Purpose

Through active listening and advanced market sector knowledge, Vision 3 Architects combines creativity and strong technical execution to deliver thoughtful design solutions and form long-lasting relationships. We’ve made it our mission to create beautiful and functional spaces that serve our clients and achieve their visions.

We are responsive.

We provide principal involvement in every project.

We empower our employees to maximize their talents.

We collaborate with all team members to produce better results.

We promote sustainable qualities in all designs.

We optimize the use of technology for the benefit of our clients and their projects.

We design for our clients.

EMPLOYEES

30

REGISTERED ARCHITECTS

13

LEED/WELL ACCREDITED

5

NCARB CERTIFIED

7

INTERIOR DESIGNERS

2

YEAR FOUNDED

1987

People

Executive Leadership

Senior Management

Staff

Culture

Our firm is devoted to creating a design studio environment that fosters creativity, collaboration, professional advancement, and fun.

CREATIVITY  We are a collection of enthusiastic architects and designers – each is creative. The scale of our studio is reflective of our design philosophy – to focus attention on every detail throughout a project, no matter how small.

COLLABORATION  We believe that our participatory atmosphere allows our studio to solve complex problems with innovative, pragmatic solutions. We encourage discussion, especially those that challenge convention.

PROFESSIONAL ADVANCEMENT  We nurture the development of our team members’ individual abilities and aspirations through mentoring, continuing education, and support their involvement in professional organizations. We are as committed to our employees as we are to our clients.

FUN  We strive for balance. While we work hard, we also know how to have fun. We support team-building activities, organize social events, celebrate milestones and recognize achievements. We know that happy employees put forth our best work.

We firmly believe that people are the foundation to all of our projects.

Testimonials

“Some of our core values within the Carpenters Union are mentoring, leadership development, and “passing along the craft” to younger generations. I hadn’t mentioned this before, but it was so great to work with you because those same values were reflected in your team at Vision 3. From start to finish, your team was consummate professionals and a wealth of creativity and competence. I had nothing but confidence in your team throughout the entire process. In any project, every decision is a risk. But with Vision 3, we KNOW we made the right choice. THANK YOU ALL!“

Dennis J. Lassige, Regional Manager Southeast New England, NORTH ATLANTIC STATES REGIONAL COUNCIL OF CARPENTERS

“I have developed a trusting relationship with Vision 3 over the years through the development and design of several branch banks, and now with the completion of Coastway’s Corporate Headquarters. Vision 3 continually delivers exceptional service and with this project, provided us with designs incorporating the opportunity of future growth and additional tenant interests. Vision 3 enriches our workspace environment and corporate future.”

Bill White, President & CEO, COASTWAY COMMUNITY BANK

“Vision 3 has the ability to really get inside the client’s head, to figure out their needs, and turn around great ideas that not only meet the program and aesthetics, but are realistic in terms of the budget. They remain focused on the client and the client’s budget.

Shawmut has a long history working together with Vision 3. One of the aspects that attracts us to Vision 3, to use their services as a consumer as well as a partner in terms of design-build or construction, is their ability to look at things from a builder’s perspective. They are collaborative, responsive, and they definitely have a team approach. I think Vision 3 is capable of anything. It was not only a pleasure to have Vision 3 design our Providence office, but it was a pleasure for us to build it.”

Great design – great value. That sums up Vision 3 Architects.

Ron Simoneau, Director of Construction Operations, SHAWMUT DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION

“Vision 3 visited the campus and spent time observing and experiencing the traffic during different times of the day, including peak hours. They truly listened to a mixed committee of people, such as, the Board Plan Manager, the Chef Manager, Senior Administration, and the students to understand their concerns and work together toward a solution. Even after Vision 3’s initial drawings, they still considered other options brought to their attention and had a real plug & play relationship. Vision 3 Architects was very easy to work with, flexible, helpful, and responded quickly when questions arose. From the start, we felt we could trust and collaborate with Vision 3’s design process and ability.”

