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.”
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.”
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.”
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.”
Thank you to clients, industry colleagues and past and current employees. Here’s to 50 years of creating environments that enhance lives!