Celebrating Milestones. Paul Holmes retired from the firm in 2022. Here he is pictured with the Executive Leadership Team at that time – Erica Larson, Gonzalo Villares, Sam Buehler and Ward Isaacson. Paul was hired in 1992 at what was then Pope Associates, Inc., and shaped a 30 year career journey, leaving a legacy as a leader and mentor in the field.
50 YEARS
Celebrating the impact of design
Milestones & Memories
Pope Design Group’s structure and practice areas have evolved and expanded since our founding in 1974. Our commitment to collaboration and client service has always been our focus. Please join us in celebrating the journey and impact of our employees from the last five decades.
Check out these gems & highlights!
2022
2007
Technology! It’s truly crazy to think how much technology evolution has occurred in the last 50 years, and how these changes have impacted the development of design. Check out Erica’s really high-tech computer back in the early 2000s.
The Beginnings: 1970s
In the 1940s-50s, Albert G. Plagens and Robert I. McGee practiced as Plagens, McGee, Inc. Robert (Bob) Pope and his son, Jon, who was practicing architecture in Australia at the time, partnered to purchase the firm and founded Plagens, McGee, Pope Architects. In 1978, the firm was renamed Pope Associates.
“We sat down to our drawing tables and laid plans for a good, well-rounded architectural firm.”
Pope Associates: 1980s – 90s
As the firm increased in staff size, complexity of projects and use of technology, in 1987 we relocated to a new, modern office building, Energy Park Financial Center. Bob Pope retired in 1994. We celebrated our 25th anniversary in 1999 with a move to the historic Bandana Square complex. We started with 37 workstations and plenty of space for growth.
“Pope Associates is not just an architectural firm, but a service business, capable of
designing, managing and coordinating construction.”
Office History
Pope Architects: Early 2000s
Through the years of growth and office moves, the company continued to emphasize fun and philanthropy. Bocce tournaments, casino nights, Hearts & Hammers, and office parties helped strengthen our collaborative culture. We celebrated our 40th anniversary in 2014, Ward Isaacson became President in 2015, and Jon Pope retired in 2016.
“The firm’s stability is due to our ability to create successful, ongoing working relationships
with clients based on a commitment to provide a unique blend of the highest quality
personnel and professional service.”
Pope Design Group: 2022 – Now
In 2022, we rebranded as Pope Design Group, to emphasize the collaborative nature of our profession and the central role of design as an instrument of positive change. We also relocated to the Case Building, designing a new office home that strengthens collaboration and employee workstyles.
“We want to make the design process fun and inclusive, and welcome clients,
construction partners and consultants as active team members.”
Notable Projects
Thank you to clients, industry colleagues and past and current employees. Here’s to 50 years of creating environments that enhance lives!