Business Details
44 Years
experience
Award-Winning Historic Preservation & Residential Architects
Mills Whitaker Architects specializes in the restoration, rehabilitation, and modification of historic structures and replacement buildings. With a focus on historic preservation, religious property restoration, and residential design, the firm has delivered award-winning projects across southern and coastal Maine, eastern Massachusetts, and New Hampshire since 1982. Our small, hands-on team includes three registered architects and a LEED-accredited professional, ensuring sustainable and code-compliant solutions. Principal architects Don Mills and Craig Whitaker oversee every project phase, from initial assessments to detailed construction plans.We prioritize phased renovations for existing properties and offer new construction services for institutional and residential clients. Our expertise in navigating public approval processes and securing variances ensures successful outcomes for complex historic projects. Recognized with multiple preservation awards, we combine decades of experience with a commitment to preserving architectural heritage while meeting modern needs.
Services
Historic Preservation
Residential Design
Restorations
Phased Repairs
LEED-Certified Design
Architectural Assessments
New Construction
Alterations
Multi-Use Planning
Religious Property Restoration
Details
- Year established: 1982
Highlights and features
- Principal architects directly oversee every project phase
- Licensed in Massachusetts, Maine, and New Hampshire
- LEED-certified professionals ensure sustainable solutions
- Specialize in phased historic restorations and repairs
- Award-winning portfolio recognized by preservation organizations
Associations and certifications
- LEED Accredited Professional
Services
Historic Preservation
Specialized restoration of historic structures maintains architectural integrity while meeting modern standards. Our team conducts detailed condition assessments and develops phased renovation plans. Services include historic research, code compliance, and adaptive reuse solutions for listed buildings.
Residential Design
New construction and renovation of single-family residences combining functionality with aesthetic appeal. We create energy-efficient designs tailored to client needs and site conditions. Projects include timber-framed homes, solar-integrated systems, and accessibility modifications.
Phased Repairs
Strategic repair and restoration executed in manageable phases to minimize disruption. Prioritized budgeting and scheduling ensure long-term project viability. Ideal for historic buildings requiring extensive rehabilitation over time.
LEED-Certified Design
Sustainable design solutions meeting LEED certification standards. Services include energy modeling, material selection, and systems integration to reduce environmental impact. One team member holds LEED AP BD+C accreditation.
Architectural Assessments
Comprehensive evaluations of building conditions and historical significance. Services include structural analysis, code compliance reviews, and preservation planning. Findings inform renovation strategies and regulatory approvals.
People
Donald W. Mills
Principal Architect
Co-founder with 40+ years of experience in historic preservation. Holds MIT architecture degree and licenses in three states. Specializes in public project approvals and phased renovations.
Craig A. Whitaker
Principal Architect
Co-founder recognized for design excellence and community engagement. MIT graduate with expertise in vernacular architecture. Serves on preservation boards and teaches architectural design.
Questions
What geographic areas do you serve?
We primarily serve Massachusetts, Maine, and New Hampshire, with award-winning projects in historic districts across these states.
Do you handle both historic and new construction projects?
Yes, we specialize in historic preservation and also design new residential and institutional buildings tailored to client needs.
Are your architects licensed in multiple states?
Our architects hold licenses in Massachusetts, Maine, and New Hampshire to better serve regional clients.
How do you approach phased renovation projects?
We conduct detailed assessments, create prioritized budgets, and implement phased work plans to minimize disruption while preserving historic elements.
Do you have LEED-certified professionals on staff?
Yes, one team member is a LEED Accredited Professional specializing in sustainable design solutions.
What preservation awards have you received?
Our firm has earned recognition from the Boston Society of Architects, Maine Preservation, and the Boston Preservation Alliance for historic projects.
