by Lindsey Kohler-Austin | 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!
by Lindsey Kohler-Austin | Apr 9, 2026 | Charles Hendricks, Harrisonburg, Harrisonburg Architect, Intern, Leadership, Mentorship, Office Culture
I remember my first day at the firm. I had no idea what to expect when I arrived. I knew autocad. I had an architectural degree. I had worked various jobs since I was 12, but this was the first office position. The first time that I was being asked to draw things and they would pay me for it. I understood design, but I didn’t know the 27′ rule in a kitchen, the stair formula, how far a 2 x 12 would span, or why insulation values were important. Those were not things we learned in architectural school. That first day though, I found out that my opinion mattered. The questions I asked made a difference. I could contribute to the team. I needed mentorship, but I also got to mentor those around me.
Over my 27 years at the firm I have been mentored and served as a mentor. I have learned so much from others on the team and hopefully shared some wisdom along the way. I continue to learn from our team. There is so much to know in our industry and it continues to evolve and change.
For the third year in a row our firm has been recognized as a Top Virginia Employer for Interns. This is a meaningful recognition for me personally. We have hosted dozens of high school students in job shadowing, college students as summer interns, and helped launch many into careers in architecture. This annual award celebrates the importance of providing hands on experiences, direct access to senior leadership, and a glimpse into real world skills and experiences.
Congratulations and thank you to all of the 161 employers that have put time, energy, and resources into allowing students to advance in their knowledge. Thank you for opening doors for students to explore career options.
by Charles Hendricks | Jul 17, 2025 | artwork, citizen architect, First Friday, Harrisonburg Architect, Office Culture
Join us for First Friday Harrisonburg in August at the Depot on Friday, August 1st from 5pm – 7pm for the Exhibition “ICONS” by artist Derrick Chirinos!!
As always, this event is free and open to everyone, and refreshments will be provided by Gaines Group Architects.
Series Name: Icons
Medium: Photography, Digital and Film
Artist Statement: In
Icons,
Derrick Chirinos swaps out live subjects for mannequin heads to capture the small, everyday moments we often take for granted. These silent figures live out ordinary routines: sipping coffee, taking a stroll, laughing with friends. Each scene becomes a time capsule, a reminder that our time on Earth is brief. As our planet’s protections waver and tomorrow feels more uncertain, these photographs stand as proof that at one point: we moved, laughed, and lived freely.
Artist Bio: Derrick Chirinos (He/Him), is a photographer and filmmaker local to the Harrisonburg area who sometimes attempts to control the chaos in his process and other times lets the art come to life on its own terms. Since expanding his skillset to processing and physically altering film to convey a moment in time, Derrick not only unlocked what he thought was possible in art but hopes to inspire others to think outside the image as well. Since 2019, he has exhibited in Brooklyn, NY, JMU, and at his alma mater
Eastern Mennonite University.
*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 the Depot!
by Charles Hendricks | Jul 11, 2025 | architecture, Charles Hendricks, community, Harrisonburg Architect, Local Leaders, Office Culture
We love supporting community organizations that are doing amazing things in our community to build a brighter future for everyone.
Businesses in Harrisonburg and Rockingham County supporting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Harrisonburg-Rockingham County isn’t just about good corporate citizenship; it’s a strategic investment with tangible benefits. Investing in BBBSHR offers a variety of advantages that can directly benefit your company.
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Enhanced brand reputation and customer loyalty: Consumers are more likely to support businesses that demonstrate social responsibility.
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Increased employee engagement and retention: Employees, especially younger generations, are increasingly seeking purpose in their work. Offering opportunities for them to volunteer as “bigs” or participate in corporate giving initiatives can boost morale, foster teamwork, and improve job satisfaction, leading to lower turnover rates.
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Valuable marketing and PR opportunities: Sponsorships of BBBSHR, like Bowl for Kids’ Sake, provide excellent visibility for your brand.
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Networking and community connections: Involvement with BBBSHR connects your business with other civic-minded leaders, organizations, and community members, fostering valuable relationships and potential collaborations.
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Tax benefits: Many forms of corporate giving can offer tax advantages.
