Mixed-use projects, urban or suburban, can be smarter and more beautiful. Often inspired by a single major anchor, our buildings and planning options balance scale, efficiency, and futureproofing. And they’re designed for profitability – whether the project is for businesses, residents, or a dynamic combination of both.
Repurposing existing buildings.
Office-to-residential conversion shows remarkable promise for bringing energy and purpose to under-performing properties. But getting it right requires a balance of design and practicality. We help developers explore and understand their options so they feel fully confident in their investment.
Michael B. Coleman Government Center Received LEED Silver Certification
Award
Governor’s Award for Excellence in Energy Efficiency
6,700+
parking spaces designed
Experienced at every scale and project type.
The complexity of commercial programs requires a seasoned design partner. From repurposing of an existing space to the creation of a new build, DesignGroup provides guidance, expertise, and creativity at every phase. Partnering with developers is second nature for our teams.
We see great potential for conversion of under-occupied office buildings into other uses – but also many considerations. Learn more in a DesignGroup special report that explores the challenges and possibilities.
While it’s important to align on goals, vision, and timing, fit is equally critical.
It’s the reassurance of partnering with professionals you know and trust. We work hard to create close working relationships that honor and build on the developer’s own culture. You will feel it from our first visioning meeting to the ribbon cutting when your project is complete.
Inspiring
design that wins awards and attracts tenants.
Inclusive
of all vested parties: developers, partners, cities, leasing agents, and partners.
Comprehensive
design service, from exterior and entrance to interior floor plans, furniture, material, and color selection.
Innovative
solutions for new and repurposed buildings that maximize space and anticipate future needs.
Meet the Commercial team.
DesignGroup architects ask good questions, listen intently, and build strong collaborative relationships. It’s the key to understanding the mission and vision of your workplace, today and into the future.
DesignGroup runs like a well-oiled machine. They are layers deep in talent and professionalism, consistently meeting schedule deadlines and budget expectations.
Cindy Tyler
Principal, Terra Design Studios
“”
We had a total blast teaming with DesignGroup for our project! Team chemistry was seamless and it felt like everyone was an extension of our firm. They did an incredible job of representing our unique culture in our new space through their hands-on design process and flexibility. We couldn't be happier with the outcome!
Joelle Brock
President and CEO, Leading Edje
Take Your Next Step Here
Let’s Discuss Your Needs
Mixed-use development demands a design partner that speaks your language and understands the mast plan. We’ll study your strategic planning, functional needs, and profit goals so everything goes as anticipated. It all begins with a conversation. We’re eager to explore what’s possible.
Next-generation innovations are essential to a healthier, safer, and more informed future. Cutting-edge work in commercial and university labs demands equally sophisticated surroundings. DesignGroup understands how architecture can meet and enhance the unique needs and demands of these working environments.
Active where discoveries happen.
Healthcare researchers around the Midwest do breakthrough work in spaces envisioned by DesignGroup. We’ve served biomedical, diagnostic, and translational research clients, and as the field evolves we’re positioned to meet new opportunities in biotech, pharma, manufacturing, and beyond. We understand what leaders and bench researchers need to push us all forward.
We understand how labs and technical spaces work because we’ve talked to the people who use them every day. Their insights allow us to design for their needs now and in the future.
Building a project with pre-manufactured components can save time, labor, and material. Here’s a look at why it has endured for longer than you may realize – and why it might or might not be right for your next project.
Commercialization is blending universities and industry in bold new ways. Our work is designed to optimize these partnerships in high-performing environments. We work with everyone in your world, from planning committees to contractors, to ensure a smooth experience, often under exacting budgets and timelines.
Recognized
nationally as a leader in education planning and design.
Proven
through hundreds of successful projects.
Respectful
of the tight timelines needed to serve research.
Responsible
in our adherence to budgets.
Meet the science and technology team.
DesignGroup architects and interior designers ask good questions, listen intently, and build strong collaborative relationships. It’s the key to understanding your mission and vision, today and into the future.
DesignGroup’s process of collaboration and visual brainstorming was extremely helpful for those in medical service and management roles.
Garth Dahdah
Director of Sports Medicine Physician Practices and Ambulatory Facility Operations, Ohio State Sports Medicine
Take Your Next Step Here
Let’s Discuss Your Needs
Research and technology spaces must meet today’s need and anticipate those of the future. We’re eager to work with your planning team to understand what you need and how we can help.
Exceptional design contributes to the fabric of any community.
Civic and cultural buildings serve as essential touchstones in their communities. They foster engagement, learning, and inspiration. At their best, these buildings provide fertile ground for what matters most: strengthening relationships within the community. These are places where people should feel welcome, comfortable, and valued.
Committed to good stewardship.
