Business Details
42 Years
experience
Expert Architectural Design & Historic Preservation in Galveston
Founded in 1984, Michael Gaertner Architects has established itself as a leader in architectural design, historic preservation, and project management. Our firm specializes in complex projects requiring expertise in historic rehabilitation, fast-track construction, and master planning. With nearly $200 million in historic development completed, we bring deep technical knowledge and creative problem-solving to every project. Our services span residential, commercial, and hospitality sectors, emphasizing client collaboration and tailored solutions. We manage projects from site acquisition to final occupancy, ensuring rigorous cost control, scheduling, and quality assurance.Our teams expertise in federal tax credits for historic projects adds unique value for clients seeking preservation incentives. Based in Galveston, Texas, we serve local and regional clients with a focus on cultural and historical context. Our work includes iconic projects like the E.S. Levy building rehabilitation and the Hotel Galvez facade renovation. Committed to excellence, we integrate architectural design with interior planning to create functional, aesthetically cohesive spaces. Licensed in Texas and Colorado, we uphold the highest professional standards in every endeavor.
Services
Architectural Design
Project Management
Historic Restoration
Interior Design
Commercial Projects
Residential Projects
Preservation Consulting
Construction Administration
Master Planning
Tax Credit Consulting
Details
- Year established: 1984
Highlights and features
- We have over 40 years of experience in architectural design and historic rehabilitation.
- Our team specializes in complex projects requiring federal tax credit expertise.
- We provide comprehensive project management from site acquisition to occupancy.
- Our work combines architectural innovation with deep historical context knowledge.
- We maintain rigorous cost control and scheduling standards for all developments.
Associations and certifications
- Texas Board of Architectural Examiners
Services
Architectural Design
We create custom architectural designs for residential and commercial projects, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal. Our team prioritizes client needs while adhering to structural and regulatory standards. From concept to construction, we deliver innovative solutions tailored to unique site conditions and historical contexts.
Historic Restoration
Specializing in historic rehabilitation, we restore culturally significant buildings using period-accurate materials and techniques. Our expertise includes navigating federal tax credit programs to offset project costs. Recent projects include the Hotel Galvez facade renovation and the E.S. Levy artist live-work space conversion.
Project Management
We manage all phases of construction projects, from initial planning to final occupancy. Our services include budgeting, scheduling, quality control, and contractor coordination. This ensures timely delivery within financial constraints while maintaining design integrity and client objectives.
Interior Design
Our interior design services integrate architectural elements with ergonomic and aesthetic considerations. We optimize spatial layouts for residential and commercial environments, focusing on color psychology, lighting, and user experience to create functional, inviting spaces aligned with client preferences.
Commercial Projects
We design and manage commercial developments including hotels, offices, and retail spaces. Our approach balances brand identity with practical functionality, ensuring spaces meet operational needs while creating memorable customer experiences through thoughtful architectural detailing.
People
Michael D. Gaertner, Sr.
Founder / Architect
Licensed in Texas and Colorado, Michael founded the firm in 1984 after graduating in 1977. He specializes in historic preservation and complex construction projects, overseeing $200M+ in developments. His expertise includes federal tax credit programs and project management for challenging sites.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialize in?
We specialize in historic preservation, residential/commercial design, project management, and tax credit consulting for rehabilitation projects.
How long has your firm been in business?
Michael Gaertner Architects has served Galveston and surrounding areas since 1984, with over 40 years of combined experience.
Can you assist with federal historic tax credits?
Yes, we guide clients through the 20% federal investment tax credit process for certified historic rehabilitation projects.
What project management services do you offer?
We provide full-cycle management including budgeting, scheduling, contractor coordination, and quality control from site acquisition to occupancy.
Do you work on residential and commercial projects?
Yes, we handle both sectors, from luxury homes to hotel renovations, tailoring solutions to each client's unique needs.
