Business Details
35 Years
experience
Trusted Architectural Design Services in Philadelphia
Studio Of Metropolitan Design Architects is a Philadelphia-based architectural firm founded in 1991 by Elie-Antoine Atallah, NCARB. Our philosophy centers on clarity, simplicity, and efficiency guided by integrity, with a commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship. We believe good design is a strategic investment that helps organizations achieve their goals by enhancing communication, productivity, and talent retention. Our work addresses contextual relevance while reflecting clients' values and objectives. With decades of experience, we serve college and university, retail, commercial, and residential clients.Our principal has held academic positions at Syracuse University, Harvard University, and Philadelphia University, and maintains active roles in professional organizations like the American Institute of Architects. Our projects have received multiple AIA design awards, and our work is part of the University of Pennsylvania Architectural Archive collection. We are dedicated to creating spaces that balance functionality with aesthetic excellence.
Services
College + University Projects
Retail + Commercial Projects
Residential Projects
Educational Facility Design
Commercial Space Planning
Details
- Year established: 1991
Highlights and features
- Founded in 1991 with continuous service to Philadelphia's architectural community
- Principal holds NCARB certification and multiple AIA design awards
- Academic leadership experience at Syracuse University and Harvard GSD
- Specialized expertise in educational, commercial, and residential architecture
- Active members of American Institute of Architects and SCUP organizations
Associations and certifications
- NCARB
Services
College + University Projects
Specialized design solutions for academic institutions including laboratory renovations, auditorium construction, and administrative suite upgrades. Our work enhances learning environments while maintaining historical context. Projects include University of Pennsylvania laboratory renovations and Haverford College auditorium development.
Retail + Commercial Projects
Comprehensive architectural services for commercial spaces including office buildings, retail centers, and medical facilities. We create functional spaces that optimize business operations while maintaining aesthetic appeal. Notable projects include Cira Center offices and Philadelphia International Airport retail developments.
Residential Projects
Tailored architectural solutions for residential properties including modern additions, historic renovations, and luxury home designs. Our approach balances client lifestyle needs with environmental considerations. Completed projects range from Chestnut Hill estates to New York vacation homes.
Laboratory Design
Specialized laboratory planning and design services for academic and medical institutions. We create flexible, code-compliant spaces that support cutting-edge research while maintaining safety standards. Projects include University of Pennsylvania's Translational Research Laboratories and Leidy Laboratories renovations.
Historic Preservation
Expert preservation and adaptive reuse services for historic buildings. Our approach maintains architectural integrity while integrating modern functionality. Current projects include Chestnut Hill residence restorations and New York City condominium conversions preserving original facades.
People
Elie-Antoine Atallah
Principal Architect
Founded Studio of Metropolitan Design in 1991. Registered architect in Pennsylvania and multiple states. NCARB certified. Former faculty member at Philadelphia University and Boston Architectural College. Active in AIA Philadelphia and SCUP organizations.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialize in?
We specialize in educational, commercial, and residential architecture with particular expertise in laboratory design and historic preservation projects.
How long has your firm been in business?
Studio of Metropolitan Design Architects has provided architectural services since 1991, with continuous operation in Philadelphia for over 30 years.
What makes your firm unique?
Our unique approach combines academic expertise with practical experience, maintaining NCARB certification and active participation in professional organizations like AIA Philadelphia.
Do you work on historic building renovations?
Yes, we specialize in historic preservation projects including adaptive reuse and restoration of period buildings while integrating modern requirements.
What geographic areas do you serve?
While based in Philadelphia, we serve clients throughout Pennsylvania, New York, and international locations including Lebanon and Togo.