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Corporate social responsibility: Partnering with BBBSHR provides a clear and impactful way to fulfill your company’s CSR objectives.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Harrisonburg-Rockingham County (BBBSHR) creates and supports one-to-one mentoring relationships between caring adult volunteers and children facing adversity in our community. Their mission is to ignite the power of youth, leading to improved academic performance, increased self-confidence, and avoidance of risky behaviors.
by Charles Hendricks | Jul 8, 2025 | architecture, Office Culture
We’re thrilled to introduce the newest member of our team, Nicole Rowe! A current third-year architectural design major at James Madison University, Nicole brings a fantastic blend of fresh energy and a truly collaborative approach to her work. As she looks forward to her final year and diving into her thesis exploration, we’re excited to see the innovative ideas she’ll bring to the table here at the office.
As our marketing intern, Nicole is already making waves by creating engaging social media content. Her goal? To tell our firm’s story, celebrate our amazing clients, and cultivate a stronger, more vibrant community. This work is vital not only for our business success but also for sharing best practices and highlighting the incredible community partners we work with. After all, our story is rooted in our commitment to using design to build a stronger, more inclusive future for everyone.
Beyond the Design Desk
When she’s not immersed in design, Nicole loves spending time with friends, whether it’s unwinding after a day at work or hitting the gym. Originally from Winchester, Nicole got an early start in the industry, working for her parents’ construction company (Skyline Remodeling and Construction). She also sharpened her design skills as an intern at Foursquare Architects.
Nicole’s passion extends to her home farm, where she enjoys the company of cows, pigs, donkeys, and chickens. Plus, her dog, Opal, is right here with her in Harrisonburg! When she’s not caring for animals, working out, or designing, Nicole is a talented musician, creating music on the piano, guitar, and as a DJ. Her go-to genres include alternative, R&B, and jazz.
Whether she’s binging Peaky Blinders or Shameless with some chocolate or a chai latte, Nicole’s curiosity constantly fuels her drive to design. We’ve already witnessed how her collaborative spirit makes her an amazing designer, and we can’t wait to see all she accomplishes!
Please join us in giving a warm welcome to Nicole!
by Charles Hendricks | Jun 24, 2025 | architecture, Office Culture, team
We are thrilled to welcome Elizabeth “Lizzy” McEwen, a recent Virginia Tech School of Architecture graduate, to our design team. Lizzy brings a fresh perspective and adventurous spirit to our firm.
From Charlotte to Hokie Nation
Originally from Charlotte, North Carolina—a city with a rich history of discovery and innovation—Lizzy learned early that extraordinary things can hide in plain sight. Growing up in the birthplace of America’s first gold rush (sparked by a 17-pound gold nugget used as a doorstop!), it’s fitting that she found her way to architecture, where practical design meets creative problem-solving.
The Evolution of a Designer
Before sketching building elevations, Lizzy was already teaching her sisters on the family art easel, complete with homework assignments (which, she admits, were rarely completed). This early passion for education and sharing knowledge underscores the collaborative spirit she brings to our design process, always ready to explain concepts or explore new approaches.
Her path to architecture included an interesting detour: summer camp counseling. She even worked at the same camp our managing partner, Charles Hendricks, attended as a child. These unexpected connections truly strengthen our professional community, weaving a beautiful circularity through the architecture world.
Adventure Meets Craftsmanship
What truly distinguishes Lizzy is her ability to balance bold adventure with meticulous craftsmanship. When she’s not designing, she’s seeking adventures—like paragliding off mountains in Switzerland. This pursuit demands the same careful attention to detail, spatial awareness, and calculated risk-taking that defines exceptional architecture.
On solid ground, Lizzy channels her creativity into building custom guitars with her fiancé. This perfect partnership sees her handling the design while he manages the circuitry, mirroring the interdisciplinary thinking that drives successful architectural projects by blending aesthetic vision with technical precision.
Defining Details
Lizzy’s competitive side shines through in stories like fitting 20 blueberries in her mouth to win a bet—a testament to her determination and willingness to embrace unusual challenges. This creative problem-solving and fearless approach are precisely what we value when tackling complex design problems.
Outside the studio, Lizzy enjoys staying active outdoors, finding inspiration in natural environments that often inform her approach to sustainable design and biophilic architecture principles.
Looking Ahead
Lizzy joins us at an exciting time as we continue to push the boundaries of innovative design while upholding our commitment to thoughtful, community-centered architecture. Her unique blend of technical education, hands-on making experience, and adventurous spirit positions her perfectly to contribute to projects requiring both creative vision and practical execution.
We are confident that Lizzy’s fresh perspective, collaborative nature, and willingness to embrace challenges—whether teaching her sisters, paragliding through the Alps, or crafting the perfect guitar—will make her an invaluable addition to our team.
Welcome aboard, Lizzy. We can’t wait to see what we’ll build together.
