The firm began a rebranding effort after a self-reflective assessment of who we are and what we believe. After a focused effort, we’re excited to unveil the new CGS Architects brand and website.

So, what do we believe?

We believe Architecture has the power to unite diverse communities and shape the environments where we gather, learn, and play. CGS Architects is a diverse team with varied skill sets working collaboratively to produce innovative solutions that celebrate the culture of each user, embracing the challenge to design spaces with a unique sense of place. With shared purpose, we harness our diverse skill sets for the collective good of our clients, our community, and our society.

We are CGS.

Firm principal, Joanna Schmickel, was elevated into AIA’s College of Fellows this year for her mentorship work within the field of architecture. Election to the AIA’s College of Fellows is one of the highest individual honors that can be bestowed on members. Out of a total AIA membership of more than 94,000, only 3% carry this distinction. Elevation to the fellowship is given to architects with at least 10 years of AIA membership and those who have demonstrated influence in at least one of the following nomination categories: elevated the aesthetic, scientific, and practical efficiency of the profession; promoted the science and art of planning and building by advancing the standards of architectural education, training, or practice; coordinated the building industry and the profession of architecture through leadership in the AIA or other related professional organizations; or advanced the living standards of people through an improved environment.

This year, the seven-member Jury of Fellows elevated 88 member-architects and two international architects.

Joanna was elevated for her mentorship work in the field of architecture. She saw a need for women and people of color in the profession and works to increase diversity in the design and construction industries. Her work as a mentor is seen in and out of the office, taking every chance to support those around her.

In partnership with the AIA|DC, Joanna has created and delivered multiple youth workshops for the Washington Architectural Foundation, led an Architecture in the Schools group, and was an inaugural creator of the Archi-Builder Studio, a program teaching students the design processes used by architects.

Her most notable accomplishment to the world of architectural mentorship is the creation of the Design Like A Girl (DLAG) Mentorship program with AIA|DC. DLAG pairs female design professionals with middle school girls, introducing them to the world of architecture and other STEM-related fields.

Joanna is the fourth principal at CGS Architects to receive the prestigious honor after co-founders Chris Graae in 2014 and David Cox in 1994 along with the late Jerrily Kress in 1996.

It is with great pleasure that we announce Ed Foley, AIA has been elevated to the position of Principal at CGS Architects. Ed is a strong leader and valuable contributor on many levels within the office. His vast and varied talents, his strong management capabilities, and his measured demeanor will serve him well in his new position. We congratulate Ed on this much deserved promotion.

CGS Architects is proud to announce the beginning of Third Thursday Volunteering with Martha’s Table! In 2018, we completed the ‘Commons at Stanton Square’ in DC’s Ward 8 that houses programs for Community of Hope and Martha’s Table. Martha’s Table is a community services organization initially founded in 1979 to create a place for children to receive free sandwiches and food after school. In response to the needs of the surrounding community, they have gradually expanded services to seek solutions to poverty.

The building might be done but the work is never finished! Every month 3-4 individuals from CGS volunteer with Martha’s Table for their Joyful Grocery Bagging, getting healthy foods to those in need. Yesterday was our first day out. A big thank you to Tooba Jalal, Kelsey Wilson, and Kerry Garikes for being the first volunteer!

We are very excited to announce the promotion of four architect: Derek Banocy, AIA to Principal and Lindsey Hellender, AIA, Lexa Rio, AIA, and Julianna von Zumbusch, AIA to Associate!

Derek Banocy, AIA is a graduate of the University of Kansas and joined CGS in 2001.

Lindsay Hellender, AIA is a graduate of the University of Southern California and joined CGS in 2008.

Lexa Rio, AIA is a graduate of Virginia Tech and joined CGS in 2007.

Julianna von Zumbusch, AIA is a graduate of Yale School of Architecture and joined CGS in 2017.