Strategic Insights

Preparing Fitness Facilities to Re-Open: 10 Things You Can Expect to See

“The pandemic pushed millions to workout from home.  Many will return and experience a different fitness facility.” When you return […]

Inspiring the next generation: West Michigan’s first ACE Mentor Program

By: John Rizor, AIA “Founded in 1994, the ACE Mentor Program of America (ACE) is a free, award-winning, after school […]

Progressive AE Named “Firm of the Year”

We are thrilled to announce that Progressive AE has been named “Firm of the Year” by the American Institute of […]

In the Workplace, Universal Design Responds to Changing Social Norms

Organizations are pursuing Universal Design for good reason. Companies are competing for talent who want to work at places where […]

Welcome to the Team: Suzanne Schulz Joins as Urban Planning Practice Leader

Progressive AE has hired expert Suzanne Schulz, AICP, as the firm’s first urban planning practice leader. In her role, Schulz will […]

Trends in Childhood Disability Inclusion

A few years ago, I presented at the first annual YMCA Inclusion Summit in San Antonio, TX. The event took […]

Implementing a Universal Design Strategy in Your Organization

From higher education to healthcare, organizations today face numerous challenges when planning for the needs of users who utilize their […]

Universal Design: A Conversation with U.S. Paralympic Swimming Coach Nathan Manley

As part of our ongoing study of universal design and the Mary Free Bed YMCA, we wanted to interview Nathan Manley, […]

Seven Universal Design Changes You Can Make Today

There is no such thing as “one-size fits all” when it comes to humans. According to the Centers for Disease […]

Progressive AE Takes Home AIA Grand Rapids Awards

Three projects, St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church, Mary Free Bed YMCA and Mercy Health St. Mary’s Cafeteria, brought home awards from AIA Grand Rapids.

Building for Transformation – DeVos Family Center for Scouting Renovation

The local Grand Rapids Boy Scouts chapter recently launched a campaign titled “Build Character Today, Lead Tomorrow” to expand the DeVos Family Center for Scouting.

The Downtown Market: Earning Awards and National Recognition

Kudos to our community leaders who had the foresight to understand all great cities have a downtown urban market.

The Secret World of Engineering

The world of a structural engineer tends to be one of quiet, focused work. We are the ones after all who are responsible for the integrity of entire systems, including the building where you currently sit.

Applying Universal Design to Aquatic Environments

Taking the time to step back and look at how the space will be used, and who it will used by, can help determine the overall layout and degree of flexibility required for the space.

Building Culture through Community

This year marks Progressive AE’s 10th consecutive year on the 101 Best and Brightest Companies to Work For list.

The Road Less Traveled: How Rethinking Circulation Can Change Your User’s Experience

As designers, circulation (which refers to the way people move through and interact with a space) is often seen as […]

The Coming Importance of Universal Design

Universal design (“UD”) of buildings, products, and technologies is not one of the most recognized subjects today.

The Science of Choosing Colors

The use of color is central to all work in interior design. Whether the designer is a trained professional or […]

Mary Free Bed YMCA First Building in the World to Receive Universal Design Certification

The new Mary Free Bed YMCA has received the world’s first Global Universal Design Certification from the Global Universal Design […]

The Inaugural Year: Kruizenga Art Museum

The museum will provide “hands-on” learning opportunities for all academic disciplines at Hope College.

Openness in Worship Spaces

Churches often have preconceptions about what their space needs, without understanding the impact space can have on the experience and performance of the environment.

The Michigan Battle of the Buildings!

An energy reduction war, a crusade against kilowatts, a barrage against BTU’s.

Meet Drew: Anticipating Workplace Needs and Styles

“I want to work in an environment that makes me happy – that inspires my curious mind, encourages my unique voice, and enables me to collaborate”

Senior Living: Harvesting Food & Friendships

The benefits of gardening are evident through all stages of life, but is becoming much more prominent in senior living environments

Evolution of Sustainable Thinking

While “sustainability” means something different to everyone, there are underlying tenets that have become generally understood.

Sustaining Transportation…and Relationships

With shared goals and commitment to the community, the partnership between Progressive AE and The Rapid has been a natural fit.