Our Story
CGLS Architects, Inc. is a full service, mid-size architectural firm located in metro Atlanta, Georgia. A. Byron Chapman, Elbert N. Griffin, David L. Lanier, and Robert S. Sussenbach founded the firm in 1994 to create state-of-the-art spaces where people “come together” for all types of activities. Whether it is to live, work, play, worship, or learn, we create architecture that enhances personal interaction for the people using the space.
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As the firm has aged and founding partners retired, new partners have been named, including Rebecca M. Tyson, AIA in 2016. Rebecca has been with CGLS since it’s inception first as a project manager and later as Director of the K-12 Studio. She is joined by new principals named in 2022 to include Marian Reeves , Teri Huling, Samantha Williams and John Ellis, all with over 15 years of experience in Architecture. Robert Sussenbach remains with the firm as Principal, offering counsel and assisting with special projects. Together, we continue to bring to life vital, responsible, and memorable design solutions resulting in successful projects.
Our Way
CGLS Architects, Inc. created a unique practice that goes beyond architectural design, including the services of programming, space planning, master planning, architecture, interior design, project facilitation and 3-D renderings and animation. We specialize in education, religious, and hospitality design. With an experienced staff and seasoned engineering consultants, we continue to bring projects to fruition on time and within budget. By listening to our clients and focusing on the needs of the community and surrounding environs, we approach our projects with unique design elements as well as cost-conscious solutions. We understand that a well-balanced design includes coordination of economic and political factors to accomplish a profitable and successful project.
We approach each project by comprehensively studying the site and environmental surroundings while working closely with our clients to assess their needs. The resulting design creates sustainable buildings as memorable expressions combining both creativity and functionality.
Our philosophy for success is to combine the benefits of creative thinking, hard work, an experienced staff, good working relationships and the desire to provide beautiful and functional spaces for every commission so that our clients have the best resources and environment to come together to accomplish their goals.
