Collaboration to deliver better service to our clients

Collaboration to deliver better service to our clients

by | Sep 12, 2026 | architecture, Charles Hendricks, Charlottesville, citizen architect, Commercial Architect, community, Custom Home, Empathy, Harrisonburg, Harrisonburg Architect, Local Leaders

This amazing event, Charlottesville Architect + Builder Exchange, is building a better industry.

This past week Charles and Sam were invited to share how they collaborate outside of projects to deliver better projects to shared clients. Sam with Herr and Company and Charles have worked together on many projects over the years. They have a trusting relationship. It is not just based on the projects though, it is based on each of them showing up for the other consistently.

Charlottesville Architect Builder Exchange

The story they shared is not a new way of doing business. It is simply treating each other with respect and working towards a common goal: excellent service to our community, integrity in the process, and a desire to do better for our clients. Once the video of the event is posted we will share it. We welcome your ideas of how we can improve more. We don’t have it all figured out and want to continue to grow and improve. Let us know how you deliver better service to your clients through collaboration, trust, and integrity.

Thanks to Jim at Candid and his team for allowing this conversation to happen.

If you have a community group or event that needs a speaker: Charles loves sharing his passion for community, building science, architecture, aging in place, the history of the Chesapeake Wester Depot, using empathy as a design tool, or if you just want him to tell stories – reach out and let’s get it scheduled.

Project Update: 865 East Interior Renovation

Project Update: 865 East Interior Renovation

by | Sep 3, 2026 | architecture, Commercial Architect, Harrisonburg, Harrisonburg Architect, Interior Design, Multifamily Design, project update

Blog by: Jarod Sankar
Interior Design: The Gaines Group Architects
Lobby Contractor: Legacy Building Co.
Game Room Contractor: Sustainable Solutions

If you’re from Harrisonburg, or have any association with JMU, you’ve probably encountered 865 East, the luxury student housing complex located right off I-81 on Port Republic Road. While the complex isn’t new to the area, it is under new ownership and has recently undergone a complete transformation.

The project began with a vision from the property managers. They knew that the building was in an incredible location, offered great amenities, and was well-loved by the community, and they wanted to capitalize on those things with a full facelift on both the apartments and the common areas. Adrienne and Jarod met with the property management team, asked lots of questions, took lots of photos, and looked at lots of inspiration images. Once the main programming and scope were determined, the interior design team got straight to work.

The first step of the project was capturing the right vibe for the proposed facelift. We wanted the space to feel fun and striking, yet inviting, clean, and home-like. For luxury student housing, it’s important to design with longevity and maintainability in mind, without creating a space that feels sterile. Giving the students a sense of home helps make the space feel unique but comfortably familiar. To start the process, we analyzed the information from our first initial meeting with Star and the Asset Living team and generated mood board images that would set the tone for the full renovation. After getting approval from the team to move forward, Jarod 3D-modeled the space and started working through the design for the renovated lobby, game room, and rooftop.

The lobby was the top priority. The space called for a statement, and with its tall ceilings, balcony, and expansive entrance with glass windows, the “bones” were there. We wanted to capitalize on the existing conditions but bring it up to date by incorporating warm wood tones, moody colors that create depth, statement lighting, and a 2-story tall green wall. We also relocated the lobby desk to a more central location, so the staff would have better sightlines, and would be able to access other utility spaces more easily without leaving the desk unattended. The new design proposal was fully 3D-modeled and rendered, giving the project management team marketing material for promoting the upcoming renovation.

Left: Before; Right: Our Rendering

Left: Before; Right and slider images: Renderings and after

Next, we tackled the game room. The current space had all the right conditions – natural light, easy access, and a large space. The game room was a great amenity for the apartment complex, but it was underutilized due to a poor layout and outdated finishes. The property management team’s goal was to make this space inviting and fun, and the wheels in our head began turning the moment we got back to our desks. Our vision was to create a space that would serve all needs – and addressing the layout and how the space would be used was our first step. We reconfigured the space to house a pool table, a foosball table, and a shared snack bar with couches and ottomans for game day fun or large gatherings. Alongside the new large group seating, we also added banquet seating with partitions to create pockets of more private spaces, so multiple people could use the room at once without feeling like they are impeding on another group. The finishes complement the lobby renovation, bringing in those warm wood tones, subtle JMU color influences, and capitalized on the existing space’s industrial flair.

CONSTRUCTION DRAWINGS:
Just like the lobby, we created photorealistic renderings that the project management team used to build excitement for the renovations and drive leasing.

Lastly, we refreshed the rooftop terrace space. With incredible views, a wet bar, and a covered pavilion, the space already had strong potential. With just some minor tweaks to furniture, colors, and listening to how the space is primarily used, the space took on a whole new look. We added some fun pops of color to brighten the space, some furniture that allowed for suntanning which is what the space is commonly used for and updated the soft furniture under the pavilion.