Ingrid Bushwack, Director of Dining Services, CONNECTICUT COLLEGE

“Vision 3 was very effective in identifying areas where different materials or design treatments could reduce cost while maintaining the vision that the tenant was looking for. The project involved an institutional tenant with many constituents and various visions for the project, and Vision 3 was able to marshal the tenant through the process and translate their needs into a design that would meet the overall requirements of the tenant while also meeting the schedule and budget needs of the project. Vision 3 was effective in managing the design process and the engineering/consultant team to quick resolution whenever questions arose, with little drama. They understood the challenges contractors face when dealing with actual conditions in the field, and worked collaboratively with the team versus questioning the issues that the contractor raised.”

Daniel McGrath, Vice President-Senior Asset Manager; Berkeley Investments, Inc. ROGER WILLIAMS UNIVERSITY, Downtown Providence Campus

“The New Cottage Micro-Community™” has its roots in our research based care model that uses environmental design as a platform from which we build the highest level of person centered care possible. It is carefully crafted from the ground up to create an enriching, culturally sensitive and safe assisted living environment. Vision 3 Architects incorporated this innovative model, making the facility an unparalleled Memory Care environment that is revolutionary in its design.”

Akshay K. Talwar, CEO/Administrator, BRIARCLIFFE GARDENS

“Our new home reflects thoughtful planning geared toward the needs of our patients, families and staff. Our goals included creating a sustainable hospice environment that offers patients and family members comfort, peace and plenty of space for reflection and quiet time. With the creativity and guidance of Vision 3, we’ve achieved these goals and look forward to continuing our important role in the state’s health care scheme.”

Diana Franchitto, President & CEO, HOPE HOSPICE & PALLIATIVE CARE OF RHODE ISLAND

“Their understanding of restaurant design is evident from their thorough construction drawings to the finished product. I feel that their ability to listen to our needs, and respond with quality design work, helped us achieve our construction, budget, and scheduling goals. Vision 3’s professional staff was an important part of our project team.”

Bruce Cartwright, Executive VP/CFO, LEGAL SEA FOODS

“Vision 3 Architects envisioned a way to keep the historical integrity of the Academy’s campus, while still providing a state-of-the-art space for the Arts.“

Daniel Richard, Principal, SAINT RAPHAEL ACADEMY

Awards

HEALTHCARE DESIGN MAGAZINE 2020 REMODEL/RENOVATION COMPETITION

GROW SMART RI, 2016 OUTSTANDING GROW SMART PROJECT AWARD

AIA RI DESIGN AWARDS, 2016 DESIGN AWARDS, HONOR AWARD, INTERIORS

RI MONTHLY, 2016 SILVER AWARD, COMMERCIAL, NEW CONSTRUCTION

2021 AIA New England Emerging Professional Friendly Firm

2022 AIA New England Emerging Professional Friendly Firm

Healthcare Design Magazin 2020 Remodel/Renovation Competition, Budget Friendly; Bronze Award
Thundermist Woonsocket

NACUFS The National Association of College & University Food Services
2017 Loyal E. Horton Dining Awards; Gold Award, Residential Dining Concepts
University of Rhode Island, Butterfield Dining Hall

RI Monthly Magazine
2016 Design Awards; Silver Award, Commercial Renovation/New Construction
University of Rhode Island, Butterfield Dining Hall

Grow Smart Rhode Island
2016 Outstanding Smart Growth Project Award
Providence Community Health Centers, Prairie Avenue Health Center

AIAri
2016 Design Awards; Honor Award, Interiors
Pet Food Experts, Corporate Offices

AIAri
2016 Design Awards; People’s Choice Runner Up
New England Treatment Access (NETA), Medical Marijuana Dispensary, Northampton, MA

RI Monthly Magazine
2015 Design Awards; Bronze Award, Commercial Interior Design
Saint Raphael Academy, The Joseph & Blanche Coutu Theater

Armstrong World Industries’
2012 i2r (ideas 2 reality) National Design Competition
“Reality Winner”, Commercial Ceiling & Wall Systems
NaviNet, Corporate Offices

In the News

After 43 years in the design business, I guess I really am retiring. At Vision 3, it’s a five-year process for owners of the firm to transition out of ownership. That’s plenty of runway to get used to the idea of retirement but, until that time is upon you, one doesn’t realize how strange that feeling really is. At least, it’s strange for me. I won’t be seeing the people that I normally interact with regularly and, although I plan on keeping in touch with as many of you as possible, I know that life happens for everyone.

