Tygart Valley Hotel

Mills Group was hired by the Woodlands Development Group to design a sensitive rehabilitation of the Historic Tygart Hotel in Elkins, WV. Our design of the 56-room boutique hotel will maintain the historic integrity of the building while adapting it to a modern use. The design included a full restaurant and bar on the first floor, now named the Oxley House, and a banquet room that will lead out to a balcony on the second floor. The renovated hotel will stimulate Elkins’ economy and reinvigorate the downtown area. This project took advantage of Historic Tax Credit and New Market Tax Credit programs administered by the State and Federal Governments.

The interior design preserved iconic elements from the original construction and pay homage to the local industries, history, and artisans. All of the art found inside the hotel is from local artisans. The modern, comfortable rooms highlight the culture of not only Elkins but the region as well. Queen, Double Queen, King, and King Suites are now available in addition to the public spaces of the restaurant, lobby, and meeting rooms.

The Tygart Hotel is a Choice, Ascend Collection hotel that had its grand opening in March 2024. For more information, see their website: 

HOME - Tygart Hotel | Elkins, West Virginia Boutique Lodging

Employee Focus: Ryan Hess

In January, Mills Group Principal Ryan Hess was voted and sworn in to a position on AIA WV’s Executive Committee, or commonly known as ExComm. The term is three-years, and he is one of three members serving on the committee, which consists of the voting board of AIA WV.

Primary functions of the board include Governance, Policy and Position Development, Visioning, and Fiduciary Responsibilities.

Ryan is excited to contribute to statewide industry events, be a resource to the profession, and develop young talent within the state.

Employee Focus: Dan Garvin

After meeting the licensure requirements of education, experience, and exams, Dan Garvin successfully obtained his license to practice architecture in the state of West Virginia on August 2, 2023. Dan is proud to be the first Architect to get licensed upon completing Fairmont State University’s Master of Architecture program.

Mills Group celebrates Dan's achievement and looks forward to the great things he will accomplish in the years to come!

Employee Focus: Michael West

In February, Michael West passed his final Architectural Registration Exam, officially making him one of West Virginia’s newest architects.

The process for getting an architecture license includes three “E” criteria: education, experience, and exams. Michael received his accredited degree from the University of Texas at Austin before making West Virginia his new home. While working at Mills Group to gain the remaining amount of experience required, he began taking the ARE: a series of six rigorous exams addressing various aspects of the industry.

Michael is excited to continue involving himself in his community, continue learning, and improving the built environment.

Employee Focus: Anniversaries

Happy Anniversary to Dan Garvin (1 year), Hannah Tarcy (1 year), Ryan McClain (7 years), Logan Patrick (7 years), Stephen DeNeui (2 years) and RJ Spellman (2 years).

Tech Focus: Ray Tracing

Mills Group prides itself on providing clients with realistic renderings of their projects. By utilizing some of the most advanced modeling and rendering software on the market we can provide highly believable imagery that our team can share when making important decisions on designs.

Currently, an important advancement in realistic lighting used in computer graphics, video games, and even movies is the application of ray tracing. In simple terms, ray tracing simulates how light reacts to the real world by creating rays in a computer generated scene and allowing them to interact and “bounce” on objects within the scene. This simulated exercise mirrors natural sunlight pouring into a room and how it shines brightly against metallic objects, creates soft glows against matte surfaces, and creates reflections in glass and shiny surfaces. The advancements of this software technique have been growing rapidly of late and have recently gotten even more realistic with algorithms allowing the software to highlight properties for the index of refraction and reflection which provides a truly authentic look to most glass surfaces.

Utilizing this rendering method in our designs brings a whole new level of realism and believability to our designs that our clients find truly helpful when deciding on finishes, window placement, natural light, and many other facets of architectural design.

Hilltop Hotel Historic Resources

Mills Group served as the Historic Preservation Consultant for the Hill Top Hotel Redevelopment project in Harpers Ferry, WV. The Hill Top House Hotel was constructed on an overlook at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers in 1888 by Thomas and Lavinia Lovett, who continued operation of the hotel through two fires until they sold the property in 1926. Six “Armory Houses,” residences either constructed or acquired by the United States Government in the 1830s for use as worker housing for the local Federal Armory, are located adjacent to the Hotel property and are part of the comprehensive redevelopment and rehabilitation plan for the site.

