Team
Our Team
Well educated and versed in their own individual crafts, the ORB team works hard to lead every project to a successful completion. Through the use of continued education ORB keeps its team up to date on the latest building codes, systems, and products in order to best serve its clients and their aspirations.
Rich Barber
Principal/Architect
Email: rab@orbarch.com
About Rich
Where did you receive your education in architecture?
Arizona State University
Registrations/Certifications
Registrations: Arizona, California, New Mexico, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Texas, Utah, and Virginia
Awards: RED, Gold Nugget, Green Build, Valley Forward, MIRM of Product Design, Environments for Aging.
Recent project you are proud of?
Each of our projects, and clients are favorites. We have been entrusted with many opportunities to help clients realize their visions, and these opportunities have been rewarded with unique, creative, and contextual solutions.
What is your favorite part of the design process?
Working with clients to create the finest living environments that enhance each site’s context and maximize their investment.
What technical skills do you think are essential for architects today?
Listening is key. While mastering technical, business, and personnel aspects is important, the ability to truly listen enables you to understand and better translate a client’s vision into reality.
Fun Fact
I’m originally from Boston, but don’t worry—I’ve lost the accent and most of the cynicism.
Richard Alvarez
Director of Operations | Senior Project Manager
Email: raa@orbarch.com
About Richard
Where did you receive your education in architecture?
Arizona State University
Registrations/Certifications
Bachelor of Architecture
LEED AP
Recent project you are most proud of?
Aura Watermark – Tempe, AZ
What is your favorite part of the design process?
The journey from Preliminary Design to Construction Documents – transforming ideas into actionable plans is truly exhilarating!
What technical skills do you think are essential for architects today?
Architecture is not always about good design. Todays architect must excel in teamwork, communication, and problem solving.
Fun Fact
I learned how to ride a motorcycle before a bicycle!
Jose Salazar
Senior Project Manager
Email: jas@orbarch.com
About Jose
Where did you receive your education in architecture?
Metropolitan University – Mexico City
Registrations/Certifications
Bachelor of Architecture
Registered Architect in Mexico
Recent project you are proud of?
Modera Gilbert – Gilbert, AZ
What is your favorite part of the design process?
Preliminary Design
What technical skills do you think are essential for architects today?
BIM, Bluebeam, Excel & client relations.
Fun Fact
I am afraid of heights – so I stick to my dreams on solid ground.
Andres Fernandez
Senior Project Manager
Email: arf@orbarch.com
About Andres
Where did you receive your education in architecture?
Instituto Tecnologico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey
Registrations/Certifications
Bachelor of Architecture, Arquitecto (Registered in Mexico)
Your biggest featured project at ORB
Modera Rio Salado – Tempe, AZ
Broadstone Washington (The Grand Phase II) – Tempe, AZ
What is your favorite part of the design process?
Envisioning those first pencil strokes as the final document drawings.
What technical skills do you think are essential for architects today?
Communication & Construction knowledge.
Fun Fact
Favorite Quote: Of all the things I’ve lost, I miss my mind the most.
Tim Rice
Project Manager
Email: trr@orbarch.com
About Tim
Where did you receive your education in architecture?
University of Minnesota
Registrations/Certifications
Associate Member of the AIA Previous Chairman of Technology in Architecture Committee AIA Phoenix Metro
Recent project you are proud of?
Christown Apartments – Phoenix, AZ
What is your favorite part of the design process?
Exteriors, when the material palette selections come together.
What technical skills do you think are essential for architects today?
Communication Skills: Verbal and written communication are essential for architects, particularly in mentoring and instructing. Clear and effective information delivery is key to ensuring understanding and retention.
Fun Fact
Designed (2) playhouses for charity events. One was a log cabin to fulfill a Make-A-Wish child’s wish. The other was for an American Heart Association auction and later published in a design idea book for kids projects.
Erika George
Office Manager
Email: elg@orbarch.com
About Erika
What is your highest degree of education?
Bachelors of Science
Where did you receive your education?
California Lutheran University – Thousand Oaks, CA
How do you achieve smooth operation in the office?
Communication and continuously adapting procedures!
What skills are essential to your role?
Organization, communication and problem solving skills.
Fun Fact
I run a fantasy Bookstagram page featuring quotes from my latest reads!
Laura Davidson
Accounting/Billing Manager
Email: acct@orbarch.com
About Laura
What is your highest degree of education?
Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration
Where did you receive your education?
University of Wisconsin – Green Bay, Finance Management
How do you achieve smooth operation in the office?
I prioritize efficient processes and time management, effective communication, proactive problem-solving, a positive work environment, and anticipating others’ needs to offer assistance.
What skills are essential to your role?
Organization, financial analysis, integrity and confidentiality, good decision-making, effective communication, strong interpersonal skills, collaboration, accuracy, Excel and Accounting software proficiency.
Fun Fact
I am a certified Reflexologist and obsessed with all things lavender.