Business Details
40 Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Architectural Design Solutions
Established in 1986, DRG Architects is a second-generation firm rooted in a legacy dating back to 1962 through the foundational work of Ed Gondeck. Our principals, Perry Rabke and Wayne Gondeck, have cultivated a reputation for delivering precise, client-focused architectural solutions tailored to government and community needs. Specializing in criminal justice architecture, we also extend our expertise to institutional, educational, and commercial projects, combining decades of experience with cutting-edge technology. Our approach prioritizes understanding client objectives to create designs that balance functionality, innovation, and long-term value. With a commitment to excellence and attention to detail, we streamline resources to provide efficient, effective solutions for every project.Headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, we serve clients across the United States and internationally, offering personalized service backed by a proven track record. Our teams dedication to thoughtful planning and open collaboration ensures projects meet both immediate requirements and future goals. As a trusted partner, we pride ourselves on professionalism, transparency, and a deep understanding of the communities we serve. Contact us at (210) 349-7950 to discuss how our architectural expertise can bring your vision to life.
Services
Criminal Justice Architecture
Institutional Design
Educational Facilities
Commercial Architecture
Project Planning
Details
- Year established: 1986
Highlights and features
- We offer over 35 years of experience in architectural design for government and community projects.
- Our second-generation firm builds on a legacy of precision and client-focused solutions since 1986.
- We specialize in criminal justice architecture with a proven track record of successful projects.
- Our team combines technology and expertise to streamline efficient, effective design processes.
- We prioritize understanding client needs to deliver tailored solutions that exceed expectations.
Services
Criminal Justice Architecture
We design secure, functional criminal justice facilities tailored to modern operational needs. Our expertise includes courthouses, detention centers, and law enforcement buildings. By integrating safety protocols and efficient layouts, we create spaces that support justice system efficiency while prioritizing community impact.
Institutional Design
Our institutional architecture focuses on civic and government structures that balance aesthetics with practicality. We specialize in municipal buildings, community centers, and administrative facilities. Through collaborative planning, we ensure designs meet public service requirements while enhancing community engagement and accessibility.
Educational Facilities
We create innovative learning environments that foster student engagement and staff efficiency. Our services include K-12 schools, universities, and specialized education centers. By prioritizing flexible layouts and sustainable materials, we build spaces that adapt to evolving educational needs and inspire learning.
Commercial Architecture
Our commercial design solutions optimize functionality and brand identity for retail, office, and mixed-use developments. We focus on creating spaces that enhance user experience while meeting zoning regulations. Through strategic space planning, we maximize ROI for business-oriented properties.
Project Planning
We provide comprehensive planning services from concept to execution. This includes feasibility studies, site analysis, and budget management. Our systematic approach ensures projects align with client goals, regulatory standards, and long-term operational success while minimizing risks and delays.
People
Wayne Gondeck
Principal Architect
With over 35 years of experience since 1986, Wayne Gondeck specializes in government and community-focused architectural solutions. He co-founded DRG Architects to continue his father's legacy, emphasizing client collaboration and technical excellence in every project.
Perry Rabke
Principal Architect
Perry Rabke brings decades of expertise in institutional and criminal justice architecture. As co-founder, he focuses on merging innovative design with practical functionality to create spaces that serve both public and private sector needs effectively.
Dinorah Santos
Chief Financial Officer
Dinorah Santos manages financial operations with over 20 years of experience in architectural firm accounting. She ensures fiscal responsibility while supporting project execution through strategic budget management and financial planning.
Questions
What architectural services does DRG Architects specialize in?
We specialize in criminal justice facilities, institutional buildings, educational campuses, commercial spaces, and comprehensive project planning tailored to client needs.
How long has DRG Architects been in business?
Our principals have worked together since 1986, building on a legacy that began with Ed Gondeck's practice in 1962.
Do you work with clients outside Texas?
Yes, we serve clients across the United States and internationally while maintaining our San Antonio headquarters.
How do you approach client collaboration?
We prioritize understanding client goals through open communication, then develop customized solutions that balance functionality, budget, and long-term value.
What makes your firm different from other architects?
Our second-generation expertise combines technical precision with deep community understanding, focusing on government and institutional projects that create lasting public impact.