In preparation for the redevelopment of the historic property, the team conducted thorough investigations of the Hill Top Hotel, a c. 1919 Lodge building, and six Armory Houses located on the property. Using 3D point cloud scanning technology and on-the-ground survey, the team developed as-built drawings of the Lodge and Armory Houses. The final historic resources plan included an overview of past survey work, new survey of the existing grounds and landscaping, an assessment of historic integrity and identification of significant historic resources, and recommendations for rehabilitation work for all structures in the project area. These recommendations allowed for the sensitive reuse of the historic property as a world-class hotel while adhering to the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards. Mills Group also served as a consultant for the property’s application for Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credits at the State and Federal levels.

The Yellow House will be one of many historic structures drafted into the operation of the Hill Top Hotel, where it will host bridal parties and retreats for small gatherings. Its breathtaking view from its northerly windows overlooking the river valley will give guests something to remember.

Holly Grove Mansion

The Iconic Ruffner Mansion preexists the entire capital complex in Charleston. Constructed in 1815, It is arguably the oldest surviving home in the city and today stands adjacent to West Virginia’s Governor’s Mansion. This historic home has been selected to house the State Historic Preservation Office team. 

Mills Group is working with SHPO to bring this building up to the requirements of its new residents. It began with the documentation of the existing conditions. Again, laser-scanning and photography were utilized in creating a digital 3D model set to create accurate existing conditions drawings. Triaging the mansion’s character-defining elements and any maintenance and structural issues, The firm has developed a preservation approach and is working on developing a strategy to bring the historic home up to code as a public office.

Puppy's Playhouse

We are renovating the historic theater on the 4th floor of Discovery World on Market in downtown Parkersburg, WV. Theater goers will be able to enjoy productions from comfortable new auditorium seats with great views of the stage and the restored, original, proscenium arch. For those who enjoy box seats, there will be a V.I.P. room available with state of the art sound and lighting so you can watch the shows while in the climate controlled, company of your friends.

University High Athletic Fields

Mills Group was honored to be asked to provide Architectural, Planning, and Visualization services for University High School's Athletic Field Master Planning effort. Seeing as our Morgantown Office houses graduates of UHS who participated in various sports teams while attending, it was a special dream-project for us.

We worked with UHS to envision how new baseball, softball, tennis, track, and multi-use fields would look, function, and connect to existing areas around the school. We also invested time laying out concession options, pedestrian access points, seating/bleachers, restrooms, landscape enhancements, integration into cross country trails, gateway signage, and even soft branding ideas. 

Using existing planning documents, on-site analysis, drone photogrammetry, modeling & animation software, and a healthy dose of collaboration with the Client, we were able to find ways to conceptualize exciting options for the school's athletic fields for the generations to come.

Issue 53

Project Focus: Wheeling YMCA

Mills Group is working with YMCA Wheeling to design an addition and renovations to their current facility. The project scope includes a 9,000 square foot addition over the existing north gymnasium which will allow for existing weight machines to be moved to the center of the upper floor and a running track installed around the perimeter. 

The addition will include new exterior and interior stair towers, elevator, and upper floor restrooms. The existing facility will receive renovations to the front entry lobby, sales counter, an expanded childcare center, new exterior signage, and replacement of the pool dehumidification unit.

Happy Anniversary to Victor Greco, Julie Doerr, Ryan Baker, and Chris Clark for 10 years at Mills Group!

Employee Focus: New Hire

We are pleased to announce our new Architectural Design Associate, Xinyao Tignor!

Xinyao joined Mills Group in our Morgantown location. With over 10 years of diverse work experience located in Washington DC, Virginia, and New Mexico, Xinyao has been involved in a wide range of different project types.

Xinyao accomplished her Master of Architecture degree in University of New Mexico with Henry Adams Medal of excellence from AIA.

In her free time, Xinyao enjoys listening to music, outdoor biking, reading architecture books, and spending quality time with her family in West Virginia.

Tech Focus: FPV Drones

We have begun utilizing FPV drones to assist in data gathering and marketing efforts. FPV stands for "first-person view" and is a method used to control drones from the driver or pilot's viewpoint. FPV drones contain a video camera that broadcasts live footage back to the pilot on ground and can be seen via a headset or goggles.

Because of this technology and the small and nimble size of the drone, we can fly into hard-to-reach/see areas, capture more dynamic and captivating video, and offer our clients a much more in-depth and personalized service. 

