Growing Companies

CR architecture + design creates extraordinary places that build enduring value for clients and communities. CR was founded as Cole + Russell Architects in 1982 by Thomas Cole AIA and John Russell AIA whose regard for quality and genuine care for clients and its people quickly established a solid reputation.  

Both John Russell and Thomas Cole, now retired, graduated from University of Cincinnati with a specialization in architecture. President and CEO David Arends AIA, OAA, earned his Master's of Architecture and Bachelor's of Environmental Design from Miami University.

CR has 60 employees, with 24 licensed architects on staff. The firm has completed more than 100 education projects, including new construction and renovation projects, many for Cincinnati Public Schools. Recent additions to CR's portfolio include the School for Creative and Performing Arts in Over-the-Rhine and North Avondale Montessori School in North Avondale.

Other local education projects include Sycamore High School Stadium Renovations and the design of three new elementary schools for the Sycamore district. CR planners are currently working on a new 535,000-square-foot Princeton Middle School and High School to replace existing schools with a joint facility.

With offices in Cincinnati, Denver and Virginia, CR offers the resources of a large firm with the benefit of working with a tight-knit team of professionals with a focus in education design. Members of each design team understand that a school's design directly impacts the quality of a student's education. CR designs spaces supportive of 21st century learning, allowing educators to collaborate and share best practices, and students to learn in group, team and individual environments.