventually raise his family. Before launching his own practice in 2010, he worked with respected architecture firms throughout Canada and Vermont, gaining extensive experience in project leadership, master planning, and high quality building design.
Today, John lives in Shelburne and continues to lead projects that focus on custom homes, lakeside properties, sustainable design, commercial developments, and modern architectural solutions tailored to the Vermont landscape.
Michael Alvanos
Michael Alvanos is a Vermont architect with more than fifteen years of experience in residential architecture, commercial architecture, development planning, and modern building design. Born in Burlington, Vermont, Michael comes from a family involved in commercial development, residential construction, and the local restaurant industry. This background gave him early exposure to business operations, real estate development, and the impact that thoughtful design can have on everyday life.
Michael studied architecture at the University of Nevada Las Vegas, where he earned his degree and developed strong interests in design technology, building performance, and the psychology of space. His education and early professional work helped shape a design approach that values clarity, innovation, and strong communication with clients, contractors, and project teams.
Over the course of his career, Michael has worked on custom homes, multi unit housing, mixed use buildings, commercial interiors, and long term development projects across both Vermont and the western United States. He is especially focused on creating architecture that supports modern living, energy efficiency, and long term value for owners and communities.
Michael has also served for many years on the Williston Vermont Planning Commission, where he supports smart growth, conservation, and responsible development. His work on the Commission has strengthened his expertise in zoning, land use, site planning, and the broader challenges that communities face as they grow.
Michael brings a strong design sensibility, a practical understanding of construction, and a collaborative approach that helps clients clarify their goals and bring their projects to life. His work reflects a commitment to high quality design, sustainability, and a deep respect for the Vermont landscape.
WHY JRMA?
Choosing JRMA design Studio means choosing an architecture firm that delivers vision, precision, and results. Our work combines strong conceptual thinking, advanced technical knowledge, and a deep commitment to understanding the goals of every client. We create architecture that is clear, confident, and designed to stand the test of time.
At JRMA design Studio, we focus on residential architecture, commercial architecture, mixed use development, and high end custom homes. Our team provides a complete range of architectural services including master planning, site planning, schematic design, design development, construction documents, and full construction administration. From the first idea to the final built form, we guide every step of the process with accuracy and purpose.
Every project begins with a detailed look at the land, the program, the budget, and the long term goals for the space. We study building technology, material choices, energy performance, and the features that create lasting value. Our design solutions are both creative and disciplined, rooted in a clear understanding of how great architecture takes shape.
We also believe great design should be responsible and forward thinking. JRMA Design Studio integrates environmentally smart strategies, sustainable design practices, and modern building systems that improve performance and reduce long term costs. Our approach brings together artistic expression, environmental awareness, and strong technical execution.
Clients choose JRMA because we deliver more than drawings. We deliver leadership. We deliver clarity. We deliver architecture that elevates your project and strengthens your investment. If you want design excellence backed by real world experience, JRMA design Studio is the team you want on your side.