Business Details
35 Years
experience
Award-Winning Sustainable Architecture in Philadelphia
A K Architecture is a full-service architectural design firm dedicated to creating impactful spaces that serve communities and individuals. Founded in 1991, we specialize in sustainable design solutions tailored to each project's unique context, combining over three decades of experience with a commitment to environmental stewardship. Our team excels in navigating complex stakeholder dynamics and historic preservation challenges while maintaining a focus on energy efficiency and long-term sustainability.Through collaborative charrettes and community engagement, we transform client visions into award-winning built environments that balance functionality, aesthetics, and budgetary constraints. Our portfolio spans education centers, healthcare facilities, affordable housing, and public spaces, reflecting our dedication to enhancing urban landscapes through thoughtful design.
Services
Community Center Design
Affordable Housing
Historic Preservation
Residential Architecture
Recreation Facilities
Details
- Year established: 1991
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of architectural experience in Philadelphia's urban landscape
- Our team specializes in adaptive reuse of historic structures
- We implement LEED-certified sustainable design methodologies
- Our firm has won multiple AIA design awards
- We facilitate community engagement through collaborative design charrettes
Associations and certifications
- AIA
- NCARB
- LEED AP BD+C
Services
Community Center Design
We create vibrant community centers that serve as neighborhood anchors. Our designs prioritize accessibility, sustainability, and multi-functional spaces that accommodate diverse programming needs. Through stakeholder collaboration, we develop facilities that foster social interaction while meeting strict environmental standards. Our award-winning work includes recreation centers and cultural hubs.
Historic Preservation
Our firm specializes in preserving architectural heritage through adaptive reuse solutions. We balance historical integrity with modern functionality, employing preservation guidelines while incorporating energy-efficient systems. Our expertise includes revitalizing structures like the Lloyd Hall boathouse and Salem's historic J C Penney building for contemporary use.
Affordable Housing
We design dignified, sustainable housing solutions that address urban affordability challenges. Our approach integrates energy-efficient systems with community-focused amenities, creating livable spaces that respect budget constraints. Projects include Wilmot Meadow, which demonstrates our commitment to quality design for all income levels.
Residential Architecture
Our residential projects range from single-family homes to multi-unit developments. We create spaces that respond to site-specific conditions while prioritizing environmental sustainability. The Urban Dwelling Rittenhouse Square Townhouse exemplifies our ability to blend historic context with modern living requirements.
Recreation Facilities
We design dynamic recreation spaces that serve diverse community needs. Our facilities incorporate natural lighting, flexible programming areas, and accessible amenities. The Columbus Square Recreation Center showcases our ability to create transparent, welcoming environments that encourage physical activity and social connection.
People
Lisa Armstrong
Principal, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C
Lisa Armstrong founded A K Architecture in 1991 with over 25 years of architectural experience. She specializes in sustainable design and community engagement, leading projects that combine historic preservation with modern functionality. Her work has earned numerous design awards.
Questions
What architectural services does A K Architecture offer?
We provide full-service architectural design including community centers, historic preservation, affordable housing, residential projects, and recreation facilities. Our services span from initial concept through construction administration.
How long has A K Architecture been in business?
The firm was established in 1991 by Lisa Armstrong, with continuous operation in Philadelphia for over 30 years.
Does the firm specialize in sustainable design?
Yes, we prioritize environmentally sustainable solutions in all projects, incorporating energy efficiency and resource conservation principles while achieving LEED certification standards.
How does the firm approach community projects?
We employ collaborative charrettes and stakeholder engagement processes to ensure community needs shape our designs, particularly for public facilities and multi-use spaces.
Can the firm handle historic building restoration?
Yes, we specialize in historic preservation with expertise in adaptive reuse of heritage structures while maintaining architectural integrity and meeting modern requirements.
