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Design Philosophy

Grounded in mission. Driven by impact.

People. Process. Proof.
DesignGroup’s design philosophy shapes how we work and think.

Inside our firm, DesignGroup’s philosophy is a foundational vision. Outside the firm, it’s a differentiating approach that puts our clients and their communities at the center of everything we do.

Design That Elevates

We strive to create desire for architecture, rather than taking the path of least resistance and conforming to commodity. It's what all customers desire from their architects and it is exactly what we demand of ourselves.

People in the main atrium of the Columbus Museum of Art during the day.

Relationships That Inspire

We serve our customers by first being inspired by them and their philosophies as an organization. Then we guide them along paths of discovery, asking challenging questions and questioning the results of those questions until we have discovered the essential truth of the project together. Most importantly, we always, always check our egos at the door.

Group of people standing and talking at the DesignGroup 50th anniversary event.

Results That Impact

We create successful architectural expressions, each with a clear sense of entry, cohesive logic, consistency of detail, and orderly progression of spaces. Our designs are pragmatic solutions that honestly respond to and enhance the unique qualities of the building's mission. They respond to a specific time and place. When this happens, experiences within are elevated and people and purpose flourish.

Outdoor play space with canopy jungle gym featuring rope bridge

A continual desire to put people and planet first.

A balance of people, planet, and profitability is vital to buildings that make a lower negative impact on the environment and a higher positive effect on the people who live, learn, work, and heal in them. DesignGroup has prioritized sustainable building practices and operations since the firm’s founding more than five decades ago. We lead not by saying, but by doing. Here’s how and why.

A Part of Our Mission and Vision

Ingrained in Our Culture

Sustainability is a priority in every project we’re a part of.

The Health of Occupants Matters

We design so people who use our buildings have better, healthier experiences.

A Priority From the Start

We discuss and explore sustainability options in every visioning session.

LEED, Of Course, But So Much More

It’s just one of many ideals we strive for, including WELL for healthy environments.

PPP: The Triple Bottom Line

Better health for people; less impact on the planet; more profit through better energy efficiency.

Value of the Natural World

Whenever possible, we minimize impact and use glass and natural light to bring the outdoors in.

The work we do makes a uniquely lasting impact on the communities our clients serve.

Every day, millions of students, patients, workers, professionals, and guests experience buildings and interiors we’ve designed. We’re proud to be entrusted to create spaces for them. It’s a responsibility we recognize and honor every day.

 

Take Your Next Step Here

This could be the start of something great. For your organization. Or your career.

We encourage you dive deeper into our thought leadership or contact us to start a discussion.