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Megan Apostol

5 Thresholds in the DMR Architects Era

5 Thresholds in the DMR Architects Era 2560 1450 DMR Architects

DMR’s Founder and Chairman Lloyd Rosenberg, AIA takes a look back at the past 33 years to mark the top five inflection points in New Jersey’s real estate and architectural history:

Multi-Family Revolution. DMR’s practice started out with a narrow focus but now spans many asset classes, and its multi-family work is a prime example of expanding along with market demand: as the state’s luxury housing market expanded – much of it in downtown areas – DMR grew with it.

One example of this is the 19.78-acre The Record site in Hackensack which DMR incorporated into the City of Hackensack’s 2012 municipal redevelopment plan as part of the extension of its downtown district to the Hackensack River and is now the site of a luxury 650-unit community with 18,000 square feet of retail. 12 years later…we can see how impactful that initial planning has been.

Another example is the Annin Flag Factory in Verona which had been part of New Jersey’s landscape since 1919 creating flags for some of the country’s most historically significant moments.  While one of its flags still stands on the moon, DMR’s design to repurpose the building in 2017 into 52 loft-style apartment homes and common areas with a 60-apartment home sister building generate record rents; a feat that would have seemed unthinkable just a few years before.

Design Build, Public-Private Partnerships, and Construction Efficiency. As materials, land, and labor costs have skyrocketed over DMR’s 33 years, the firm has been a distinctive participant in creating greater efficiencies to combat inflation.  When we formed in 1991, alternative funding, procurement and delivery methods such as public-private partnerships and design-build projects were a far-off notion that would have been unthinkable in a public bidding setting.

Even now, with the benefits of these platforms demonstrated on many occasions, we are part of the first team to secure a public-private partnership in the State under current legislation enacted in 2019.  PPP’s allow public entities to enter into an agreement with a private entity which assumes the financial and administrative responsibility for the design, development, and construction.  We anticipate benefits including project risk transfer to the private partner, more innovative designs, reduced costs and timelines, and freed up public funding for other important projects.

Our design-build projects have garnered much attention, including the $150 million Frank J. Gargiulo Campus project in Secaucus, finished in a record 27 months, a year less than what similar projects normally take.  DMR is also committed to the efficient application of its design work and created its own construction administration department to assure that its clients receive maximum value from their contracting vendors.

Affordable Housing Maturation. Through the various cycles of affordable housing regulation in New Jersey, which began with a court decision in 1983, we’ve seen a variety of permutations ranging from stand-alone buildings to inclusionary housing to special needs and senior developments.

One of the challenges of affordable housing is how to stretch the budget so that the aesthetics of the buildings blend into the overall look and vibe of a town.  A frequent aspiration, stated in different ways, is that once affordable housing is going to be developed, it needs to make special populations feel embraced by the communities.

The source of these developments is the communities in which the housing is built:  whether it be a private developer fulfilling an obligation or a not-for-profit delivering on its mission or a housing authority responding to local needs, the design solution can drive the success and esteem of a project.

Healthcare Evolution. The growth in the healthcare industry has been remarkable with hospital systems expanding across county lines through the development of satellite offices.  What once was a binary marketplace made up of doctor’s offices and acute care facilities has blossomed into a complex network that now includes urgent care, high-tech treatment, and specialty practice facilities.

The trend has been a boon to New Jersey office owners, as many of those facilities have been adapted into healthcare uses, including Hunterdon Healthcare, which created a state-of-the-art medical facility including an imaging lab and a surgery center in Bridgewater from a former Bank of America office building.

Technology-Driven Advancements. Just as educational spaces have become more technologically advanced, so have architectural tools. When we were overseeing the construction of the Frank J. Gargiulo Campus in Secaucus we were able to keep the entire project on time and budget through the use of Revit which allowed us to see progress through a 3D model of the school.

The first cad-cam programs, which allowed for digital design on personal computers, are more than 40 years old now, but the real strides are in front of us, with Artificial Intelligence promising enhancements in speed and proficiency that we cannot even begin to estimate.

This article originally appeared in NJBiz. 

5 DMR Services That Can Help You Reach New Sustainable Heights

5 DMR Services That Can Help You Reach New Sustainable Heights 789 444 DMR Architects

Today is Earth Day, a yearly reminder of the importance of sustainability and our environmental impacts.

When it comes to architecture and planning, working with a firm that champions sustainability may be the key to funding, resiliency, cost savings, superior interior spaces and more.

