Business Details
33 Years
experience
Trusted Architects in Reading, PA
Olsen Design Studio was founded in 1993 with a commitment to delivering exceptional service through collaborative client relationships. Our Pennsylvania-based corporation specializes in architectural planning, design, and project management, guided by a philosophy that prioritizes client needs and innovative solutions. With over 50 years of combined experience from our lead professionals, we approach each project as a unique opportunity to create socially responsible, ecologically sustainable environments that enhance the human condition. Our team emphasizes active client participation in the design process, ensuring that every solution aligns with the client's philosophy and operational requirements. We maintain a rigorous commitment to service quality, demonstrated through timely communication, cost-effective solutions, and meticulous attention to project details.Our geographic focus spans southeastern Pennsylvania and the northeastern United States, where we provide responsive, on-site support for our clients. The firm's enduring success is evidenced by our high rate of repeat business and referrals, reflecting our ability to consistently meet and exceed client expectations. Our team of licensed architects and experienced professionals brings decades of expertise across commercial, healthcare, educational, and institutional projects. We believe that enthusiasm and expertise are essential to transforming design concepts into reality, and we maintain active community involvement through local boards and commissions. This combination of technical proficiency, client-centric approach, and community engagement has established Olsen Design Studio as a trusted partner in architectural solutions.
Services
Facility Planning
Master Planning
Interior Design
Construction Administration
Cost Estimating
Programming and Space Planning
Building Code Research
3D Modeling
Project Close-Out
Details
- Year established: 1993
Highlights and features
- We implement a collaborative design process with client participation
- Our team includes licensed architects in 8 states with 40+ years experience
- We maintain a 95% client retention rate through personalized service
- Our designs integrate ecological sustainability with functional requirements
- We provide on-site construction observation and documentation services
Services
Facility Planning
Our facility planning services create optimized spatial solutions that balance functional requirements with future growth needs. We conduct comprehensive existing facilities evaluations and feasibility studies to develop master plans that maximize efficiency. Our approach integrates building code compliance and zoning regulations while maintaining cost-effective solutions for commercial and institutional clients.
Interior Design
We provide interior design services that focus on creating functional, aesthetically pleasing environments tailored to client operations. Our team handles finishes, furnishings, and color selection while ensuring compliance with accessibility standards. We coordinate with contractors to maintain design integrity throughout construction phases for healthcare, educational, and commercial spaces.
Construction Administration
Our construction administration services ensure project execution aligns with design specifications through on-site observation and documentation. We manage change orders, review shop drawings, and coordinate with contractors to maintain quality control. This oversight continues through project close-out with as-built documentation and final inspections.
Master Planning
We develop comprehensive master plans that address current needs while anticipating future requirements for institutional and commercial clients. Our process includes site analysis, phasing strategies, and cost projections to create adaptable solutions. These plans serve as roadmaps for long-term facility development and capital investment planning.
Cost Estimating
Our cost estimating services provide accurate project budgeting at all design phases using current market data and historical project information. We develop detailed cost breakdowns by construction category and provide value engineering options to maintain financial feasibility while achieving design objectives for institutional and commercial clients.
People
Lee C. Olsen
Chairman Emeritus
With 50+ years of architectural experience, Lee Olsen leads project direction and design. Licensed in 8 states, he specializes in commercial, healthcare, and institutional projects while maintaining active community involvement through local boards.
Larry W. Smith
President
As a 40-year design veteran, Larry Smith oversees project management and client relations. He coordinates multidisciplinary teams for healthcare and commercial clients while maintaining Pennsylvania architectural licensure and industry leadership roles.
Cheryl Renninger
Senior CADD Technology Manager
Cheryl Renninger manages CADD technology and documentation processes with 20+ years of experience. She coordinates client collaboration through design concept phases to final construction documents, ensuring technical accuracy and project compliance.
Lisa Phillips
Business Administrator
Lisa Phillips manages financial operations and project budgeting with 15+ years of administrative experience. She coordinates accounting functions and supports project teams while maintaining business compliance and operational efficiency.
Questions
What architectural services does Olsen Design Studio offer?
We provide comprehensive services including facility planning, master planning, interior design, construction administration, and 3D modeling for commercial, healthcare, and institutional projects.
How does Olsen Design Studio involve clients in the design process?
We require client participation through collaborative workshops using sketch paper and markers to ensure designs align with client goals and operational needs.
What geographic areas do you serve?
Our primary service area includes southeastern Pennsylvania and the northeastern United States with responsive on-site support capabilities.
What makes your firm different from other architectural practices?
Our unique approach combines client collaboration with technical expertise, maintaining a 95% client retention rate through personalized, sustainable solutions.
What project types does Olsen Design Studio specialize in?
We specialize in commercial, healthcare, educational, and institutional projects with experience in complex facility planning and code compliance.
