Business Details
30 Years
experience
Community-Centered Architecture & Urban Design
Neighboring Concepts is a community-focused architecture firm dedicated to transforming neighborhoods through inclusive design. Founded in 1996, we prioritize public engagement, sustainable practices, and collaborative planning to create spaces that reflect the needs of local communities. Our LEED-certified team integrates architecture, urban planning, and community voices to deliver impactful solutions for housing, transit, healthcare, and public spaces. With decades of experience in both public and private sector projects, we specialize in minority-owned, culturally responsive design that elevates underserved areas. Our approach combines strategic urban planning with hands-on community workshops to ensure lasting, equitable development.As active participants in the neighborhoods we serve, we maintain long-term partnerships to support ongoing community growth. Our multidisciplinary team brings diverse cultural perspectives to every project, ensuring designs that authentically represent local identities. We are committed to advancing sustainable principles through membership in the US Green Building Council and innovative green building practices. Our legacy of leadership, rooted in foundational experiences at Gantt Huberman Architects, continues through a new generation of partners dedicated to community-driven architecture. Every project reflects our core belief that architecture should empower people and strengthen the social fabric of communities.
Services
Architecture
Urban Planning
Community Engagement
Sustainable Design
Transit Design
Housing Development
Public Space Design
Healthcare Facilities
Educational Spaces
Mixed-Use Development
Details
- Year established: 1996
Highlights and features
- LEED-certified sustainable design expertise
- Specialized in community engagement processes
- Minority-owned architecture firm with cultural insight
- Decades of experience in urban revitalization projects
- Active long-term partnerships with local communities
Associations and certifications
- LEED
- US Green Building Council
Services
Community Engagement
We facilitate collaborative design processes through community workshops and stakeholder meetings. Our approach ensures local voices shape every project, creating spaces that reflect community needs. This service helps residents, businesses, and organizations directly influence neighborhood development plans.
Sustainable Design
Our LEED-certified team integrates environmentally responsible practices into all projects. We implement energy-efficient systems and sustainable materials to meet US Green Building Council standards. This service delivers cost-effective, eco-friendly solutions for new constructions and renovations across multiple sectors.
Urban Planning
We create comprehensive plans for neighborhood revitalization and mixed-use developments. Our planners address transit integration, land use, and infrastructure needs while prioritizing accessibility. This service supports long-term community growth through strategic spatial organization and policy recommendations.
Transit Design
Our specialists develop functional transit facilities that enhance urban mobility. We design bus stations, train terminals, and multimodal hubs with user experience in mind. This service combines aesthetic appeal with practical considerations for improved public transportation networks.
Healthcare Facilities
We design healing environments that balance functionality with patient comfort. Our healthcare projects include clinics, hospitals, and wellness centers. This service focuses on creating accessible, technology-integrated spaces that support both medical staff efficiency and patient well-being.
People
Darrel Williams
Founding Partner
FAIA-certified architect with over 25 years leading community-focused design initiatives. Established Neighboring Concepts' foundational mission of neighborhood revitalization through collaborative architecture and responsible development practices.
Daniel McNamee
Partner
AIA-certified architect specializing in housing studio leadership. Brings extensive experience in residential development and sustainable building practices to the firm's housing projects across diverse urban environments.
Luke Volkmar
Partner
AIA-certified transit design expert with a decade of experience creating functional public transportation facilities. Leads the firm's efforts to improve urban mobility through innovative transit architecture solutions.
Cathy Morrison
Senior Interior Designer
National AIA leader with expertise in healthcare design and business development. Contributes specialized knowledge in creating therapeutic environments and navigating architectural regulatory frameworks.
Frank Little
Architect
Specializes in healthcare and K-12 educational facility design. Brings experience from former leadership roles at Gantt Huberman Architects to develop functional spaces that support community well-being and learning outcomes.
Questions
What makes Neighboring Concepts different from other architecture firms?
We specialize in community-driven design processes that prioritize local input through workshops and collaborative planning sessions.
Do you work on sustainable building projects?
Yes, our LEED-certified team integrates green building practices and sustainable materials in all our architectural solutions.
What geographic areas do you serve?
We primarily work in Charlotte and other urban neighborhoods requiring revitalization and community-focused development.
Can community members influence project designs?
Absolutely - we require resident participation through our engagement process to ensure designs reflect local needs and aspirations.
What building types do you specialize in?
We handle diverse projects including housing, transit facilities, healthcare centers, educational spaces, and mixed-use developments.
Are you a certified minority-owned business?
Yes, we operate as a minority-owned architecture firm committed to culturally responsive design solutions.
