Business Details
Award-Winning Architecture & Design Solutions for Branded Environments
For over three decades, our firm has been at the forefront of creating environments that connect consumers, brands, and places. Our multidisciplinary team combines expertise in architecture, interior design, branding, and placemaking to deliver strategy-driven solutions tailored to retail, hospitality, and commercial spaces. With a portfolio spanning the globe, we blend dynamic ideas from diverse cultures with regionally relevant designs to exceed client expectations. Recognized for award-winning concepts, we collaborate with industry leaders to push boundaries in prototype development, master planning, and experiential design.Our commitment to quality and innovation is reflected in testimonials from clients like Heritage Hotels & Resorts and Regency Centers, who praise our ability to transform visions into high-performing spaces. By integrating technical precision with creative storytelling, we craft environments that achieve measurable business results while fostering meaningful consumer connections.
Services
Architecture
Interior Design
Branding
Graphics
Placemaking
Wayfinding
Master Planning
Prototype Development
Concept Design
Space Planning
Highlights and features
- Award-winning design solutions recognized by industry leaders
- 30+ years of expertise in retail, hospitality, and commercial spaces
- Multidisciplinary team with global experience and regional sensitivity
- Client-focused approach with proven track record of exceeding expectations
- Integrated services spanning architecture, branding, and placemaking
What people say
Incredible design work
High level of quality
Vision for concepts
Commitment and professionalism
Beautiful stores
Services
Architecture
Our architectural solutions translate brand identity into physical spaces through programming, feasibility studies, and construction documentation. We create functional, aesthetically compelling environments for retail, hospitality, and commercial developments. With expertise in adaptive reuse and multi-site rollouts, our designs balance innovation with operational efficiency.
Interior Design
From concept development to custom millwork, we craft interior experiences that align with brand strategy while optimizing consumer engagement. Our services include finishes selection, lighting design, and visual merchandising for retail stores, restaurants, and amenity spaces across diverse markets.
Branding
We develop comprehensive brand identities through audits, positioning strategies, and style guidelines that create differentiation in competitive markets. Our approach integrates brand personality with environmental design to ensure consistent consumer experiences across physical and digital platforms.
Placemaking
Our placemaking expertise creates cohesive environments through wayfinding systems, signage programs, and public space design. We develop master plans that enhance community connections while supporting commercial success for mixed-use developments and urban centers.
Prototype Development
We specialize in creating scalable retail and restaurant prototypes that maintain brand integrity while adapting to diverse locations. Our process includes feasibility analysis, space planning, and construction documentation to ensure consistency across multiple implementations.
People
Juan Romero
President + CEO
Architect and industry leader with extensive experience in architectural design and firm leadership. Licensed professional with NCARB certification driving strategic vision for the company.
Rachel Marshall
Vice President + Director of Operations
Licensed architect and landscape architect managing operations with focus on architectural design execution and team coordination across complex projects.
John Scheffel
Vice President + Director of Visual Design
Creative leader shaping visual design strategy with expertise in developing compelling brand environments and conceptual design solutions.
Judy Norlin
Design Services + Studio Director
LEED-certified professional overseeing design services and studio operations with focus on sustainable design practices and project execution.
Jeffery Nader
Studio Director
Architect and WELL-certified professional directing studio operations with emphasis on integrating health-focused design principles into commercial environments.
Questions
What industries does api(+) specialize in?
We specialize in retail environments, hospitality spaces, branded destinations, and commercial developments with expertise in prototype design and placemaking.
How does the design process work?
Our process begins with strategic planning and brand analysis, followed by concept development, architectural design, and construction documentation tailored to client goals.
Do you work internationally?
Yes, our portfolio includes projects across North America and global locations like China and Canada.
What makes your firm different?
Our multidisciplinary approach combines architecture, branding, and regional insights to create environments that deliver measurable business results.
Can you handle large-scale developments?
We have extensive experience with master planning, multi-site rollouts, and complex commercial projects like mixed-use destinations.
