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Michael Graves Architecture Acquires PGN Architects

Michael Graves Architecture (MG), an award-winning global leader in planning, architecture, and interior design based in Princeton, NJ, announces the acquisition of PGN Architects (PGN), a Washington, DC-based architecture firm. Following the acquisition of Maryland-based planning, architecture, and interior design firm Waldon Studio Architects (WSA), New Jersey-based Jose Carballo Architectural Group (JCAG), and North Carolina-based architecture firm Walter Robbs Callahan & Pierce Architects, PA (Walter Robbs), this latest acquisition is another key component of a long-term strategic growth plan for MG. PGN’s expertise will support and strengthen MG’s already robust foundation, providing the team access to shared knowledge across design sectors while providing the opportunity to expand into new regions. This latest merger continues to build upon the late Michael Graves’ enduring legacy of creativity and innovation.

“When evaluating this acquisition, we immediately recognized the talent, forward-thinking design approach, and deep level of experience within the PGN team, especially in the multifamily sector with many mixed-use projects. As we learned more about each other, we realized our values aligned seamlessly, and that our collaboration would create a wonderful synergy,” explained Joe Furey, President, and CEO of MG. “We were immediately impressed with PGN’s portfolio and its team, which will ultimately lead to many new opportunities in the Washington, D.C. market and throughout the country. We believe this acquisition will further enhance our design capabilities and market sector knowledge, as well as build upon our core values of innovation, commitment to quality, and unwavering client service.”

The impactful mix of brand recognition, cultural fit, development experience, and deep relationships brought about by this acquisition is the next step in an exciting new chapter for MG that simultaneously honors the firm’s established heritage. Michael Graves, a renowned Architect who passed away in 2015, left behind a committed and talented team and an incredible legacy of innovation and design brilliance in the firm. The acquisition of PGN will allow the firm to continue strengthening its expertise, in the multifamily sector and beyond.

Under the new company structure, PGN Partners Jeff Goins and Sean Pichon will remain in leadership roles and will continue growing the practice in the Washington, DC region. Additionally, the PGN team will be thoughtfully integrated into MG’s existing organizational makeup. Joe Furey will oversee the ongoing integration and continued future acquisition strategy as part of MG’s forward-looking strategic plan. PGN is already well-known in the Washington, D.C. area and is recognized for its innovative and groundbreaking multifamily projects and work within other market sectors. Jeff Goins, Partner at PGN, stated, “Our synergy with Michael Graves Architecture was immediate and aligned perfectly with our firm’s goals for the future. We have long been known for our innovative work in the multifamily space and are excited to work closely with the MG team to bring our expertise to new projects in this area as well as new market sectors and regions.”

PGN Partner Sean Pichon added, “PGN is already prominent in Washington, D.C. We have made a name for ourselves by establishing a presence and breaking ground with our multifamily portfolio. We’re excited to bring the MG team into the multifamily conversation and in turn, use our newly expanded resources to broaden our design influence on a national level.”

In addition, Sean Pichon will be appearing on American Building, a weekly recorded podcast that opens the door to what we build in America and why we do it. Alongside host Atif Z. Qadir, AIA, an architect turned developer and startup founder, the podcast explores urgent issues related to buildings and what they can teach us about ourselves and our country. In this episode, Sean will be talking about the array of housing types that Americans call home today—from luxury residences to homeless shelters. The timeliness of this topic, as states across the country wrestle with the reality of the lack of decent housing for each individual American, dovetails perfectly with this new collaboration between PGN and Michael Graves. Michael Graves Architecture is a proud sponsor of the show, which was a finalist for the 2022 People's Choice Podcast Awards. The Podcast is co-sponsored by the real estate tech company REDIST.

For over 50 years, MG has provided clients across the globe with pioneering, humanistic solutions in architecture, product design, interior design, master planning, graphic design, and branding across many market sectors, including hospitality, civic, education, workplace, and residential. Recent projects include The St. Regis Hotel in Cairo, Egypt; a Fortune 100 company headquarters at Midtown Center in Washington, D.C.; The Loutrel Hotel in Charleston, SC, and 1776 by David Burke featuring Topgolf Swing Suites in Morristown, NJ. Notable recent Walter Robbs projects include The Elysium, The Shaw, 818 Potomac—Sonder Hotel, Adora, The Flatiron Building, D.C., 1530 First Street, and 1111 20th Street NW.