Business Details
Trusted Commercial Architects in Tucson, AZ
Highton Company is a distinguished architectural firm specializing in healthcare and commercial design with over two decades of expertise. Our principals bring extensive experience in creating functional, sustainable spaces that prioritize patient-centered care and operational efficiency. We emphasize active client collaboration, ensuring designs align with end-user needs while anticipating future regulatory and technological changes. Our services span from initial programming to construction completion, supported by LEED-certified practices and a commitment to delivering projects on time and within budget. With a proven track record in hospital master planning, medical office buildings, and specialized facilities, we combine technical precision with creative problem-solving.Our team maintains direct involvement throughout every project phase, fostering trust through transparency and accountability. Recognized by industry leaders and healthcare institutions, we consistently exceed client expectations through innovative, code-compliant solutions. Our dual focus on architectural excellence and client partnership has solidified our reputation as a leader in Arizona's healthcare design sector. We remain dedicated to advancing sustainable practices while maintaining flexibility to adapt to evolving client needs. This approach ensures our designs not only meet current demands but also provide long-term value through durability and energy efficiency.
Services
Commercial Architectural Design
Healthcare Facility Planning
Medical Office Buildings
Hospital Master Planning
Sustainable Design Solutions
Construction Management
Code Compliance Studies
Interior Design Services
Facility Feasibility Analysis
Post-Occupancy Evaluations
Highlights and features
- 20+ years specializing in healthcare facility design
- LEED-certified sustainable building expertise
- Direct principal involvement from start to finish
- Proven track record with Arizona healthcare institutions
- Client-focused approach balancing functionality and aesthetics
Associations and certifications
- LEED AP
What people say
Highest caliber service
Stellar professionalism
Exceeded expectations
Exceptional responsiveness
Quality designs
Services
Healthcare Facility Design
Specialized architectural solutions for healthcare environments including hospitals, urgent care centers, and diagnostic facilities. Our designs prioritize patient comfort, operational efficiency, and regulatory compliance while incorporating advanced medical technology. With over two decades of experience, we create healing spaces that balance functionality with aesthetic appeal.
Commercial Building Planning
Comprehensive planning services for commercial office buildings and professional workspaces. We focus on optimizing space utilization while maintaining code compliance and accessibility standards. Our approach integrates sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems to create productive environments for businesses and their clients.
Sustainable Design Solutions
LEED-certified architectural services emphasizing energy efficiency and environmental responsibility. We incorporate renewable materials, passive solar design, and advanced HVAC systems to minimize environmental impact while reducing long-term operational costs for healthcare and commercial clients.
Construction Management
End-to-end construction management services ensuring projects stay on schedule and within budget. Our principals maintain direct involvement throughout the building process, coordinating with contractors and monitoring quality control to deliver completed facilities that match original design specifications.
Facility Feasibility Studies
Comprehensive evaluations of building sites and existing structures for potential development. We assess zoning regulations, structural integrity, and code compliance while providing cost-benefit analyses to help clients make informed decisions about facility expansions or renovations.
People
Julie Highton-Snedeker
Principal Architect
Registered architect with 25+ years specializing in healthcare design. Graduated from University of Arizona with Bachelor of Architecture in 1990. Focuses on patient-centered spaces and regulatory compliance.
Gary Highton
Principal Architect & CPA
Dual-qualified architect and certified public accountant. Joined firm in 2012 after 10 years in accounting. Specializes in project management and budget control for complex healthcare facilities.
Questions
What healthcare facility types do you specialize in?
We design hospitals, urgent care centers, medical offices, and specialized diagnostic facilities with patient-centered approaches.
How do you ensure projects stay on budget?
Our principals maintain direct oversight using value engineering techniques and regular cost tracking throughout construction phases.
Do you handle both new construction and renovations?
Yes, we specialize in both ground-up projects and renovations of existing healthcare facilities to meet modern standards.
What sustainable design features do you incorporate?
We use energy-efficient systems, renewable materials, and passive solar design principles in all LEED-certified projects.
How long does a typical project take?
Project timelines vary by scope but average 12-18 months from design through completion for mid-sized healthcare facilities.
