At Blueprint Commercial, we believe in highlighting firms that make a meaningful impact in the communities they serve. Union Studio, an architecture and design firm founded in Providence, Rhode Island, has been doing just that for 25 years. Now with a growing presence in Philadelphia, they are bringing their commitment to civic-minded design to neighborhoods across the city. We had the opportunity to sit down with Ben Willis, Associate Principal at Union Studio, to learn more about their work, challenges, and vision for the future.

Designing for Civic Contribution

Union Studio was founded on a mission to use architecture as a tool for community empowerment. Their approach involves working in places where architects traditionally don’t go—engaging deeply with neighborhoods to develop the physical infrastructure they need. When Ben Willis moved to Philadelphia, he saw an opportunity to extend this mission. Starting as a small satellite office, the Philadelphia presence has now grown to a five-person team dedicated to local projects in Philadelphia and the Mid-Atlantic.

Affordable Housing and Community Collaboration

Sixty percent of Union Studio’s work is in residential design, with a strong focus on affordable and attainable workforce housing. They also engage with community organizations, neighborhood groups, and small municipalities to create vision plans that align with local needs. A notable example is their work with Urban Creators in North Philadelphia’s Fairhill neighborhood, where they have helped develop a vision plan for a two-acre urban farm. Similar projects in West Philadelphia, where PHA has provided land for urban agriculture initiatives, reflect Union Studio’s commitment to grassroots collaboration.

Navigating Industry Challenges

Like many in the industry, Union Studio faces rising construction costs and the increasing difficulty of financing projects. With extensive experience in both market-rate and low-income tax credit projects, the firm has developed a keen sense of how to maximize design impact within budget constraints. One strategy they employ is designing smaller units that feel more spacious, ensuring that affordable housing remains functional and appealing.

Another major hurdle is the lengthy entitlement and zoning approval processes. To address this, Union Studio integrates public engagement early in the design process, ensuring that community voices are heard from the outset. By fostering transparency and collaboration, they create a smoother path for project approvals and community buy-in.

The Power of Partnerships

Union Studio’s success is rooted in its ability to bring diverse voices to the table. Their projects often involve collaboration with other architects, urban planners, and long-standing community stakeholders. By building trust through repeated engagement, they establish lasting relationships with neighborhood groups and decision-makers, ensuring that their projects are not just inserted into communities but are truly reflective of their needs and aspirations.

Philadelphia’s Unique Architectural Landscape

Philadelphia’s rich history and strong urban fabric shape Union Studio’s approach. Willis notes that the prevalence of row homes and the city’s long-standing tradition of mixed-use neighborhoods create a built environment where density is embraced rather than resisted. Additionally, Philadelphia’s dynamic food scene and strong ties to regional agriculture inspire the firm’s work in urban farming and sustainable land use.

Looking Ahead

Union Studio is eager to expand its impact in Philadelphia, particularly in alignment with Mayor Cherelle Parker’s 30,000 Homes Initiative. The firm aims to contribute to the creation of sustainable, beautiful, and community-centered housing that reflects the city's character. They are committed to being a long-term presence in the city, fostering relationships that extend beyond individual projects to create lasting positive change.

Finding Inspiration in Philadelphia

For Willis, creativity is fueled by the challenge of adaptive reuse—breathing new life into existing buildings rather than designing from scratch. He has a deep appreciation for the history and character embedded in older structures and enjoys the process of reimagining spaces to serve new purposes. His favorite historic building in Philadelphia is the Hale Building at Chestnut and Juniper, admired for its intricate detailing and storied past. Among contemporary designs, he highlights Arrupe Hall at Saint Joseph’s University by Moto Design and 17 West by Gnome Architects as standout projects. To recharge and find inspiration, he often goes for runs across the Ben Franklin Bridge, taking in the city’s skyline and energy.

Willis is also an avid fan of Philadelphia’s food scene, frequenting spots like TOMO in Old City, Suraya in Fishtown, and Charlie Was a Sinner in Midtown Village. These restaurants, much like the neighborhoods Union Studio works in, reflect the city's unique character and sense of place.

As they continue to grow their presence in Philadelphia, Union Studio remains dedicated to their founding principle: using thoughtful design to strengthen communities and empower the people who live in them. We look forward to seeing how their work continues to shape the city’s built environment in the years to come.