Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Architectural Design Services in Kansas City
Established in 1935, our firm has built a legacy of architectural excellence spanning nearly a century. Founded by Herbert E. Duncan Sr., we began as a residential design practice and have evolved into a multidisciplinary firm specializing in senior living communities, multi-family residential developments, historic restoration, affordable housing, healthcare facilities, and commercial design. Our expertise in adaptive reuse and urban revitalization has transformed neglected buildings into vibrant neighborhoods, preserving historical integrity while meeting modern needs. With over 100 historic projects led by principals Paul Stark and Tim Wilson since 1999, we combine deep technical knowledge with creative vision to deliver spaces that enhance quality of life.Our team of certified architects brings specialized skills in LEED certification, master planning, and evidence-based healthcare design. Recognized for award-winning projects across nine states, we maintain a client-centric approach that prioritizes functionality, sustainability, and aesthetic excellence. Our 90-year history reflects a commitment to architectural innovation and community impact, serving diverse sectors from cultural institutions to urban redevelopment initiatives. Through generations of leadership, we continue to shape skylines and communities with designs that stand the test of time.
Services
Senior Living Design
Multi-Family Residential
Historic Restoration
Affordable Housing
Healthcare Facilities
Commercial Architecture
Master Planning
Adaptive Reuse
Urban Redevelopment
Museum Design
Details
- Year established: 1935
Highlights and features
- We offer 90+ years of architectural experience across diverse project types
- Our team includes AIA-certified architects with LEED and healthcare design expertise
- We specialize in historic preservation with over 100 successful restoration projects
- Client-focused approach combining functionality with aesthetic excellence
- Proven track record in sustainable affordable housing developments
Services
Senior Living Design
We create continuum-of-care communities integrating independent living, assisted living, and memory care. Our designs prioritize accessibility, wellness amenities, and adaptable spaces that evolve with residents' needs. With specialized knowledge in aging-in-place principles, we deliver environments that promote social engagement while maintaining safety and comfort for seniors.
Historic Restoration
Our team specializes in revitalizing historically significant structures through meticulous restoration and adaptive reuse. With over 100 completed projects, we preserve architectural heritage while incorporating modern functionality. This expertise extends to urban redevelopment initiatives that transform neglected buildings into vibrant community spaces while maintaining historical integrity and meeting contemporary building standards.
Multi-Family Residential
We design luxury multi-family communities blending indoor comforts with dynamic outdoor spaces. Our approach incorporates amenity-rich features like fitness centers, communal lounges, and pet-friendly areas while optimizing space efficiency. Each project balances aesthetic appeal with practical considerations for property management and resident satisfaction across various market segments.
Healthcare Facilities
Our healthcare design focuses on creating healing environments that enhance patient outcomes and staff efficiency. We apply evidence-based design principles to hospitals, clinics, and specialized care facilities. This includes optimizing layouts for medical workflows, integrating advanced technology, and creating calming spaces that reduce stress for patients and families while meeting strict regulatory requirements.
Commercial Architecture
We develop commercial spaces that align with brand identity and operational needs. Our designs maximize functionality while creating visually compelling environments for retail, office, and mixed-use developments. The approach emphasizes flexible layouts, sustainable materials, and technology integration to create spaces that enhance business performance and customer experience.
People
Paul Stark
Principal Architect, President
AIA-certified architect with LEED AP credentials leading design efforts since 1999. Specializes in historic preservation and urban revitalization projects across the Midwest.
Tim Wilson
Principal Architect, Vice President
AIA-certified architect with extensive experience in multi-family residential and senior living design. Co-leader of over 100 historic restoration projects since 1999.
Brian Czerw
Architect, Project Manager
AIA-certified professional managing complex architectural projects with focus on commercial and healthcare facility design across multiple states.
Scott Auman
Architect, Project Manager
AIA-certified architect specializing in multi-family residential developments and affordable housing projects with emphasis on sustainable design solutions.
David Brown
Architect, Project Manager
AIA-certified professional with expertise in commercial architecture and master planning initiatives for urban redevelopment projects.
Questions
What architectural services does SWD Architects offer?
We specialize in senior living communities, multi-family residential developments, historic restoration, affordable housing, healthcare facilities, and commercial architecture across nine Midwestern states.
How long has SWD Architects been in business?
Established in 1935, we are the oldest architectural firm in the greater Kansas City area with nearly a century of continuous service.
What makes SWD Architects unique?
Our combination of 90+ years of experience, historic preservation expertise, and focus on community impact through adaptive reuse projects distinguishes us in the architectural field.
Do you handle both new construction and renovation projects?
Yes, we manage both new developments and historic restoration projects, with particular expertise in transforming existing structures for modern use while preserving historical elements.
What geographic areas do you serve?
We operate across nine states including Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Iowa, Ohio, Illinois, Arkansas, Nebraska, and Texas with headquarters in Kansas City.
How do you approach sustainable design?
Our sustainable approach integrates LEED-certified practices, energy-efficient systems, and material reuse strategies while maintaining design excellence across all project types.
