CHELSEA, Mass.— The Architectural Team (TAT) has named longtime principal Thomas Schultz, AIA, NCARB, CPHC, as its new Managing Principal, marking a significant leadership transition as the firm advances its long-term strategic growth plan.
The appointment comes as Michael D. Binette, AIA, NCARB, senior partner and current managing principal, shifts into the new role of Chairman, stepping back from daily operations to focus on special initiatives and strategic partnerships.
The change underscores TAT’s commitment to cultivating internal leaders and ensuring continuity as the firm continues to expand with major projects across the country.
Schultz, who joined TAT 23 years ago, is widely regarded for his influential design work and collaborative leadership style. His portfolio includes high-profile projects such as the global headquarters for Converse at Lovejoy Wharf in Boston, the 100 Shawmut condominium development, and the transformative Flat 9 at Whittier mixed-income community in Roxbury.
“Tom’s expertise, overall sense of commitment, and innate problem-solving skills ensure a seamless transition of the firm’s leadership and the continued growth of TAT’s award-winning, client-centric national practice,” said Binette. “He has a tremendous ability to understand the complex issues involved in creating livable, equitable, and sustainable communities — and, most importantly, to inspire collaborative, thoughtful solutions.”
In accepting the role, Schultz emphasized the firm’s decades-long impact on national conversations around design, affordability, and resilience.
“I am excited and honored to assume this role as managing principal,” Schultz said. “For more than half a century, through projects and advocacy, TAT has helped drive national design and policy discussions on urgent issues from housing shortages to climate resilience and adaptive reuse. With the support of our 100-plus-person studio, I look forward to continuing this legacy and taking our practice to the next level.”
As Schultz becomes managing principal, TAT’s principal group — Jay Szymanski, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP; Ed R. Bradford, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP; and Gary M. Kane, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP — will assume enhanced roles in firm management, client relations, mentorship, and strategic guidance.
Collectively, the principals share more than 130 years of experience at TAT.
They are supported by a growing cadre of senior leaders, including:
Associates: Phil Renzi, Andrew Stebbins, Elizabeth Peabody, Anthony Vivirito, Venket Holi, Matthew Duggan, and Meghann Van Dorn, IIDA, LEED AP ID+C (also Director of Interior Design)
Director of Sustainability: Nate Thomas, AIA, CPHC
TAT’s expanding portfolio spans 28 states, with major ongoing and recently completed work, including:
- Stone Mill Lofts in Lawrence, Mass., a historic adaptive reuse project and Architizer A+ Award winner
- Mary Ellen McCormack Redevelopment, one of the nation’s largest public housing modernization efforts
- The West End Library in Boston, designed with MASS Design Group and incorporating 119 affordable housing units
- Sturgeon Place in Scarborough, Maine, a pioneering community for adults with mobility impairments
- New multifamily and mixed-use developments across North Carolina, New York, Texas, and additional U.S. markets.