Morgantown Landscape Design

This beautiful residence in Falling Water was craving a new backyard landscape design and Mills Group was honored to be the chosen designer.

This past year we worked to utilize the grassy hillside to craft a one-of-a-kind, 60' long winding stream with multiple waterfall focal points, large scale stone bridge and steps, retaining wall, boulders, planting beds, and seating area perched at the top of the hill complete with a fire ring. 

The transformative design was expertly installed this fall by Halterman Landscape and has completely changed how the Client enjoys their home's exterior space. Exiting their back doors, they are greeted with the soft white noise of falling water, low-voltage lighting trailing the pathway, and lush landscape huddled against hand-placed natural boulders speckled across the hillside. 

Suncrest Residence

Recently Mills Group finished the site plan and conceptual design for a residential addition and complete landscape overhaul.

This unique and historic Morgantown home built in 1928 was the subject of a design that was meant to enhance the connectivity between a new garage structure, interstitial space (mud room & sun porch), and an existing kitchen and living room. The existing driveway, hillside landscape, and location of the currently disconnected garage were unfortunately not conducive to a smooth or quick entry experience for the homeowners or guests.

Mills Group looked at several different locations in the side yard for the new garage and porch structure in an effort to maximize space, offer tight connections between new and old architecture, create and enhance new lawn areas, and promote the verticality of the site with aesthetically pleasing retaining wall structures.

Oglebay Wilson Lodge

Mills Group is excited to be leading the renovations to Wilson Lodge at Oglebay Resort. We are currently under construction of the new Porte Cochere Entrance and the renovations to the Glassworks Grill & ihlenfeld Dining Rooms.

The Porte Cochere project is the renovation of approximately 67,300 sq.ft. of the existing drive, parking and entrance to Wilson Lodge. The site improvements include new sidewalks, driveway, parking areas and new stone clad concrete piers marking the drive entry to the Porte cochere cul de sac.

The Glassworks Grill & Ihlenfeld Dining Rooms project is the renovation of approximately 8,100 sq.ft. of existing dining space within Wilson Lodge. Interior renovations include new floor, wall and ceiling finishes; rearrangement of the Glassworks bar; opening the walls between the Glassworks bar/dining to the Lake View dining space; improvement to ADA accessibility via new ramps and HC lifts; and renovations to the HVAC ductwork, diffusers and controls that will happen simultaneously with the replacement of the dining room RTUs.

Zion Baptist Probono

The First Zion Baptist Church, located in Harpers Ferry, WV was a recipient of the Mills Group Pro bono Architectural services.

The First Zion initiative proposes a full restoration of the former church building, including exterior, interior, and site improvements. The project will restore and use the building as a community center. The scope of work includes the stabilization and selective restoration of the existing masonry facade, exterior windows and doors, sloped metal roof, and slate-clad gables. 

On the interior, a full renovation and modernization are planned. Interior modernization will include the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. This scope will also include abatement, fire protection and handicap accessibility throughout the building to meet code. The new interior work includes walls, ceilings, and finishes.

Issue 52

Project Focus: White Palace

Mills Group led the $2.2 million dollar renovation to the Wheeling Park White Palace. The renovation included a new café on the west corner of the White Palace with a new outdoor seating deck, a redesigned façade at the side entrance, a grand staircase leading up to the second-floor lobby, and updated 7,130 sq.ft. ballroom. A sky-lit veranda runs across the front of the building with a long wall of windows and French Doors.

The Interior Designer on the project was LDL Design Studio of Providence, Rhode Island. The project was funded through American Rescue Plan Act funds awarded to the City of Wheeling combined with contributions from donors. Construction began in December of 2022 and was completed in May of 2023.

Employee Focus: Anniversary

Vivian is celebrating her 16th Anniversary with us at Mills Group. Vivian works in the accounting department maintaining office services by organizing office operations and procedures, preparing payroll, accounts receivable, accounts payable and keeping management informed by reviewing and analyzing financial reports.

Vivian loves to travel and has a penchant for photography. She also enjoys spending quality time with family and friends.

Employee Focus: New Interns

Victoria Anderson is an Intern for Mills Group at the Wheeling location. She was born and raised in Wheeling, WV and is currently enrolled at Fairmont State University to earn her Bachelor of Science in Architecture. While earning her degree, Victoria is also a distance swimmer for Fairmont’s Division 2 Women’s Swim team. In her free time, she enjoys relaxing by her pool, spending time with her family and dogs, attending concerts, and swimming.