We’re excited to celebrate 865 East’s new look and enjoyed having a hand in their complete renovation!

To see more photos and learn more about the complex, check them out here:

Click Here
Project Update: Brighter Chiropractic!

Project Update: Brighter Chiropractic!

by | Aug 21, 2026 | architecture, Charles Hendricks, Commercial Architect, community, Harrisonburg, Harrisonburg Architect, Leadership, Local Leaders, project update

Charles and Dr. David Heller were talking over breakfast at a morning Rotary Club of Rockingham County meeting. Dr. Heller was opening a new business in an existing shopping center in town. As a doctor and entrepreneur, he had a clear vision and had checked all the boxes to reach his goal of serving his community and promoting better health. Then Charles asked, “Did you check the use group for the space to make sure it works for your Chiropractic Clinic?”
Dr. Heller had already hired a contractor to execute his vision. Hiring a contractor is an obvious first step, but when opening a new space and renovating, many questions must be answered. As architects we know these questions well and know how to efficiently answer them. Dr. Heller had completed his training, formulated his plan, and found the space. The remaining questions focused on building code and ADA compliance. These issues are often overlooked until after construction has started. Sometimes there are no issues, but if issues arise, the project stops and usually costs a lot to get back on track.
For example, Charles was contacted by a retail shop. They were moving from one end of the shopping center to the other. Seems simple. However, when they went to pull the sign permit they found out the new space, which they were already moving things into, did not allow for retail. Again, the same shopping center and even the same building. At some point in the past that particular unit’s building code use had changed to assembly instead of retail. This resulted in needing a building code analysis and change of use application to revert to retail. This cost the business owner valuable time and money to bring the space into compliance.
So back to Dr. Heller’s story: His new practice has opened its doors. He already has a long list of clients due to all his brand-building work prior to opening. His work ethic has been incredible to watch. Our role was fairly simple, stemming from that morning conversation. We documented the ADA compliance, verified the building code use group, made sure the space worked for the needed uses, and created the documents for the builder to quickly execute the plan.
Our goal as designers is to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of those using the spaces we design are protected. Our work helps our clients efficiently reach their goals. This project is a great example of how we can support local small businesses and an incredibly hard-working entrepreneur.
We are proud of you Dr. Heller and wish you many years of success moving forward.

Click the Brighter Chiropractic logo below to learn more!

September First Friday at The Depot-Featuring Our Very Own Aimee Lawson!

September First Friday at The Depot-Featuring Our Very Own Aimee Lawson!

by | Aug 19, 2026 | community, First Friday, Harrisonburg, Office Culture

As always, this event is free and open to everyone, and refreshments will be provided by Gaines Group Architects.

September 4th from 5:00-7:00 PM

Series Name: BFE: Best Friend Energy – Featuring Your Local Paws

Medium: Linocut Block Prints

Artist Statement: “This collection, titled “BFE: Best Friend Energy” features block prints of local adoptable pets. These future “best friends” are currently at Rockingham-Harrisonburg SPCA awaiting adoption. Each print originates from carefully carved linoleum blocks. The intention in each carving matches my intention in helping them find their new best friend. I chose each subject carefully, choosing those with a little more difficulty in getting adopted such as those with longer stays, elderly pets, and pets with disabilities, in hopes of increasing their chances to get adopted. I focused on capturing the character of each of them through their spirited poses and facial expressions. I believe that no matter what, they are each deserving of a loving home and a new best friend.” 

Artist Bio: Throughout my life I’ve always had a strong bond with animals and my family had household pets my entire childhood. I loved having so many pets growing up and it would feel like something was missing if I visited friends and family that did not have pets. My significant other and I have two cats, and a dog, two of which are from the RHSPCA, and I can’t imagine our world without them. They bring so much joy and happiness to our home.

In addition to my love of animals, I grew up with a love for art. I attended many art camps as a child and took many art classes. My specialty has been in 3D art, specifically pottery. The ability to sculpt and shape a material into something entirely different has always fascinated me. I found pottery to be the most instinctive form of art for me to express my creations until recently. When I was in high school, I took a 2D art class where I first learned how to carve lino prints. I added that skill to my repertoire and only decided to delve deeper within the last year. This past year I began feeling encumbered by pottery and started looking for other forms of art to express myself. That’s when I rediscovered linocuts. I saw it as the perfect combination of 3D and 2D art. You take a 3D linoleum block and carve away at it to reveal something new. The result is this deep, gestural form in a block. This block then gets printed and translated into 2D. Seeing the final block print reveal its 2D form is such a magical feeling.

When it was time to choose my art show theme, it was clear to me that the only thing that could make that 2D reveal even more magical was to put it toward a good cause. That’s where my love for animals and art came together to make this show. All proceeds from this art show will go to the RHSPCA. So please come show your support and feel the Best Friend Energy!