At DMR, we have been a sustainable champion since the early 2000s. What began 20 years ago is more active than ever, as both architectural and planning clients turn to DMR to provide a wide range of sustainable services.

1. Biophilic Design 

Biophilic design, which seeks to connect building design to nature, provides aesthetic, emotional and environmental benefits. At 15 branches of Blue Foundry Bank, DMR’s design called for moss art, which provides the same benefit as plants, but requires no care, water usage or replacement. And for a residential project in Fort Lee, despite its location in an urban environment, the design connected to nature through a window wall.

2. Community Energy Planning

DMR-developed community energy plans have been adopted in four New Jersey municipalities, including in Prospect Park, which was the first plan to be adopted under the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities and Sustainable Jersey Clean Energy Grant Program.

State-level grants, tax credits from the Federal Inflation Reduction Act, and incentives through utility companies remain available, making it the ideal time for municipalities to address energy conservation through a Community Energy Plan.

3. Climate Resiliency Planning

DMR wrote what is believed to be the first stand-alone Climate Resiliency Plan following Governor Murphy’s 2021 amendment to the Municipal Land Use Law. Similar assessments – which address municipalities’ susceptibility to flooding and other global warming hazards – are now required as part of municipalities’ already existing obligation to update their master plan every 10 years.

4. Energy Savings Improvement Plans

Projects through the Energy Savings Improvement Program (ESIP) are ongoing in three preK-12 districts. A cumulative total of projects valued at $45 million are estimated to result in a total reduction in CO2 emissions by 20 million pounds annually. Through the ESIP program, energy-related projects, such as HVAC upgrades and solar panels, are funded using the value of the energy savings that result from the projects, so school boards do not have to utilize capital reserves or taxpayer dollars.

5. Sustainable Buildings & LEED Certification

Since 2003, when DMR pitched the vision for what would become the first LEED Silver public school in New Jersey, seven buildings have received LEED Certification, a celebrated symbol of high-performing and sustainable infrastructure. But DMR’s commitment to sustainability is not limited to only LEED certified projects. The use of sustainable building components is implemented as a standard, regardless of a client’s desire to seek certification.

DMR Expands Practice to Address $300 Million Educational Project Pipeline

DMR Expands Practice to Address $300 Million Educational Project Pipeline 2560 1450 DMR Architects

DMR Architects’ legacy in New Jersey’s education landscape continues with additions to its education practice that address needs for elementary, specialty high school, and higher learning spaces and facilities, and a current pipeline that includes more than $300 million in education projects throughout the state.

“We pride ourselves on the ability to offer our clients access to some of the best architectural minds available in New Jersey,” said Pradeep Kapoor, AIA.  “It is a testament to our team that we can take the visions of our board of education and higher education clients and turn them into tangible successful solutions.”

Shyam Perangur, AIA comes back to DMR with more than 30 years of experience including his work at DMR from 1997-2000 focusing on new construction, addition, renovation, and capital improvements projects in preK-12 districts.

His previous work with DMR includes new schools in Sparta and Lacey, as well as upgrade projects in Teaneck, Hasbrouck Heights, Nutley and statewide for the NJSDA (previously the NJEDA). Coming back to the role of Sr. Project Manager, he has been playing an integral role in DMR’s work for the Edison Board of Education, valued at $100 million.

He earned a Master of Architecture from the New Jersey Institute of Technology, a Master of Science in Architecture (History, Theory & Criticism) from the University of Cincinnati, and a Bachelor of Architecture from Bhopal University in Bhopal, India.

Hyunjin Jang joined DMR as a Job Captain with more than 15 years of experience.

His current projects include the Highland Avenue Learning Annex & Recreation Center in Wood-Ridge, a $32 million design-build project that will include new construction of 49,000 SF in addition to interior renovations to 12,000 SF of existing space at the Doyle Elementary School. The new construction portion is primarily classrooms to address the growing population, as well as a gym, kitchen, and new offices, and the renovation scope will add a security vestibule and provide upgrades to classrooms, the media center and the art room.

He earned a Bachelor of Science in Architecture from Hanyan University in Seoul, Korea, a Bachelor of Architecture from Pratt Institute and a Master of Science in Architecture from Columbia University.

Juliana Moreno joined the Construction Administration department as a Designer with more than five years of experience, which she is applying to her work at the Hudson County Vocational High School at Bayonne High School. The project is being completed through a design-build approach and will support vocational and career technical education in mechanics, construction, carpentry, plumbing, electrics, finance, digital communications, criminal justice, cosmetology, and medicine.

