Union was founded in 2001 with one overriding goal: to use our skills as architects and urban designers to make a civic contribution to communities of all types. Donald Powers founded Union in direct response to what he saw as the general disengagement of the profession from the challenges of urban sprawl. With a single employee and a willingness to confront entrenched perceptions, the firm earned instant recognition and a well-deserved reputation repairing fragmented communities in and around Providence, Rhode Island. In 2003, Donald was joined by Douglas Kallfelz, and the firm grew to include projects throughout the Northeast and across the country. Together, Donald and Douglas envisioned a studio of designers working to improve communities using an integrated approach to architecture and urban design and who have a professional commitment to the civic realm. Over the past 20 years, our office has grown to nearly 30 architects and designers, all who contribute to furthering our mission. In 2008, the firm name was changed to Union, reflecting our belief that exceptional work is achieved through the combined talents of many, and that the places we design bring people together.