Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Award-Winning Architecture & Design Solutions
Onyx Creative is a nationally recognized architecture, engineering, and interior design firm with a 50-year legacy of transforming spaces through innovative design solutions. Founded in 1974 as Herschman Architects, we evolved into a multidisciplinary practice integrating architecture, engineering, and design disciplines to deliver comprehensive project solutions. Our team of experienced architects, engineers, and designers combines cutting-edge technology with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring seamless project delivery from concept to completion. We specialize in creating immersive environments that elevate brands and enhance user experiences across commercial, retail, institutional, and residential sectors. With offices in Cleveland, Tucson, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Baltimore, and Portland, our firm maintains a client-centric approach while fostering a collaborative culture of creativity and technical excellence.Recognized with numerous industry awards, including top retail design firm accolades and Best Employer distinctions, we remain committed to advancing aspirational design principles. Our vertically integrated team ensures cohesive communication and coordination across mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and structural engineering disciplines. As a leader in sustainable and durable systems design, we prioritize environmental responsibility while meeting the evolving needs of modern spaces. Our dedication to professional growth, diversity, and community engagement underscores our mission to create meaningful, functional environments that stand the test of time.
Services
Architecture
Interior Design
Engineering
Architectural Visualization
Environmental Branding
Details
- Year established: 1974
Highlights and features
- We offer 50 years of architectural and engineering expertise across diverse sectors
- Our integrated design team ensures seamless coordination from concept to completion
- Recognized with multiple industry awards for design excellence and workplace culture
- We maintain flexible, employee-centric work environments with continuous professional development
- Our diverse workforce brings global perspectives to every project
Associations and certifications
- American Institute of Architects
- American Society of Interior Designers
- International Code Council
What people say
Award-winning design
Nationwide presence
50-year legacy
Integrated team
Sustainable solutions
Services
Architecture
Our architecture services encompass urban planning, site development, and building design using cutting-edge software. We create distinctive spaces that enhance brand identity through meticulous attention to detail and innovative solutions. Our team manages projects from initial concept to completion, ensuring functional, aesthetically compelling environments for commercial, institutional, and residential clients.
Interior Design
Integrated interior design services focus on creating healthy, functional environments through strategic space planning and material selection. We develop purpose-driven interiors that align with brand identity while prioritizing user experience. Our approach combines environmental branding with practical functionality across retail, office, and residential spaces.
Engineering
Our engineering division provides mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and structural solutions integrated with architectural design. This multidisciplinary approach ensures coordinated systems that prioritize durability and sustainability. Engineers collaborate from project inception to deliver efficient, code-compliant building systems tailored to each project's unique requirements.
Architectural Visualization
Advanced visualization services create realistic project representations throughout development stages. Using high-quality rendering technology, we help clients explore spatial relationships, material choices, and lighting effects. This service enables informed decision-making through evolving visual representations from concept to final construction.
Environmental Branding
Environmental branding services create cohesive brand experiences through spatial design elements. We develop purpose-driven identities that communicate brand values through architectural features, wayfinding systems, and interior elements. This service strengthens brand recognition while creating immersive, memorable environments for commercial and retail spaces.
People
Mike Crislip
President
With over 25 years of leadership experience, Mike Crislip guides Onyx Creative's strategic vision while maintaining active involvement in major architectural projects. He champions the firm's aspirational design philosophy and has overseen its transformation into a national multidisciplinary practice.
Carole Sanderson
CFO
Carole Sanderson brings extensive financial expertise to Onyx Creative, managing the firm's financial operations and growth strategy. With decades of experience in architectural finance, she ensures fiscal responsibility while supporting the firm's expansion and client-focused initiatives.
Dushan Bouchek
VP Operations
Dushan Bouchek oversees operational efficiency across Onyx Creative's multiple offices. With deep industry knowledge spanning 30+ years, he ensures seamless project delivery coordination and maintains the firm's high standards for client service and technical excellence.
Don Alexander
VP Architecture
Don Alexander leads architectural design teams with 25+ years of experience in commercial and institutional projects. He specializes in integrating technical precision with creative vision, ensuring each project meets functional requirements while achieving aesthetic excellence.
Jonathan Novak
VP Design
Jonathan Novak directs the firm's design department, focusing on innovative solutions that merge form and function. With expertise in retail and commercial environments, he drives the aspirational design approach that has earned Onyx Creative numerous industry accolades.
Questions
What architectural services does Onyx Creative offer?
We provide comprehensive architecture services including urban planning, site development, building design, and architectural visualization using advanced software tools.
How long has Onyx Creative been in business?
The firm was established in 1974 as Herschman Architects and rebranded as Onyx Creative in 2018 with 50 years of continuous operation.
What project types does Onyx Creative specialize in?
We specialize in commercial, retail, institutional, and residential projects including office spaces, shopping centers, restaurants, and multifamily residences.
Where are Onyx Creative's offices located?
We have offices in Cleveland (OH), Tucson (AZ), Los Angeles (CA), Atlanta (GA), Baltimore (MD), and Portland (ME).
What makes Onyx Creative different from other firms?
Our multidisciplinary integration of architecture, engineering, and design creates cohesive solutions, while our 50-year legacy combines experience with innovative aspirational design principles.
Does Onyx Creative offer engineering services?
Yes, we provide mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and structural engineering services integrated with architectural design for comprehensive project solutions.
