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
28
REGISTERED ARCHITECTS
12
LEED/WELL ACCREDITED
7
NCARB CERTIFIED
9
INTERIOR DESIGNERS
3
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
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/
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.
David R. Prengaman, President and Treasurer of Vision 3 Architects, will be retiring at the end of this year after 30 years with the firm. Graduating from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in 1985, Dave moved to Rhode Island to begin his architectural career. He joined Vision 3 in 1992 as a Project Architect, after searching for a firm that would be supportive of his professional goals, which included the opportunity to one day serve the company in a leadership role. The founding partners of the firm had established an office culture that was very receptive to leadership and ownership transition, and in 1999 Dave became a Principal. Throughout his career at Vision 3 Architects Dave was a leader in the growth and diversification of the firms Healthcare Studio, to include work for hospitals, private medical and specialty providers, as well as community health centers. Vision 3’s healthcare practice now includes many of the community health centers in Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts. Dave has been the Principal-in-Charge of the firms work with Providence Community Health Centers, Thundermist Health Center, WellOne, and Wood River Health Services, among others.
In addition to his management of the healthcare practice, Dave has led countless workplace projects including the development of the world headquarters for FM Global, and private education projects for many K-12 schools and universities. He also served as Principal-in-Charge of Vision 3’s religious practice, including the design of churches, religious schools, chapels and mausoleums.
Volunteer professional service has always been important to Dave. He was an active leader with the American Institute of Architects (AIA), serving as President of AIA Rhode Island, and as a driving force behind the establishment of the AIA Rhode Island Architectural Forum, the charitable arm of AIA Rhode Island. Following his AIA Involvement, he was appointed by the Governor to the RI Board of Examination and Registration of Architects (BERA), serving as Chairman of the state board for many years. His service on the RI Board subsequently led to his involvement in the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB), including election to the national board of directors, representing the New England region of the US.Throughout his 30 years at the office, Dave has served as a supervisor and mentor to dozens of young emerging professionals, guiding them through the process of licensure and practice. His passion for mentorship, and his legacy will live on through all of us at Vision 3 Architects.
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: primarily, workplace, healthcare, education, and hospitality, with a dedicated studio of professionals associated with each. We provide principal involvement in every project.
Since our last update, we have hired four new employees. We would like to take this opportunity to introduce you to the latest Vision 3 team members.
– Harrison Carney Harrison started at the Vision 3 team in July 2022 with a background in education, commercial and residential design, and is always taking opportunities to further his professional career and design knowledge in different types of projects. A recent graduate of the RWU School of Architecture master’s program, with a portfolio focused on community and socially beneficial projects, he joins Vision 3 looking to continue developing and contributing those ideals in the industry. Harrison seeks to understand, reflect, and design for the best of the client and community.
– Garrett McLaughlin also recently received his master’s degree at RWU and started at Vision 3 in mid-May. Garrett joins us as an Architectural Designer and looks forward to growing with Vision 3 as he plans to become a licensed Architect. Garrett is from the small town of Norway, Maine where he found an early passion for anything outdoors as well as the built world. Garrett’s architectural path began in Maine at a technical high school where he took classes in Engineering and Architectural Design. Later on in his high school and college years, he worked for a general contractor where he gained first- hand experience in the construction industry. Garrett has a passion for designs that better the life of building occupants and always aims to put them first in the design process.
– Eric Engle went to New England Institute of Technology and got a bachelor of science degree in Architectural/Building Engineering Technology. Eric grew up surrounded by the construction industry – and with his dad being a contractor, he’s frequented jobsites since the age of 5. He has an immense amount of hands-on experience in a wide array of trades, including: framing, finish carpentry, plumbing, HVAC excavation and more. After college Eric worked for a steel erection and fabrication company as an architectural metals detailer. After 12 years, Eric has made the jump to architecture and has joined Vision 3 as a Job Captain.
– Cate Vanasse is our newest interior designer. Cate joined the team at Vision 3 in April with a decade of experience, having worked on a variety of residential, commercial and hospitality projects. In addition to graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Interior Design from New England institute of Technology, she has also spent time studying graphic design at RWU. With a combined passion for branding and interiors, Cate believes that these two disciplines work hand in hand, and should be a reflection of each other in order to create a holistic design. Her attention to detail and penchant for efficiency are evident on all projects she is involved in.
We are very excited to announce the recent promotion of Taylor Messier to Senior Job Captain. Taylor has been a part of the Healthcare Studio since joining Vision 3 in 2018. Her attention to detail and expanding knowledge of healthcare design make her an integral part of the team.
Linda Penaloza-Resch has been a valued member of the Vision 3 team for three years. Because of her dedication, eye for design and can-do attitude, she has been promoted to Job Captain. Please join us in congratulating Linda on this well-deserved promotion.
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 is proud to welcome our new Architectural Designer, Pedro Borda. Pedro was born in Colombia, has been living in the states for over 15 years, and currently calls providence home. He graduated from Roger Williams University with a Masters of Architecture degree in 2017. He has experience in industrial, institutional, hospitality and retail projects. Architecture is important to Pedro because he believes that architects have been given the responsibility, along with a moral obligation, to transform lives and communities for the better. He enjoys the process of designing architecture that exceeds client’s expectations.
Vision 3 Architects is proud to welcome our newest Interior Designer, Taylor Goodson. Taylor joined the team after relocating from Washington, DC where he received his Master of Fine Arts in Interior Architecture and Design degree from George Washington University. His previous background in hospitality and commercial design led him to Vision 3 Architects and he looks forward to bringing his unique eye for design to the New England area. Taylor’s appreciation for material application and big design moments have been implemented in restaurants, bars, and commercial spaces across the country, and he is excited to bring his love of texture, color, and pattern into his future projects.
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.