 

*Special Note: Staff from RHSPCA will be present here at the Depot for our First Friday opening to answer any questions and provide more information about their services and any future “best friends!” 

 

*Accessibility Note: This building was previously restored from a fire. The elevator shaft is currently not functioning and there is an absence of ramps in the space. Because the show is on the 2nd floor, this may pose an issue for those who have mobility challenges. We are aware of this need and we apologize greatly if this changes your ability to attend.

This event is free and open to everyone. Snacks and refreshments will be served and we look forward to seeing you there!

Each month we host a new artist in our building’s 2nd floor gallery at the Chesapeake Western Depot at 141 W. Bruce St. (second floor entrance is on Chesapeake). Artwork will remain on exhibit through the month. Come view the show anytime and get a tour of the Depot!

The Lasting Impact of Local Mentorship

The Lasting Impact of Local Mentorship

by | Jul 31, 2026 | community, Empathy, family, Harrisonburg, Leadership, Local Leaders, Mentorship, resources, team

Why investing in local non-profits builds community:

Blog post written by Hannah Cundiff

At Gaines Group Architects, we believe that businesses investing in local non-profits that provide mentorship opportunities can help support generational change building a stronger community for years to come. Almost everyone has had a mentor at one point in their lives. Whether a teacher, coach, church leader, or even just an older friend, having a mentor helps with development at a young age and can help you grow as a person as you get older. That is why we actively support local non-profits like Big Brothers Big Sisters, whose proven mentorship model creates a ripple effect of generational change.

In 2025, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Harrisonburg-Rockingham served 127 local youth. Their mission is simple yet powerful: create and support one-on-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. And the results speak for themselves. In 2025 alone:

  • 100% of Littles graduated high school.
  • 97% agreed they felt closer to their bigs
  • 91% increased their disapproval of risky behaviors.
  • 88% improved their familial relationships.
  • 88% experienced an improved sense of social accecptence with their peers
  • 87% improved their grades.
  • 77% increased confidence to do well in school
Big Brothers Big Sisters Harrisonburg Rockingham

The impact of mentorship isn’t just something we talk about; it’s something our team lives out.

I serve as a mentor to two “Littles” through a student organization at James Madison University. Even though they are fellow college students, you are never too old to benefit from a mentor. When I first met them, both were quiet and kept to themselves. Over the past few months, watching them come out of their shells and step into super active members, and wanting to become “bigs” themselves has been incredibly rewarding.

I also know the value of mentorship firsthand. Throughout high school and college, one of my older friends has helped me navigate hard times in high school, overcome the anxiety of transitioning to college, and step confidently into JMU’s massive Marching Royal Dukes colorguard. She still checks in on me today. I see her as an older sister figure, and I remain deeply grateful for her guidance.

At Gaines Group, this passion for mentorship spans our entire team. Aimee Lawson, one of our designers, is a Big Sister with BBBS. She frequently shares updates on the fun activities she plans with her Little and the incredible growth she has seen in just a few short months. (Read more about Aimee and her Little here).

Investing in a local non-profit like BBBS shows that a community that comes together to support mentorships has a stronger bond between people, improves the overall community, and builds a better future.

More Information:

https://thegainesgroup.com/big-brothers-big-sisters-of-harrisonburg-rockingham-county/

https://bbbshr.org/

 

Great Construction Documents Save Our Clients’ Money And Increase Contractors’ Profits

Great Construction Documents Save Our Clients’ Money And Increase Contractors’ Profits

by | Jul 29, 2026 | architecture, Blacksburg, Building Science, Charlottesville, Custom Home, Harrisonburg, Harrisonburg Architect, Roanoke, Roanoke Architect

True value is created when a beautiful design is translated into highly detailed, clear, concise, and correct drawings. The process of dimensioning and noting a drawing the right way saves on time to build, makes the goals clear, and reduces questions during construction. We know our client want a beautiful design, and when we add beautiful drawings showing that design, everyone wins. For both the homeowner and the contractor, our work during the construction documents phase is where some of the real magic happens. With our team, we work through the design’s buildability aspects, ensure we have the right materials, trace the thermal envelope, and save our clients money through our integrated design approach.

When we take time to invest in well-detailed drawings, we are protecting the builder from having to “figure out” things during construction. We work to make sure the drawings illustrate the final design with the right details and notes included.

We hear from our contractors all the time that they love our drawings and the work we do to solidify the selections, structural design, and work through the unique framing conditions. By coordinating everything on paper before the contractor gives our client a budget time and money is saved. 

Whether you are a homeowner dreaming of a comfortable, healthy space or a builder looking to streamline your workflow and elevate your build quality, our drawings are the key. We believe that smart design and clear, correct, concise, and complete drawings deliver the highest value to our clients and contractors.