Business Details
21 Years
experience
Your Trusted Architectural Partner for Community Transformation
PARTNERS in Architecture has dedicated over two decades to transforming public spaces and infrastructure across Michigan. Our approach begins with immersive discovery, ensuring every design reflects the unique culture, values, and vision of the communities we serve. With a team of 40 professionals, including 15 licensed architects, we combine technical precision with strategic thinking to deliver spaces that balance immediate needs with long-term impact. Our process emphasizes collaboration, starting with active listening to understand client aspirations and challenges. We specialize in education, government, and public safety projects, maintaining a 20-year track record of completing projects on time and within budget.Our commitment to sustainable design and community enrichment drives every decision, from material selection to spatial planning. As a firm founded in 2005 by David W. Gassen and Michael A. Malone, we uphold principles of accountability, transparency, and technical excellence. Our work has impacted hundreds of communities, with a focus on creating environments that inspire learning and strengthen public service. We maintain rigorous quality control systems and prioritize principal involvement throughout every project phase. This dedication to partnership and precision has earned us repeat clients and industry recognition.
Services
Architectural Services
Engineering Services
Specialty Services
Facility Programming
Construction Documentation
Interior Architecture
Landscape Architecture
Security Planning
3D Computer Modeling
Site Master Planning
Details
- Year established: 2005
Highlights and features
- We maintain a 20-year track record of completing 1,300+ public projects on time and within budget
- Our team includes 15 licensed architects, one of the highest ratios in the industry
- We implement comprehensive in-house quality control systems for technical precision
- Our principals remain directly involved throughout every project phase
- We specialize in sustainable design solutions tailored to public sector requirements
What people say
Genuine collaboration
Great-looking building
Lasting impact
Technical precision
Community-focused design
Services
Architectural Services
Our architectural team delivers comprehensive solutions for public spaces, from initial programming to construction documentation. We specialize in education facilities and civic buildings, ensuring designs balance aesthetic appeal with functional requirements. Our process incorporates sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems while maintaining strict budget controls.
Engineering Services
Through trusted partners, we provide civil, structural, mechanical, and electrical engineering for public infrastructure. Our integrated approach ensures all systems work cohesively while meeting code requirements. We emphasize life-cycle costing and maintenance efficiency for long-term value.
Specialty Services
We offer facility assessments, master planning, and security consulting tailored to public sector needs. Our 3D modeling capabilities enhance stakeholder understanding, while zoning expertise streamlines approval processes. These services complement our core architectural offerings for complete project support.
Facility Condition Assessments
Our team conducts thorough evaluations of existing structures to identify maintenance needs and prioritize improvements. We provide detailed cost projections and strategic recommendations to guide capital planning decisions for public facilities.
Landscape Architecture
We create functional outdoor spaces that enhance building environments while promoting sustainability. Our designs integrate native plantings, efficient irrigation systems, and accessible pathways to create cohesive campus environments that serve community needs.
People
David W. Gassen
Founder & Principal
With 30+ years of experience, David established PARTNERS in 2005 to create meaningful public architecture. He oversees project design and maintains active licensure to ensure technical excellence across all projects.
Michael A. Malone
Founder & Principal
Michael brings decades of public sector experience to our firm, focusing on client relationships and project execution. He ensures our work maintains the highest standards of design integrity and community impact.
Questions
What types of projects does PARTNERS in Architecture specialize in?
We focus on public architecture for education facilities, government buildings, and public safety infrastructure across Michigan.
How does your design process ensure community needs are met?
Our process begins with immersive discovery sessions to understand stakeholder needs, followed by collaborative design development and technical implementation.
What sets your firm apart from other architectural practices?
We combine a high ratio of licensed architects with principal-led project management and comprehensive in-house quality control systems.
Do you work with clients outside Michigan?
While headquartered in Michigan, we maintain strategic partnerships to deliver projects across the Midwest region.
How do you handle complex public sector projects?
Our team has specialized experience with public bidding processes, regulatory compliance, and phased construction for occupied facilities.
Can you assist with historic building renovations?
Yes, we have extensive experience preserving historic structures while integrating modern functionality and code compliance.
