Michael Graves Architecture Acquires North Carolina’s Walter Robbs

Merger strengthens firm’s legacy of innovative design and deep sector knowledge and enhances client experience while building on future acquisition strategy.

On Feb 2, 2023

Michael Graves Architecture (MG), the Princeton-based award-winning global leader in planning, architecture, and interior design, has acquired Walter Robbs Callahan & Pierce Architects, PA (Walter Robbs), a North Carolina-based architecture firm. Following the acquisition of Maryland-based planning, architecture and interior design firm Waldon Studio Architects (WSA) and New Jersey-based Jose Carballo Architectural Group (JCAG) last year, the new acquisition is another key component of MG’s long-term strategic growth plan. The acquisition of Walter Robbs will add the specific strengths of the well-known firm to MG’s robust foundation, continue to share knowledge across market sectors, and expand into new regions.

“When evaluating this acquisition, we immediately recognized the talent and deep experience within the Walter Robbs team, particularly in the higher education, K-12, community, and sports sectors. As we learned more about each other, we realized our values were aligned, and that our collaboration would create instant synergy,” explained Joe Furey, president and CEO of MG. “We were immediately impressed with Walter Robbs’ portfolio, its people, and the collaborative nature of the firm’s operations, which will lead to many new opportunities in the higher education, K-12, community and sports sectors, as well as in the North Carolina market. We believe this acquisition will further enhance our design capabilities and market sector knowledge, as well as build upon our core values of innovation, commitment to quality, and unwavering client service.”

Under the new company structure, Wesley Curtis, Ken McDaniel, and Matt Messick will serve as principals and existing partners Joe Bircher, Amy West, Katie Pepper, Larry Robbs, Rence Callahan, and Clark Pierce will remain as partners of the firm, which will be known as Walter Robbs Architects PA, a Michael Graves Company, moving forward. Additionally, all Walter Robbs staff will be thoughtfully incorporated into the company’s organizational makeup in key roles. Joe Furey will oversee the ongoing integration and continued future acquisition strategy as part of MG’s forward-looking strategic plan.

Ken McDaniel, AIA, NCARB, President at Walter Robbs stated, “At Walter Robbs, our team has always been at the heart of who we are. This new chapter will provide unique opportunities and peer relationships for our NC-based staff, and we’re excited to foster this growth in an environment of shared goals, principles, and collaboration.”

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