Business Details
26 Years
experience
Trusted Architectural Design & Historic Preservation in Cambridge, MA
Frank Shirley Architects is a boutique architectural firm dedicated to creating harmonious, contextually sensitive designs that honor historical integrity while meeting modern needs. With over 25 years of experience, we specialize in new construction, additions, renovations, and historic preservation across New England and beyond. Our team combines deep expertise in traditional architectural styles with a commitment to meticulous craftsmanship and innovative problem-solving. We approach each project as a unique collaboration, ensuring our clients' visions are realized through thoughtful design and technical precision.Our work has been recognized with prestigious awards, including multiple Bulfinch Awards and inductions into the AIA College of Fellows and New England Design Hall of Fame. We prioritize transparency, client engagement, and a rigorous adherence to the principles of architectural heritage, ensuring every project reflects both timeless beauty and functional excellence.
Services
New Construction
Additions and Renovations
Historic Restoration
Interior Architecture
Architectural Consultations
Details
- Year established: 2000
Highlights and features
- We have 25 years of experience in architectural design and historic preservation.
- Our team includes AIA Fellows and New England Design Hall of Fame inductees.
- We specialize in complex renovations that maintain historical authenticity.
- Our portfolio includes award-winning projects recognized by the Boston Society of Architects.
- We offer personalized service with a focus on client collaboration and technical precision.
What people say
Stunning results
Historical authenticity preserved
Excellent collaboration
Award-winning expertise
Meticulous attention to detail
Services
New Construction
Designing unique structures from pool houses to estate homes, we create site-specific buildings that reflect client preferences and historical context. Our expertise spans diverse architectural styles, ensuring each project contributes to the region's built heritage while incorporating modern comforts.
Additions and Renovations
Specializing in challenging residential modifications, we transform existing structures to meet evolving needs without compromising historical integrity. Our approach combines technical mastery with creative problem-solving to achieve seamless, authentic results in over 150 completed projects.
Historic Restoration
We rehabilitate architectural landmarks using period-appropriate materials and techniques. Our work includes high-profile projects like Christ Church Cambridge, requiring meticulous analysis and respect for original design principles to restore buildings to their original grandeur.
Interior Architecture
Creating cohesive interior environments, we focus on cabinetry design and period-appropriate detailing. Our work integrates built-ins, lighting, and finishes into a unified architectural vocabulary that enhances both function and aesthetic continuity throughout the home.
Architectural Consultations
We provide expert guidance for property evaluations and renovation planning. Our consultations help clients assess structural viability, code compliance, and design options, ensuring informed decisions when purchasing or modifying historic properties.
People
Frank Shirley
Principal
AIA Fellow and New England Design Hall of Fame inductee, Frank has 25+ years of experience in historic preservation. Author of 'New Rooms for Old Houses,' he specializes in blending traditional architecture with modern functionality.
Bjorn Slate
Project Manager
Licensed architect with expertise in American vernacular styles. Former chair of Pleasantville's Architectural Review Board, Bjorn brings institutional project experience and a passion for historic preservation to residential design.
Archer Tao
Architectural Designer
Specializes in classical design and historic preservation. With experience in cultural projects and high-end residential work, Archer contributes expertise in adapting traditional forms to modern urban contexts while maintaining architectural authenticity.
Julie Chandler
Architectural Designer
Combines engineering precision with classical architecture training. Certified by the Institute of Classical Architecture and Art, Julie focuses on traditional design principles and meticulous detailing in residential projects.
Mikayla Riselli
Architectural Designer
Graduate of the University of Miami with minors in Art and Political Economics. Specializes in integrating modern needs with traditional techniques, drawing inspiration from historical architecture studies in Rome.
Questions
What architectural styles do you specialize in?
We work across all traditional American architectural styles, adapting designs to site context and client preferences while maintaining historical integrity.
Can you handle complex renovation projects?
Yes, we specialize in challenging renovations, including over 150 completed projects involving structural adaptations and historic preservation.
Do you work outside New England?
While based in Cambridge, we've completed projects as far as Oxfordshire, England, and collaborate effectively across diverse locations.
How do you approach interior design?
Our interior architecture focuses on cohesive integration with exterior design, particularly in custom cabinetry and period-appropriate detailing.
What recognition has the firm received?
We've earned multiple Bulfinch Awards, Dream Home Awards, and inductions into the AIA College of Fellows and New England Design Hall of Fame.
