The Collaborative, a leading Midwest architecture, planning and design firm, announced today the acquisition of Acock Associates Architects, one of central Ohio’s most recognized and respected design firms. This unites two firms with shared values, accomplished teams and iconic portfolios into one dynamic practice committed to innovative, client-focused design.

Founded in 1973 in Toledo, Ohio, The Collaborative is recognized for delivering transformative spaces across higher education, civic, healthcare, corporate and nonprofit sectors. With offices in Toledo, Ann Arbor and Columbus, the firm has worked with over 90 universities and more than 100 K–12 districts across the Midwest. In northwest Ohio, The Collaborative is responsible for some of the most well-known sites, including Fifth Third Field Mud Hens Stadium, Imagination Station’s KeyBank Discovery Theater, the Huntington Center Arena and the recently renovated Glass City Center.

Acock Associates, established in 1967 by the late George Acock, has shaped much of Columbus’ architectural identity through prominent projects at The Ohio State University, Columbus College of Art and Design, Capital University, Limited Brands and many others. Acock’s legacy of blending historic preservation with modern vision has earned accolades from national and regional institutions alike.

“This is not just a merger of capabilities — it’s a continuation and elevation of a remarkable legacy,” said Mitch Acock, principal at Acock and son of the firm’s founder. “My father believed deeply in architecture that serves its community and endures over time. In The Collaborative, we’ve found a partner that shares those values, and we’re excited to join forces and build our shared future.”

The acquisition strengthens the central Ohio operations of both firms, with all Columbus-based team members consolidating at the current Acock offices in the Arena District. Acock’s Principals, Mitch Acock and Ed Nabakowski, will join The Collaborative’s leadership team to form a new group of eight principals.

“We’ve been admirers of Acock’s team and work for a long time,” said Brandon Andrzejczak, Columbus principal at The Collaborative. “The universal admiration for the Acock firm is a true testament of its unwavering commitments to integrity, design excellence and community impact. We’re honored and excited to welcome the Acock team into ours, and to celebrate our individual histories while creating this next chapter together.”

The unified firm will celebrate the milestone with a commemorative logo — The Collaborative + Acock — on select materials while continuing to do business jointly as The Collaborative. Acock’s founder and lasting legacy will be celebrated with a special section added to The Collaborative’s website highlighting George Acock’s work, philosophy, landmark projects and personal impact. Leadership is exploring opportunities to honor Acock’s legacy within the industry, such as a named scholarship or other lasting tribute.

About The Collaborative + Acock

For more than half a century, The Collaborative and Acock Associates Architects have each built a legacy of client-focused design and community impact. Founded in 1973 and 1967 respectively, both firms have been driven by a commitment to excellence, creativity and service. The portfolios together span 25 states, Canada, Mexico and the Virgin Islands, and have been recognized with more than 150 national, regional and local awards. Through the acquisition of Acock Associates Architects, The Collaborative strengthens its presence in Columbus and central Ohio, blending deep regional roots with expanded expertise across education, civic, healthcare and corporate sectors. As Acock’s leadership and team join The Collaborative, we celebrate their proud history while forging a shared future — one that is defined by innovation, collaboration and a continued dedication to creating alongside our clients to design environments that capture their unique spirit. Visit https://acock.com/ to learn more about their legacy.