October 2017
Fairlawn architecture firm FMD Architects, known locally for projects like Stark State College Akron and Gervasi Vineyard, named Brian Grafton as Vice President of its Beverage and Hospitality Studio. Brian began with FMD as an intern, and quickly worked his way to being a key Project Architect and team leader. He played an integral role in the growth of FMD’s work in breweries, wineries and hospitality projects both locally and on a national level. Brian has spoken with FMD’s Principal, Mark Moore, at the Ohio Craft Brewers Association annual conference as well as the nationally renowned Brewers Association, Craft Beverage Conference. Next year he and Principal, Melanie Friedman, will head to Washington, D.C. to speak at the US BevX. Like FMD, Brian is committed to helping others succeed through being a resource of information. Building collaborative relationships with complementary service providers, equipment suppliers, and vendors has helped not only his own industry expertise, but has also allowed him to be a connector for people just starting out or in need of expanding.
Another way FMD serves as a resource for clients is by helping them visualize what their project will look like once it’s completed. FMD’s development of utilizing virtual reality walkthroughs and 360° renderings was spearheaded by Brian’s efforts and knowledge of 3D Revit software and other cutting edge technology. In addition to these roles, Brian also supports a number of internal projects including on-going Revit training, Revit asset management, and general BIM support.
Brian was born and raised in greater Akron, and graduated with a Master’s of Architecture from Kent State University. He is an active Allied Member of the Ohio Brewers Association, and has a Charter Membership with his local Boy Scout Troop as an Assistant Scoutmaster. When asked what his new position would enable him to do, Brian said “Develop a deeper involvement with the direction of the firm and our brewery, winery, and hospitality projects. In the last year, we have had more engagement in our own backyard in Ohio, while maintaining the same support for national breweries and wineries. My vision is to continue that endeavor as we grow, and be more hands on in ensuring the success of each project for all parties involved.”
