Business Details
43 Years
experience
Trusted Architectural Design Solutions in Cleveland
Founded in 1983, our firm has built a legacy of architectural excellence rooted in collaboration, innovation, and a deep commitment to client engagement. We believe architecture is a collective endeavor, where listening, leading, and innovating form the foundation of every successful project. Our team prioritizes client involvement from initial concept to final construction, ensuring designs reflect both functional needs and aspirational goals. With six specialized studios spanning healthcare, hospitality, higher education, historic preservation, and civic architecture, we deliver tailored solutions that address unique challenges while embracing sustainability.Our approach fosters trust, encourages creative problem-solving, and cultivates environments where people and communities thrive. Recognized for our expertise in adaptive reuse and sustainable design, we are signatories of the AIA 2030 Commitment and integrate energy-efficient strategies into every project. Over four decades, we have earned a reputation for transforming complex visions into enduring, impactful spaces that resonate with their users and surroundings.
Services
Healthcare Design
Hospitality Architecture
Higher Education Facilities
Historic Preservation
Civic Architecture
Details
- Year established: 1983
Highlights and features
- We prioritize client collaboration through every project phase
- We integrate sustainable design principles into every project
- Our team holds advanced certifications in architecture and design
- We specialize in complex adaptive reuse and historic preservation
- We maintain transparent communication from concept to completion
What people say
Highly professional services
Imaginative guidance and support
Projects completed on time
Cost-effective solutions
Encouraged client participation
Services
Healthcare Design
We create healing environments that balance functionality with patient comfort. Our healthcare designs prioritize accessibility, infection control, and future adaptability while maintaining aesthetic appeal. The team collaborates with medical professionals to develop spaces that enhance care delivery efficiency and patient outcomes through evidence-based design principles.
Historic Preservation
Our experts specialize in restoring architecturally significant buildings while integrating modern functionality. We employ traditional craftsmanship alongside contemporary techniques to preserve historical integrity. Projects include structural stabilization, material conservation, and adaptive reuse solutions that extend the lifespan of culturally important structures while meeting current building standards.
Civic Architecture
We design municipal buildings that serve communities effectively while embodying civic pride. Our approach focuses on creating accessible, durable spaces that optimize workflow for public service personnel. Projects incorporate security considerations, public engagement areas, and sustainable features that reduce long-term operational costs for government clients.
Higher Education Facilities
Our educational designs foster learning environments that support academic excellence. We create flexible spaces for classrooms, laboratories, and communal areas that encourage collaboration and innovation. The team understands institutional needs for durability, accessibility, and technological integration while maintaining aesthetic harmony with existing campus architecture.
Hospitality Architecture
We craft hospitality spaces that balance guest comfort with operational efficiency. Our designs consider guest flow, service access, and brand identity while creating memorable experiences. The firm addresses unique requirements for public spaces, accommodations, and back-of-house operations in hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
People
David Sommers
Founding Principal
Established DS Architecture in 1983 with a people-first philosophy. His leadership emphasized family values in professional settings, creating a collaborative culture that continues to define the firm's approach to client relationships and team dynamics.
Jeffrey G. Meyers
Chief Executive Officer
Joined as partner in 2010 to strengthen the firm's cultural foundation. Leads public safety and civic architecture projects while fostering professional growth opportunities. Recognized in 2019 as Building Design + Construction's Top 40 Under 40 industry leader.
Eric F. Pros
Director of Design
Specializes in historic preservation and adaptive reuse. Named AIA National Young Architect in 2022 and received multiple design awards. Focuses on maintaining architectural integrity while implementing modern functionality in restoration projects.
Brian M. Stonelake
Healthcare Studio Director
LEED-certified architect leading healthcare and science + technology projects. Combines clinical expertise with architectural knowledge to create functional medical facilities that prioritize patient care and operational efficiency.
Clifford J. Brown
Hospitality Studio Director
Registered architect specializing in hospitality projects. Develops designs that balance aesthetic appeal with practical considerations for restaurants, hotels, and entertainment venues while maintaining brand identity and guest experience standards.
Questions
What architectural services does DS Architecture offer?
We specialize in healthcare, hospitality, higher education, historic preservation, and civic architecture projects across Northeast Ohio and beyond.
How does DS Architecture involve clients in the design process?
We encourage clients to join our design team, reviewing and approving major milestones from concept development through construction completion.
Does DS Architecture handle historic preservation projects?
Yes, we have extensive experience in restoring and adapting historic buildings while maintaining their architectural integrity.
What sustainability practices does DS Architecture employ?
We incorporate energy-efficient strategies aligned with the AIA 2030 Commitment, focusing on reducing environmental impact and operational costs.
