HMFH Architects

• HMFH Architects is a women-owned architecture firm based in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
• The firm is nationally recognized for the design of educational facilities that enrich the human experience and support the learning potential of each individual student.
• HMFH focuses on creating spaces that connect people across campuses, in urban settings, and within academic environments.
• The practice is guided by a collaborative process, innovative design, and close attention to detail and client service.

Focus and values

• Primary focus on planning and designing K–12 and other educational facilities.
• Emphasis on inclusive, community-centered design that reflects the aspirations of students, educators, and the wider community.
• Commitment to design equity, continually reflecting on past work and evolving approaches to better serve diverse communities.
• Strong focus on sustainability and healthy learning environments.

Women-owned and equity commitments

• Certified as a Women-Owned Business Enterprise (WBE).
• Actively works to increase diversity within the architecture profession through intentional outreach and mentorship.
• Uses design as a tool to advance equity and create welcoming, supportive spaces for all users.

Brief history and milestones

• 1969: Firm founded as Hill Miller Friedlaender Hollander, building on the school design work of Walter Hill.
• 1970s–1980s: Early school projects such as Brewster Elementary School and Charlestown High School gain recognition for human scale, color, natural light, and clear organization.
• 1984: Firm reorganizes as HMFH Architects.
• 1990s–2000s: Expands reputation through notable K–12 and campus projects across the U.S., earning multiple national educational design awards.
• 2015: Achieves certification as a Women-Owned Business.
• 2019 and beyond: Celebrates its 50th anniversary and continues to deliver award-winning, sustainability-focused educational facilities, including multiple LEED Platinum public schools and Green Building of the Year recognitions.

*For the most up-to-date information on leadership and recent awards, refer to the news and about sections of the HMFH website.*

• Architecture

Full architectural design services for new construction, major additions, and renovations of educational facilities.

• Facilities Planning

Long-range planning for school facilities to align buildings with educational goals, enrollment projections, and community needs.

• Campus Planning

Master planning for school and campus sites, including organization of buildings, circulation, open space, and future expansion.

• Educational Programming

Working with educators, administrators, and stakeholders to translate educational vision and curriculum into space needs and functional layouts.

• Interior Design

Design of interior environments, finishes, furnishings, and learning settings that support student well-being and effective teaching.

• Graphic Design

Environmental graphics and visual communication that support wayfinding, school identity, and educational storytelling within the building.

• Community Engagement

Inclusive engagement processes—such as workshops and meetings—that gather input from students, families, staff, and community members to shape each project.

Typical clients and project types

• Public school districts and municipalities.
• Vocational and career technical schools.
• Independent and charter schools.
• Educational institutions seeking sustainable, future-ready learning environments.

*For details on a specific project or proposal, clients should contact HMFH Architects directly.*

130 Bishop Allen Dr. Cambridge, MA 02139 USA

Phone

• Main office phone: (617) 492-2200

How to get in touch

• Visit the Contact page on the HMFH website to send a message through the online contact form.
• The Contact page also provides map-based directions for driving, walking, public transit, and bicycling to the Cambridge office.

*For project-specific questions, RFPs, or media inquiries, use the contact form or call the main office number so your request can be directed to the appropriate team member.*

Lists Cambridge as a location. Names Massachusetts as a service area. Areas beyond these are not published.

Ask anyway — the agent will say plainly that it is not published rather than guess.