Business Details
25 Years
experience
Award-Winning Architects in Providence, RI
Union Studio Architecture & Community Design is a nationally recognized, mission-driven architecture and urban design firm committed to creating sustainable places that enrich lives and strengthen communities. Founded in 2001, our practice is built on the belief that exceptional design emerges from collaboration, empathy, and a deep understanding of community needs. We specialize in urban planning, civic and institutional buildings, mixed-use developments, and housing, integrating rigorous technical detail with a respect for traditional craftsmanship.Our work focuses on addressing climate resilience, affordable housing, and historic preservation while fostering walkable, inclusive neighborhoods. With nearly 40 architects and designers, we bring decades of collective experience to projects across the United States, prioritizing financial, social, and environmental success. Our team of artists, leaders, and stewards approaches every project with humility and optimism, advocating for equitable, enduring solutions that honor both people and place.
Services
Urban Planning
Community Design
Mixed-Use Developments
Housing Solutions
Historic Preservation
Climate Resilience Design
Details
- Year established: 2001
Highlights and features
- We have over 25 years of experience in sustainable urban design.
- Our integrated approach combines architecture and community planning expertise.
- We prioritize climate resilience and historic preservation in every project.
- Our team has earned national recognition for innovative community design.
- We focus on creating walkable, inclusive neighborhoods for all residents.
What people say
Exceptional community engagement
Innovative climate resilience solutions
Preserve historical integrity
Walkable neighborhood designs
Award-winning expertise
Services
Urban Planning
We create holistic urban plans that prioritize walkability, sustainability, and community engagement. Our approach integrates land use, transportation, and environmental considerations to build resilient, future-ready cities. Projects span neighborhood revitalization to large-scale regional strategies.
Community Design
Our community design services focus on creating inclusive, mixed-use spaces that foster social interaction and economic vitality. We specialize in pocket neighborhoods, affordable housing, and public spaces tailored to local cultural and environmental contexts.
Historic Preservation
We preserve architectural heritage through adaptive reuse and restoration projects. Our work balances historical integrity with modern functionality, as seen in projects like The House of the Seven Gables and WaterRower World Headquarters.
Climate Resilience Design
We develop climate-adaptive designs addressing sea-level rise, flooding, and extreme weather. Our strategies incorporate green infrastructure, elevated construction, and sustainable materials to protect communities and ecosystems.
Mixed-Use Developments
We design mixed-use spaces combining residential, commercial, and recreational elements. Our projects maximize land efficiency while creating vibrant, 24-hour communities that reduce urban sprawl and car dependency.
People
Donald Powers
Founder
Donald Powers founded Union Studio Architecture & Community Design in 2001 to address urban sprawl through civic-focused design. With over 25 years of experience, he champions integrated approaches to architecture and urbanism, emphasizing community engagement and sustainability.
Douglas Kallfelz
Co-Founder
Douglas Kallfelz joined Union Studio Architecture & Community Design in 2003, expanding its national reach. He advocates for design that bridges traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation, focusing on equitable, resilient communities that endure across generations.
Questions
What types of projects does Union specialize in?
We specialize in urban planning, mixed-use developments, historic preservation, affordable housing, and climate-resilient design across the United States.
How does Union approach sustainability?
We integrate climate resilience strategies, green materials, and energy-efficient designs while prioritizing long-term community and environmental benefits in every project.
Can Union work on historic buildings?
Yes, we have extensive experience in historic preservation, including adaptive reuse projects like The House of the Seven Gables and WaterRower World Headquarters.
Do you work outside New England?
While based in Providence, we've completed projects nationwide, including locations in Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, and Massachusetts.
