Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Award-Winning Architectural Design Services in Kentucky
At JRA Architects, we are singularly focused on transforming client visions into spaces that create transformative, inspirational, and memorable experiences. Our collaborative approach combines multidisciplinary expertise to redefine architectural experiences through hands-on, interactive design processes. Founded in 1946, we have built a legacy of creating functional, impactful spaces for educational, healthcare, civic, and commercial clients. Our work emphasizes inclusivity, sustainability, and community impact, as evidenced by our award-winning projects across Kentucky and beyond. We prioritize listening to clients, understanding their needs, and delivering designs that exceed expectations while maintaining budgetary and timeline integrity. Our team of LEED-certified professionals and AIA-recognized architects brings decades of experience to every project, ensuring innovative solutions tailored to each client's unique requirements.With offices in Lexington and Louisville, we serve a diverse range of markets, from K-12 schools to medical facilities, always striving to enhance the human experience through architecture. Our commitment to excellence has earned us numerous industry accolades and long-term partnerships with repeat clients. We believe architecture should not only solve design problems but also elevate communities and inspire future generations. This philosophy has driven our growth of over 30% since 2013 while maintaining our founding principles of collaboration and client-centric design.
Services
Educational Architecture
Healthcare Architecture
Civic Design
Commercial Architecture
Industrial Architecture
Interior Design
Historic Preservation
Sustainable Design
Space Planning
Project Management
Details
- Year established: 1946
Highlights and features
- We offer 75+ years of architectural expertise since 1946 with LEED-certified professionals.
- Our collaborative design process ensures client visions are realized with precision.
- Award-winning designs recognized by AIA and other industry organizations.
- Specialized experience across education, healthcare, civic, and commercial sectors.
- Proven track record of completing 48% of projects under $5M budget constraints.
Associations and certifications
- American Institute of Architects (AIA)
What people say
Outstanding work
High quality
Stately icon
World-class resource
Exceptional design
Services
Educational Architecture
We design innovative learning environments that inspire creativity and adapt to 21st-century educational needs. Our K-12 and higher education projects prioritize flexible spaces, natural lighting, and technology integration to enhance student engagement. With award-winning projects like Echo Trail Middle School, we create campuses that foster collaboration and community pride while maintaining budgetary efficiency.
Healthcare Architecture
Our healthcare designs focus on improving patient outcomes through functional, healing environments. We specialize in hospitals, clinics, and specialized care centers that balance clinical efficiency with comforting aesthetics. Projects like the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center demonstrate our ability to create spaces that support both medical staff and patient well-being through thoughtful layout and sustainable materials.
Civic Design
We create iconic civic buildings that strengthen community identity and functionality. Our portfolio includes libraries, judicial centers, and municipal facilities designed to serve public needs while becoming local landmarks. The Louisville Free Public Library Southwest Branch exemplifies our approach to combining modern design with community accessibility in public spaces.
Commercial Architecture
Our commercial projects deliver inspiring workspaces that boost productivity and brand identity. We design offices, retail spaces, and corporate headquarters that balance aesthetics with practical functionality. The Glenview Trust Company Headquarters showcases our ability to create distinctive commercial environments that reflect client values while optimizing space efficiency.
Historic Preservation
We specialize in preserving architectural heritage while integrating modern functionality. Our team handles restoration of historic buildings like the Louisville Water Company Gatehouse, maintaining original character while meeting contemporary standards. This service combines technical expertise with deep respect for historical significance in civic and cultural landmarks.
People
Rob Deal
President
AIA and LEED AP-certified leader with over 20 years of architectural experience. Drives JRA's strategic vision and has led firm growth of 30% since 2013. Specializes in collaborative design processes that prioritize client partnerships.
Michael Nett
Executive Vice President
AIA-certified healthcare architecture specialist with extensive experience in medical facility design. Leads complex healthcare projects that balance clinical functionality with patient-centered environments. Recognized for innovative solutions in hospital expansions and renovations.
Colin Drake
Principal
FAIA and LEED AP principal architect with expertise in civic and municipal projects. Award-winning designer of public libraries and judicial centers. Focuses on creating community-centric spaces that blend functionality with architectural excellence.
Eric Steva
K-12 Education Lead Architect
AIA and LEED AP BD+C-certified education architect with specialization in modern school design. Recipient of AIA Indiana Merit Award for innovative educational spaces. Focuses on creating adaptable learning environments that support evolving teaching methods.
Marty Merkel
Principal
AIA and LEED AP industrial architecture specialist with expertise in integrating functionality with aesthetic design. Leads industrial projects that balance operational efficiency with sustainable building practices. Recognized for innovative solutions in manufacturing and distribution facilities.
Questions
What architectural services does JRA Architects specialize in?
We specialize in educational, healthcare, civic, commercial, and industrial architecture, with additional expertise in historic preservation and sustainable design solutions.
How does JRA Architects approach the design process?
We use a collaborative, client-centric process that emphasizes listening, understanding project needs, and creating tailored solutions through interactive design sessions and multidisciplinary expertise.
In which geographic areas does JRA Architects operate?
While based in Lexington and Louisville, Kentucky, we work with clients across the region and have completed projects nationwide through strategic partnerships.
What sets JRA Architects apart from other firms?
Our unique combination of collaborative design approach, LEED-certified professionals, and specialized expertise across multiple sectors creates distinctive solutions that exceed client expectations.
How does JRA Architects handle project timelines and budgets?
We maintain strict budget control and timeline management through experienced project administration, as demonstrated by successful completions of projects ranging from $200,000 to $32 million.
What awards has JRA Architects received for their work?
Our firm has received numerous AIA honors, ICF Builder Awards, and industry recognitions for projects like Echo Trail Middle School and the Louisville Free Public Library branches.
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