Business Details
17 Years
experience
Philadelphia Architecture & Design Studio
Since 2009, Shift Design has been redefining architectural practice through the integration of spatial design, industrial design, and public art. Our Philadelphia-based studio approaches each project with a rigorous process that balances creativity with technical expertise, delivering solutions that respond to the unique needs of clients, communities, and environments. Founded by Mario Gentile and Tim Barnes, our team combines decades of experience working with institutions, brands, and municipalities on projects ranging from urban interventions to custom furniture. Our work is grounded in sustainable design principles, mass-customization, and prefabrication, informed by academic research and hands-on experimentation.With a portfolio spanning hospitality, residential, civic, and product design, we prioritize meaningful engagement with materials, context, and user experience. Our collaborative approach extends to fabricators, contractors, and stakeholders, ensuring technical precision and innovative outcomes. Recognized for award-winning projects and academic contributions, we maintain active roles in design education and community stewardship initiatives.
Services
Architecture
Placemaking
Interior Design
Landscape Design
Industrial Design
Experience Concepts
Details
- Year established: 2009
Highlights and features
- We combine architectural expertise with industrial design innovation
- Our team includes registered architects with international project experience
- We maintain direct oversight of fabrication and construction processes
- Our work integrates sustainable design and prefabrication techniques
- We've completed award-winning projects for institutions like The Barnes Foundation
Associations and certifications
- National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB)
Services
Architecture
Our architectural practice creates innovative spaces that respond to functional needs and contextual challenges. We specialize in modern aesthetics, sustainable materials, and prefabrication techniques. Projects range from residential renovations to large-scale institutional buildings, always prioritizing user experience and environmental responsibility.
Placemaking
We transform public spaces through creative placemaking strategies that foster community engagement. Our approach combines spatial analysis with participatory design processes to create vibrant, functional environments. Services include master planning, temporary installations, and permanent urban interventions that enhance civic identity.
Industrial Design
Our industrial design practice bridges architecture and object-making, creating furniture and products that reflect spatial design principles. We focus on material experimentation, ergonomic functionality, and scalable production methods. The SHIFT brand showcases our commitment to innovative, contextually responsive design solutions.
Interior Design
We craft interior environments that balance aesthetic vision with practical requirements. Our process considers lighting, materiality, and spatial flow to create tailored solutions for residential, commercial, and hospitality settings. Each design integrates seamlessly with architectural context and client lifestyle needs.
Landscape Design
Our landscape architecture practice creates dynamic outdoor environments that connect people with place. We combine ecological principles with artistic expression to design parks, gardens, and urban plazas. Projects emphasize sustainable water management, native plantings, and multi-functional public spaces.
People
Mario Gentile
Founding Partner, Studio Director
Registered architect with NCARB accreditation. Former faculty at University of Pennsylvania and Temple University. Graduated from Columbia University's Advanced Architectural Design program. Led award-winning projects across five continents.
Tim Barnes
Partner, Creative Director
Bloomberg Philanthropies FastFWD Accelerator participant. Focus on civic engagement and ecological design. Holds Bachelor of Architecture from Temple University. Served as design critic at multiple institutions.
Tess Dalton
Project Architect
Bachelor of Architecture from New Jersey Institute of Technology. Experienced in full building process from concept to construction. Specializes in 3D modeling and architectural drafting for diverse project types.
Samie Hubbard
Architectural Designer
Master of Landscape Architecture from University of Virginia. Expertise in urban psychology and public space stewardship. Former intern at STOSS Landscape Urbanism and Nelson Byrd Woltz.
Questions
What architectural styles does Shiftspace specialize in?
We prioritize modern aesthetics with a focus on sustainable materials and functional innovation, adapting our approach to each project's unique context and client needs.
Do you handle both residential and commercial projects?
Yes, our portfolio includes work across residential, hospitality, institutional, and commercial sectors, with expertise in both small-scale renovations and large developments.
How does your design process work?
We follow a five-phase process: Discovery, Concept Development, Design, Production, and Launch, ensuring thorough research, client collaboration, and technical precision throughout.
Can you assist with urban design projects?
Yes, we specialize in urban interventions and placemaking strategies that enhance public spaces through creative, community-focused design solutions.
Do you offer interior design services?
Yes, our interior design practice creates cohesive environments that integrate seamlessly with architectural elements, focusing on materiality, lighting, and spatial functionality.
