THE OFFICE

Our style is personal and direct. We listen to our clients, which assures an interactive design process. We use both cardboard and computer-generated models to communicate our ideas, which effectively levels the playing field between architect and client and guarantees active and vigorous participation by all. The partners of OPA are committed to green building design decisions that are ecologically responsible and to materials that are safe, sustainable, and low-maintenance. We have considerable hands-on experience with wood frame construction and a common interest in buildings that are simple, elegant, and permanent. The firm encourages each of its members to grow professionally. We discuss architectural ideas actively, and we structure our office so that project managers take their jobs from schematic design through construction administration.

BIOGRAPHIES of the PRINCIPALS

David O'Neil received his architectural degree from the Graduate School of Design at Harvard University in 1971, and subsequently worked for two Cambridge firms on New York City's Roosevelt Island Housing and Boston's Faneuil Hall Marketplace. He started private practice in 1980 with the design of new multi-family affordable housing projects funded by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, renovations of Nineteenth Century mill buildings, and houses. After establishing OPA with Sheldon Pennoyer, the firm's work expanded to include master planning for small institutions, dormitories, libraries and dining facilities, and continued residential work characterized by the integration of landscape and architectural design.

David served for several years on the Housing Committee of the Boston Society of Architects. In Lincoln, Massachusetts, he was chairman of the Codman Community Farms Agricultural Committee for six years, during which he organized a community barn-raising event. He has also been a member of the Historic Center Master Planning Committee, and the First Parish Church Business Committee, and the Building Task Force. Presently he is supporting the production, preservation, and distribution of locally grown food through the creation of a year-round farmers' market and certified kitchen.

Sheldon Pennoyer received his architectural degree from Rhode Island School of Design in 1985 where he studied architecture and landscape architecture. After working in the studio of one of his architectural professors, he co-founded OPA, where he helped implement the Firm's current practice of integrated design. He strengthened that commitment by becoming a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Accredited Professional in 2004.

Sheldon served on the Essex, MA Planning Board and Conservation Commission. After moving to Greenfield, NH he became a member of the Greenfield Planning Board and currently he is a Trustee of The Monadnock Conservancy. His experiences have given him extensive knowledge in site evaluations and the permitting process at both local and regional levels. As a part-time farmer, he is currently involved in the promotion of local agriculture in the Peterborough, New Hampshire area.