Business Details
Architectural Design & Planning Services
For over three decades, American Design has delivered comprehensive architectural and planning services to public and private clients. Our expertise spans residential, educational, commercial, athletic, retail, industrial, and public building projects, with a focus on additions, new construction, adaptive reuse, and renovations. Certified as an MBE, DBE, and SBE firm, we prioritize collaboration through every design phase while maintaining deep expertise in BIM software.Our team actively participates in community design events and has earned recognition through awards such as the Daily Reporter Top Project Awards and Mayor's Design Awards. Licensed in five states, we combine technical proficiency with a commitment to local engagement and sustainable practices.
Services
Architecture
Urban Planning
Building Renovations
Adaptive Reuse
BIM Design
Community Charettes
Space Planning
LEED Certification
Highlights and features
- 30+ years of architectural experience across diverse project types
- MBE-certified firm with expertise in BIM software implementation
- Recipient of Mayor's Design Awards and masonry excellence recognitions
- Licensed architects in Wisconsin, California, Arizona, Tennessee, and Rhode Island
- Active community involvement through design charettes and STEM initiatives
Associations and certifications
- MBE
- DBE
- SBE
Services
Architecture
We provide comprehensive architectural services from concept through construction. Our team specializes in new construction, renovations, and adaptive reuse projects across commercial, educational, and public sectors. With expertise in BIM technology, we deliver precise, sustainable solutions that meet evolving client needs while maintaining strict adherence to project timelines and budgets.
Urban Planning
Our urban planning services focus on creating functional, sustainable communities. We develop land-use strategies, transportation systems, and public spaces that enhance urban environments. Through collaborative charettes and stakeholder engagement, we craft visionary plans addressing zoning, infrastructure, and development needs while balancing environmental and community considerations.
Building Renovations
Specializing in building renovations, we modernize existing structures while preserving architectural integrity. Our approach combines technical expertise with creative problem-solving to upgrade facilities for improved functionality, safety, and energy efficiency. We handle projects ranging from interior office renovations to comprehensive structural upgrades for educational and public institutions.
Community Charettes
We facilitate collaborative design workshops to engage stakeholders in community development. These intensive sessions gather input from residents, businesses, and officials to create inclusive, actionable plans. Our charettes focus on addressing local needs through participatory design, fostering community ownership of development projects while ensuring practical implementation strategies.
BIM Design
Our BIM (Building Information Modeling) services enhance project visualization and coordination. Using advanced digital tools, we create detailed 3D models that improve design accuracy and streamline construction processes. This technology enables better decision-making through lifecycle simulations, clash detection, and cost estimation, delivering optimized building solutions for complex architectural projects.
People
John T. Williams
President/Principal
With over 30 years in architecture, John established American Design's community scholarship to promote diversity in design education. He leads projects emphasizing sustainable practices and has earned multiple industry awards for innovative architectural solutions in urban environments.
Questions
What architectural services does American Design offer?
We provide full-service architecture including new construction, renovations, adaptive reuse, and BIM design across commercial, educational, and public sectors.
Are you certified as a minority-owned business?
Yes, we hold MBE, DBE, and SBE certifications demonstrating our commitment to diversity in the architecture industry.
What geographic areas do you serve?
While based in Milwaukee, we work throughout Wisconsin and have completed projects in California, Arizona, Tennessee, and Rhode Island.
How does your firm approach community projects?
We actively participate in design charettes and STEM initiatives, focusing on solutions that address local needs and enhance community spaces.
What makes your firm unique?
Our combination of 30+ years' experience, BIM expertise, and community-focused approach distinguishes us in architectural design.