We believe that good design means creating enduring relationships among materials, resources, people and their communities. We help clients define their needs and priorities and provide vision and leadership throughout design and construction. We employ the most advanced software tools, and the occasional cocktail napkin, to collaborate effectively with clients, consultants and contractors at a range of scales. We listen in order to understand our clients’ values as well as their requirements. This allows us to imagine solutions that exceed their expectations. Thomas Ahleman is the founding principal of Studio Talo. He received his training at Harvard University, Washington University in St. Louis and Helsinki University of Technology where he was a Fulbright Scholar. He is a registered architect and LEED Accredited Professional. In addition to teaching architecture at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago he is an active advocate for international education and the environment.