Business Details
39 Years
experience
Your Trusted Architectural Design Partner in Charlotte
Founded in 1987, Adams Group Architects is a multidisciplinary firm specializing in architecture, landscape architecture, and facility programming. Our nationally recognized participatory design process integrates behavioral research and client input throughout all project phases, ensuring spaces reflect client visions and cultural contexts. With 34 years of experience, we have earned accolades from the AIA North Carolina and US Department of Education for innovative educational facility design. Our team combines technical expertise with creative problem-solving to deliver adaptable, sustainable environments tailored to community needs.We prioritize collaboration, involving stakeholders through workshops and charrettes to shape projects that balance functionality with emotional resonance. Our commitment to sustainability drives eco-conscious solutions that align with economic and environmental goals. By maintaining close client partnerships and tracking industry innovations, we consistently exceed expectations across diverse architectural projects.
Services
Architectural Design
Landscape Architecture
Interior Design
Master Planning
Construction Administration
Feasibility Studies
Sustainable Design
Programming
Site Selection
Pre-Design Services
Details
- Year established: 1987
Highlights and features
- We offer 34 years of experience in participatory architectural design
- Our patented stakeholder engagement process ensures client-driven outcomes
- We hold AIA North Carolina awards for educational facility innovation
- Our multidisciplinary team combines architecture and landscape expertise
- We implement sustainable design strategies with measurable benefits
Associations and certifications
- American Institute of Architects (AIA) North Carolina
Services
Architectural Design
Our architectural design service creates functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces through collaborative client engagement. We develop customized solutions that balance technical requirements with creative innovation, ensuring projects meet both practical needs and emotional aspirations. With 34 years of experience, we deliver designs that reflect cultural context while maintaining adaptability for future use.
Landscape Architecture
We craft sustainable outdoor environments that harmonize with architectural elements and natural surroundings. Our approach integrates ecological principles with user needs to create functional, visually cohesive spaces. From urban plazas to campus masterplans, our designs enhance environmental quality while supporting community interaction and accessibility.
Interior Design
Our interior design service focuses on creating adaptable, human-centered environments that support intended activities. We combine spatial efficiency with material selection and lighting design to enhance functionality and well-being. By involving stakeholders throughout the process, we ensure interiors reflect organizational culture while maintaining flexibility for evolving needs.
Master Planning
We develop comprehensive master plans that guide long-term development while preserving existing assets. Our participatory approach incorporates stakeholder input to create phased strategies that balance growth with sustainability. These plans provide clear frameworks for implementation while maintaining adaptability to future changes in organizational goals.
Sustainable Design
Our sustainable design service integrates eco-friendly practices throughout the project lifecycle. We employ energy-efficient systems, locally sourced materials, and passive design strategies to minimize environmental impact. By aligning with LEED standards and conducting lifecycle analyses, we create buildings that reduce operational costs while promoting occupant health and environmental stewardship.
People
Graham Adams
Founder & Principal Architect
With over 40 years of experience, Graham leads architectural programming and design initiatives. As an AIA member and EDRA co-founder, he pioneered participatory design methods that shape the firm's collaborative approach to client projects.
Melissa Rusch-Tidwell
Partner
Melissa oversees project coordination and interior design, managing client communication throughout project phases. She facilitates participatory design workshops and selects interior finishes that align with client visions and functional requirements.
Rodney Dunham
Director of Construction Administration
Rodney manages technical compliance and construction phase services. He coordinates specifications development, serves as code expert, and ensures quality control throughout design and construction processes.
Questions
What architectural services does Adams Group offer?
We provide full-service architecture, landscape architecture, interior design, master planning, and sustainable design solutions tailored to educational, cultural, and community institutions.
How does your participatory design process work?
We engage stakeholders through workshops, interviews, and charrettes to incorporate diverse perspectives into design decisions, ensuring spaces reflect community needs and functional requirements.
Do you specialize in specific building types?
While we work across sectors, we have particular expertise in educational facilities, having completed projects like Garinger High School renovations and campus masterplans.
How do you incorporate sustainability into projects?
We integrate energy-efficient systems, passive design strategies, and lifecycle analyses to create environmentally responsible buildings that reduce operational costs and promote occupant well-being.
What makes your firm different from other architects?
Our unique combination of participatory design methodology, 34-year track record, and multidisciplinary expertise creates spaces that balance functionality with emotional resonance for users.
