Architecture Awards 2026 Nestled in Coral Gables, Florida, R.J. Heisenbottle Architects (RJHA) is a highly respected, award-winning architecture and historic preservation firm. As a specialist in restoration, rehabilitation, and adaptive reuse of historically significant buildings and cultural landscapes, RJHA continues to raise the standard for the preservation of our most treasured architectural creations. We spoke with Project Manager Stephanie Michell in light of the firm’s recognition from us at BUILD. Leading Historic Theatre Restoration Architects 2026 – North America Contact Details: Contact: Stephanie Michell Company: R.J. Heisenbottle Architects Website: https://rjha.net/ Driven by a passion for protecting the historic buildings and landmarks our communities love, RJHA believes that these buildings are irreplaceable assets and, therefore, strives to protect the craftsmanship and history while carefully integrating current technical requirements. Stephanie explained: “We approach each project with the understanding that we are not simply designing buildings, we are serving as stewards of places that hold meaning for generations of people.” Working with historic theaters, civic buildings, museums, churches, universities, government facilities, and private estates spanning the United States, RJHA holds a diverse client base. It delivers high-quality, comprehensive architectural services such as historic preservation planning; building condition assessments; restoration design; construction documentation; permitting; construction administration, and long-term preservation planning. For more than three decades now, RJHA has kept its attention firmly on the successful preservation of the architectural heritage of communities across the US, while also ensuring historic structures can continue to serve our modern needs. Over the years, RJHA has come face to face with an assortment of projects of varying sizes and complexities but rises to the challenge each time. From using thoughtful problem solving skills to balancing modern performance expectations with the preservation of historic integrity, RJHA’s team works tirelessly to achieve the best outcome for every unique project it takes on. When a project begins, it’s common for many existing issues to be concealed until construction starts, but this isn’t a problem for RJHA’s deeply experienced and highly collaborative team. Stephanie added: “Rather than viewing these unknowns as obstacles, we see them as opportunities to better understand each building and develop solutions that are respectful of its history. Every unforeseen condition expands our collective knowledge and strengthens our expertise for future projects.” Additionally, as RJHA’s specialists are well versed in our evolving performance demands, they are able to factor in vital aspects such as accessibility, building systems, resiliency, and sustainability, while delivering projects that preserve each building’s historic beauty. Stephanie commented: “Successfully navigating these competing priorities has become one of RJHA's greatest strengths and allows us to deliver projects that honor the past while preparing historic buildings for the future.” Speaking of one of the firm’s most significant recent projects, Stephanie explained that the restoration of the historic Olympia Theater in downtown Miami is an example of a project that made the entire team truly proud. From the start of this project, RJHA leaned into its technical expertise, collaborative qualities, unwavering commitment to authentic preservation, and its roster of skills that help it to truly understand how to handle every hurdle ahead. Restoring this theater in particular, RJHA carefully coordinated structural stabilization, building envelope repairs and restoration, life safety improvements, building system modernization, and the preservation of highly significant historic fabric. Stephanie continued: “Every decision must balance preservation with performance, ensuring that future generations will experience the theater much as audiences did nearly a century ago. Seeing this landmark begin its next chapter while maintaining its historic character is incredibly rewarding and reflects exactly why our firm is passionate about theater restoration.” Also having recently completed the restoration of Miami’s iconic Freedom Tower, RJHA continues to add to its roster of successfully completed projects. This accolade-worthy historic restoration architecture firm continues to be an outstanding option for any project looking to modernize a building’s functionality, while keeping the timeless aesthetic it is known and loved for. The rest of 2026, and beyond, will see exciting developments come into fruition for RJHA as it advances in several significant preservation projects. In closing, Stephanie told us: “As communities increasingly recognize the importance of preserving their architectural heritage, we are honored to play a role in safeguarding these irreplaceable places. We look forward to continuing our work with clients and partners who share our passion for preserving historic buildings while ensuring they remain vibrant, resilient, and significant for future generations.” Ever grateful for its clients, consultants, contactors, preservation agencies, and project partners, as well as its involvement in such substantial projects, R.J. Heisenbottle Architects is greatly proud to be part of the communities with which it works. Its recognition within our 2026 Architecture Awards is truly testament to the passion its team holds for preserving the beauty and legacy of each building, and we’re sure to see the firm continue to shape our world for generations to come.
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