Having designed dozens of major civic destinations, from courthouses to museums, we understand the need for responsible management and transparency through every phase of the project. Bringing your vision to life requires a deft combination of leadership, partnership, and creativity. From planning and community engagement, to stunning design that will engage visitors for decades, DesignGroup will help you succeed.
libraries and community centers planned and designed
2022
Voices of Design Inaugural Architecture Award
Gold
Grange Insurance Audubon Center Received LEED Gold Certification
2019
Harrison Smith Award | Columbus Downtown Commission
Experienced at every scale.
The unique complexity of these engagements requires an experienced design partner. From smaller-size cultural destinations to civic centers that occupy a city block or more, DesignGroup provides award-winning guidance at every phase of engagement.
DesignGroup’s design philosophy expresses how we work and think. Inside our firm, it’s 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. Here’s a closer look at how we define what we do every day.
The spaces we design strengthen connection and engagement.
Whether we’re serving a city, an arts organization, or a philanthropy, our work embodies the client’s mission and identity in a way that encourages participation. We understand all it takes to bring your vision to life.
Responsible
stewardship of public funds.
Inclusive
of all community input and points of view.
Transparent
in our approach to scope, budgeting, and partnership.
Respected
nationally as a leader in library vision and execution.
Meet the Community team.
DesignGroup is brought into these projects not just for award-winning design, but for our understanding of how these complex programs come together — from public partnerships to uniquely demanding code and safety requirements. It pays to have that kind of experience on your side. We’ll be in it together from the very start.
We’re honored to have partnered with DesignGroup on both long-term master planning and on a wide range of key construction projects. We fully endorse their quality of work and client-focused approach, and regard them as true partners.
Garry Clarke
Vice President of Planning, Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
“”
Working with you and your team was always collaborative. You listened well, were open to my ideas, and allowed me to engage in the design process.
Hon. Michael B. Coleman
Mayor, Columbus, Ohio
“”
DesignGroup’s thoughtfulness, beautiful work, expertise, and genuine partnership was remarkable. They shared our passion and desire to improve the lives of those in our community. We felt this throughout the design process. We could not have asked for a better firm and partner.
Duane Casares
CEO, Directions for Youth & Families
Take Your Next Step Here
Let’s Discuss Your Needs
There is nothing more exciting than bringing a new cultural or civic gem to a community. We can’t wait to hear about your vision and understand what you need. We can even advise you on your next steps – and it may not be architecture (yet). Above all else, we want to build a trusting relationship. It’s the key to a great outcome at any scale.
Trusted Advisors to the Most Ambitious Medical Institutions in the Country.
DesignGroup offers a long-established specialization in healthcare design, rooted in research, innovation, and empathy for the experiences of patients, families, and staff. Our expertise draws on decades of experience, led by a team of board-certified industry specialists.
Innovative Healthcare Design for a Changing Industry.
Design plays a crucial role in enhancing the healthcare user experience and supporting better outcomes. Not just for patients, but all users. Those who heal people in need. The loved ones who visit them. And the myriad others who play a role in these complex ecosystems so vital to their communities. We’re relentlessly focused on innovations that improve every facility we touch, from expansions to new builds.
Outstanding Design, Educational Interiors Showcase | American School and University
75%
of firm’s volume is through our dedicated Healthcare Studio
Proven Expertise
As an active member of The Advisory Board, DesignGroup is deeply involved in the research and documentation of inpatient and outpatient healthcare facility design. Our peers and client systems alike benefit from this level of industry engagement. We bring this knowledge to every project.
We elevate patient and caregiver experiences at every level.
The result: innovative, award-winning facilities that are aligned with client budgets and benchmarks. From major health systems to community hospitals, we’re considered trusted advisors.
Innovative
in our pursuit of improving healthcare experiences.
Trusted
by professional peers and industry leaders.
Accountable
in our commitment to achieving results.
Attuned
to the unique needs of patients and staff alike.
Meet the DesignGroup Healthcare Team
Our board-certified architects are national leaders, recognized for their expertise and commitment to better, more sustainable healthcare facility planning and development. Discover the difference decades of experience makes in your next project.
DesignGroup’s expertise helped position us for success in meeting the changing needs in healthcare, as we move from volume to value. The new building has been extremely well received.
Brad Peffley
Vice President, OhioHealth Mansfield and Shelby Hospitals
Take Your Next Step Here
Let’s Discuss Your Needs
Evolving your existing inpatient or outpatient facility, or envisioning a new one from scratch, begins with a conversation. We are here to help.
Funding realities, changing enrollment, and evolving student (and parent) expectations put more pressure on facilities to anticipate and respond. DesignGroup understands these variables. We create learning environments that seamlessly integrate people, spaces, and technology into compelling experiences. For students and staff alike, from day one to graduation.
