Business Details
42 Years
experience
Innovative Architecture & Research Solutions
Founded in 1984, KieranTimberlake is a Philadelphia-based architecture firm dedicated to creating innovative, sustainable, and ethically driven designs. Our interdisciplinary team of 90 professionals combines architectural excellence with cutting-edge research to address complex challenges in the built environment. We prioritize sustainability through initiatives like the AIA 2030 Commitment and Materials Pledge, aiming for carbon-neutral buildings by 2030. As a 100% employee-owned corporation since 2024, we foster a collaborative culture that empowers our staff to shape the firm's future. Our work spans diverse sectors including education, civic spaces, and urban planning, with a focus on transdisciplinary solutions that honor historical contexts while embracing technological advancements.We maintain a living laboratory at our Ortlieb's Bottling House studio, where we test passive design strategies and occupant comfort innovations. Our commitment to equity and environmental stewardship guides every project, from K-12 schools to international embassies. Through partnerships with academic institutions and public programs, we advance architectural discourse while delivering measurable value to clients. Our recognition through awards like the UB Dean's Medal and LEED certifications underscores our leadership in the profession.
Services
Architectural Design
Sustainable Planning
Research & Development
Urban Design
Building Renovation
Climate Action Strategy
Material Innovation
Academic Facility Design
Civic Space Development
International Project Delivery
Details
- Year established: 1984
Highlights and features
- 40+ years pioneering sustainable architectural solutions
- 100% employee-owned corporation since 2024
- Recognized leaders in climate action and materials research
- Interdisciplinary team of 90+ architects and researchers
- Award-winning designs spanning 40+ countries
Associations and certifications
- AIA 2030 Commitment Signatory
- LEED Gold Certification
- AIA Materials Pledge Signatory
What people say
Award-winning designs
Sustainability leadership
Innovative research
Employee ownership
Climate action focus
Services
Architectural Design
We create innovative architectural solutions that balance aesthetic vision with functional requirements. Our designs integrate sustainability principles and advanced materials research while responding to site-specific contexts. From concept through construction, our team delivers buildings that enhance user experience and environmental performance.
Sustainable Planning
Our sustainability experts develop climate action strategies aligned with the AIA 2030 Commitment. We employ life cycle assessment tools like Tally LCA App to optimize material choices and energy performance, creating buildings that minimize environmental impact while maximizing occupant comfort and operational efficiency.
Research & Development
We conduct original research through initiatives like the Roast comfort survey app and Pointelist sensor network. Our research group develops innovative tools and methodologies that advance architectural practice, including robotic fabrication techniques and AI modeling applications for building performance optimization.
Urban Design
Our urban design practice creates cohesive environments that improve community connectivity and resilience. We specialize in campus planning, transit-oriented development, and adaptive reuse projects that transform historic structures into modern, functional spaces while preserving cultural heritage.
Material Innovation
We lead the industry in material evaluation through the AIA Materials Pledge. Our team develops and tests advanced building materials using tools like the Tally LCA App, focusing on health, durability, and environmental impact to create healthier built environments.
People
Stephen Kieran
Founding Principal
Co-founder with 40+ years of architectural experience. Recognized with the UB Dean's Medal for contributions to architecture. Leads innovative design solutions and sustainability initiatives.
James Timberlake
Founding Principal
Co-founder and design visionary. Recipient of the 2025 UB Dean's Medal. Focuses on material innovation and advancing architectural technology through research partnerships.
Ryan Welch
Research Director
Principal leading architectural research initiatives. Develops tools like the Tally LCA App and Roast comfort survey. Specializes in building performance analysis and sustainability metrics.
Huwayda Fakhry
Business Strategy Director
Manages firm strategy and communications. Oversees transition to employee ownership model. Focuses on inclusive leadership and organizational development.
Brandon Cuffy
Associate
Leads summer internship program. Specializes in robotic fabrication and material science. Mentors emerging professionals through hands-on project participation.
Questions
What architectural services does KieranTimberlake offer?
We provide full-service architecture, urban design, sustainability consulting, and materials research for educational, civic, and cultural projects.
How does KieranTimberlake approach sustainable design?
We integrate climate action strategies through the AIA 2030 Commitment, prioritize material health assessments, and maintain a living laboratory for passive design testing.
Are KieranTimberlake's buildings LEED certified?
Yes, our projects like 2300 Market target LEED Gold certification, reflecting our commitment to sustainable building standards.
What makes KieranTimberlake unique?
We combine architectural practice with original research, operate as a 100% employee-owned firm, and maintain cutting-edge tools like the Tally LCA App.
Do they work on international projects?
Yes, our portfolio includes international work such as the U.S. Embassy in London and projects across 40+ countries.
