Alan was born and raised in Fairview, NC, spent a couple of years at NC State University, and graduated from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 1984. During his time at UNC Charlotte, Alan was the recipient of the AIA Traveling Fellowship, the AIA School Medal, and the Certificate of Design Merit from the Henry Adams Fund.
Alan has served on numerous boards helping to direct the efforts of various organizations, including the Buncombe County Planning Board and the UNC Charlotte College of Architecture Advisory Council. Alan was also a founding Co-Chair of the Asheville Design Center.
Alan has represented the profession of Architecture through his service within the American Institute of Architects. In 1996 he was the President of AIA Asheville after serving on the local Section board for four years. He was elected President of AIA North Carolina in 2005 after serving eight years on the State Board as Section representative, Director, Secretary and Treasurer for the Chapter. Alan was rewarded for his efforts with the William H. Dietrick Service Medal in 2008. Alan was elevated to the American Institute for Architects Fellowship in 2014.
Alan’s background in the trades (electrician, welder) and his passion for collaborative design combine in sensitive, contextual solutions that are cost effective and responsive to the client. Alan enjoys spending time with his family and tinkering with various projects in his shop and around the house.
Email: alan.mcguinn@arca-design.com