Architectural professional specializing in educational, public planning, commercial, and residential projects, with a mission to "REALIZE the Possibilities, DESIGN Your Reality, & INFLUENCE Your Life and Community."

Jose R. Pareja, AIA is a licensed architect and the President of JP Architects. Jose came to the United States from Ecuador at age 4. The reason for coming was simple…his parents sought a better life for Jose and his sisters.

Jose studied Architecture at the University of Illinois at Chicago. At 18, Jose worked full-time as a Draftsman for a small single-employee firm, while continuing his studies. Working in this small business environment introduced Jose to all aspects of design and business operations. This first experience was laying the foundation for a successful future – one where Jose envisioned running his own firm.

Jose took the leap of faith and started JP Architects on Labor Day in 2015. JP Architects is a full-service architecture firm specializing in K-12 and higher education design, public planning projects, commercial architecture, and residential design. The firm is a growing, certified Minority-owned business, currently working with Community High School District 218, Northeastern Illinois University, College of DuPage, State of Illinois Capital Development Board, Chicago Public Schools, Paisans Pizzeria, and many private commercial, restaurant, and residential clients, to name a few.

Beyond JP Architects, Jose is the Immediate Past President & current Chapter Delegate from the American Institute of Architects Eastern Illinois Chapter for AIA Illinois and a founding member of Chicago Unidos in Construction. He is an advocate for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and is passionate about Women in Architecture – not only to be employed but to ultimately to become licensed and obtain leadership positions. Jose is also an avid Cubs and Bears fan.

Jose started JP Architects with the intention to provide a better experience and way of life for clients, employees, himself, and his family. JP Architects embraces two pillars – our clients always come first…do good work and our employees are the most important asset we have - everyone should benefit from their work...not only leadership. With this in mind, Jose instituted an attractive work/life balance policy. JP Architects has systems and processes in place that allow employees to be present for life events. JP Architects mission is to REALIZE the Possibilities. DESIGN Your Reality. & INFLUENCE Your Life and Community. And if you think about it, Jose R. Pareja, AIA has exemplified this throughout his life and career. He realized the possibilities for his career early on, took the steps necessary to get there and now he influences his life, as well as the lives of JP Architects employees, clients and network connections. Jose is a leader you want by your side.