Business Details
25 Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Architectural Solutions
Founded in 2001, our firm was established with a clear mission: to use architectural expertise to create sustainable, community-focused spaces that endure for generations. We specialize in urban planning, community design, mixed-use developments, and housing solutions, blending rigorous technical detail with a deep respect for local contexts. Our collaborative approach prioritizes the overlapping needs of clients and communities, ensuring financial, social, and environmental success. With nearly 40 architects and designers, weve earned recognition for revitalizing fragmented communities and integrating traditional expression with modern amenities. Our work spans the Northeast and beyond, including notable projects like the House of the Seven Gables restoration and Veridians climate-resilient neighborhoods.We remain committed to advancing equity through design, as evidenced by our involvement in affordable homeownership initiatives and partnerships with organizations like the Southside Community Land Trust. Our accolades, including Urban Guild and AIA RI awards, reflect our dedication to excellence. As stewards of our profession, we believe beauty and functionality can coexist to enrich lives, and we approach every project with humility, empathy, and a passion for creating places where people thrive.
Services
Urban Planning
Community Design
Mixed-Use Developments
Housing Solutions
Historic Restoration
Climate Resilience Design
Pocket Neighborhoods
Civic Buildings
Details
- Year established: 2001
Highlights and features
- We have 25+ years of experience in sustainable urban design and community revitalization.
- Our collaborative approach integrates client and community needs for holistic solutions.
- We prioritize climate resilience and equity in all our architectural projects.
- Our team includes award-winning architects recognized for innovative design practices.
- We maintain a proven track record of transforming historic spaces into modern, functional environments.
Services
Urban Planning
We create comprehensive urban plans that balance growth with sustainability. Our approach integrates walkability, mixed-use spaces, and climate resilience to foster vibrant communities. Projects include downtown revitalizations and transit-oriented developments that enhance local economies while preserving cultural heritage.
Historic Restoration
Specializing in adaptive reuse, we restore historic buildings while incorporating modern functionality. Our work preserves architectural integrity through meticulous research and materials selection. Recent projects include the Veranda House on Nantucket and the House of the Seven Gables in Salem, blending tradition with contemporary needs.
Climate Resilience Design
Our climate-focused designs address rising sea levels and extreme weather through innovative solutions. We implement green infrastructure, elevated structures, and passive design strategies. The Market to Metacom project in Warren, RI demonstrates our commitment to creating adaptable, future-ready communities.
Pocket Neighborhoods
We design compact, walkable neighborhoods that promote social interaction and affordability. These developments feature shared green spaces and energy-efficient homes. Projects like Ivy Place in East Providence provide inclusive housing options while maintaining aesthetic cohesion with surrounding areas.
Civic Buildings
Our civic projects prioritize accessibility and community engagement. From libraries to community centers, we create functional spaces that reflect local identity. The Southside Community Land Trust Headquarters exemplifies our focus on equitable access to resources and sustainable building practices.
People
Donald Powers
Founder
Donald founded Union Studio Architecture & Community Design in 2001 to address urban sprawl through community-driven design. With 25+ years of experience, he champions sustainable practices and historic preservation. His leadership has earned national recognition, including Traditional Building's Top 25 Leaders award.
Douglas Kallfelz
Partner
Joining in 2003, Douglas expanded Union Studio Architecture & Community Design's reach across the U.S. He specializes in integrating architecture with urban ecosystems. His work emphasizes collaborative design processes that balance client goals with public benefit, reflected in multiple Urban Guild award-winning projects.
Questions
What geographic areas do you serve?
We operate nationally with primary offices in Providence, RI and Philadelphia, PA. Our portfolio spans New England, the Mid-Atlantic, and select projects nationwide, including Cape Cod, Vermont, and Oklahoma.
What types of projects do you specialize in?
We focus on urban planning, mixed-use developments, historic restoration, and climate-resilient design. Our expertise includes affordable housing, civic buildings, and pocket neighborhoods that foster community connections.
How do you incorporate sustainability into your designs?
We use passive design strategies, green infrastructure, and locally sourced materials. Our projects prioritize energy efficiency, climate adaptation, and LEED-certified practices to minimize environmental impact while maximizing long-term value.
Can you work on historic preservation projects?
Yes, we specialize in adaptive reuse and historic restoration. Our team combines traditional craftsmanship with modern technology to preserve architectural heritage while meeting contemporary functionality requirements.
How do you engage with communities during the design process?
We conduct public workshops, stakeholder interviews, and collaborative charrettes. This ensures designs reflect community needs and values, particularly in affordable housing and public space projects.
