Business Details
44 Years
experience
Expert Historic Preservation & Architectural Design Services
Mills Whitaker Architects specializes in the restoration, rehabilitation, and modification of historic structures and replacement buildings. Our firm also maintains a significant practice in residential single-family house renovations and new designs, with award-winning projects located in southern and coastal Maine and eastern Massachusetts. Since 1982, our principals have collaborated on phased repairs, restorations, and alterations to existing properties, often beginning with historical assessments and condition analyses. We develop prioritized budgets, design options, and detailed plans for phased renovations while also engaging in new construction of institutional and residential facilities.As a small, hands-on firm with five professionalsincluding three registered architectswe ensure direct involvement of our principal architects in every project. Licensed in Maine, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire, our team includes a LEED-Accredited Professional, reflecting our commitment to sustainable design. We encourage clients to review our portfolio and contact references to experience our dedication to quality and client satisfaction.
Services
Historic Preservation
Residential Renovations
Adaptive Reuse
Structural Assessments
Design-Build Services
Accessibility Upgrades
New Construction
Phased Renovations
LEED Consulting
Religious Property Restoration
Details
- Year established: 1982
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years of experience in historic preservation and residential design.
- Our principals directly oversee every project from concept to completion.
- Licensed architects in Massachusetts, Maine, and New Hampshire ensure regional expertise.
- LEED-Accredited Professional on staff for sustainable design solutions.
- Phased renovation approach minimizes disruption while maximizing value.
Associations and certifications
- LEED
What people say
Award-winning projects
Meticulous attention to detail
Expertise in historic structures
Client-focused approach
Phased renovation expertise
Services
Historic Preservation
Specialized restoration of historic structures using traditional methods while incorporating modern standards. Our team conducts detailed condition assessments and historical research to maintain architectural integrity. Services include phased repairs, material conservation, and compliance with preservation guidelines for listed buildings.
Residential Renovations
Custom residential upgrades for single-family homes, balancing functionality with aesthetic preservation. We handle structural modifications, energy-efficient improvements, and period-appropriate design elements. Projects range from kitchen renovations to full-scale home transformations while maintaining historical character.
Adaptive Reuse
Transforming historic buildings for modern uses while retaining architectural significance. Our approach includes spatial reconfiguration, code compliance upgrades, and integration of contemporary systems. Recent projects include converting schools into community centers and historic halls into cultural spaces.
Design-Build Services
Comprehensive solutions from concept to construction with coordinated architectural and building services. We manage all project phases including permitting, contractor coordination, and quality control. This streamlined approach ensures design consistency and cost efficiency for clients.
Accessibility Upgrades
Implementing ADA-compliant modifications to historic structures without compromising architectural integrity. Solutions include ramp installations, doorway widening, and accessible restroom conversions while maintaining historical accuracy through period-appropriate materials and methods.
People
Donald W. Mills
Principal Architect
Co-founder with 40+ years of experience in historic preservation. Licensed in three states, he specializes in phased renovations and accessibility design. Holds MIT and University of Colorado architecture degrees.
Craig A. Whitaker
Principal Architect
Co-founder recognized for innovative historic adaptations. Licensed in multiple states, he focuses on sustainable design and has taught at Boston Architectural Center. Graduated from MIT and University of Washington.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialize in?
We specialize in historic preservation, religious property restoration, residential renovations, adaptive reuse, and new construction projects.
Which geographic areas do you serve?
Our primary service areas include Massachusetts, Maine, and New Hampshire, with projects in coastal and urban regions.
How experienced is your architectural team?
Our principals have collaborated since 1982, with combined expertise in over 100 restoration and new construction projects.
Do you handle LEED-certified projects?
Yes, our team includes a LEED-Accredited Professional specializing in sustainable design solutions for historic buildings.
What is your phased renovation approach?
We conduct initial assessments, develop prioritized budgets, and implement staged renovations to minimize disruption and costs.
