Business Details
33 Years
experience
Innovative Architecture & Design Solutions in Boston
MDS Architects is an architecture, planning, and interior design firm creating environments that drive change. Founded in 1993, we work with leading institutions, schools, public agencies, and developers, prioritizing proactive design that enriches user experiences. Our team includes LEED, WELL, and Passive House-accredited professionals, along with Specifications Writers and Certified Documents Technologists. We emphasize sustainable design, integrating BIM technology to ensure technical precision and long-term value. Our approach focuses on client collaboration, anticipating challenges, and delivering elegant solutions that foster innovation, learning, and wellness.As a Women Business Enterprise (WBE), we champion diversity and maintain a staff with expertise in evidence-based design and architectural technology. Our commitment to quality is reflected in projects spanning K-12 schools, workplaces, science facilities, and mixed-use developments. We prioritize user health, energy efficiency, and responsible material use, aligning with the Architecture 2030 Commitment and Living Product 50 initiatives. Our work is characterized by technical excellence, durability, and a dedication to creating spaces that support organizational missions and community needs.
Services
Architecture
Interior Design
Planning & Programming
Sustainable Design
Technology Integration
Details
- Year established: 1993
Highlights and features
- We offer proactive design solutions tailored to client missions and user needs.
- Our team includes LEED, WELL, and Passive House-certified professionals.
- We utilize BIM technology for technical precision and integrated project delivery.
- We prioritize sustainable design aligned with Architecture 2030 and Living Product 50 standards.
- Our staff includes accredited experts in evidence-based and healthcare design.
Associations and certifications
- LEED
- WELL
- Passive House
- Women Business Enterprise (WBE)
Services
Architecture
Our architecture services focus on creating functional, sustainable spaces that align with client missions. We specialize in educational facilities, workplaces, and science buildings, emphasizing technical precision and long-term value. Our team uses BIM technology to ensure accuracy and collaboration throughout the design process.
Interior Design
Interior design solutions prioritize user wellness and operational efficiency. We craft environments that foster collaboration, creativity, and comfort, with expertise in LEED-certified and evidence-based design. Our work spans classrooms, offices, and healthcare facilities, integrating sustainable materials and innovative layouts.
Sustainable Design
Sustainable design services incorporate energy efficiency, recycled materials, and wellness-focused strategies. As a signatory of the Architecture 2030 Commitment, we model building performance to reduce environmental impact while meeting regulatory standards and client sustainability goals.
Planning & Programming
Planning services begin with in-depth client consultations to understand organizational needs. We develop strategic frameworks for new construction and renovations, addressing scope prioritization, regulatory compliance, and adaptive reuse to optimize project outcomes and long-term functionality.
Technology Integration
Technology integration leverages BIM and digital tools to streamline design and construction. Our team implements innovative solutions for building performance modeling, documentation accuracy, and collaborative workflows, ensuring durable, high-performance structures that meet evolving industry standards.
People
James Loftus
Principal
James Loftus, AIA, LEED GA, specializes in educational and institutional projects. With over 25 years of experience, he leads design teams in creating spaces that enhance learning and community engagement through sustainable, user-centered approaches.
Amy MacKrell
Principal
Amy MacKrell, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, focuses on sustainable design and campus planning. She advocates for equitable, high-performance buildings that align with institutional missions, combining technical expertise with a commitment to environmental stewardship.
Nereyda Rodriguez
Principal
Nereyda Rodriguez, RA, LEED AP BD+C, PHI DESIGNER, directs sustainable design initiatives. Her work emphasizes passive house principles and energy-efficient solutions, ensuring projects meet rigorous environmental standards while prioritizing occupant comfort and operational efficiency.
Kate Wonkka
Principal
Kate Wonkka, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, WELL AP, specializes in healthcare and academic design. She integrates evidence-based strategies to create healing environments that support wellness, safety, and accessibility across diverse institutional settings.
Meaghan Kennedy
Senior Interior Designer
Meaghan Kennedy, IIDA, NCIDQ, explores hybrid work environments and interior solutions that enhance productivity. Her designs balance aesthetics with functionality, focusing on user experience and sustainable material selection for corporate and educational spaces.
Questions
What types of projects does MDS Architects specialize in?
We specialize in K-12 schools, universities, workplaces, science facilities, and mixed-use developments, emphasizing sustainable, user-focused design.
How does MDS Architects approach sustainability?
We integrate LEED, WELL, and Passive House standards, prioritize recycled materials, and model building performance through the Architecture 2030 Commitment to reduce environmental impact.
What technology does MDS use for design?
We utilize BIM (Building Information Modeling) and digital tools to enhance precision, streamline workflows, and support collaborative design and construction processes.
Can MDS Architects handle complex renovations?
Yes, we specialize in adaptive reuse and renovations, addressing regulatory compliance, scope prioritization, and technical challenges to optimize existing spaces for modern needs.
How do you ensure client needs are met?
We begin with in-depth consultations to understand organizational goals, then develop tailored strategies that balance functionality, sustainability, and budgetary requirements throughout the project lifecycle.
Are you certified as a diverse business?
Yes, we are a Women Business Enterprise (WBE) certified by the Massachusetts Supplier Diversity Office, reflecting our commitment to diversity and inclusion.
