To James, design is a humanizing activity that presupposes collaborative creativity and an attentive mindset toward what the users of spaces need and want. James believes that engaging clients with a high level of empathy is essential to the design process. He strives to make that process accessible to clients and seeks a greater understanding of their concerns that results in better design insights, and ultimately, better architecture. For more than 25 years, James has been designing award-winning domestic and international projects with this approach, taking his clients through initial concept, planning and programming, and through to technical design. With a particular focus on planning and design for higher education, James’ expertise also includes master planning, urban design, historic preservation, commercial, and hospitality projects.

Our Perkins Eastman

James is adept at creating an architecture that celebrates the client’s mission, expresses programmatic needs, and sensitively integrates within the larger context to be a good neighbor. He creates authentic environments that enhance the human experience, illustrating Perkins Eastman’s unique design vision.