Our History

ABOUT SPS+ ARCHITECTS

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Skydome - Northen Arizona University

Our approach emphasizes functionality, longevity, and meeting community needs over architectural experimentation. Whether building schools that serve as community hubs or housing that transforms lives, we prioritize meaningful design concepts that resonate through every inch of our structures.

Transitioning from architectural partnership to executive expertise, SPS+ focuses on spreading our mission across the Southwest and collaborating with clients who share our values of community transformation. Our enduring client relationships are a testament to our commitment to exceptional quality and customer service.

Based in Arizona with a legacy of over 60 years, SPS+ excels in K-12 education and diverse sectors, driven by a deep understanding of client needs and a passion for creating purposeful spaces that endure for generations. Our servant leadership philosophy fuels our dedication to surpassing client expectations and solving complex challenges with innovative solutions.

Manzanita Hall - Arizona State University

SPS+ aligns our values closely with our clients, fostering collaboration that yields sustainable, impactful structures benefiting both the environment and communities. Our partnerships are foundational to our ongoing success and the future of our firm.

In serving clients like Native American communities and educational institutions, we take a strategic approach informed by expertise and empathy, ensuring our buildings play pivotal roles for generations. Beyond construction, we work closely with clients to define needs, establish objectives, clarify budgets, and deliver optimal designs, measuring success by seamlessly integrating project values and community vision.

OUR STORY

The story of SPS+ is one of transformative architecture shaping lives. Our firm was founded by Wendell Rossman in 1960 with a vision for innovative design and authentic community engagement. Over the past 60 years, we have remained dedicated to relevance and enduring impact.

SPS+ operates as a mission-driven organization deeply rooted in the experiences of our managing partner and key executives, who were profoundly influenced by architecture during their rural upbringing. This influence permeates every project we undertake. Specializing in education, municipal, Native American, and multi-family sectors, we strive for lasting community impact.

OUR PHILOSOPHY

Through an inclusive, interactive design process, our work reflects the values and social organizations of the communities we serve.

OUR VALUES

WE DO WHAT WE SAY

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WE BETTER THE BALL

These values define how we work—as true design allies, committed to collaboration, accountability, and excellence. Being a design ally means more than delivering drawings; it means honoring commitments, maintaining transparency, and ensuring every detail is executed as agreed.

Our experience spans thousands of projects, including adaptive reuse, municipal facilities, office renovations, site improvements, and interior and exterior upgrades. Whether reimagining existing spaces or planning new ones, we bring the same dedication: listening first, designing with purpose, and delivering with precision.

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WE LISTEN

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  • Advocating for better lives and communities

  • Designing purposeful places for future generations

  • Positively shape the environments where the next generation learns, lives, and works.