Business Details
32 Years
experience
Your Trusted Architectural Partner in Minneapolis
Established in 1994, Foundation Architects has built a reputation for delivering innovative and functional design solutions tailored to the unique needs of our clients. Our expertise spans dental clinics, health and wellness offices, commercial spaces, and residential architecture, with a focus on sustainability and client collaboration. Led by AIA architect Bob Shaffer, our team prioritizes personalized service, ensuring every project reflects the client's vision while maintaining practicality and affordability. We integrate sustainable practices into every design, creating spaces that balance environmental responsibility with long-term value. Our methodical approach, combined with decades of experience in diverse project types, ensures high-quality results that exceed expectations.We actively involve clients throughout the design process, from initial concept to construction completion, fostering transparency and trust. Our team's deep understanding of local and regional building codes streamlines project timelines, minimizing costly revisions. With a portfolio showcasing dental clinics, commercial buildings, and custom residences, we demonstrate our commitment to creating spaces that harmonize aesthetics, functionality, and client satisfaction. Our dedication to community engagement and professional excellence has earned us recognition as a trusted partner in architectural design.
Services
Dental Clinic Design
Residential Architecture
Commercial Space Planning
Healthcare Facility Design
Sustainable Architecture
Construction Documentation
Project Management
Details
- Year established: 1994
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of experience in dental clinic and healthcare architecture
- Our team includes AIA-certified and LEED-accredited professionals
- We implement a collaborative design process with client involvement at every stage
- Our sustainable designs integrate environmental responsibility with cost efficiency
- We maintain direct client communication from initial consultation through construction
Associations and certifications
- AIA
- LEED AP
- CID
Services
Dental Clinic Design
Creating functional dental environments that balance clinical efficiency with patient comfort. Our designs integrate specialized equipment requirements while maintaining aesthetic appeal. We collaborate with dental professionals and equipment suppliers to ensure optimal workflow and compliance with industry standards.
Residential Architecture
Crafting personalized living spaces that reflect homeowners' lifestyles and preferences. Our approach emphasizes natural light integration, functional layouts, and sustainable materials selection. We specialize in both new construction and renovation projects.
Commercial Space Planning
Developing efficient commercial environments that enhance business operations. Our designs prioritize space optimization, ADA compliance, and brand identity integration while maintaining budget-conscious solutions for diverse industries.
Sustainable Architecture
Implementing environmentally responsible building practices that reduce energy consumption and operational costs. Our LEED-certified professionals incorporate passive solar design, energy-efficient systems, and sustainable material sourcing into every project phase.
Construction Documentation
Producing detailed technical drawings and specifications that guide construction teams. Our comprehensive documentation ensures code compliance, minimizes change orders, and maintains design integrity throughout the building process.
People
Robert A. Shaffer
President, AIA, CID, LEED AP
Licensed architect with 30+ years of experience, specializing in dental clinics and sustainable design. Holds degrees from University of Illinois and leads client collaborations to create personalized architectural solutions.
Tonya Nicholie
Architect
25-year healthcare architecture veteran with expertise in institutional and industrial projects. Combines artistic vision with technical precision to create functional spaces that meet client needs.
Abbey Dombeck
Architectural Technologist
Recent graduate with Associate's degree in Architectural Technology. Specializes in creating visual design concepts and client presentations while supporting project documentation processes.
Kelly Hanson
Architect
Licensed architect with 5 years of experience in innovative space design. Focuses on creating functional environments that balance aesthetic appeal with practical requirements for diverse project types.
Questions
What architectural services does Foundation Architects specialize in?
We specialize in dental clinic design, healthcare facility architecture, commercial space planning, and residential architecture with a focus on sustainable solutions.
How does Foundation Architects approach the design process?
Our seven-phase process includes master planning, schematic design, team selection, design development, construction documents, bidding assistance, and construction administration with continuous client collaboration.
Are your designs environmentally sustainable?
Yes, sustainability is integral to our practice. We incorporate green design principles and energy-efficient solutions into every project.
Do you work with clients outside the Minneapolis area?
While based in Minneapolis, we serve clients throughout the Midwest and have completed projects in multiple states.
How do you ensure projects stay within budget?
Our pragmatic approach includes early code reviews, cost estimation during design development, and contractor collaboration to maintain budget control.
