SAAarchitects

05/28/2026

Preserving historic houses of worship is about honoring the craftsmanship, heritage, and community meaning they hold, while adapting them for continued use today.

Successful preservation efforts often focus on a few key priorities:

• Retaining original character and historic materials

• Enhancing accessibility and overall comfort

• Modernizing building systems for safety and efficiency

• Accommodating the changing needs of the community

With the right approach, these sacred spaces can continue to inspire, serve, and endure for generations to come.

05/27/2026

Workplace interiors impact how people think, collaborate, and perform. When designed well, a workspace becomes a tool for inspiration.

The most effective workplace environments balance function with experience. They support focus while encouraging connection, and they reflect the culture and values of the people inside them.

Key elements of inspiring workplace design include:

• Access to natural light and visual openness

• Flexible spaces for collaboration and focused work

• Acoustics that support productivity and comfort

• Spaces that encourage movement and interaction

• Design that reflects company culture and identity

What features do you like best in your workplace and why?

05/26/2026

One of the most common challenges in architecture and construction is setting clear expectations around project timelines.

Schedules are often more complex than they appear, and misunderstandings can lead to frustration, slowed decisions, and unrealistic expectations about delivery.

Below are a few of the misconceptions we hear regarding schedules.

05/21/2026

A waiting room is the first in-person impression of a healthcare practice, influencing how patients and families feel about the care they’re about to receive.

Intentional design can ease anxiety, enhance comfort, and improve overall perceptions of the patient experience.

Effective waiting room design includes:

• Comfortable, flexible seating arrangements with appropriate spacing

• Abundant natural light to support a sense of calm

• Durable, cleanable materials that still feel welcoming

• Layouts that support privacy and reduce crowding

• Warm finishes and thoughtful visual elements that soothe and reassure

When approached the right way, waiting areas become an extension of care, comfort, and trust.

05/20/2026

Accessibility in sacred spaces supports full participation for all members of a congregation, whether in worship, fellowship, or community life.

Thoughtful, inclusive design addresses mobility, sensory, and other access needs while preserving the building’s character, meaning, and spiritual purpose.

Here are some key considerations to ensure that holy spaces are welcoming to all.

05/19/2026

Want to reduce costs on your next project?

The Federal Historic Preservation Tax Incentives program provides a 20% tax credit for rehabilitating certified historic, income-producing buildings, making it easier to invest in and reuse existing properties.

By offsetting a portion of rehabilitation expenses, this incentive can improve project feasibility while supporting the preservation of character-rich buildings adapted for today’s needs.

We can help you understand and pursue available tax incentive programs to strengthen your investment. Get in touch to learn more: https://saaarchitects.com/contact/

05/18/2026

Giving back is part of how we define our work.

We’re proud to support organizations and initiatives that strengthen the communities we design in, from housing and healthcare to local nonprofits and cultural groups.

We believe that when communities thrive, the places we design thrive with them.

Learn more about the programs we support: https://saaarchitects.com/our-firm/

05/14/2026

We’re proud to have worked on many adaptive reuse and historic preservation projects throughout York, PA, and beyond.

One of our favorites is McAllister Lofts, a 47,518-square-foot former 1920’s hotel in Hanover, PA.

Project features include:

• 30 market-rate loft-style apartments, the first in Hanover
• Craftsman-style wainscoting in each unit
• Underground parking
• A fitness center

We also preserved key historic elements, including:

• Original tile and marble flooring
• Brick detailing
• The original staircase
• Decorative wrought-iron railing

View the full details here: https://saaarchitects.com/project/mcallister-lofts/

05/13/2026

A common challenge our clients face is how to preserve the character of a historic building while updating it for modern use.

The right approach makes it possible to honor the past while creating spaces that work for today and tomorrow.

In our blog, we share strategies our designers use for finding that balance, including:

• Collaborating with historians and preservation experts to understand the building’s story

• Navigating codes, regulations, and approval processes

• Introducing modern functionality without losing original character

• Engaging the community throughout the process

Read the full article here:

Discover the importance of historic preservation in architecture, balancing tradition and innovation to protect cultural heritage and revitalizing landmarks.

05/12/2026

Great spaces start with fresh ideas!

Subscribe to our free monthly newsletter for expert insights, tips and tricks to ensure your next project’s success, and upcoming trends shaping the future of design.

Join our mailing list today at the bottom of our homepage: https://saaarchitects.com/