Thomas Bates is a skilled visualization communicator who helps direct, produce, and refine VMDO’s architectural renderings. Originally from Washington state, he earned his Bachelor of Architecture degree from the University of Oregon. After working for a few years in Portland, Thomas moved to Charlottesville and joined VMDO in 2010.  

During his time at VMDO, Thomas has skirted the edges of nuts-and-bolts architecture, preferring compelling experiential views to detailed wall sections. He is an advocate for the power of architectural visualization and sees it as a necessary tool for exciting a client, advancing design, and winning new work. Thomas is also passionate about researching new rendering techniques and sharing his knowledge and skillset with others in the firm.