We have decades of design and delivery experience creating customized solutions for each client.

Founded in 1923, DRA is an established and thriving design firm providing architecture, planning, and interior design services to both public and private clients. We specialize in planning and design for academic, civic, athletic, and performing arts projects ranging in size from feasibility studies to small renovations to new construction projects valued up to over $300 million. With offices in Waltham, Massachusetts and South Windsor, Connecticut, DRA services clients throughout the New England region. Our long list of repeat clients is a testament to the quality of the personalized service we provide.

Our mission is to make a positive impact on the communities we serve and to improve the lives of the people through design excellence. We actively engage clients and their communities through a highly interactive process to ensure that needs are met, goals are achieved, budgets adhered to and expectations are exceeded.

Every project has a dedicated Principal to provide leadership, guidance, and expertise to meet your facility needs. Our team of experts includes Architects, Accredited Learning Environment Planners, Municipal Planners, Interior Designers, and technical staff working with the latest BIM and CAD programs. Many of our professional staff are LEED Accredited, supporting our commitment to creating the best built environments with the smallest ecological footprints.

While DRA is a recognized leader in the design of learning environments, we also have great depth and expertise in the design of libraries and public safety facilities.

We have a long-standing reputation for consistently delivering high quality design and value to the clients we serve; the highest-level outcomes for the least cost. By balancing aesthetics, flexibility, and cost effectiveness, we deliver high quality, maintainable buildings that last for decades.

We believe:

  • Every project is unique with its own site and program. We are committed to delivering solutions that thoughtfully respond to the goals and desires of each client and community.
  • Our clients, partners, and staff have valuable opinions and ideas. By actively listening and working as a team, we achieve the best results together.
  • A collaborative, interactive design process with wide user participation will lead to a customized design that will surpass your expectations. We facilitate comprehensive workshops to gather input, to educate groups and to achieve consensus.
  • Our hands-on approach and open communication allows you to confidently make informed decisions based on the most up-to-date and accurate information.

Client Testimonial

“From groundbreaking to ribbon cutting, DRA remained steadfast in their support of our schools and our community.”

Kate Carter, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools, South Windsor Public Schools
70 years of educational design
100 years of continuous business
4,000,000 SF delivered in past 5 years
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