Trivers is commemorating its 50th anniversary. Defined by its dedication to bold ideas and collaborative leadership, the firm’s work spans adaptive reuse, historic preservation and innovative new designs—all rooted in the belief that architecture has the power to inspire change.
Andrew Trivers, FAIA founded the firm in 1975 during a time when urban populations were moving to the suburbs. He remained committed to the idea that each city’s unique character is defined by its historic architecture. Over the next 40 years, he shaped Trivers into a nationally recognized leader in historic preservation and adaptive reuse and grew the firm from three to 50 individuals.
“My original vision was to focus on urban projects and rebuild cities and towns across America,” Trivers said. “This included historic preservation, multifamily housing and working with non-profits. The vision expanded into specialty projects, including courthouses around the country, hotels like Westin at Ballpark Village, and the Adam Aronson Fine Arts Center at Laumeier Sculpture Park. I am proud of the firm’s reputation for excellence in design and the respect of our peers, clients and the community.”
Joe Brinkmann, AIA, LEED AP; Joel Fuoss, AIA, IIDA, LEED AP; and Amy Gilbertson, FAIA, LEED GA assumed ownership of Trivers in 2015. Neil Chace, AIA, LEED GA, WELL AP and Martin Padilla, AIA, LEED GA joined Trivers’ ownership group as associate principals last year. In 2024, Trivers moved its headquarters from the 18th floor of the Broadway Tower to the ground floor of The Victor in St. Louis’ Downtown West neighborhood. The firm served as lead architect, historic architect and interior designer for The Victor’s $130 million transformation, which was recently recognized with a 2025 AIA Housing Award.
Trivers currently partners with a range of clients across the country providing expertise in civic, education, hospitality, housing, workplace and non-profit design services while continuing its commitment to St. Louis and historic preservation.
“Trivers is one of a handful of firms that have the expertise and experience required to design and execute solutions that preserve our most historically significant buildings, including National Historic Landmarks,” said Andrew Weil, executive director of the Landmarks Association of St. Louis. “Trivers’ work continues to raise the bar for historic preservation, not only in St. Louis, but throughout the country.”
The firm is publishing a monograph to commemorate its 50th anniversary. Titled “A Legacy of Positive Consequence,” it chronicles the stories, ideas, projects and collaborations that have defined Trivers’ past and inspire its future. The monograph will be available for purchase through Oro Editions later this fall.
“As we mark five decades of creativity, dedication and design excellence, we honor the legacy we have built—and embrace the challenges and opportunities ahead,” Brinkmann said. “Our commitment to solving complex problems, advancing sustainability and driving meaningful change in the communities we serve is unwavering. The passion we share for creating spaces that inspire, connect and transform communities will define our next chapter.”
