Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Cincinnati Architects | Schickel Design
Schickel Design is a multi-generational architecture and design firm rooted in Cincinnati, Ohio. Founded in 1948 by William Schickel, our practice has evolved through three generations of family leadership while maintaining a commitment to rigorous design thinking and innovative problem-solving. We specialize in architectural design, interior design, and experiential design, serving residential, commercial, and institutional clients. Our approach combines strategic pragmatism with creative exploration to transform client visions into functional, aesthetically compelling spaces. With expertise in historic adaptive reuse and modern design, we bridge tradition and innovation to deliver solutions tailored to each project's unique context. Our team's deep industry knowledge and collaborative process have earned us recognition for excellence in design and client satisfaction.We prioritize listening to client needs, offering personalized options, and managing projects from concept to execution with attention to detail. Our portfolio includes transformative work for institutions like the Cincinnati Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired and the Church of the Advent, demonstrating our ability to balance historical preservation with contemporary functionality. As a family-owned business, we uphold a legacy of craftsmanship and community engagement while embracing evolving design technologies and methodologies. Our goal is to create spaces that enhance quality of life and foster meaningful connections between people and their environments.
Services
Architectural Design
Interior Design
Construction Administration
Experiential Design
Historic Preservation
Custom Millwork
Visioning Workshops
Art Integration
Residential Renovation
Worship Space Design
Details
- Year established: 1948
Highlights and features
- We offer 75+ years of multi-generational architectural expertise
- Our team combines historic preservation knowledge with modern design innovation
- We provide personalized solutions through collaborative client partnerships
- Our portfolio demonstrates proven success in complex adaptive reuse projects
- We maintain direct owner involvement in every project phase
What people say
Creative solutions
Transformative outcomes
Collaborative process
Historic expertise
Responsive team
Services
Architectural Design
We create tailored architectural solutions balancing aesthetics and functionality. Our process begins with understanding client needs and site context, followed by developing concept designs that evolve through technical refinement. With expertise in both new construction and historic preservation, we deliver buildings that enhance user experience while meeting modern standards.
Interior Design
Our interior design services focus on optimizing spatial layouts and material selections. We specialize in creating environments that reflect client identity while ensuring practical usability. From residential renovations to institutional spaces, we integrate lighting, finishes, and furnishings to achieve cohesive, purpose-driven interiors that stand the test of time.
Experiential Design
We craft immersive spatial experiences that engage users emotionally and functionally. This includes designing interactive elements, wayfinding systems, and thematic environments for cultural institutions and commercial spaces. Our approach combines storytelling with spatial planning to create memorable, purposeful experiences that align with organizational missions.
Historic Preservation
Specializing in adaptive reuse of historic buildings, we preserve architectural heritage while implementing modern updates. Our team navigates preservation guidelines to maintain historical integrity while improving functionality. Services include material analysis, code compliance solutions, and restoration of original architectural features for long-term building viability.
Custom Millwork
We design and fabricate bespoke wood elements that enhance architectural spaces. From altar furniture to built-in cabinetry, our millwork integrates with overall design concepts while meeting functional requirements. Each piece undergoes detailed prototyping to ensure precision and craftsmanship that complements the surrounding architecture.
People
Rebecca Dorff Cadena
Owner
Third-generation leader with expertise in experiential design and historic preservation. Oversees project vision while maintaining family design legacy through innovative approaches to complex architectural challenges.
Martha Schickel Dorff
Former Owner
Second-generation leader who expanded services into historic adaptive reuse and institutional design. Transferred ownership in 2019 while remaining actively involved in key projects and mentorship.
Questions
What architectural styles does Schickel Design specialize in?
We work across styles with emphasis on historic preservation and modern adaptation. Our expertise includes liturgical architecture, residential renovations, and institutional projects blending traditional and contemporary elements.
Can you handle both design and construction phases?
Yes, we provide full-service architectural design and construction administration. Our team manages projects from initial concept through final implementation, ensuring design integrity throughout the building process.
Do you work outside Cincinnati?
While based in Cincinnati, we've completed projects across Ohio and Kentucky. Our historic building expertise makes us particularly suited for projects in established urban environments with architectural heritage.
How does the design process begin?
We start with visioning workshops to understand client needs and project constraints. This collaborative approach establishes clear goals before developing schematic designs and refining technical details.
What makes Schickel Design different?
Three generations of family leadership provide unique continuity. We combine deep historic knowledge with modern innovation, maintaining personal owner involvement in every project while delivering technically sophisticated solutions.
