Business Details
18 Years
experience
Innovative & Sustainable Architectural Design in Boston
Icon Architecture is a woman-owned architectural firm dedicated to creating transformative, sustainable, and community-focused designs. With decades of collective experience, our team champions innovation through holistic approaches to projects ranging from residential developments to institutional spaces. We prioritize stakeholder engagement, systems thinking, and data-driven solutions to advance environmental and social resilience.Our expertise spans adaptive reuse, historic preservation, and cutting-edge sustainable practices, including LEED and Passive House standards. By fostering collaboration and transparency, we deliver enduring value through designs that empower communities and respect both cultural and ecological contexts.
Services
Architecture
Interior Design
Sustainable Design
Adaptive Reuse
Project Management
Details
- Year established: 2008
Highlights and features
- We specialize in sustainable design with LEED and Passive House-certified professionals.
- Our team has over 20 years of experience in adaptive reuse and historic preservation.
- We prioritize community engagement and stakeholder collaboration in every project.
- Certified Woman-Owned Business committed to equity and environmental stewardship.
- Award-winning expertise in transforming complex urban spaces into vibrant communities.
Associations and certifications
- WBE (Women Business Enterprise)
Services
Sustainable Architecture
Our sustainable architecture practice integrates LEED, Passive House, and energy-efficient strategies to create environmentally responsible buildings. We focus on reducing carbon footprints while enhancing occupant well-being. Projects include net-zero housing and eco-conscious institutional spaces that balance innovation with ecological stewardship.
Adaptive Reuse
We specialize in transforming historic and underutilized structures into modern, functional spaces. Our approach preserves cultural heritage while implementing energy-efficient upgrades. Recent projects include converting industrial buildings into mixed-use developments and revitalizing schools for contemporary educational needs.
Interior Design
Our interior design team creates cohesive, user-centric environments that align with architectural vision. We focus on multifamily, hospitality, and institutional interiors, emphasizing accessibility, durability, and aesthetic harmony to enhance occupant experience and property value.
Project Management
We provide comprehensive project management from concept to completion. Our process ensures clear communication, budget adherence, and quality control across all phases. This includes coordinating consultants, managing timelines, and maintaining alignment with client goals and regulatory requirements.
Community Engagement
We facilitate inclusive design processes that incorporate community input. Through workshops, surveys, and collaborative sessions, we ensure projects reflect local needs and foster social equity. This approach strengthens community ties and creates spaces that resonate with end-users.
People
Michelle Apigian
Managing Principal + ESG Director
With 24 years at ICON, Michelle leads sustainability initiatives and advocates for systems thinking. Her expertise in holistic design and stakeholder engagement drives environmentally responsible projects while mentoring teams to prioritize transparency and innovation.
Matt Marotta
Managing Principal + Chief Operations Officer
Matt has evolved from intern to operations leader over 18 years. He leverages technology to visualize complex projects and mentors teams on delivering client-focused solutions through open communication and professional development opportunities.
Janice Marinello
Managing Principal + Chief Financial Officer
Janice oversees ICON's financial health with 10 years of A&E industry experience. She ensures fiscal responsibility while fostering a culture of accountability and operational efficiency to support the firm's long-term vision.
Nancy Ludwig
Senior Principal, Advisor
Founder of ICON's WBE certification, Nancy pioneered sustainable housing solutions. With over 20,000 units designed, she focuses on transit-oriented developments and adaptive reuse projects that set national sustainability benchmarks.
Ned Collier
Sr. Principal, Education Studio
Ned leads ICON's education practice with expertise in stakeholder collaboration. His teaching background informs a leadership style that embraces complexity, fostering inclusive designs that improve learning environments through equity-driven, sustainable approaches.
Questions
What architectural services does ICON offer?
We provide full-service architecture including sustainable design, adaptive reuse, interior design, and project management for residential, institutional, and commercial projects.
Is ICON Architecture a certified woman-owned business?
Yes, we are a certified Woman Business Enterprise (WBE) committed to advancing equity in the architecture industry.
What sustainable design certifications do your architects hold?
Our team includes LEED Accredited Professionals and Certified Passive House Consultants who implement cutting-edge green building standards.
How does ICON approach community engagement in projects?
We conduct collaborative workshops and stakeholder sessions to ensure designs reflect community needs while fostering social equity and inclusivity.
Can ICON handle historic building renovations?
Yes, our adaptive reuse expertise includes historic preservation projects that modernize structures while maintaining their cultural significance and architectural integrity.
Where is ICON Architecture located?
Our headquarters are at 141 Tremont St, 7th Floor, Boston, MA 02111, with projects across New England and beyond.
