Firm
James Hricko has led a practice focused on architecture, planning, and interior design in Washington, D.C., Northern Virginia, and beyond. We are fortunate to have assembled some of the most creative individuals in structural, mechanical, and electrical engineering. This has enabled us to develop a process and approach that directly responds to our clients’ unique aesthetic and practical needs.
We believe that architecture must be both poetic and pragmatic. We do not impose a style or agenda. Instead, we listen attentively and guide our clients to a place where art and function converge. There are essential qualities that we believe thoughtful architecture embodies: strong integration with nature, careful consideration of light, sun, wind, and views, respect for context, appropriate use of materials, and a design that considers budget realities without sacrificing attention to detail. Inspiring architecture is created at the intersection of these elements.
People
James Hricko
James earned a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Notre Dame and continued his studies at the Catholic University of America in City and Regional Planning. After obtaining his architectural license from the Commonwealth of Virginia, he worked with various firms as an architect and planner in Washington, D.C., Virginia, and the Department of the Navy before founding his own firm. He established James Hricko Architect LLC (JHA) to provide inspiring architecture for his clients.
James served as the Chairperson of both the Planning Commission and the Architectural Review Board for the historic town of Clifton, Virginia, where he wrote and illustrated the town’s “Architectural and Planning Guidelines.”
James was involved with Fauquier Habitat for Humanity for many years, serving on the Board of Directors for six years, including three years as president. His pro bono work for Habitat includes designing the Sterling Court seven-duplex community, which provides homes for fourteen families.
His professional memberships include the American Institute of Architects—National, AIA Northern Virginia, and the International Code Council.
Kevin Pearson
Kevin and Jim have been collaborating on projects since the early 1990s. Kevin joined our team in the fall of 2018 after working with an engineering firm for sixteen years. He attended Northern Virginia Community College, earning his Associate’s Degree in Architecture before becoming an instructor for their Computer-Aided Drafting Program. As our lead CAD Technician and Project Coordinator, Kevin develops projects from initial inception through design development and construction documents, while also coordinating those currently under construction.
Alicia Thornton
Alicia earned her Bachelor’s degree in interior design from the Art Institute of Philadelphia. She passed the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) exam and is a LEED-accredited professional. With experience in all aspects of design, including commercial, residential, and hospitality, Alicia can turn your vision from concept to reality.
Joya Hricko
Joya earned a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts from Indiana University and a Master’s in Education from the University of Mary Washington. She has taught ESOL in public schools and serves as our business administrator, website manager, and project photographer.