Leading architecture firms announces merger in Washington state

TACOMA, Wash., May 15, 2024 -- McGranahan Architects, a Washington-based, full-service architectural firm specializing in educational facilities, announced today that they have merged with PBK, a nationally-acclaimed architectural planning and design firm. The joint capabilities of PBK and McGranahan will allow the firm to meet the needs of a growing client base in the region by leveraging both the national exposure, experience, and evidence-based design practices of PBK and the regionally concentrated programming, design and construction administration services of McGranahan. "We are thrilled to welcome McGranahan into the PBK family," said Dan Boggio, Executive Chairman of PBK.  "This acquisition is a strategic alignment that brings together two firms dedicated to excellence in educational design and innovation. Together, we will enhance our capabilities and expand our reach, delivering even greater value to our clients and communities. We look forward to a future where our combined expertise sets new standards in the industry." The newly acquired firm has one office in Tacoma, Washington. Christopher Lilley, Matthew Lane and the entire McGranahan leadership team will continue to lead the firm's Washington state operation. "We are excited to join forces with PBK, a move that marks a significant milestone in our journey," said Christopher Lilley.  "This partnership will allow us to leverage PBK's national presence and resources to enhance our service offerings and reach. We remain deeply committed to our architectural vision and values, and we believe that with PBK, we can achieve even more impactful results for our clients and the broader community. We're looking forward to this new chapter of growth and innovation." PBK and McGranahan's combined team of experts will meet architectural design needs in the K-12 and higher education sector in the Pacific Northwest, as the region has been marked by an expansion in educational facilities and programs, aiming to accommodate the rising student population and evolving academic needs across the region. "Expanding into the Pacific Northwest represents a pivotal element of our growth strategy," said Roy Montalbano, President of Client Relations and Strategic Partnerships at PBK. "This region's dynamic economy and vibrant communities provide an ideal landscape for our company to introduce our innovative solutions and build lasting partnerships." The acquisition represents a significant development for PBK's continued growth nationally. PBK's national strategy of targeted partnerships – including in the Pacific Northwestern U.S. – has expanded the firm's presence into new regions and markets as a leader in architectural planning and design. About PBK For over four decades, PBK has served as an award-winning pioneer for architectural and engineering design solutions for clients in education, sports, and corporate business. With more than 800 professionals across 27 offices, the firm embraces a unique business culture that prioritizes customer service and approaches each project without preconceived notions to deliver custom solutions that effectively address the unique needs of each client. For more information: www.pbk.com. About McGranahan Architects For over 55 years, McGranahan has dedicated itself to the creation of inspiring learning environments. The firm holds the belief that education transforms individual lives and society, and that thoughtful architecture fosters meaningful learning. McGranahan's culture and design approach are built on a foundation of inspired individuals collaborating to create architecture that enlivens the educational context of the communities they serve. For more information: www.mcgranahan.com

Executive Chairman Dan Boggio to remain active on Board of Directors

HOUSTON, April 10, 2024 - PBK, a nationally acclaimed architectural planning and design firm, today announced that Eric Dinges will serve as its new Chief Executive Officer. "Mr. Dinges' illustrious career with top global architectural and engineering firms showcases exceptional expertise, leadership, and organizational prowess, poised to elevate PBK's operations in a way that perpetuates the firm's 40-year legacy of unparalleled customer service," stated Dan Boggio, Executive Chairman. Dan Boggio, PBK Founder and Executive Chairman, will continue to serve on the firm's Board of Directors and remains in an advisory role. "This pivotal moment for PBK underscores our unwavering commitment to our clients," remarked Boggio. "Eric's blend of energy, vision, and operational expertise will propel our company forward, enhancing our ability to serve clients effectively. I look forward to collaborating with him to uphold PBK's dedication to assisting clients in fulfilling their missions." Dinges brings over 25 years of experience in the architecture and engineering industry.  He has served in various senior leadership roles at firms, most recently at AECOM as Senior Vice President and Regional Business Line Leader.  While there, he led the East Region for the Buildings + Places practice which consisted of multiple markets and practices including architecture, engineering, urban design, asset advisory, and technology solutions among others.  He was responsible for the growth and diversification of the practice while also maintaining the profitability of the region. He has extensive experience in leading diverse teams on domestic and international projects across the education, healthcare, sports, municipal, corporate, commercial, and hospitality sectors.  Additionally, he serves as a Board Trustee at the National Building Museum supporting the vision of the museum to educate, entertain, and engage people about the built environment and advocate for a sustainable and equitable future. "I'm honored and excited to take on this role at PBK and uphold its legacy of customer service and tradition of industry-leading excellence," expressed Dinges. "It's an absolute privilege to collaborate with Dan and the team at PBK, as we strive to improve the built environment and provide solutions to our clients that shape the world's future." About PBK
Since 1981, PBK has served as an award-winning pioneer for architectural and engineering design solutions for clients in education, sports, civic and healthcare. With more than 900 professionals across 27 offices, the firm embraces a unique business culture that prioritizes customer service and approaches each project without preconceived notions to deliver custom solutions that effectively address the unique needs of each client. For more information: pbk.com.

