Business Details
Inclusive Design & Accessibility Experts in Newton, MA
KMA is a design and consulting practice dedicated to advancing accessibility compliance and inclusive design through innovative architectural solutions. Our team of architects, technical experts, and thought leaders combines rigorous design thinking with deep expertise in regulatory standards to create equitable built environments. With a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion, we deliver user-centered projects ranging from historic preservation to universal design, serving clients across the United States.Our work spans public and private sectors, emphasizing education, consulting, and built projects that celebrate human diversity in age, ability, and culture. We collaborate with forward-thinking clients to implement best practices in accessibility while maintaining a commitment to social change through design.
Services
Accessibility Consulting
Universal Design
ADA Compliance
Historic Preservation
Expert Witness Services
Aging in Place Design
Design Due Diligence
Highlights and features
- We combine architectural innovation with deep expertise in accessibility regulations.
- Our team includes certified architects and access planners with nationwide experience.
- We prioritize user-centered design that anticipates diverse human needs.
- We collaborate with clients to implement forward-thinking inclusive design strategies.
- Our work spans diverse project types from historic preservation to modern infrastructure.
What people say
Mission-driven designers
Equitable built environments
User-centered approach
Regulatory expertise
Innovative solutions
Services
Accessibility Consulting
Our accessibility consulting services help clients navigate complex regulatory requirements while implementing inclusive design solutions. We provide technical expertise for compliance with local, state, and federal accessibility standards. Our consultants work with architects, developers, and institutions to minimize risk while enhancing accessibility across diverse project types.
Universal Design
Universal design services create spaces usable by all people regardless of ability or age. We apply equitable design principles to projects ranging from educational facilities to public parks, ensuring accessibility without compromising aesthetic quality or functionality for diverse user groups.
Historic Preservation
Our historic preservation work integrates modern accessibility requirements with the protection of cultural heritage. We develop solutions that maintain historical integrity while implementing inclusive design features in landmark buildings and traditional spaces.
Design Due Diligence
Design due diligence services identify potential accessibility issues early in project planning. Our experts conduct comprehensive assessments of design documents to ensure compliance and prevent costly modifications during later construction phases.
Aging in Place Design
Aging in place design services create living environments that adapt to changing mobility needs. We specialize in residential modifications and multi-family housing solutions that support independent living for older adults through thoughtful, accessible design.
People
Josh Safdie
Managing Principal
Josh Safdie leads KMA's strategic vision, combining architectural expertise with a commitment to social equity. He oversees major projects and client relationships while advancing the firm's mission-driven approach to inclusive design.
Mark Armstrong
Senior Architect
Mark Armstrong specializes in accessibility compliance and architectural innovation. As a licensed architect with LEED certification, he leads technical consulting projects and represents KMA at industry events focused on inclusive design standards.
Tejal Mhatre
Senior Architect
Tejal Mhatre brings extensive experience in universal design solutions. She leads architectural projects that balance regulatory requirements with creative design approaches to create accessible environments for diverse communities.
Lisa Pilorz
Associate Principal
Lisa Pilorz contributes technical expertise to KMA's consulting projects. She specializes in accessibility evaluations and works closely with clients to implement compliant, user-centered design solutions across various building types.
Emma Palacio
Access Planner
Emma Palacio focuses on accessibility planning and inclusive design implementation. She works with multidisciplinary teams to ensure projects meet regulatory standards while addressing the diverse needs of end users.
Questions
What types of projects does KMA specialize in?
KMA specializes in accessibility compliance, universal design, ADA self-evaluations, historic preservation, and aging-in-place solutions for both public and private sector clients.
How does KMA approach inclusive design?
We integrate rigorous design thinking with regulatory expertise to create spaces that anticipate diverse human needs, focusing on equity, accessibility, and cultural inclusivity.
What geographic areas does KMA serve?
While based in Newton, MA, we work with clients nationwide on projects ranging from Boston to Atlanta, Philadelphia to Los Angeles.
Can KMA assist with ADA compliance evaluations?
Yes, we provide comprehensive ADA self-evaluations and compliance assessments for existing facilities and new construction projects.
What makes KMA different from other architectural firms?
Our unique focus on accessibility compliance combined with mission-driven design thinking sets us apart as specialists in inclusive built environments.
