When we opened our Cape office, our goal was simple; to bring thoughtful, community-centered design to a region defined by its coastal character, historic villages, and strong sense of place. Over the past five years, that vision has grown into meaningful partnerships, impactful projects, and lasting relationships across the Cape.

For our leadership, this expansion has also been deeply personal. Kevin’s connection to the Cape extends well beyond work: his daughter, son, and daughter-in-law all live on the Cape, along with his niece and mother-in-law. Having family rooted in the community strengthens our firm’s commitment to the region and reinforces our investment in its long-term success. The Cape is not just a market we serve, it’s a place our extended family calls home.

Designing with Coastal Context in Mind

Cape Cod presents unique opportunities and challenges. From coastal resiliency and environmental stewardship to historic preservation and seasonal community dynamics, every project demands a deep understanding of context. Our team embraces the responsibility of designing spaces that respect the landscape, respond to climate considerations, and reflect the architectural traditions that make the Cape so distinctive.

Over the past five years, we’ve been proud to collaborate with a diverse range of Cape-based organizations and business owners.

Our work with the owners of Ducks in the Window on their residential expansion reflects our commitment to supporting clients through their home journeys in a way that feels authentic.

We’ve also partnered with CapeAbilities, an organization that provides critical services and opportunities for individuals with disabilities across the region. Supporting projects that advance accessibility, inclusivity, and community impact aligns closely with our firm’s values and reinforces the broader role architecture plays in improving quality of life.

Beyond project work, ArchitectureEL has been an active supporter of the Harwich Chamber of Commerce, engaging with fellow members, attending local events, and contributing to initiatives that strengthen the local business community. Being involved at the chamber level allows us to stay connected, informed, and invested in the region’s continued growth.

We are also proud sponsors of the Women’s Cape Cod Rugby League — a connection that is especially meaningful as Kevin’s daughter is a member of the team.

Growing with Purpose

Establishing a presence on Cape Cod has allowed us to be more accessible and engaged with a community we continue to grow in. It has strengthened our relationships and deepened our understanding of the Cape’s evolving priorities, including housing, economic development, and climate resilience.

As we celebrate five years, we’re proud of the trust our clients and partners have placed in us and grateful for the opportunity to contribute to projects that shape the Cape’s future.

This anniversary is both a reflection and a recommitment. We look forward to continuing our work across Cape Cod, supporting local businesses, nonprofit organizations, municipalities, and community leaders, with the same energy, collaboration, and dedication that defined our first five years.

Stay tuned for more information on our 5-year celebration plans!

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As winter fades, the city begins to hum with anticipation, sidewalks fill, storefronts buzz, and neighbors gather with a shared sense of excitement. March in Holyoke isn’t just a change of season; it’s a celebration of heritage, resilience, and community pride. And for all of us at ArchitectureEL, it’s a time that feels especially meaningful.

For our founder and owner, Kevin, March carries a personal resonance. With Irish roots and a lifelong appreciation for the traditions that shape communities, this time of year is a reminder of how deeply culture and place are connected, especially here in Holyoke, a city where many of our projects live.

A City That Celebrates Its Heritage

Holyoke’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade is more than an annual event,  it’s part of the city’s identity. Since the early 1950s, the parade has grown into one of the largest and most beloved celebrations in New England, drawing visitors from across the region while remaining proudly rooted in local tradition .

For many of us, the parade is about more than green banners and bagpipes. It’s about generations of families lining the same streets, reconnecting with neighbors, and honoring the cultural history that helped shape Holyoke into the city it is today. For Kevin, that Irish heritage isn’t abstract,  it’s personal, lived, and reflected in the values of community, hard work, and stewardship that guide our practice.

Designing for a City We’re Part Of

ArchitectureEL’s relationship with Holyoke goes far beyond project boundaries: We care deeply about the future of the city. That’s why so much of our work has focused on supporting Holyoke’s buildings, institutions, and public spaces, helping them continue to serve the community for years to come.

Over time, we’ve been proud to contribute to numerous projects throughout Holyoke, including ongoing architectural improvements to existing buildings across the city. Last year, Kevin spoke with Holyoke Media about this work, highlighting the importance of thoughtful renovation, maintenance, and reinvestment in structures that matter to residents.