Kyle is an intern for Mills Group in our Shepherdstown location. Kyle is from Charles Town, WV, and pursuing his Master's Degree in Architecture at Fairmont State University. Kyle enjoys working out at the gym, playing video games, listening to music, building Legos, and spending time with family and friends when not in school.

Technology Focus: Artificial Intelligence

As a firm that loves to honor the past while looking to the future, we always keep our eyes on the horizon for new and innovative ways to assist in creative and thought-provoking design that also speaks to the heart of our clients. In that vein, Mills Group has recently been learning to work with generative, prompt-driven artificial intelligence software. To boil down the process into it's most basic form, this software accepts user-provided content (photos or text), adapts it to desired parameters (architectural styles, colors, moods, photographic angles, etc.), and creates completely original imagery that adheres to the guidelines provided.

Let's say a client asks for a new home design and they provide a wealth of input on how they want it to look. Maybe they want a modern, yet traditional aesthetic with stone and vertical siding, gabled metal roof, exterior fireplaces, covered patios, large glass openings, and it needs to be two stories high. Let's also assume this is on a slight hillside in the soft countryside of southern West Virginia and the client wants to see how it would fit against the landscape. Without at least starting to design the building, research precedents, undertake site work, and spend hours of time crafting an idea and simulating an image for the client to review, there will always be opportunities for miscommunication between the parties on what a project will look like when completed. What if instead of sharing Pinterest boards and exhaustive image searching to communicate intent, you could create an image in seconds, right in front of the client, that contained everything they wanted, all homogenized into a single "visual cocktail"? A tool that could allow the client and the professional to play in possibilities and push boundaries without spending time or money on guesswork.

This generative software allows just that while also setting a tangible, visual goal from the very first step of a project. To be clear, it does not design for or replace the role of architects and planners, but instead acts as a support system that helps build iterative designs and bring together seemingly unrelated ideas into something completely new. We use this tool as a visual benchmark for what we then work towards in our normal, professional fashion: completing site visits, taking inventory, planning sites, laying out room sizes and circulation, understanding power and light, utility and energy, etc. All the normal architectural and planning processes we normally undertake are still fully intact in our work flow, just now with the added benefit of having more ways to visually communicate with our clients and their dreams.

The Pines Pool House

The Pines Country Club in Morgantown, West Virginia unveiled their new pool house this summer with the help of the Mills Group and Jarrett Construction. The previously existing pool was over 40 years old and in need of replacement. Originally hired to do a master plan of the Pines Country Club, Mills Group focused on the immediate need of a new pool, deck, pool house, concession, and storage. The new pool house was designed to seamlessly integrate with the existing clubhouse.

The new pool house includes bathrooms, changing rooms, concessions, and administrative offices. The pool and pool house tie into a new deck that is perfect for movie nights and concerts.

With a deadline of Memorial Day weekend, Mills Group and Jarrett Construction were able to beat the heat with over 200 guests attending the pool opening weekend.

Bavarian Inn Renovation

Mills Group was hired to provide architectural and interior design services for the interior fit-out of the guest rooms and exterior entries to Buildings Augsburg, Bodensee, Chiemsee, Danube, and Schwartzwald at the Bavarian Inn in Shepherdstown, WV.

The scope of work included developing a fresh new look to 72 guest rooms and common corridors. Interior design elements included new flooring, wall finishes, lighting, guest bath fixtures, ceramic tile and artwork.Non-Structural architectural changes included updating the shape and appearance of the existing gas fireplaces in many of the rooms, while still adhering to the German feel and aesthetic that is so well known to the property.

Blue Sulphur Springs

Built in 1836 as the centerpiece of a health resort along Kitchen Creek in Greenbrier County, (West) Virginia, the Blue Sulphur Springs Pavilion is the only remaining structure after fire destroyed the resort in 1863. This Greek Revival inspired pavilion served as a natural source for sulfur rich water in the surrounding communities through the 20th century.

In 2013, the Greenbrier Historical Society acquired this property, and with our help outlining its stabilization and reuse, a plan to restore the structure was created. Mills Group aided with multiple phases of restoration with the end goal of the structure to become a tourist destination. This summer, those dreams were accomplished.

On July 1st, 2023, the Blue Sulphur Springs Pavilion was officially rededicated by the Friends of the Blue Committee.

