Danvers, MA Imelda Barnhurst, vice president of Gienapp Architects, a North Shore-based architecture firm, has become the firm’s new owner and principal, while founder Dale Gienapp will remain involved with the firm. The official change of ownership took place on Thursday, March 7. As a result of the transfer of ownership, Gienapp Architects will pursue certification as a Women Business Enterprise (WBE) with the state of Massachusetts.

Barnhurst, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, MCPPO, NCARB, joined Gienapp Architects as an architect and project manager in 2009 and was promoted to vice president in 2022. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture from Georgia Institute of Technology and a Master’s degree in Architecture from Illinois Institute of Technology. She holds memberships in the American Institute of Architects, Boston Society of Architects, National Council of Architectural Registration Boards, and U.S. Green Building Council.

Gienapp, AIA, MCPPO, has worked in the architecture industry for more than 40 years. He received a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture from Iowa State University and a Master’s degree in Architecture from Harvard University. He worked at Stopfel Associates and DiNisco Design Partnership before founding Gienapp Architects in 2000. 

“I am honored to begin this new role as Owner and Principal of Gienapp Architects, one of the premiere architecture firms in the state,” said Barnhurst. “I will work to grow Gienapp Architects’ presence and influence across Massachusetts and I look forward to continuing to expand upon the legacy that Dale Gienapp has built for nearly 25 years.”

“I am excited for Gienapp Architects to enter a new era that is fueled by new skills, capabilities, and a fresh vision,” said Gienapp. “Imelda has demonstrated tremendous leadership and commitment to architectural excellence in her time with the firm, and I am honored to hand ownership over to her. Gienapp Architects has a very bright future.”

Gienapp Architects has been involved with numerous projects across the state that have had significant positive impacts on their surrounding communities, such as: Salisbury Beach Oceanfront Condos, the Salisbury Flying Horses Carousel House, Norwood Town Hall, and Salem Metal. For more information click here.