Business Details
38 Years
experience
Trusted Architectural Design Services in Pittsburgh, PA
Graves Design Group has been delivering creative and cost-effective architectural solutions since 1988. Our firm prioritizes understanding client needs to provide tailored design, coordination, and planning services that align with budgets, programs, and schedules. As a nationally-certified MBE (Minority Business Enterprise), we embrace diversity in staffing and sub-consultant selection, fostering lasting client relationships through transparency and expertise. Our portfolio spans residential, commercial, educational, and industrial projects, with specialized experience in LEED certification, historic preservation, and urban planning.Recognized for awards like the 2013 Platinum LEED certification and the 1999 AIA Design Award, we combine the agility of a boutique firm with the capabilities of larger practices by assembling project-specific teams of top-tier consultants. Our principals lead every project directly, ensuring efficient communication and results that exceed client expectations.
Services
Architectural Design
Interior Design
Project Management
Property Inspection
LEED Certification
Historic Preservation
Pre-purchase Inspection
Construction Management
Urban Planning
Sustainability Consulting
Details
- Year established: 1988
Highlights and features
- We offer 35+ years of experience in architectural design and project management.
- Our principals lead every project directly, ensuring efficient decision-making.
- MBE-certified firm with a commitment to diversity in staffing and partnerships.
- Recognized for LEED expertise and awards like the 1999 AIA Design Award.
- We assemble project-specific teams of top-tier consultants for tailored solutions.
Associations and certifications
- MBE (Minority Business Enterprise)
Services
Architectural Design
Graves Design Group provides full-service architectural design, from schematic planning to construction administration. Our approach combines creative problem-solving with technical precision, ensuring projects meet budgetary, functional, and aesthetic goals. We specialize in traditional design/bid/build and design/build methodologies, tailoring solutions for residential, commercial, and institutional clients.
Project Management
Our project management services include planning, cost control, scheduling, and quality assurance for architectural projects. We act as the client's representative, coordinating teams to ensure timely delivery and adherence to budget while maintaining design integrity and compliance with regulatory standards.
Property Inspection
We conduct detailed property inspections to evaluate structural, mechanical, and code compliance conditions. Our reports highlight deficiencies, repair costs, and compliance needs for clients considering property purchases or managing existing assets, covering residential, commercial, and institutional buildings.
LEED Certification
Graves Design Group specializes in LEED-certified design, integrating energy-efficient systems and sustainable materials into projects. Our expertise ensures compliance with green building standards while balancing cost-effectiveness and functional requirements for new constructions and renovations.
Historic Preservation
We offer historic preservation services for adaptive reuse and restoration projects, maintaining architectural integrity while meeting modern functionality and code requirements. Our work includes landmark buildings, cultural sites, and urban districts, combining technical expertise with historical sensitivity.
People
Howard K. Graves, Jr.
Principal in Charge
AIA-certified architect with expertise in historic preservation, garage design, and LEED projects. Over 30 years of experience leading innovative architectural solutions for diverse clients.
Todd Graves
Principal, Business Manager
Manages business operations and client relations, ensuring efficient project execution and alignment with client goals across residential and commercial sectors.
Robert R. Daniels
Principal, RA
Licensed architect with extensive experience in project design and coordination, focusing on delivering functional, code-compliant solutions for institutional and industrial clients.
Yanet Kaplanski
Senior Project Architect
AIA and LEED AP-certified professional specializing in sustainable design and project management for complex commercial and educational facilities.
Francis Ikhalea Jr.
Project Manager
Coordinates project timelines and resources, ensuring seamless execution of architectural projects from concept to completion for diverse client portfolios.
Questions
What services does Graves Design Group offer?
We provide architectural design, interior design, project management, property inspections, LEED certification, historic preservation, and urban planning services for residential, commercial, and institutional clients.
Is Graves Design Group MBE-certified?
Yes, we are nationally-certified as a Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), reflecting our commitment to diversity in staffing and partnerships.
What project types does the firm specialize in?
We specialize in residential, commercial, educational, industrial, and LEED-certified projects, with expertise in historic preservation and urban planning.
How does the firm approach project management?
We assemble project-specific teams of top consultants, combining agility with technical expertise to ensure cost-effective, client-focused outcomes.
Can the firm assist with property assessments?
Yes, we offer property inspections and pre-purchase evaluations to identify structural, code compliance, and repair cost considerations for clients.