It’s bittersweet to look forward to life without design and Vision 3. I will miss the people. All the people. I’ve always been one to look forward, but when you reach this point in your career, it’s hard not to look back. When I do, I see all the people that I’ve worked with. I see clients, engineers, contractors, real estate brokers, owner’s project managers, building inspectors, fire marshals, sales reps, and the staff at V3 past and present but, mostly what I see are friends. I’ve been very fortunate to make so many friends through design. I don’t use the term “friends” lightly. I mean the people that I’ve shared this career with that take care of each other in bad times and celebrate together in good times. Luckily, it’s been mostly celebrations, but we’ve counted on each other to help work through difficult times and situations, and there are no shortages of difficult situations in this business. Together, we’ve turned potential failures into success time and time again. We’ve gone out of our way to do that because that’s what friends do for each other. It doesn’t seem like going out of your way when real friends are involved. That’s true in both directions.

So, friends, I’m retiring. Thanks to you, it’s been a great run. I’ll see you around. -Henry

Vision 3 Architects is pleased to announce the well-deserved promotion of Colin Gadoury, AIA, NCARB to Associate Principal and Partner.

Colin joined Vision 3 Architects in January 2012 as an intern and has excelled in each role with the firm. He has helped guide and advise design teams on a multitude of projects, ensuring design excellence and consistency within every project, regardless of scale. Colin embodies the firm’s mission of creating beautiful and functional spaces that serve its clients and achieve their visions.

Vision 3 Architects is currently working with Marsella Development Corporation as part of a multi-disciplinary team on the design and construction of “TRACK 15”; a new food hall concept coming to a long-vacant space last occupied by Capital Grille and Bar Louie within the historic Central Terminal Building at Union Station in Providence.

The overall development of the 18,000 square foot space represents a $22 million investment in the restoration of the historic building – which, when completed, will include a large central bar, a new home for seven Rhode Island based restaurateurs, indoor and outdoor seating for over 300 patrons, an entertainment venue and a 10,000 square foot plaza which will provide outdoor seating and a home for special events.

This project promises to kickstart a renaissance of vibrant and engaging programming at Union Station, bringing much needed activity to downtown Providence.

Check out the following articles on this new space!

https://www.bostonglobe.com/2023/11/08/metro/providence-union-station-food-hall-to-open-summer-2024/

https://www.rimonthly.com/track-15-providence-food-hall/https://turnto10.com/news/local/anticipated-union-station-food-hall-unveils-name-food-vendors-track-15-exchange-street-capital-grille-pizzaria-mexican-seafood-bar-november-8-2023

Promotions are in order!

Dave has been a pillar of stability and dedication to his craft since starting at Vision 3 Architects more than eight years ago. An active participant in Rhode Island’s Architecture, Construction, and Engineering mentorship program (or “ACE” for short), Dave enjoys working with junior staff in our office and giving back to the community by volunteering in his spare time to work with local high school students interested in pursuing a career in architecture. We’re excited to announce that Dave has earned a well-deserved promotion to Senior Project Manager; we look forward to watching him continue to develop as a professional and a mentor.

Jamie Ficaro was recently promoted to the role of Job Captain. Before joining the Workplace Studio in 2020, Jamie spent time in the healthcare and education studios at Vision 3. She is a great, well-rounded addition to the team, and her attention to detail has enabled her to excel at fast-paced and ever-changing project types. Her technical prowess is complimented by her design sense, as Jamie frequently works with our interiors department to select finishes for many of her projects. We’ve enjoyed watching Jamie advance from Designer to Job Captain, and wish her the best in her new role.

Lawrence (or “LJ” as we call him) Zarpaylic has been promoted to Project Manager. LJ has been with Vision 3 Architects as part of our Workplace Studio since 2014. A highly valued team member, he remains calm under pressure – allowing him to solve complex problems objectively and resolve them. LJ always manages multiple projects simultaneously and consistently delivers them efficiently and with great care for Client satisfaction. Congrats, LJ, on your promotion to PM!

