Business Details
38 Years
experience
Trusted Architectural Design Services in Amherst, MA
Established in 1988 by John Kuhn and Chris Riddle, our firm has built a legacy rooted in community engagement, contextual design, and environmental stewardship. We specialize in architecture, planning, and interior design services for educational, commercial, and residential clients across the Pioneer Valley and beyond. Our team of architects, interior designers, LEED Accredited Professionals, and Passive House consultants prioritizes collaboration, ensuring every project reflects the unique needs of our clients and the communities we serve. Sustainability guides every design decision, from concept through construction, whether working on new builds or energy-efficient retrofits. We actively contribute to local development through volunteer service on design review boards, planning committees, and nonprofit organizations.Our approach combines deep listening with technical expertise to transform client visions into functional, beautiful spaces that respect historical context while embracing modern innovation. With over three decades of experience, we maintain a steadfast commitment to creating intelligent, environmentally sensitive buildings that enhance both urban and natural landscapes. Our work has earned recognition for blending historic preservation with contemporary design solutions, particularly in revitalizing landmark structures throughout Western Massachusetts. We measure success by the lasting value our designs bring to clients and the broader community. This philosophy has positioned us as one of the largest design firms in Western Massachusetts while maintaining our founding principles of thoughtful, client-centered design.
Services
Architectural Design
Interior Design
Historic Preservation
Sustainable Design
Community Planning
Details
- Year established: 1988
Highlights and features
- We offer 35+ years of architectural experience with LEED Accredited Professionals on staff
- Our team includes certified Passive House consultants for ultra-energy-efficient design
- We maintain active community involvement through local design review board participation
- Our collaborative process ensures client visions translate into functional built environments
- Sustainability is integrated into every project from initial concept through construction
Associations and certifications
- LEED
Services
Architectural Design
Our architectural design services create functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces tailored to client needs. We specialize in educational, commercial, and residential projects that balance modern requirements with environmental context. Our team develops comprehensive design solutions from concept through construction documentation, ensuring each project meets technical standards while achieving visual impact. With expertise in both new construction and adaptive reuse, we deliver buildings that enhance their surroundings and stand the test of time.
Interior Design
We craft interior environments that optimize functionality and occupant well-being. Our interior design services focus on creating spaces that reflect brand identity while maximizing usability. From material selection to spatial organization, we integrate sustainable practices and accessibility standards. Our approach combines technical expertise with creative vision to transform interiors into productive, inspiring environments that meet both aesthetic and practical requirements for commercial and residential clients.
Historic Preservation
Specializing in historic building restoration, we preserve architectural heritage while incorporating modern functionality. Our preservation services include condition assessments, materials analysis, and code-compliant retrofitting. We maintain historical integrity through careful documentation and traditional craftsmanship while implementing contemporary systems. Recent projects demonstrate our ability to revitalize landmark structures for new uses without compromising their cultural significance or architectural character.
Sustainable Design
We integrate sustainability into every design phase through energy-efficient systems and eco-friendly materials. Our LEED Accredited Professionals apply passive design strategies and life-cycle analysis to minimize environmental impact. Services include energy modeling, daylight optimization, and sustainable material sourcing. We help clients achieve green building certifications while creating healthy, resource-efficient spaces that reduce long-term operational costs and environmental footprint.
Community Planning
Our community planning services shape vibrant, functional public spaces that foster social interaction. We collaborate with municipalities and developers to create mixed-use developments, pedestrian-friendly streetscapes, and civic facilities. Our approach considers transportation networks, zoning regulations, and environmental factors to create cohesive, sustainable communities. Recent projects demonstrate our ability to balance historic context with modern urban needs while enhancing public spaces for collective benefit.
People
John Kuhn
Founding Partner
Co-founder with 35+ years of architectural experience, specializing in contextual design and sustainable building practices. Active community member committed to preserving Western Massachusetts' architectural heritage.
Chris Riddle
Founding Partner
Co-founder recognized for blending modern functionality with historic preservation. Instrumental in establishing the firm's commitment to environmentally responsible design solutions for diverse client needs.
Jonathan Salvon
Principal
Second-generation leader with expertise in educational facility design. Focuses on creating inspiring learning environments that support pedagogical innovation while maintaining environmental sensitivity.
Charles Roberts
Principal
Experienced in commercial and mixed-use developments. Specializes in integrating sustainable systems into urban environments while maintaining economic viability for clients.
Aelan B. Tierney
Principal
Community-focused designer with emphasis on residential projects. Advocates for accessible, energy-efficient housing solutions that enhance neighborhood character and quality of life.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialize in?
We specialize in educational, commercial, and residential architecture with expertise in historic preservation and sustainable design.
Do you work on LEED-certified projects?
Yes, our team includes LEED Accredited Professionals who integrate sustainable practices into all project phases.
What areas do you serve?
While based in Amherst, we work throughout the Pioneer Valley, Western Massachusetts, and beyond.
How do you approach community projects?
We prioritize stakeholder collaboration and contextual design to create spaces that enhance community character and functionality.
Can you handle historic building renovations?
Yes, we have extensive experience in historic preservation, balancing modern needs with architectural heritage conservation.