One project that’s especially close to our hearts is the Children’s Museum at Holyoke. As a space dedicated to learning, creativity, and family connection, the museum plays an important role in the city’s cultural and educational life. Our work there, including critical building improvements such as roofing, reflects our belief that design should support the institutions that nurture the next generation of Holyokers. 

Additionally, The Holyoke City of Holyoke will be renovating the historic City Council Chambers after many years of service. AEL’s design for this renovation project will be guided by the Massachusetts Historical Commission-issued Preservation Restriction to assure adherence to preservation standards. This project will bring, not only bring historic Chamber components such as the wood desks/platforms, public railing, wainscot wall finish, coffered ceiling and painted murals back to their original, historic condition, but support the Citizens and the Council in representing the  City of Holyoke.

These projects may not always be flashy, but they’re essential. They help preserve the places where people gather, learn, and grow; the everyday buildings that quietly shape community life.

Holyoke Pride, Year-Round

March invites reflection as much as celebration. It’s a moment to look at where Holyoke has been, an industrial city built by generations of working families and immigrants, and where it’s going. From historic mill buildings to cultural institutions and neighborhood spaces, Holyoke’s built environment tells a powerful story of reinvention and pride.

At ArchitectureEL, we see our role as caretakers of that story. Whether we’re working on a public-facing cultural space or behind-the-scenes improvements to existing structures, our goal is always the same: to respect Holyoke’s history while helping the city move confidently into the future.

So as the streets turn green this March and the city comes together once again, we’re reminded how lucky we are to do this work, in a place that values tradition, celebrates community, and never stops showing its heart.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day, Holyoke.

— The ArchitectureEL Team

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What’s Changed in Massachusetts? A Policy Shift with Big Impact

As of early 2025, Massachusetts now allows ADUs by‑right statewide in single‑family zoning districts under the Affordable Homes Act, eliminating the need for special permits or zoning variances to build an ADU up to 900 square feet or half the size of the principal home. This policy shift aims to address housing scarcity by making it easier for homeowners to add flexible living space and generate new housing units in established neighborhoods.

Recent state data shows strong early interest: in the first half of 2025, homeowners in 170 communities filed hundreds of ADU applications, with many already approved under the streamlined rules.

Design and Development Trends: Opportunity & Adaptation

1. 1. Flexible Forms & Design Approaches
      ADUs take many shapes, from interior conversions and attached additions to detached cottage-style units, each with design opportunities and constraints tied to site conditions, existing structures, and neighborhood character.
   2. Role of Architects in Shaping ADU Outcomes
      Architects are uniquely positioned to translate the new regulatory environment into well‑crafted, context‑responsive designs that elevate ADU living beyond simple infill. ADUs are increasingly seen as strategies for sustainable, equitable design that integrate with community and environmental goals. Design resources highlight compact living solutions and small structures as essential tools in addressing housing equity.
   3. Balancing Efficient Use of Space with Quality of Life
      Within the architectural community, ADUs are being discussed not only as housing units but as design exercises in compact living; where daylighting, multi-functional spaces, energy performance, and seamless integration with existing homes matter. Small-scale residential design now prioritizes occupant comfort, aesthetics, and sustainability.

Barriers & Realities: What Still Needs Work

Even with statewide by-right permission, local interpretations of building codes, fire safety requirements, and septic upgrades can add complexity and cost to ADU projects, potentially slowing adoption despite policy reforms.

Architects play a critical role in helping clients navigate these realities; from maximizing livability on small sites to meeting code requirements without compromising design quality.

Why ADUs Matter for Massachusetts’ Housing Future

ADUs are more than just a housing add-on; they offer multiple social and economic benefits:

• Aging in place: Providing comfortable, accessible housing for older adults close to family.
• Multigenerational living: Supporting extended family arrangements in a way that strengthens community ties.
• Rental income & economic stability: Helping homeowners offset costs while welcoming new residents into existing neighborhoods.

From a design perspective, ADUs encourage smarter infill development, making efficient use of existing infrastructure and preserving neighborhood character while gently increasing housing supply.

Looking Ahead: 2026 and Beyond

Design Innovation: Expect more ADU designs that emphasize climate resilience, sustainability, and adaptable interiors as homeowners and architects collaborate on smarter infill solutions.

Policy Evolution: As cities and towns implement the state’s ADU zoning guidance and explore additional incentives or model zoning, the design community will play a crucial role in influencing how these units shape future neighborhoods.