She earned a Bachelor of Architecture from New York Institute of Technology.

Brianne Aveta also joined the firm as a Designer with more than five years of experience. She is working with Mr. Perangur in Edison, including on the 48,000 SF addition to J.P. Stevens High School which will add 30 new classrooms, as well as several other projects at Thomas Jefferson and Woodrow Wilson Middle Schools.

She earned a Bachelor of Architecture from The Pennsylvania State University.

DMR-Designed 34 Eden River Park Offers Renters Luxury, Nature and Proximity to Commerce

DMR-Designed 34 Eden River Park Offers Renters Luxury, Nature and Proximity to Commerce 789 444 DMR Architects

Robust leasing activity at 34 Eden River Park in the Whippany section of Hanover is an indication that DMR Architects’ design for the 81-unit boutique rental community has hit the right chord in a housing market that mostly consists of larger single-family homes.

DMR planned the community’s one-, two- and three-bedroom as well as one- and two-bedroom plus den units to be some of the most spacious available in Morris County and appointed them with high-end finishes and appliance packages complemented with large windows to take in the community’s natural surroundings.

“As the latest new residential rental product available in Morris County, it was important for it to stand out through its amenities package that includes spacious interior common areas, along with the luxurious outdoor communal plaza spaces,” said Kurt Vierheilig.  “Today’s rentals need to be designed as immersive experiences that feel like a vacation getaway. The location is close to amazing restaurants, work, and shopping, a critical benefit.”

34 Eden River Park’s opulent gathering spaces that include a lobby level residents lounge and clubroom, an outdoor lounge with sundeck, pergola, water feature and fireplace are complemented by an outdoor pool with hot tub and a 1,000 SF, state-of-the-art fitness center.

34 Eden River Park connects directly to Route 10 and 287/80 making it convenient to travel via car or public transportation.

34 Eden River Park is the latest DMR multi-family project to open, following The Vale earlier this month and The Residences at Upper Saddle River and the Ted R. Green Senior Residences in 2023. The Mural in Orange, NJ is expected to open later in 2024.

Pradeep Kapoor Joins MARE Journal Healthcare Panel

Pradeep Kapoor Joins MARE Journal Healthcare Panel 789 444 DMR Architects

On January 30, DMR President & CEO Pradeep Kapoor, AIA joined a panel at the Mid Atlantic Real Estate Journal Healthcare and Medical Properties Conference at the Sheraton Edison Hotel.

Pradeep joined industry colleagues on “Critical Construction and Design Issues for Medical Properties and Hospitals” panel to discuss project planning, financing, design trends and what DMR is seeing in the healthcare marketplace. Other panel members included Nathan Howell of STV, Inc.; Kate Kerpcha of BFI; Mitchell Brie of Empower HCP & moderator Ron Simoncini of Axiom Communications.

Prior to assuming the role of President & CEO of DMR in January 2024, Pradeep established himself as a leader in specialty work during his 20+ year tenure with the firm. As a project manager and project executive, he has led healthcare projects for clients including Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, Hackensack Meridian Health, Hunterdon Healthcare, Valley Hospital and St. Peter’s University Hospital.

For more on DMR’s healthcare experience, visit our portfolio page.

DMR Impact Study and Conceptual Design of Reimagined George Street Reviewed by New Brunswick Mayor & Council

DMR Impact Study and Conceptual Design of Reimagined George Street Reviewed by New Brunswick Mayor & Council 789 444 DMR Architects

Responding to the desire for continued outdoor dining and experiences, New Brunswick’s mayor and council reviewed an impact study and design concepts for a reimagined George Street at their January 17 meeting.

One of the design options is for the conversion of George Street, between Bayard and Albany Streets, to become a pedestrian only mall that features year-round activation including outdoor dining, performance spaces and winter festivals.

The closure of the three-block area was first explored during the COVID-19 pandemic to allow for its restaurants to safely stay open, which then morphed into a lively area that also hosted art shows, football watch parties and live music.

“We’re seeing a lot of municipalities exploring ways to encourage public gathering in ways that are reflective of their culture while supporting economic growth and sustainability,” said Francis Reiner.  “In New Brunswick, we provided four options including a no-build which would keep the existing, summer only closure, one-way traffic conversions for either vehicles only or buses only, and a complete closure to convert the area into a permanent pedestrian plaza.”

As part of the assignment, DMR studied how these options would impact traffic on nearby streets, emergency vehicle access, public transportation routes for NJ TRANSIT and Rutgers University buses, as well as parking, wayfinding, and trash and recycling pickup.

