About Us

Since 1955, SMMA has forged extraordinary relationships with clients, established an enviable record of success, and designed award-winning environments. From our two locations in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and Providence, Rhode Island, we are an employee-owned firm that remains true to our founders’ vision of approaching design as a deeply collaborative process.

The unique multidisciplinary nature of our practice serves as a strength. Our culture places design at the forefront through visual artistry and unlimited access to multidisciplinary design talent and leadership. We maximize our value through early involvement and a convergence of artistic and technical focus that speaks directly to the needs of our clients. As pioneers of an integrated design methodology, we strive to redefine the way our industry works.

Meet Our Team >

Parker Symmes, Bill Maini and Jon McKee survey a building site

Our History

Like every business startup, SMMA began with an idea: approaching design through a dialogue of diverse perspectives and professional expertise. Founded in 1955 by graduates from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, SMMA has evolved into what is today one of the industry’s most well-regarded design firms.

Learn More >

An Integrated Approach

SMMA’s agile approach to design is unique. Unlike the typical single architect-focused model, we take advantage of our firm composition by involving every design discipline in all aspects of our projects. We believe our approach to design helps create a more holistic outcome. The effectiveness of early involvement and convergence of artistic and technical focus speaks directly to the sophisticated needs of our clients.

Learn More >

Post-It notes in SMMA design studio
SMMA architect hand-drawing a site plan for Hood Park

Careers & Development

We are always seeking creative problem-solvers. We invite all talented, motivated individuals who thrive on collaboration and are passionate about design to check out our firm's offerings and open positions.

Learn More >

The Lyceum Fellowship

The Lyceum Fellowship was established in 1985 by SMMA founder and design leader, Jon McKee. Through a unique structure of design competition, jury process, and prize-winning travel grants, the Lyceum promotes collaboration, connectivity, and a design dialogue. The Lyceum Fellowship is a 2015 AIA Institute Honors for Collaborative and Professional Achievement recipient and has awarded 238 students over $515,000 in grants since its conception.

Lyceum Fellowship Website >