Architectural Leadership: Architects will continue to lead conversations around affordability, equity, and resilient design, ensuring ADUs contribute meaningfully to community housing strategies.

At ArchitectureEL, we’re excited to help translate policy into thoughtful, livable design — turning homeowner visions into reality and helping communities leverage ADUs as part of a broader commitment to smart growth and inclusive design.

References

1. Massachusetts Government. Accessory Dwelling Units Officially Allowed Statewide. mass.gov
2. Massachusetts Government. Remaining Barriers to Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). mass.gov
3. Boston Agent Magazine. Massachusetts ADUs: Applications Surge in Early 2025. bostonagentmagazine.com
4. American Institute of Architects (AIA). Accessory Dwelling Units: A Solution to Housing Inequity. aiau.aia.org
5. Boston Society for Architecture (BSA). From Policy to Practice: Unlocking ADUs Across Massachusetts. architects.org

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We recently added two new team members, Jack Hilgren and Ronell John, to our AEL family as we continue growing to meet the increasing demand for our services. These strategic hires reflect our ongoing expansion and commitment to delivering thoughtful and enduring architectural solutions across Western Massachusetts and beyond. Jack and Ronell each bring a diverse range of experiences and talents that will further strengthen the firm’s capabilities and client service.

Jack Hilgren joined AEL full-time after completing a part-time role while finishing his master’s degree in architecture at The University of Massachusetts Amherst. He originally planned for a career in engineering, but shifted his focus to architecture in order to engage more directly in the creative process. In his role as a Designer, Jack supports our residential and commercial projects through design development and project management. His favorite project to date has been a full home renovation in Wilbraham, where he enjoyed guiding the design from concept through development. Outside of work, he enjoys travel, time with family and friends, and spending time with his two cats.

Ronell John also joined us in the role of Construction Documents Expert. Ronnell brings nearly two decades of professional experience in architectural drafting and design. He began his career as an AutoCAD technician and has since worked on a variety of project types. At AEL, he prepares and coordinates design and construction documentation, contributing to the technical excellence of the firm’s work. What drives him the most is the rewarding experience of seeing a design evolve from a concept on paper to a physical space that serves its users. Originally from Trinidad, he now lives in Wilbraham, Mass. When he is not working, he enjoys spending time with his wife, relaxing, and savoring one of his favorite meals, Trinidadian Chicken Roti.

“We are thrilled to have Jack and Ronell join our team,” shares Kevin Rothschild-Shea, our company’s Owner and Principal Architect. “Each of them brings a unique perspective, energy, and skill set that strengthens our ability to serve clients and expand our creative potential.”

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Full Article Here +

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We’re honored to now be awarded on-call Architect, “House Dr.,” for the Holyoke Housing Authority for a two-year period! As public agencies often have ongoing needs for architectural and engineering services, rather than go through a separate selection process each time the need for such services arises, some agencies will rely on their on-call Architects to make the adjustments and upgrades they need – that is where we come in! 

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ArchitectureEL Inc. provides professional design services on a wide range of projects, from renovating existing buildings to designing new. The firm has significant experience in accessibility, historic preservation, educational, and commercial design, as well as both private and multi-family residential development.

AEL has developed strong local connections and provided services for the city of Holyoke and Holyoke Public schools as their on-call architect for the past two years, completing a roof and skylight replacement for the DPW, a roof and skylight replacement for the City Hall Annex, a roof replacement for the Holyoke Children’s Museum and Volleyball Hall of Fame, heating upgrades for the McMahon VRF, historical renovations on the City Council chambers located at City Hall, HVAC system replacements in the city’s elementary schools.

“We are honored to have been chosen to continue this important work in the city of Holyoke,” said Kevin Rothschild-Shea, owner and principal architect. “We look forward to expanding our relationship with the city of Holyoke and our services to the Holyoke Housing Authority to help maintain the infrastructure of this vibrant city.”

Full Article Here +

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Chester Commons is an occupied 15-unit rehabilitation project located in Chester’s town center.  The sponsor is the non-profit Hilltown Community Development Corporation.  DHCD will provide subsidy funds to support the historic rehabilitation of Chester Commons, with an emphasis on accessibility for tenants with disabilities.  All 15 units will be reserved for individuals or small households earning less than 60 percent of AMI, with four units further restricted for extremely low-income individuals or small households earning less than 30 percent of AMI.

For the full article, including a lists of the other projects, please click here.

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