Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Expert Architectural Services in Princeton, NJ
HMR Architects has been dedicated to delivering exceptional architectural services since 1965, originally founded as Holt & Morgan Architects. Our firm specializes in designing and preserving civic, institutional, and residential projects, with a particular emphasis on historic preservation and adaptive reuse. Our team combines deep expertise in traditional and modern architectural practices, ensuring each project respects its historical context while meeting contemporary needs. We prioritize collaboration with clients to achieve consensus early in the design process, resulting in tailored solutions that align with their vision. With decades of experience, we have built lasting relationships with clients and earned a reputation for excellence in preservation and design.Our work spans award-winning restorations, innovative new constructions, and sustainable adaptations of historic structures. We are committed to maintaining the integrity of our designs while integrating modern technologies and materials. Our team's passion for architecture and dedication to client satisfaction drive every project, from small residential renovations to large-scale institutional developments. We serve a diverse range of clients, including universities, municipalities, and private homeowners, across New Jersey and beyond. Our legacy of excellence continues under the leadership of principals Robert W. Russell and Eric Holtermann, who uphold the firm's founding principles of integrity and innovation.
Services
Civic architecture
Historic preservation
Residential design
Institutional projects
Ecclesiastical architecture
Details
- Year established: 1965
Highlights and features
- We have over 50 years of experience in architectural design and historic preservation.
- Our team includes AIA-certified architects with expertise in adaptive reuse projects.
- We prioritize collaborative client relationships throughout every project phase.
- Award-winning designs recognized by the New Jersey Historic Preservation Office.
- Specialized knowledge in integrating modern technology with historic structures.
What people say
Award-winning designs
Historic preservation expertise
Client collaboration
Quality projects
Contextual sensitivity
Services
Historic Preservation
Our historic preservation services focus on restoring and adapting historic buildings while maintaining their architectural integrity. We conduct detailed condition assessments, prepare Historic Structure Reports, and implement preservation plans that meet Secretary of the Interior's standards. Our team has completed award-winning projects for institutions like the Institute for Advanced Study and Princeton University, combining traditional techniques with modern sustainability practices.
Civic Architecture
We design and renovate civic buildings that serve community needs while respecting historical contexts. Our portfolio includes municipal buildings, libraries, and cultural institutions across New Jersey. Projects like the Somerville Borough Hall restoration and Madison Fire & Police Facility demonstrate our ability to blend functional modernization with architectural heritage, earning recognition from preservation organizations.
Residential Design
Our residential design services create tailored living spaces that honor architectural history while incorporating modern comforts. From Tudor revival renovations to contemporary additions, we maintain contextual sensitivity in projects like the Prospect House renovation and Lakeside Lodge. Our approach balances aesthetic integrity with functional improvements for active families.
Institutional Projects
We specialize in institutional projects for universities and cultural organizations, including libraries, academic halls, and research facilities. Our work at Princeton University, Rutgers University, and the Institute for Advanced Study demonstrates expertise in creating spaces that support educational missions while preserving campus heritage through sensitive renovations and expansions.
Ecclesiastical Architecture
Our ecclesiastical architecture services focus on preserving and adapting religious buildings while maintaining their spiritual significance. Projects like Kirkpatrick Chapel and Sacred Heart Church showcase our ability to handle complex preservation challenges, from structural stabilization to interior restoration, ensuring these spaces continue serving communities for generations.
People
Robert W. Russell
Principal
With over 30 years at HMR, Bob has led award-winning projects like the Morristown Library addition. He focuses on civic and academic buildings, emphasizing contextual design. A leader in affordable housing initiatives, he balances professional excellence with community service.
Eric J. Holtermann
Principal
Eric brings expertise in historic preservation and adaptive reuse, leading projects like Loews Jersey Theatre restoration. He chairs Pennington's Historic Preservation Commission and contributes to preservation ordinances, blending academic knowledge with practical experience in historic contexts.
Kurt Leasure
Associate
Kurt specializes in historic materials restoration, managing projects like the Craftsman Farms Education Center. With a master's in historic preservation, he combines technical knowledge with client-focused execution, earning repeat commissions for his professional approach to complex preservation challenges.
Brian S. Stevens
Associate
Brian oversees university projects like Montclair State's College Hall addition. His expertise in historic rehabilitation combines architectural design with construction science, maintaining strong client relationships through collaborative problem-solving in both preservation and new construction projects.
Lisa Olcsvary
Project Manager
Lisa manages preservation planning and Historic Structure Reports, drawing on experience from the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission. She specializes in adaptive reuse projects, balancing technical documentation with practical construction administration to maintain historical integrity in modernized spaces.
Questions
What architectural services does HMR Architects offer?
We provide civic, institutional, and residential design services with expertise in historic preservation and adaptive reuse projects.
How long has HMR Architects been in business?
Our firm has been delivering architectural solutions since 1965, with a legacy of excellence spanning over five decades.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily work in New Jersey, serving Princeton, Jersey City, Morristown, Somerville, and Lambertville areas.
Do you specialize in historic building projects?
Yes, we are recognized leaders in historic preservation with multiple awards for restoration and adaptive reuse projects.
How do you collaborate with clients?
We establish early consensus through collaborative design processes to ensure projects align with client vision and needs.
