Tom Chidlow serves as Managing Principal and Pittsburgh Studio Lead for DesignGroup. Here, he reflects on the people and projects that have made the office so successful as the firm enters its 10th year of practice in the City of Pittsburgh. Underlying it all: a client base we are honored to serve.
When DesignGroup opened its Pittsburgh office in 2017, we sought to bring to this market our trademark human-centered design, unwavering dedication to client service, and collaborative processes that elevate outcomes. Our goal was to earn trust through responsiveness and partnership, to solve complex challenges with clarity and creativity, create meaningful and lasting relationships, and to deliver architecture that makes a measurable impact on the communities we serve.
As we enter our 10th year of practice, I’m pleased to say we achieved all that and more. In thoughtful collaboration with hospital and clinical leadership, our team has led design efforts for transformative projects that bring the best in healthcare to our communities. We’ve been privileged to engage with some of the region’s most trusted institutions, including Allegheny Health Network, Cleveland Clinic, UPMC, Indiana Regional Health System, and Trinity Health System. And we’ve continued to grow strong relationships with long-standing clients, including Washington Hospital, Butler Memorial Hospital, and St. Clair Health.
Standout projects have included the AHN Allegheny General Hospital Emergency Department Expansion and the Trinity Health Ann Arbor Emergency Department Expansion, along with partnering in the creation of new healing Centers of Excellence at the AHN Neuroscience Institute at Allegheny General Hospital and Imaging Institutes at both AHN West Penn and AHN Jefferson Hospitals.
In addition, thanks to the leadership of Principal Alan Schlossberg, Associate Principal John Ryan, and their talented team, we’ve expanded our services to new market sectors, including education, corporate, and mixed-use design. Working with the University of Pittsburgh, Faros Properties, and Pressley Ridge Day School, we led design projects including:
- The University of Pittsburgh Forbes Residence Hall
- Duquesne Light headquarters relocation to Nova Place
- Eos Energy new corporate headquarters
- The new Pressley Ridge Day School
None of this would have been possible without our incredible team, whose dedication to DesignGroup’s core values—Design That Elevates, Relationships That Inspire, and Results That Impact—has driven every success. Three priorities have made our studio what it is today:
1. Passion for Design and Collaboration
Great architecture is achieved through strong partnerships, and we work closely with our design and build partners to deliver projects that inspire and endure. Every member of our team is committed to creating spaces that reflect our clients’ vision while upholding the highest standards of creativity and quality. We take field trips to other markets to study great buildings and are active in local architecture associations and boards. There's no question this curiosity and continuous improvement strengthen the work we do for our clients.
2. Growth and Development Through Mentorship
The growth and development of our team is a cornerstone of our culture. Senior team members devote time to mentorship, guiding emerging professionals as they advance in their careers and contribute to our profession. This commitment is complemented by the enthusiasm of our Emerging Professionals, who bring fresh perspectives and energy to every project. Together, we foster an environment of support, encouragement, and shared joy in the work we do, ensuring that every individual feels empowered to succeed. DesignGroup is proud to have consistently earned the EPiC Firm Recognition from AIA Pennsylvania, a testament to our unwavering support for young professionals. No question, in the next generation of architects strengthens not only our firm but the entire profession.
3. Commitment to Community and Non-Profit Support
The core of our mission is a dedication to the communities we serve. There is no greater service we can provide than supporting those who do so much for people in need. DesignGroup is proud to champion non-profit organizations that make a meaningful impact, including Light of Life Rescue Mission, Foster Love Project, and the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy. Through these partnerships, we strive to extend our values beyond design—building stronger, more compassionate communities for all.
Looking Ahead
As we enter our 10th year in Pittsburgh, we’re thankful for the industry partnerships we’ve built and are eager to continue serving our clients as they navigate the ever-evolving business landscape. Thank you to our clients, partners, and community leaders for the trust in our team and allowing us to join in this shared commitment to inspiring design and meaningful relationships. In helping our clients achieve their goals, they've helped elevate our own expertise through their insights, expertise, and collaboration. We're even better having worked with them over the years.