After recently completing her architectural registration exams, we are thrilled to announce that Taylor Messier has been promoted to Staff Architect – we’ve had the privilege of watching Taylor’s career develop over the years, starting with her time as an intern during her senior year at Roger Williams University. After graduation, she joined us full-time as a member of the healthcare studio. In the last four and a half years, she has proved instrumental in the success of projects for Providence Community Health Centers, Thundermist, and HealthFirst – to name a few. We can’t wait to see what comes next for Taylor.

In other news, we’re growing! We’re excited to announce the addition of two new Vision 3 Architects team members – Kyle Drummer and Mitchell DaSilva.

Originally from Buffalo, New York, where he honed his skills as an architect and project manager on project types ranging from general commercial to education to healthcare, Kyle joined Vision 3 as Senior Project Manager. Regardless of a project’s size or complexity, Kyle can draw from his extensive professional experience, knowledge, and attention to detail to manage and deliver projects successfully. Kyle is a registered architect in Rhode Island and New York and a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Accredited Professional. He has long believed that architects are responsible for influencing the built environment for the greater good of current and future generations. As a member of the Healthcare Studio at Vision 3, he looks forward to positively impacting patient and staff experiences in healthcare facilities.

Mitchell “Mitch” DaSilva recently joined us as an Architectural Designer fresh out of school. A recent graduate of Roger Williams University, Mitch was the recipient of both the thesis design award and a Tau Sigma Delta award (for those who don’t know – that’s the national honor society for architecture students). Each year the school recognizes three students in the Master’s of Architecture class whose projects demonstrate design excellence and illustrate the impact of architecture on the world at large.

Providence, Rhode Island – Vision 3 Architects, a full-service architecture and interior design firm is celebrating its 35th anniversary in 2022. Founded in 1987 as a small architecture firm with a handful of employees, Vision 3 Architects was built on a mission to create beautiful and functional spaces that serve our clients and achieve their goals. Now, with 28 employees, the firm stays true to its roots through active listening and advanced market sector knowledge. Vision 3 Architects combines creativity and strong technical execution to deliver thoughtful design solutions and form long-lasting relationships.

“Vision 3 has the ability to really get inside the client’s head, to figure out their needs, and turn around great ideas that not only meet the program and aesthetics, but are realistic in terms of the budget. They remain focused on the client and the client’s budget.” – Ron Simoneau, Executive Vice PResident, Education, Shawmut Design and Construction.

 In recent years, the firm has taken deliberate steps to promote new principals to carry on the success of the company. The last of the founding three principals retired in 2020 and the firm is now led by four partners: David Prengaman, Henry Cugno, Paul Hauser and Ryan Haggerty. Vision 3 Architects empowers their employees to maximize their talents, including the opportunity to one day become leaders in the firm. Locally based in Providence, Rhode Island the company is registered in RI, MA, CT, ME, NH, PA, OH and is eligible for reciprocity in most states throughout the country. Our practice is organized by industry: primrily, workplace, healthcare, education, and hospitality, with a dedicated studio of professionals associated with each. We provide principal involvement in every project.

Providence Community Health Centers (PCHC) recently held a ribbon cutting ceremony on February 28th for its newest health center – PCHC Atwood.   Vision 3 Architects is honored to have been a part of this very important project. We are a proud supporter of Providence Community Health Centers and their mission to keep our communities healthy, by providing access to quality medical and dental care.  PCHC Atwood is designed to meet the daily health needs of residents from the culturally diverse neighborhoods of Olneyville, Hartford Park, Silver Lake, and surrounding areas. Once fully operational, PCHC Atwood will become the new medical home to 14,000 patients annually. This is in addition to the 60,000 people PCHC already cares for as the state’s largest health center. “This $15 million investment will help address disparities that negatively impact the health of thousands in this community,” said Merrill Thomas, President and CEO of PCHC.

Vision 3 Architects was recently featured in the IIDA NE blog, The Designer Monologues. We featured our Private Investment Firm project for all of its design challenges and successes. The project is an example of using constraints as opportunities to develop unique design solutions. Our collaborative design process, centered on our client’s goals and input, resulted in an office space like no other in the city they can be proud to call home for years to come. Click the diagram to the left to see more about the project.

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