Zachary Verhulst is an award-winning architect and entrepreneur with deep roots in Grand Rapids. He is the Founder + CEO of Pure Architects, a design firm with offices in Grand Rapids and Detroit that specializes in early childhood education, K-12, and non-profit projects. Pure is currently completing ECC projects across Michigan for clients including the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids, Detroit Public Schools Consolidated District, St. Johns Public Schools, and more.
Among other accolades, Zach received the 2024 Young Architect of the Year award from AIA Michigan, was a three-time member of Crain’s Grand Rapids Business’ “40 Under 40,” and sat on the 2022 AIA National Task Force on the Framework for Design Excellence. He earned both his Master of Architecture and his Bachelor of Science in Architecture from Lawrence Technological University and is a graduate of Harvard Business School with a focus on finance.
In addition to his role overseeing Pure Architects, Zach is a co-founder of Pickle + Pin, the CEO of ROI Design, and an active member of the Grand Rapids community. He sits on multiple non-profit boards and is passionate about connecting the community to the power of architecture. A proud graduate of Grand Rapids Public Schools, Zach is often spotted enjoying West Michigan’s outdoors, whether on a golf course, in a fishing boat, or on the playground with his three daughters.