Business Details
32 Years
experience
Your Trusted Architectural Partner in Chelsea, MI
Founded in 1994, Dangerous Architects has established itself as a leader in innovative architectural solutions for commercial, institutional, and residential projects. Our hands-on leadership approach ensures meticulous attention to detail from conceptualization through construction, maintaining the integrity of design vision throughout the process. We prioritize sustainable design practices, integrating energy-efficient siting, renewable heating/cooling systems, and sustainable materials to deliver cost-effective, environmentally responsible solutions. Collaborating with a network of specialized engineers, we provide comprehensive architectural and engineering services for projects up to $10 million. Our deep-rooted commitment to community is reflected in our work across Chelsea, Washtenaw County, and Michigan, where we create spaces that foster belonging and enhance the built environment.With decades of collective experience, our team combines technical expertise and creative vision to transform client aspirations into tangible reality. We emphasize transparency, client collaboration, and technical excellence in every project, ensuring functional and aesthetically impactful outcomes. Our process-driven methodology, from initial site assessments to construction oversight, guarantees precision and client satisfaction. Recognized for our boundary-pushing designs and dedication to sustainable innovation, we maintain a reputation for reliability and architectural excellence. This combination of experience, technical proficiency, and community focus positions us as trusted partners in architectural innovation.
Services
Building Design
Adaptive Reuse
Historic Restoration
Interior Architecture
Site Design
Details
- Year established: 1994
Highlights and features
- We provide hands-on architectural leadership from concept to construction.
- Our team collaborates with specialized engineers for comprehensive project solutions.
- We prioritize sustainable design with proven energy-saving strategies.
- Our 30-year track record demonstrates consistent project delivery excellence.
- We create community-focused designs tailored to local neighborhoods and environments.
Services
Building Design
Our building design service creates functional, aesthetically striking structures tailored to client needs. We integrate site-specific considerations and budget parameters while maintaining rigorous technical standards. Our process ensures seamless transition from conceptual sketches to completed construction.
Historic Restoration
Specialized historic restoration preserves architectural heritage through detailed documentation and period-appropriate materials. We conduct thorough assessments and develop restoration plans that maintain historical integrity while meeting modern functionality requirements.
Sustainable Design
Sustainable design solutions optimize energy efficiency and environmental responsibility. We implement strategic siting, renewable energy systems, and sustainable materials to reduce ecological impact while maintaining cost-effectiveness over the building's lifecycle.
Site Design
Comprehensive site design balances functionality with environmental stewardship. Our approach considers circulation patterns, landscape integration, zoning regulations, and utility infrastructure to create cohesive, efficient site layouts.
Interior Architecture
Interior architecture services focus on optimizing spatial functionality and aesthetic coherence. We develop detailed finish selections, environmental graphics, and customized material palettes that align with overall architectural vision.
People
Scott McElrath
Founder & Architect
With over 30 years of experience, Scott McElrath founded Dangerous Architects in 1994 after studying at Ohio State University and University of Michigan. He oversees all projects with a hands-on approach, ensuring technical precision and creative integrity.
Jake Nader
Architectural Designer
Jake Nader graduated from University of Michigan with a Bachelor of Science in Architecture. He focuses on detailed design elements and pursues architectural licensure while contributing to the firm's innovative projects.
Kendra Mosley
Architectural Designer
Kendra Mosley, a 2024 Ohio State University graduate, brings fresh perspective to client vision realization. She actively works toward architectural licensure and specializes in translating conceptual ideas into practical designs.
Wengian Mac
Architectural Designer
Wengian Mac holds a Bachelor of Science in Architecture from University of Michigan and pursues a Master's degree. They combine artistic vision with technical expertise to create functional, aesthetically compelling spaces.
Questions
What architectural services does Dangerous Architects offer?
We provide comprehensive services including building design, historic restoration, sustainable architecture, site planning, and interior architecture for commercial, residential, and institutional projects.
What project sizes do you handle?
We specialize in small-to-medium scale projects up to $10 million, offering tailored solutions that maintain design integrity and technical excellence across all project sizes.
How do you incorporate sustainable design practices?
Our sustainable approach includes strategic building orientation, energy-efficient systems, renewable materials, and landscaping solutions that reduce environmental impact while maintaining cost-effectiveness over time.
Do you work on historic preservation projects?
Yes, we offer historic restoration services including detailed assessments, preservation planning, and period-appropriate material selection to maintain architectural heritage while meeting modern requirements.
What areas do you serve?
While based in Chelsea, Michigan, we serve clients throughout Washtenaw County and across the state, creating community-focused designs that reflect local character and needs.
