Founder and CEO
Pure Architects

Grand Rapids

Zach Verhulst has been intricately involved in the management, design and development of many complex facilities in various markets. As the principal in charge, he works closely with each of his clients through all phases of project development, ensuring that schedules, budgets and expectations are being met. His success in client experience and high-design outcomes is largely due to his ability to actively listen, ask pertinent questions, effectively communicate expectations, and then rally a team toward a goal.

EDUCATION: Lawrence Technological University (B, M)

BEST ADVICE: Good things come to those who work.

LIKE ABOUT WEST MICHIGAN: I love Grand Rapids for many reasons, but mostly for the shared desire to do great things as a community. The business environment in West Michigan is one of collaboration and cooperation, and that resonates for my personal relationships also. My wife and I have made intentional decisions to keep our family and businesses here, rooted in a desire to contribute to our city and its people.

UP AT NIGHT: The future health of our planet and our political systems. Both need a lot of help and attention. I have three young daughters and I worry for them and their generation.

DO OVER: I have the benefit to still be in the first half of my career, so it’s really hard to think about this question. My answer today is, no. I am a firm believer that our lives are a collection of decisions and events that bring us to places and people, and no matter what decision you make, you won’t know the difference when you get there. Looking backward is a huge waste of time.