The plans could provide for a central 24 ft. wide spine, which includes outdoor seating and temporary Tivoli lighting during the spring, summer and fall months and year-round programming.

As New Era Begins, A Look Back at DMR History

As New Era Begins, A Look Back at DMR History 789 444 DMR Architects

On January 3 DMR named Pradeep Kapoor, AIA, LEED AP BD+C President & CEO, becoming only the second person in the firm’s 32-year history to serve in that role. Pradeep succeeds Lloyd A. Rosenberg, AIA, the visionary and driving force behind the firm that we know today.

As a new era begins, we look back on the other projects and moments that changed the course of our firm.

DMR Names Pradeep Kapoor President & CEO; Founder Lloyd Rosenberg Chairman

DMR Names Pradeep Kapoor President & CEO; Founder Lloyd Rosenberg Chairman 2560 1450 DMR Architects

Pradeep Kapoor, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, who joined DMR Architects in 2001, has been named President & Chief Executive Officer of DMR Architects. Lloyd A. Rosenberg, AIA, who founded the firm in 1991, has been named the newly created role of Chairman and will remain active in strategic initiatives.

As part of a long-term succession plan, DMR named Francis Reiner, PP, LLA, Kurt Vierheilig AIA, LEED AP BD+C, Charles H. Sarlo, Esq., and Mr. Kapoor partners of the firm in 2017.

Mr. Rosenberg’s strategy of integrating design, planning, and construction management services has resulted in it rising to the third largest architectural enterprise in the state with special strengths in municipal planning, residential, public, educational, and healthcare practice areas.

“Lloyd’s visionary leadership has not only shaped the identity of our firm, it has fostered an environment of creativity and excellence,” said Pradeep Kapoor.  “His guidance has left an indelible mark and I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to build upon the remarkable legacy he has created.”

“Pradeep has grown immensely during his years at DMR and it is very gratifying to see him assume control of the day-to-day operations of the firm,” said Lloyd Rosenberg.  “The culture of DMR has continuously evolved, but threshold moments like this are rare in any firm.  It is especially important to me that the partners are collaborating not only in selecting a new leader but in directing the future of the firm.  DMR is at the all-time height of its productivity and influence in the marketplace and is on the precipice of becoming an even greater version of itself.”

DMR Dimensions – Winter 2023-2024 Edition

DMR Dimensions – Winter 2023-2024 Edition 2550 1252 DMR Architects

The latest DMR Dimensions is here.

We hope you enjoy reading about the people and projects that made 2023 another great year at DMR.

Media Center is Centerpiece of Technologically-Advanced Blanquita B. Valenti Community School in New Brunswick

Media Center is Centerpiece of Technologically-Advanced Blanquita B. Valenti Community School in New Brunswick 789 444 DMR Architects

Students at the DMR-designed Blanquita B. Valenti Community School are enjoying their first year at the three-story, 127,000 SF facility featuring a media center, technology lab, makerspace, and science demonstration rooms in addition to other traditional education spaces.

DMR is committed to being one of the best of breed for designing technological advancements in education spaces, striving to set another new standard for learning, mentoring and interacting for the 900 K-eighth graders.

The project is one of more than 30 projects that DMR has worked on for the New Brunswick Board of Education since 2010 including assessments/reports/long rang facility planning; Energy Savings Improvement Program (ESIP) projects; HVAC upgrades; roofs; and fields, in addition to the auxiliary gym addition at New Brunswick High School which is currently under construction.

“The media center was an especially important element to this project; it needed to be a meaningful learning environment for students who are tackling the alphabet for the first time all the way up to kids who are taking advanced STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) activities and coding classes,” said Lloyd Rosenberg AIA.

The 3,000 SF space features wraparound, floor-to-ceiling windows, bookshelves incorporated into the backs of seating and furniture, and a classroom with electronic whiteboards for small-group instruction.  Additionally, an area of the media center that is encased in glass windows is used as a makerspace filled with things such as virtual reality tech and 3-D printers.

Planning incorporated flexibility and adaptability throughout the building as shown in the multipurpose room with removable seating so that it can be easily converted for activities such as school dances and science fairs.  DMR’s design also provides a separate entrance for its kindergarteners so that their earlier pick-up time does not disrupt classes for the rest of the students.

In a creative land arrangement, the Blanquita B. Valenti Community School replaced the Lincoln Annex School, formerly St. Peter’s High School and Elementary School, which was demolished for construction of the state’s first free-standing cancer hospital.

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