DesignGroup Celebrates 50 Years

From ‘The Shoe’ to the Columbus Museum of Art, the Columbus- and Pittsburgh-based design firm has fostered a legacy of architectural excellence

COLUMBUS, Ohio – On Feb. 21, 2022, DesignGroup celebrated a major milestone — 50 years of business in Columbus, Ohio. Hundreds of clients and millions of square feet, combined with an innovative and collaborative team of experts, have helped DesignGroup leave an indelible mark on the built environment in central Ohio and beyond.

“Probably the most rewarding part of our work at DesignGroup is the dialogue between the passion-driven clients we serve and our outstanding team of professionals,” said Sherm Moreland, chief executive officer. “The firm’s commitment to the mission and vision developed by the founders in 1972 — sustainability, civic responsibility and service — is embedded in every detail of every design.”

Cornerstone projects over the years have included increasing the capacity of OSU Stadium ‘The Shoe,’ by 10 percent; OSU Richard M. Ross Heart Hospital; Columbus Museum of Art’s Margaret M. Water Wing; Franklin Park Conservatory; and numerous other healthcare, civic and educational facilities.

Hallmarks of DesignGroup’s work are sustainable architecture, healthy communities and lifelong learning. The firm’s designs have elevated the experiences of millions of students, workers, physicians, educators, leaders, patients and patrons.

Among the firm’s core values is civic responsibility. More than 3,500 donated hours to area nonprofit organizations strengthens the DesignGroup team’s connection to the community. These partnerships in turn inform the firm’s design work in the greater Columbus and Pittsburgh communities. DesignGroup’s office in Pittsburgh is celebrating its fifth year in business.

“Over the last half century, DesignGroup has been dedicated to excellence, quality and relationship building,” said Jennifer Horvath, managing principal. “Looking ahead, we plan to continue our vital work of helping clients succeed and investing in our extraordinary team — the most important resource we have.”

To illustrate 50 years of design, the firm has created a book with a detailed look at the people, collaborations and experiences that have contributed to DesignGroup distinctive aesthetic and achievements. Learn more and download a PDF preview of this inspiring book to meet the firm’s founders and current leadership and explore its vision for the future. Visitors can also enter for a chance to win a copy of the book.