LLB Architects, Lerner Ladds Bartels, is an architectural practice built upon a distinct project approach defined through comprehensive relationships with our clients. Since our founding in 1936, a commitment to responsive and thoughtful design, integrated project process, and New England practicality have remained our primary principles. Samuel Lerner, a structural engineer and professor at Brown University, founded the firm in 1936 as an engineering practice in his hometown of Providence. His son, Steven L. Lerner, AIA, became a principal in 1976 upon his architectural registration and the firm was incorporated as Lerner Associates to reflect the multidisciplinary practice. Ten years later, the firm moved into a stately Victorian house on Hope Street, while focusing on residential projects, interior design, and historic renovations. Christian J. Ladds, AIA, LEED AP, a member of the firm since 1984, became a partner in 1990 and the firm name changed to Lerner Ladds Architects. The firm received major commissions through the 90s that continued a trend to multi–faceted civic and institutional work in addition to its portfolio of residential and commercial projects. Kathleen A. Bartels, AIA, LEED AP became a partner after four years at the firm, and the name was changed to Lerner | Ladds + Bartels. The growth of new partners reflects the truly additive nature of the process that has seen the firm evolve from its roots as a respected engineering firm to one of the premier architecture firms in Rhode Island. R. Drayton Fair, AIA, ALA, LEED AP joined the firm as a principal in 2003, bringing with him over 20 years of public and institutional experience with an expertise in library design and Massachusetts public work. Committed to
project advocacy, his work in achieving consensus with local communities have led to award-winning projects. In 2013, Principal Greg Smolley, AIA, AICP, REFP, LEED AP joined the firm with years of experience in public, private, and charter schools from K-12 that span the Northeast region. His expertise expands the firm's practice area to provide in-depth knowledge and experience in educational planning. Senior associates Suzanne diSalvo, Assoc. AIA, LEED AP; Aimee Lombardo, AIA, LEED AP; Mark Hallee, AIA; along with associate J.B. Eric Smith, LEED AP have been instrumental in the continued growth of the firm, leading the development of numerous award-winning projects. They are supported by a group of architecture professionals - many of which are preparing to become registered architects - whom are fostered through training, peer sharing, and mentorship, and able to advance to the highest levels of the profession. The firm also staffs dedicated interior designers and graphic designers in order to provide our clients with a comprehensive design scope. Over half of the firm is LEED accredited, a fact which reflects our commitment to sustainable design and community engagement. In 2011, the firm upsized to the Design Exchange in Pawtucket - leading the adaptive reuse of the historic mill building as developer - and streamlined our name to LLB Architects, honoring the past and emphasizing our profession. We’ve also established a project management office in Boston to better service our clients in the Greater Boston region, Massachusetts, and parts north. As we continue to develop our practice, we’re excited for the next steps in our future and evolution.