In the mid-1970s, two architecture students at the University of Notre Dame would spend hours talking about their shared vision – someday, they’d start their own firm together. Anthony (Tony) Amenta from Philadelphia and Robert (Bob) Emma from Chicago were building more than just a friendship; they were laying the foundation for what would become a four-decade journey of architectural excellence.
After graduating in 1977, life initially took them in different directions. Tony headed to Houston while Bob made his way to Chicago, each gaining valuable experience in their respective markets. But their shared dream never faded. By 1985, they were ready to make it a reality.
When it came time to choose a location for their new venture, Hartford, Connecticut, seemed like the perfect choice – a stable market where they could build something lasting. As fate would have it, their arrival coincided with the beginning of an economic boom that would provide the perfect backdrop for a young firm with big ambitions.
In 1985, Amenta Emma Architects opened its doors in a charming historic building on Wethersfield Avenue. One of their first major partnerships was with Connecticut Bank and Trust, a relationship that would prove transformative for the young firm.
Over the coming years, they designed more than 80 branch bank projects, including a prototype that was first built in Simsbury, CT. As the workload grew, so did the team, quickly expanding to 14 talented architects ready to meet the demand. These early projects established the firm’s reputation for quality and innovation while marking the beginning of countless client relationships built on trust, excellence, and shared success.
Photo 1: 1985 Team Photo on Wethersfield Avenue; Photo 2: Inside Amenta Emma’s first office; Photo 3 : CBT Simsbury
Read Amenta Emma Marks 40 Years of Architectural Excellence – And Looks Ahead
