Celebrating TLBA’s Founder and Principal, Timothy L. Brewer, AIA, LEED AP
Awards
AGC of Connecticut Architect/Designer of the Year, 2015
AIA CT Emerging Architects, 2007
CBC Project Team Award, PET Center, Yale School of Medicine, 2006
Notable Projects
Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Center, Yale School of Medicine
Laboratory of Epidemiology & Public Health, Yale School of Medicine
Connecticut Mental Health Center, Yale School of Medicine
Collections Studies Center, Yale University West Campus
President’s House, Wesleyan University
June 30th, 2026
After nearly four decades of noteworthy contributions, it is with mixed emotions that we announce the retirement of Tim Brewer, the Principal and Founder of TLB Architecture, LLC. Tim established TLBA in 1989 and has played a crucial role in shaping our firm’s philosophy of “learn and teach.” He has been responsible for managing a diverse array of projects, ensuring their successful programming, design, and completion, all while prioritizing the best interests of our clients.
Early Beginnings
A Connecticut native, Tim earned a Bachelor of Science in Architecture from Ohio State University after studying Urban Planning and Policy for three years at the University of Denver as a student-athlete. After working as a carpenter for a yacht builder, he completed his Master's in Architecture with high distinction at the University of Colorado at Denver in 1986. Working for noted firms in Denver, he gained experience in large regional recreation facilities and urban developments before moving back to Connecticut with his family and starting his practice.
Decades of Architectural Excellence and Mentorship
Connecticut Mental Health Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
With over four decades of experience in innovative architectural solutions, Tim's portfolio includes university buildings, corporate science facilities, residences, museums and collections spaces, churches, town halls, restoration and more. His work has received awards from the American Institute of Architects and the Connecticut Green Building Council (now Build Green CT). Notably, he has developed hundreds of thousands of square feet of research facilities for Yale University and Yale School of Medicine, including the PET Center, the Advanced Biosciences Center, and comprehensive renovations to the Laboratory of Epidemiology & Public Health, many of which are LEED Gold certified.
His career encompasses numerous professional affiliations, including the American Institute of Architects and AIA Connecticut, the Society for College and University Planning, the U.S. Green Building Council, the National Trust for Historic Preservation, the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture, and the State of Connecticut Historical Architect. He has also served on AIA Connecticut’s Board of Directors and served as President in 2016. Additionally, he volunteered on the Board of Directors for the Connecticut Architecture Foundation (CAF) and two local non-profits focused on historic preservation and youth development. He holds a license in the State of Connecticut and is certified by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards.
In addition to his project leadership, Tim consistently championed excellence, ensuring that each client's requirements and aspirations exceeded. As he approaches retirement, his commitment to quality and innovation leaves a lasting impact on the architectural community.
Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
“It has been a great privilege to work with Tim for the past 26+ years. From the day I first started until now he has been a great mentor, colleague, and friend,” said Paula Tunney, AIA, an Associate at the firm. “I will miss popping into his office for advice, always benefiting from his wealth of knowledge and thoughtful counsel. He has clearly shaped my career and made me the architect I am today.”
Jeff Burr, AIA, a Principal at TLBA, added “I have been fortunate across my career to work with professionals who are dedicated to mentoring the next generation of Architects, none more so than Tim. Taking the time and effort to understand how pieces and parts work together to create a successful whole is one of the first principles that formed my career as an architect. Whether it’s a millwork detail, a hardware spec, a building envelope, or as I eventually realized a team of people, this standard of care continues to hold true for myself and our office.”
Tim Leaves a Lasting Legacy of Leadership
We will certainly miss his wisdom and camaraderie, yet we know that Tim's influence will continue to inspire the next generation of architects and designers. As he turns this new page, his legacy of kindness, creativity, and craftsmanship will remain a cherished part of our studio's culture.
We thank Tim for his many years of leadership and wish him all the best in retirement. Fair winds and following seas, Tim!