Davis & Elkins Residence Hall

Known as “the Freshman Village,” the area is specifically designed with spaces to offer dynamic programming that demonstrates the value of living on campus. The new three-and-a half-story, 100-bed suite-style residence hall will feature a common kitchen, multi-purpose room, collaborative study spaces and laundry and vending amenities. To aid with accessibility, the residence hall will have an elevator, as well as a second entrance lobby through the building’s lower level.

Renovations to the current Gribble Hall and Roxanna Booth Hall will include upgrades to HVAC, electrical and wireless technology, and new windows, doors, furniture, fixtures and finishes throughout the buildings. The project also will address codes for accessibility, bathroom fixtures and fire protection.

The construction of a gazebo and development of the patio outside of Gribble Lounge will provide additional gathering spots and help tie the village together physically and aesthetically.

Improvements to student housing is Phase II of the College’s Campus Master Plan which was unanimously approved by the Board of Trustees in 2019. The first phase – extensive renovations to Myles Center for the Arts – was completed in 2020.

Issue 51

Project Focus: Discovery World

Where science meets history – where fun meets learning is what you will find on the corner of 9th and Market in Parkersburg, WV. Discovery World on Market is officially open to the public as of April 2, 2023. 5 years ago a dream started to slowly become a reality as the Mills Group was engaged by the Ross Foundation to evaluate the possibilities of repurposing a historic Scottish Rite Building into a community space for families of all ages.

Mills Group worked with the existing building architecture to redesign interior spaces, assist in dozens of wall graphics and wayfinding features, and even design new exterior lighting fixtures. We coordinated with the museum designer to ensure the exhibits worked within the spaces and with MEP engineers and contractors to integrate building systems in the context of the historic building. The end result is an amazing facility with engaging activities such as water tables, interactive media, a ball factory, makerspace, conference/party rooms and so much more.

Employee Focus: Hannah Tarcy

Hannah Tarcy joined Mills Group as the Office Manager and works in our Morgantown location. She is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations and assisting in the preparation of proposals and social media posting.

Hannah grew up in Smithfield, Pennsylvania and attended Penn State University where she studied communications before attending the Gemological Institute of America where she graduated in the study of Jewelry Design and Gemology.

In her free time, Hannah enjoys oil painting, designing jewelry, singing, traveling with her family and most of all her Pug/Boston Terrier "Ego."

Dan Garvin joined Mills Group as a Project Manager after having worked at a healthcare architecture firm in Pittsburgh, PA and before that a multidisciplinary architecture and engineering firm that served the state of West Virginia and the mid Atlantic region. Originally from Wheeling, WV, Dan earned his Bachelor of Science in Architecture and Master of Architecture from Fairmont State University and is currently in the process of obtaining his architecture license.

With over 10 years of experience, Dan has been involved in a wide range of different project types. The most important thing to him when designing a building is understanding how the occupants will inhabit the space and finding creative solutions to complex problems.

In his free time Dan enjoys traveling as often as possible and experiencing new places, drawing, reading, playing guitar, building things, and spending time outdoors hiking and camping.

Carlina Jacquez joined Mills Group as in Intern in January of 2023. Originally from Fairmont, she is a third year student athlete at Fairmont State University, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Architecture and running Cross Country. Carlina plans to continue her education in Architecture with intention of gaining a masters in the profession, to follow her undergraduate degree. She believes that the skill development and learning opportunities that she receives as an intern at Mills Group are vital to her education and career goals. In her free time she enjoys mixed media art, reading, and indoor gardening.


Sophia Gum joined Mills Group as a Landscape Architecture intern while she finishes her bachelor’s degree in the respective field at West Virginia University. Being a West Virginia native from Lewisburg, she is excited to have the opportunity to further her work experience in the state she has always called home. Sophia hopes that her position can connect fellow classmates and future students to the possibilities and experiences that working with Mills Group can provide.

In her free time, Sophia takes any opportunity to spend time outdoors, draw, or snuggle with her two cats.

Jim King (2 years), RJ Spellman (1), and Ryan McClain (6) all recently celebrated their Mills Group work anniversary! Their dedication and continuous effort to make this company a great place is why we are truly happy they have chosen us as the firm to give their expertise to.

Thank you for everything you are doing. It truly makes Mills Group what it is!

