Professional Affiliations

American Institute of Architects (AIA) Associate

Born in Sarnia, Ontario, Vincent Verna initially watched technical drawings come to life through his grandfather, a cabinet maker, and his father, who had a background in mechanical engineering. Upon moving to Detroit when he was nine, he observed drafting techniques when his family built a new home, and over time he became increasingly passionate about translating architectural drawings into living, breathing spaces. He obtained a Bachelor of Science in Architecture from the University of Detroit - Mercy in 2007.

Verna’s first job after graduation was at a firm specializing in corporate headquarters, where he worked on distribution centers, interior projects, and ground-up construction. He then went on to work at another firm servicing municipal and school clients.

He joined DesignTeam Plus in 2022 as an Architect III, creating construction drawing for clients in a broad range of industries. Technically focused, Verna enjoys laying out plans for clients. “It’s akin to translation – coordinating everyone’s wants, needs, and desires into a language that becomes an end product that serves the client’s needs and brings their aesthetic to life.”

Verna finds the work especially rewarding at DesignTeam Plus, where he is part of an “energetic, innovative, and community-focused team” that is committed to highest quality materials, including sustainable materials, and is aligned with Verna’s values. “We build sites to last, and to inspire the community.”

Newly married, Verna and his wife Rachael reside in Royal Oak. In his spare time, Verna is vice president of Preservation Works, which advocates for the preservation, renovation, and adapted use of historic Kirkbride asylums. “These buildings were of such a scale of such high quality that they are worth saving,” Verra said.