Business Details
39 Years
experience
Your Trusted Architectural Partner Since 1987
Founded in 1987, Adams Group Architects has established itself as a nationally recognized multidisciplinary firm specializing in architecture, landscape architecture, and participatory design. Our unique approach integrates behavioral research and client collaboration throughout every project phase, ensuring spaces reflect both functional requirements and emotional needs. With accolades from the AIA of North Carolina and the US Department of Education, we combine 34 years of experience with innovative methodologies to create adaptable, sustainable environments.Our team of certified professionals prioritizes transparency, sustainability, and client partnership, delivering projects that align with community values and ecological responsibility. We maintain long-term client relationships through a commitment to quality, communication, and service excellence.
Services
Architectural Programming
Landscape Architecture
Interior Design
Construction Administration
Sustainable Design
Master Planning
Facility Assessment
Design Charrettes
Pre-Design Services
Details
- Year established: 1987
Highlights and features
- We offer 34 years of nationally recognized architectural expertise
- Our patented participatory design process involves stakeholders at every stage
- We guarantee LEED-certified sustainable design solutions
- Our multidisciplinary team includes AIA award-winning architects
- We provide full-service project management from concept to construction
Associations and certifications
- AIA of North Carolina
- US Department of Education
Services
Architectural Programming
Our architectural programming service develops comprehensive spatial requirements through stakeholder interviews and behavioral research. We analyze functional needs, regulatory requirements, and sustainability goals to create detailed project frameworks. This foundational work ensures optimal space utilization while maintaining flexibility for future adaptations.
Landscape Architecture
We create integrated outdoor environments that harmonize with architectural elements and natural contexts. Our landscape architecture incorporates sustainable materials, native vegetation, and accessibility features. Each design responds to site-specific conditions while enhancing overall project functionality and aesthetic coherence.
Sustainable Design
Our LEED-certified team implements energy-efficient systems and eco-friendly materials throughout the design process. We prioritize passive solar strategies, water conservation techniques, and locally sourced materials. This approach reduces environmental impact while creating healthier spaces for occupants and communities.
Construction Administration
We provide comprehensive construction phase services including contract administration, quality control, and budget management. Our team coordinates with contractors to ensure design intent is maintained while addressing field conditions. Regular site visits and documentation reviews guarantee successful project delivery.
Design Charrettes
Our participatory design workshops engage stakeholders in creative problem-solving sessions. Through interactive exercises and visual tools, participants contribute to shaping project outcomes. These charrettes foster consensus, identify priorities, and generate innovative solutions that reflect community needs.
People
Graham Adams
Principal Architect
With 40+ years of experience, Graham holds dual expertise in architecture and landscape architecture. A graduate of NC State University, he pioneered participatory design methods and co-founded EDRA. His award-winning work focuses on stakeholder-driven institutional projects.
Melissa Rusch-Tidwell
Partner
Melissa coordinates client engagement and interior design, facilitating participatory processes since 1997. She manages project programming, schematic design, and finish selection, ensuring seamless integration of client input throughout the design phases.
Rodney Dunham
Director of Construction Administration
A NC A&T graduate, Rodney oversees technical compliance and code requirements. He manages construction documentation, specification development, and quality control, serving as primary liaison during project execution while maintaining design integrity.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer?
We provide full-service architecture including programming, design, construction documentation, and administration. Specialties include educational facilities, sustainable design, and participatory planning processes.
How does your participatory design process work?
Our stakeholder workshops, interviews, and charrettes gather input from all affected parties. This collaborative approach shapes design decisions through consensus-building while maintaining technical excellence.
Are you experienced with sustainable design?
Yes, sustainability is core to our practice. Our team implements LEED-certified strategies, passive solar design, and eco-material selection to create environmentally responsible buildings.
Do you handle large-scale projects?
We've completed projects exceeding 200,000 SF including campus master plans and high school renovations. Our process scales effectively for complex, multi-phase developments.
How do you ensure project budgets are maintained?
Through rigorous cost analysis during design phases and value engineering when needed. Our construction administration team monitors expenditures and change orders throughout project execution.
