SmithGroupJJR, one of the nation’s leading integrated design firms, has announced the promotion of Andrew Dunlap, AIA, CDT, LEED AP, to lead the firm’s nationally recognized Building Technology studio, located at its Detroit office. The group specializes in design, analysis and evaluation of new and existing building enclosure systems to ensure optimum efficiency and performance. Dunlap replaces Paul Johnson, FASTM, FAIA, who has served in the role since 2011. Johnson will continue to be a consultant within the firm and will lead construction administration services for its Detroit office.
Dunlap joined SmithGroupJJR in 1999 and possesses nearly 20 years of experience in architecture and construction. A recognized authority in the field of exterior building envelopes and thermal analysis, his expertise has helped to resolve complex technical issues at historic architectural gems like the Smithsonian Institution’s Arts & Industries Building, Washington, DC; the Eliel Saarinen-designed Cranbrook Art Museum, Bloomfield Hills, Michigan; and the Kennedy Federal Building, Boston, Massachusetts. His knowledge has also shaped newly constructed facilities such as Alameda County Highland Hospital’s Acute Tower Replacement, Oakland, California and Emory University Hospital’s Expansion, Atlanta, Georgia.
In his new role, Dunlap will serve in a leadership capacity for key projects and will be responsible for managing the studio’s daily operations. He will also identify opportunities to grow the group’s portfolio, cultivating relationships with SmithGroupJJR’s existing client base and engaging strategic new client targets across the country.
"Andrew exemplifies our commitment to offering highly technical skills within fully integrated services to solve complex, exterior enclosure challenges across our entire firm,” said Jeff Hausman, director of SmithGroupJJR’s Detroit office. “He understands that when we seamlessly engage expertise across disciplines and offices, our clients receive the highest value. There’s no doubt he will work tirelessly to ensure that his team reflects this mindset on every project.”
Dunlap has been honored for his contributions to the profession, having received national recognition from the American Institute of Architects (AIA) in 2015 as recipient of the organization’s Young Architects Award. In 2014 and 2013 he was celebrated as Young Architect of the Year by AIA’s Michigan and Detroit chapters, respectively.
Dunlap graduated from the University of Detroit Mercy with a Master of Architecture degree and is an adjunct professor at the institution’s school of architecture. He is active within the design and construction community, serving as a founding member, former board member and chairman of the Building Enclosure Council’s Greater Detroit Chapter, and vice president of the Detroit Chapter of the American Institute of Architects. He also sits on the board of directors for the Air Barrier Association of America, serving as co-chair of the organization’s research committee, and holds positions on multiple committees for the American Society for Testing and Materials.
A licensed architect in Michigan, Maryland and New York, Dunlap has also obtained certification as a Construction Documents Technologist.