Business Details
38 Years
experience
Architectural Design Services in Pittsburgh, PA
Graves Design Group is a Pittsburgh-based architectural firm with over three decades of experience delivering creative, sustainable, and cost-effective design solutions. Founded in 1988, we specialize in residential, commercial, education, industrial, and LEED-certified projects, prioritizing client needs through collaborative planning and tailored expertise. Our MBE-certified firm assembles project-specific teams of top consultants to ensure technical excellence, functional design, and adherence to budgets. With a focus on urban contexts, we have led landmark projects including parking garages for the PPG Paints Arena and historic restorations like the Lazarus Department Store.Our principals directly oversee all projects, ensuring direct communication and decision-making efficiency. Recognized with awards such as the AIA Design Award of Excellence and LEED Platinum certification, we combine innovation with a commitment to diversity and community impact. Our services extend to property assessments, interior design, and project management, serving clients like UPMC, PNC Bank, and the Bobby Rahal Automotive Group. By investing in staff development, technology, and sustainable practices, we maintain a reputation for exceeding client expectations through personalized, high-quality service.
Services
Architectural Design
Interior Design
LEED Certification
Historic Restoration
Property Inspection
Project Management
Sustainability Consulting
Garage Design
Community Architecture
Pre-purchase Inspections
Details
- Year established: 1988
Highlights and features
- We offer over 30 years of architectural experience in Pittsburgh.
- Our MBE certification ensures diverse and inclusive project participation.
- Principals directly oversee every project for efficient decision-making.
- Recognized for LEED-certified and historic preservation expertise.
- We assemble top-tier consultants tailored to each project's unique needs.
Associations and certifications
- MBE (Minority Business Enterprise)
Services
Architectural Design
Graves Design Group provides comprehensive architectural design services, including schematic planning, construction documents, and project oversight. Their approach blends creativity with functionality, ensuring designs meet clients' budgets and schedules. The firm specializes in urban projects, historic preservation, and LEED-certified buildings, offering tailored solutions for residential, commercial, and institutional spaces.
Historic Restoration
Specializing in historic restoration, the firm revitalizes culturally significant structures while maintaining their architectural integrity. Services include adaptive reuse, code compliance assessments, and material analysis. Notable projects include the Firehouse Apartments and Manchester Historic District renovations, demonstrating expertise in balancing preservation with modern functionality.
Property Inspection
The firm conducts detailed property inspections for residential and commercial buildings, identifying structural issues, code compliance needs, and repair costs. Clients receive actionable reports with repair prioritization and budgeting guidance, aiding informed decisions for property acquisitions or facility management.
Project Management
Graves Design Group oversees all phases of project management, from planning to construction. Services include cost control, scheduling, quality assurance, and contractor coordination. Their hands-on approach ensures projects meet design standards while optimizing efficiency and reducing costs for clients in Pittsburgh and beyond.
Interior Design
Interior design services focus on creating functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces for residential and commercial clients. The team integrates sustainability and code compliance into layouts, material selections, and spatial planning, enhancing occupant well-being while aligning with project budgets and timelines.
People
Howard K. Graves, Jr.
Principal in Charge
AIA-certified architect with expertise in historic preservation, garage design, and LEED projects. Over 30 years of experience leading complex architectural initiatives in Pittsburgh's urban environment.
Todd Graves
Principal, Business Manager
Manages business operations while ensuring design excellence. Instrumental in maintaining client relationships and project delivery standards for diverse architectural projects across Pennsylvania.
Robert R. Daniels
Principal, RA
Licensed architect with extensive experience in project leadership. Focuses on integrating technical precision with creative solutions for commercial and institutional buildings in the Pittsburgh region.
Yanet Kaplanski
Senior Project Architect
AIA and LEED AP-certified professional specializing in sustainable design. Leads project teams in achieving environmental certifications while ensuring functional, code-compliant architectural solutions for clients.
Vidyadhar S. Patil
Project Manager
AIA-certified project manager overseeing construction administration. Brings technical expertise to ensure quality control and adherence to design specifications in complex urban projects.
Questions
What types of projects does Graves Design Group specialize in?
We specialize in residential, commercial, education, industrial, and LEED-certified projects, with expertise in historic preservation, parking garages, and urban design.
Are your services available outside Pittsburgh?
While based in Pittsburgh, we've completed projects in Denver, CO, and collaborate with partners nationwide for comprehensive solutions.
How does Graves Design Group handle large-scale projects?
We assemble specialized teams of consultants tailored to each project's needs, ensuring technical excellence and efficient coordination for complex developments.
What is your approach to sustainable design?
We integrate LEED certification standards and eco-friendly practices into all phases, focusing on energy efficiency, material sustainability, and environmental impact reduction.
Can you assist with historic building renovations?
Yes, we have extensive experience in historic restoration, including adaptive reuse projects and compliance with preservation guidelines for landmark structures.
How do you ensure client satisfaction throughout projects?
Principals directly oversee all work, providing transparent communication, regular progress updates, and flexible adjustments to meet evolving client needs.
