Business Details
19 Years
experience
Trusted Architectural Design Services in Boulder, CO
Founded in 2007, M. Gerwing Architects is a full-service architecture firm based in Boulder, Colorado, specializing in residential design, historic preservation, and commercial projects. Our team combines over 30 years of collective experience with a commitment to sustainable practices, ensuring each project harmonizes with its environment and client needs. We navigate complex zoning and historic regulations to deliver innovative, timeless designs. Our process emphasizes collaboration, from initial concept through construction, ensuring every detail aligns with the client's vision. With expertise in new construction, renovations, and multi-family developments, we serve clients across Colorado and beyond, including Denver, San Francisco, and New York.Our work has earned recognition for integrating modern solutions with historic contexts, and we maintain active involvement in local preservation boards. By prioritizing transparency, technical precision, and environmental stewardship, we create spaces that exceed expectations while adhering to budgets and timelines. Our partnerships with skilled contractors ensure high-quality execution, and our dedication to green building practices reflects our belief that sustainability is integral to responsible architecture.
Services
Residential New Construction
Larger Renovations & Additions
Historic Preservation
Commercial Architecture
Multi-Family Projects
Details
- Year established: 2007
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years of experience in residential and historic architecture.
- Our team includes LEED-certified professionals committed to sustainable design.
- We specialize in navigating complex zoning and historic preservation approvals.
- We maintain active involvement in Boulder's Landmarks Board and advisory committees.
- Our process emphasizes full-project lifecycle collaboration with clients and contractors.
Associations and certifications
- LEED AP
- City of Boulder Greenpoints Professional
Services
Residential New Construction
We design custom homes that integrate with their natural surroundings and client lifestyles. Our process begins with site analysis and client goals, ensuring energy efficiency and timeless aesthetics. Projects range from modern mountain retreats to urban infill homes, emphasizing aging-in-place features and sustainable materials.
Historic Preservation
Our team specializes in preserving historic structures while incorporating modern functionality. We navigate landmark designation requirements and zoning laws to maintain architectural integrity. Services include adaptive reuse, material restoration, and securing necessary approvals for protected properties.
Larger Renovations & Additions
We transform existing homes through strategic renovations and additions. Our approach maximizes spatial efficiency and updates systems while respecting original architecture. Projects include second-story additions, kitchen remodels, and reconfiguring layouts for contemporary living needs.
Commercial Architecture
We create functional commercial environments tailored to business needs. Our portfolio includes restaurant designs, retail spaces, and office renovations. We prioritize brand alignment, customer flow optimization, and compliance with commercial building codes and accessibility standards.
Sustainable Design
Sustainability is core to our practice. We implement energy-efficient systems, passive solar design, and recycled materials. Our expertise includes LEED certification guidance and net-zero energy strategies, ensuring minimal environmental impact without compromising design quality.
People
Mark Gerwing
Principal Architect
With over 30 years of experience, Mark leads all projects from concept to completion. A Yale-trained architect and LEED AP professional, he specializes in complex regulatory approvals and sustainable design. He serves as Vice-Chair of Boulder County's Historic Preservation Advisory Board.
Jim Walker
Project Manager
Jim contributes 30 years of project management expertise, overseeing design and construction phases. His background includes collaborations with renowned architects in New York and Chicago. He leads ACI design:build, the firm's construction partner, ensuring design integrity during execution.
Meri Bacus
Project Manager
Meri manages project workflows and municipal approvals. With architecture degrees from Cooper Union and experience in New York, Germany, and Colorado, she specializes in navigating complex zoning processes and delivering client-focused solutions for residential and commercial projects.
Questions
What architectural styles do you specialize in?
We create contextually appropriate designs spanning modern, traditional, and transitional styles. Our focus is on site-specific solutions rather than predetermined aesthetics.
Can you help with historic home renovations?
Yes, we have extensive experience with historic preservation projects, including navigating landmark designation requirements and integrating modern amenities while maintaining architectural integrity.
Do you work outside the Boulder area?
While based in Boulder, we've completed projects in Denver, San Francisco, Portland, New York, and Chicago, with experience adapting to diverse regional building codes and climates.
How do you incorporate sustainability into projects?
We prioritize passive solar design, energy-efficient systems, and recycled materials. Our team includes LEED-certified professionals who guide clients through green building certifications and net-zero energy strategies.
What construction partners do you work with?
We collaborate with ACI design:build for many projects and maintain relationships with trusted local contractors specializing in high-quality custom home construction and renovations.
How are project timelines managed?
We develop detailed schedules during the design phase and maintain regular communication throughout construction. Our team's experience with local approval processes helps minimize delays in permitting and inspections.