Make the Most of Your Investment
Building new or improved educational facilities requires planning, partnership, and clear communication to a range of stakeholders. Our decision-making tools provide clarity and insight; thoughtful planning and design anticipate your needs for decades to come.
Special Citation for Interior Renovation, American School & University
Enhancing learning at every level.
Health science programs. K-12 schools. Residence halls. Community colleges. There is no aspect of educational architecture that DesignGroup hasn’t studied, planned, designed, or built – from early childhood to adult education. It’s one of the broadest categories we serve, and with nearly 40 million square feet of facilities planned or developed, a true center of expertise.
Buildings and campuses may change over time, but memories from within them will always endure. DesignGroup’s John Ryan reflects on the emotional lives of buildings, a melody that continues over time.
From reuse of aging facilities to expansion of new ones, our MedEd leaders discuss the trends that will affect design in this space for decades to come.
Students. Faculty. Administration. Staff. Four unique audiences, each vital to your mission.
DesignGroup helps optimize experiences in high-performing environments. Our leaders have made us a trusted voice in the national conversation around educational building practices that balance design and functionality with a strict adherence to budgets and timelines. We’re committed to architecture that delivers relevance, flexibility, and inspiring design that lasts for decades.
Recognized
nationally as a leader in education planning and design.
Proven
through hundreds of successful projects.
Respectful
of the tight timelines needed to serve students.
Responsible
in adherence to budgets and timelines.
Meet the DesignGroup education team.
DesignGroup architects and interior designers ask good questions, listen intently, and build strong collaborative relationships. It’s the key to understanding your mission and vision, today and into the future.
DesignGroup is an invaluable asset, bringing a fresh perspective, highly collaborative process, and a commitment to creating spaces that inspire and enrich your environment. The positive feedback we’ve received from our clients, stakeholders, and visitors is a testament to the excellence that they bring to every project.
Lauren McConnell
University Planner, NCIDQ, University of Pittsburgh
Take Your Next Step Here
Let’s Discuss Your Needs
You may be able to do more than you realize with an existing academic building. Or you may find a new build better future-proofs your institution for changing student needs. We know these are major decisions. We’re eager to learn what you need, and how we can help.
Marissa Andrews completed grad school during the pandemic and launched her career virtually. Today she’s fully immersed in DG’s culture. She shares her journey from isolated student to deeply involved professional working on some of our largest healthcare projects.
Architecture can help healthcare facilities reduce their climate impact and improve public health even more. Here’s why it’s so important, and steps to help make it happen.
In the evolving landscape of higher education, student housing is no longer viewed merely as a place to sleep and store belongings. Increasingly, it is recognized as a critical factor in promoting student mental health and well-being.
Buildings and campuses may change over time, but memories from within them will always endure. DesignGroup’s John Ryan reflects on the emotional lives of buildings, a melody that continues over time.
Building a project with pre-manufactured components can save time, labor, and material. Here’s a look at why it has endured for longer than you may realize – and why it might or might not be right for your next project.
Building a project with pre-manufactured components can save time, labor, and material. Here’s a look at why it has endured for longer than you may realize – and why it might or might not be right for your next project.
We see great potential for conversion of under-occupied office buildings into other uses – but also many considerations. Learn more in a DesignGroup special report that explores the challenges and possibilities.
DesignGroup’s design philosophy expresses how we work and think. Inside our firm, it’s 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. Here’s a closer look at how we define what we do every day.
How do you elevate a local hospital without losing its special connection to the community? By listening to, and communicating with, community stakeholders.
Building a project with pre-manufactured components can save time, labor, and material. Here’s a look at why it has endured for longer than you may realize – and why it might or might not be right for your next project.
Building a project with pre-manufactured components can save time, labor, and material. Here’s a look at why it has endured for longer than you may realize – and why it might or might not be right for your next project.
DesignGroup’s design philosophy expresses how we work and think. Inside our firm, it’s 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. Here’s a closer look at how we define what we do every day.
One of the reasons I love the practice of architecture is that every project is unique and different, which is especially true in renovation projects. They are all affected by being mindful of the past, relevant to the present, and focused on the future.
We found an extraordinary partner in DesignGroup. At every point in the creative process, they encouraged us to assess and define our hopes and dreams so they could create a design to fulfill them.
Nannette V. Maciejunes
Executive Director, Columbus Museum of Art
“”
Our goal was to have a world-class facility, and we are very proud of the final outcome. DesignGroup was an instrumental partner in helping us meet our needs.
Garth Dahdah
Director of Sports Medicine Physician Practices and Ambulatory Facility Operations, Ohio State Sports Medicine
“”
DesignGroup’s commitment to our project and their ability to become part of the team, and intuitively understand what we were doing, is hands-down the reason we love working with them.
