Antonio Cicco always had high expectations for Marywood University’s School of Architecture. However, he could have never imagined the impact it would have on his future career and relationships.
Most architecture schools are either conceptual or technical by design. Marywood’s School of Architecture is dynamic in the way that it has a comprehensive approach that encompasses both areas, according to Cicco. He reached his long-held dream through the relationships he cultivated during his time at Marywood, and, by the summer of his fourth year, he became an intern at a small design firm that focuses on renovation, alteration, addition, and new construction projects called Fancy Parsley.
“There's a dreamer aspect that Marywood creates,'' said Cicco. “All architects should be able to dream. It’s important to get those design fundamentals under your belt before going into the professional realm. Marywood let me be a dreamer. Fancy Parsley has a good balance of both the dream and technical aspects of architecture.”
The firm also happens to be owned by former faculty member Michael Muller. Following graduation in 2020, Cicco joined the Fancy Parsley team as a designer, making him one of four Marywood alumni working there.
“Antonio's passion for architecture and strong work ethic made him an excellent addition to the team”, said Muller. “His ability to develop successful design solutions and effectively pitch them to our clients adds tremendous value to Fancy Parsley. Our clients find his enthusiasm contagious, ensuring the design process is an interactive and positive experience.”
“There’s a common misconception that architecture is for the rich,” said Cicco. However, his clients are from all income levels.
Cicco is getting used to Fancy Parsley's new downtown office space. The architecture and design firm is housed in a former blacksmith’s shop, which happens to be Scranton’s oldest standing building. After some complications stemming from the COVID-19 lockdown, Fancy Parsley was able to open its doors in February 2021. Alumni Chris Chilek, Jules Silberberg, and Robert Trapper are also employed at Fancy Parsley.
Like his peers, Cicco is a designer by title only, since it's illegal to refer to oneself as an architect without having an active license from the National Council Architecture Board. However, he’s completed his training hours and is moving closer to obtaining a license with each passing day.
For information about accreditation and education requirements for licensed architects, visit Marywood University’s School of Architecture program page at http://www.marywood.edu/architecture/programs.