Design Director

Gene Jones joined GRO full-time in the summer of 2022 after completing his graduate studies in architecture at the University of Virginia. He first connected with the firm as an intern the previous summer, where he contributed to the predesign and early conceptual phases of several projects. During his internship, he also drafted curricula for the YMCA’s youth programs, aimed at engaging children with the design and construction processes of their facilities. Prior to GRO, Jones interned at firms along the East Coast, focusing on community-centered projects.

Since joining GRO full-time, Jones has worked closely with senior architects, contributing to the late conceptual and early schematic stages of projects, moving from initial design concepts to technical drawing sets. Through his time at GRO, he has deepened his understanding of project phasing, the procedural aspects of design and construction, and how his work aligns with the YMCA's mission to promote accessibility and prioritize community spaces within their movement.