About

When preparing for future growth and expansion, clients turn to us to examine and recommend the best options through a master planning exercise. Our planning and design studies include development and comprehensive planning, district and precinct planning, as well as usability or feasibility studies. These plans investigate optimal economic, environmental, and social factors that influence project needs and guide development over time.

Key stakeholders are brought in for a participatory process during each stage of master planning, which includes understanding the mission, goals, and metrics driving the institution or development opportunity. A discovery process includes site assessment, concept planning with options, design charrettes, initial budgetary numbers, and final recommendations.

When setting out to begin a design and construction project, nearly all of our clients ask the same questions: Is it feasible? Can we accomplish the pro forma goals while meeting our aesthetic and functionality objectives? Our feasibility process in the pre-design stage can give you answers before significant investment takes place.

An assessment of existing facilities includes a detailed analysis of the building along with creative options for potential adaptive reuse or improved performance. Our goal is to maximize the operational performance and purpose, so the investment returns to an optimal commercial asset for the owner. The process includes structural / site / function and context assessments, a building system analysis, an ADA review for code compliance, and creative considerations to identify the functional and aesthetic possibilities of a new purpose.

The practice of architecture encompasses everything we do. We help clients create environments that enrich their lives and enhance the quality of their communities. We strive to add value on each project by identifying ways to support peak performance — for the client, the building’s inhabitants, and the lasting contribution to the community fabric.

Our teams work collaboratively to deliver a superior client experience. The quality of any given project is based not only on aesthetics, technical attributes, cost-effectiveness, and timely delivery, but also through effective communication, collaboration, management, and execution of our design process.

With over 100 years of combined experience, our interiors team has partnered with organizations and institutions across the Southeast to create individualized interior spaces with the power to inspire and engage.

We strive first to understand the client’s unique culture, brand, and over-arching purpose. Through the creation of well-designed and distinctive spaces, we are able to influence positive human behavior, increase performance and engagement, and encourage a sense of wellbeing and comfort. Our environments exemplify flexibility, safety, and functionality while representing the quality of an aesthetically pleasing and delightful experience for visitors and users.

One of McMillan Pazdan Smith’s distinguishing characteristics is our emphasis on the construction contract administration process and successful project close-out. Our construction administration professionals are trained to identify and resolve issues before they affect a project’s budget and schedule. We act as the client representative, constantly monitoring quality and keeping the project on time with consistent oversight, detailed documentation, and a team-oriented approach.

The construction administration team is engaged in the initial design phase to ensure selection of the most cost-effective construction materials and techniques. We are proficient in working within all methods of design and project delivery, using design-build, design-bid-build, partnering, construction-management-at-risk, and construction management methods with great success.

Clear communication and community support are often essential to moving projects forward. Through compelling visuals, presentations, stakeholder meetings, and public engagement efforts, we help clients communicate their vision, build consensus, and support fundraising initiatives. Our team works alongside clients to create materials and facilitate conversations that strengthen community understanding, generate excitement, and help secure funding for transformative projects.

Buildings perform best when sustainability, efficiency, and occupant wellbeing are considered from the start. Our sustainable design and building performance approach helps clients reduce energy consumption, lower long-term operation and maintenance costs, and create healthier environments for the people who use their facilities every day.

We evaluate building systems, materials, site development, water use, energy performance, and indoor environmental quality to identify strategies that improve efficiency, durability, and overall building performance. Whether pursuing LEED, WELL, Green Globes, Energy Star, or other sustainability goals, our team helps clients make informed decisions that support operational success, environmental responsibility, and long-term value.

Visit our sustainability page for project examples and how we design for maximum impact.

Adaptive reuse and historic preservation extend the life of existing buildings while preserving the character and history that make them meaningful to communities. These projects balance modern performance, accessibility, and operational needs with the architectural qualities that define a place.

Our experience in restoration, rehabilitation, and adaptive reuse range from civic and educational facilities to mixed-use and downtown redevelopment. Knowledge of preservation standards, historic districts, tax credits, and funding strategies helps move projects from vision to reality while supporting long-term community value.