News Summary

Hobbs + Black Architects has inaugurated a new office in Grand Rapids, enhancing its presence in the West Michigan market. The 1,500 square-foot space aims to serve clients, especially in the health care sector. Led by vice president Jamie Millspaugh, the office reflects the firm’s commitment to community and collaboration, featuring a shared patio for events. Founded in 1965, the firm ranks as one of the largest architectural companies in the Detroit area, with plans for future expansions.

Grand Rapids – Hobbs + Black Architects has officially opened a new office in Grand Rapids, marking a strategic move to tap into the West Michigan market. The office, which spans approximately 1,500 square feet, is located at 1435 Coit Ave. NE in the Creston neighborhood. This expansion aims to enhance the firm’s service offerings in the area, particularly within the health care sector.

The new office currently employs four full-time staff members, with plans to hire additional personnel by the end of the year. Leading the West Michigan operations is Jamie Millspaugh, who assumed the role of vice president after being hired in January. Millspaugh brings over 26 years of experience in design leadership across various sectors, including corporate, higher education, and municipal projects. His connection to the area is personal, having grown up in West Michigan and relocated to Holland three years ago.

Hobbs + Black Architects focuses significantly on health care, with approximately 70% of its portfolio dedicated to health-related projects. Past works include outpatient care facilities for Henry Ford Health and McLaren Health Care, as well as projects for the University of Michigan Health-Sparrow hospital in Ionia. The firm’s aim in the West Michigan market is to leverage their extensive experience to serve clients efficiently and effectively.

Office Features and Goals

The new Grand Rapids office has undergone some cosmetic changes but did not require major renovations. It features a shared patio area designed for hosting industry events and informal gatherings, promoting a community-focused atmosphere. The office ambiance is intended to convey a coffee house feel, encouraging visitors and fostering a collaborative environment.

Company Background

Founded in 1965, Hobbs + Black Architects has grown into one of the leading architectural firms in the region, employing around 80 architects and designers. Besides its new Grand Rapids office, the firm operates its headquarters in Ann Arbor, along with additional offices in Detroit, Lansing, and Scottsdale, Arizona.

In 2024, Hobbs + Black ranks as the thirteenth-largest architectural firm in the Detroit area. The company reported revenues of $18.7 million in 2023, marking a growth of 24.7% compared to $15 million in the previous year. During the same period, the firm was involved in construction projects valued at $480 million, showcasing its robust presence in the industry.

Current Projects and Future Plans

Hobbs + Black Architects is currently engaged in several ongoing projects, including the development of a road commission project for Allegan and Berrien counties and various health care initiatives. The firm is also working on a restaurant design in East Grand Rapids as part of its expanding portfolio in the West Michigan region.

The decision to establish an office in the Creston district was influenced by the area’s vibrant art and culture scene, which aligns with Hobbs + Black’s ethos of community involvement. The firm actively sought locations before settling on its current space, indicating a commitment to integrating into the local community.

Overall, Hobbs + Black Architects is poised to enhance its influence in West Michigan through the opening of this new office, building upon its solid foundation of experience and innovation in the health care sector, among others.