Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1495063
12 Worcester Business Journal S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G S E C T I O N | Business Profiles 2023 A Worcester-based architectural firm with more than 50 years of experience, LPA|A aims to design spaces that improve the lives of people across Central Massachusetts. Whether working on a new public school, renovating an underused space on a college campus, or design- ing a local business or nonprofit's new facility, LPA|A works closely with clients to create spaces that are as inspiring as they are functional. "ere are no cookie-cutter designs from this team," said former Shrewsbury Public Library Director Ellen Dolan. "LPA|A designs buildings that fit the needs of owners and users, whether they be public libraries, schools, performance centers, and more." When LPA|A takes on a project, the work begins with gaining a deep understanding of the needs and desires for the building, as well as the challenges and opportunities of the site and/or existing facility. "e LPA|A team of professionals provided expert architectural guidance from inception to completion of the recently opened Auburn Middle School," said former Auburn Superintendent Maryellen Brunelle. "Communication was open and ongoing, resulting in a state-of-the-art educational facility in which the entire Auburn community takes great pride." LPA|A designed Worcester's new Doherty Memorial High School, now under construction. e 420,000 square foot building will open in 2024 as the most sus- tainable municipal building in the city, with net zero readiness and a substantial reduction in fossil fuel use. e firm has taken on a range of projects recently, including WPI's new Center for Well-Being and Clark University's Michelson eater. LPA|A is also working with the Town of Westborough on a plan to renovate their public library and the Town of Clinton on a po- tential new or substantially renovated middle school. e nature of the firm's work and regional focus involves the local community at many levels, but LPA|A strives to have an impact well beyond its con- tractual architectural services. As an example, LPA|A has developed a Doherty "Living Lab" program that is providing site tours, programming, and internships to engage students who might not otherwise have exposure to the array of careers across the architecture, engineering, and construction industries. "e fact that we have so many professionals from LPA|A donating their time to guide the students through this project is incredibly philanthropic and adds tremendous value to the students' experiences," said Drew Weymouth of the Worcester Public Schools. "e impact is immeasurable and we are indebted to LPA|A and their generosity." Additionally, LPA|A staff contribute time and exper- tise to numerous organizations, including Girls Inc., Preservation Worcester, e Women's Leadership Con- ference, local planning boards, and industry groups like the Central Massachusetts AIA and Worcester County CSI. A creative and collaborative work environment contributes to staff staying with LPA|A for the long term, allowing individuals to develop their expertise across many projects and play to the strengths of their colleagues through the development of long-term relationships. More than half the current staff have 20 years or more with the company. "LPA|A's long legacy in the region and reputation for quality are valued by all of us at the firm, said LPA|A President Kathryn Crockett. "Our intention is to continue to build on that legacy and strive to have a positive impact across our communities." n LPA|Architects: Creativity, Collaboration and Commitment to Community Lead to Longevity Street Address: 108 Grove Street, Suite 300, Worcester, MA 01605 Phone Number: 508-752-2831 Fax: 508-757-7769 Website: lpaa.com Product or Service Description: architectural services Number of Employees: 17 Head of Company and Title: Kathryn Crockett, President Year Founded: 1970 Business Profiles 2023 LPA | A team Shrewsbury Public Library Rendering of the Center for Well Being at WPI