New location will better serve Southern California clients, expanding architecture and engineering services in Los Angeles County LOS ANGELES, CA., October 17, 2023 – PBK, a leading architectural planning and design firm, announced today the opening of a new office in Los Angeles. This new regional office will allow PBK to continue its mission of putting clients first and embedding architecture and design experts within regional markets to better meet the needs of local communities. Yong Yoo, Principal in Charge, will utilize his nearly three decades of experience to lead operations at the new office. “We’re responding to a need,” said Bob Lavey, Managing Partner of California. “California needs state-of-the-art facilities to support its growing communities. By connecting local experts, we can tailor our plans and designs to best fit each community.” PBK’s commitment to the communities it serves has led it to take a local approach within the California design market. The firm opened a new office in Bakersfield in May 2023 and recently relocated offices in San Diego and Orange County to accommodate clients’ changing needs. PBK also expanded its engineering and design services to cover the entire Central Valley. “We’re excited to put our wide range of experience to work for our LA clients,” Yong Yoo said. “The PBK family of companies includes structural engineering, interior designers, furniture procurement specialists – and so much more. This new office will allow us to utilize these skills at their peak potential so that our clients can get the best results every time.” With the addition of the Bakersfield and LA offices, the firm currently has 290 architecture and design experts specializing in the California market. Additionally, PBK plans to continue its expansion in California by opening an office in San Jose in 2024. PBK’s growth in California is projected to create many new jobs, including openings for architects, engineers and estimators. About PBK For over four decades, PBK has served as an award-winning pioneer for architectural and engineering design solutions for clients in education, sports, civic and healthcare. With more than 800 professionals across 27 offices, the firm embraces a unique business culture that prioritizes customer service and approaches each project without preconceived notions to deliver custom solutions that effectively address the unique needs of each client. For more information: pbk.com. CONTACT: Amanda Prag, Director of Marketing: amanda.prag@pbk.com

Michael Schöen to lead expansion of California’s largest educational architecture/engineering firm into fast-growing regional markets

FRESNO, CA., October 2, 2023 – PBK, a leading architectural planning and design firm, announced today the promotion of Michael Schöen to Managing Principal of the Central Valley region. Schöen brings considerable experience completing complex projects for California school districts such as Fresno USD, Caruthers USD and Clovis ISD.

“PBK is committed to being a community advocate, and Michael’s familiarity with the local California market makes him a perfect fit for serving these communities,” said Bob Lavey, Managing Partner for California. “With more than 25 years in the industry, Michael has repeatedly demonstrated his commitment to understanding each client and their one-of-a-kind needs during every project.”

PBK is committed to putting clients first. Embedding architecture and design experts within regional markets allows PBK to better meet the needs of local communities by becoming more in tune with each client’s unique perspective, needs and opportunities.

“By connecting local experts, we can directly serve communities and clients on the ground,” Schöen said. “We support local causes, understand local initiatives and employ local talent who live and work in these projects.” 

With a B.A. in environmental design from San Diego State University and a Masters from the Southern California Institute of Architecture, Schöen is deeply immersed in the intricacies of California design. As Managing Principal, Michael will collaborate with PBK’s eight regional offices across California to elevate client service and deliver the highest quality design.

About PBK

For over four decades, PBK has served as an award-winning pioneer for architectural and engineering design solutions for clients in education, sports, civic and healthcare. With more than 800 professionals across 27 offices, the firm embraces a unique business culture that prioritizes customer service and approaches each project without preconceived notions to deliver custom solutions that effectively address the unique needs of each client. For more information: pbk.com.

CONTACT: Amanda Prag, Director of Marketing: amanda.prag@pbk.com