Technology Focus: RANGE 3D Scanner

Mills Group is excited to begin incorporating our new RANGE hand scanner! This super lightweight handheld scanner is capable of quickly scanning small detail projects with a precision of up to 0.1mm at a speed of 18 frames per second.

This expanded ability (in addition to our already heavily used terrestrial 3D point cloud scanner) now allows us to scan and capture all the colors, textures, and tiny details in small objects, historic artifacts, unique and/or one-of-a-kind furniture, miniscule architectural fittings and fasteners, important sculptures/artwork, and even full-scale people!

Mills Group's ability to accurately and timely capture site data continues to grow from our large-scale site drone photogrammetry to entire building interiors with our terrestrial scanner and now even further by grabbing the smallest and most crucial details with the RANGE hand scanner.

Hermitage Hotel Renovation

New life has been breathed into the Hermitage Inn and Taphouse in Petersburg, WV. The upgrades on the hotels rooms have been completed, and the exterior living/lounge space is well under construction. The Mills Group was hired to give design advise to update the existing, detached hotel as well as concepts for renovating the restaurant and common areas located in the historic, road front building.

The hotel upgrades were extensive. A fresh look of the façade was created with a bright fresh white paint and a new entry, while on the inside, old, dated room were transformed into bright, farmhouse inspired boutique guest rooms. A new registration lobby was added to the hotel as well. The new owners requested to a new look to the time-honored restaurant that served the community for so many years. Their desire was to create a taphouse that embodied a casual, relaxing environment. After a day or taking in all that Petersburg and the surround area has to offer, the Mills Group was to design a space to relax and enjoy

Clear Mountain Bank Opening

The Suncrest Branch of Clear Mountain Bank celebrated it’s Grand Opening on April 3rd with a celebratory “Light Up Night” of it’s iconic green mountain wave mounted to the building. Designed to resemble the iconic piece of the company’s logo, the element provides a unique architectural feature while also illuminating interior and exterior elements of the new branch as the sign begins at the exterior screenwall, ascends to the roof, and then returns and punctuates in the Main Conference Room.

Dave Thomas, President & CEO, called on Mills Group to create a design for a new bank branch that also had the potential to become a billboard for Clear Mountain Bank. The site location in the Suncrest area is situated on the corner Rte. 705 and Maple Drive, one of the most active four-way intersections in Monongalia County.

The new 2,300-square-foot facility provides many new amenities including the bank’s video teller service that enables customers to bank during extended hours with a live video teller from the comfort of their car. Addition features include secure self-serve safe deposit boxes, a tech/coffee bar, three banking offices, a meeting room, and three drive-thru lanes. We designed the main spatial components of the bank to reflect the hierarchy of the customer as the main focus and the supporting spatial components focusing on the staff.

Architecturally, this landmark boasts contemporary design aesthetics viewed from 360 degrees with clean lines; the interior reflects the most recent Mills Group design in their Pierpont branch; large glass curtainwalls offer great views of the area for both the customers and the staff.

Tygart Hotel Renovation

Work on the Tygart hotel in Elkins, West Virginia continues to develop. This winter saw the completion of the designs for the balcony and main entrance as well as the elevator hoist-way pit section of the hotel.

While these milestones were reached, general construction throughout the rest of the hotel continues at a furious pace. Floors Five and Six are being dry-walled and prepped for their finishing treatments such as paint, ceilings and flooring. The mid-floors are moving along with their infrastructure such as electrical, HVAC and plumbing.

This summer should see the installation and operation of the elevators.

The Mills Group, Stone Mile Group, and all of the contractors are diligently working to create a cornerstone in the Historic Downtown District of Elkins, West Virginia.

Jefferson County Courthouse

Mills Group is excited to share in the completion of the Jefferson County Courthouse Third Floor Courtroom Renovation, located in Steubenville, Ohio.

The Jefferson County Board of County Commissioners hired Mills Group to lead the renovation of the 1,325 sq.ft. courtroom. New interior finishes included carpeting, luxury vinyl tile, acoustical ceiling and lighting. The existing walls, which had been clad in a stained oak veneer paneling, were modified by removing the paneling to a wainscot height and capping it with a new chair rail. The existing plaster behind the paneling was repaired and then painted.

The Jury Box and Witness Stand where modified to comply with current ADA standards; as well as the judge’s bench, court reporter and court clerk spaces. Existing furnishings throughout the courtroom including tables, chairs, lectern, and fixed bench seating were refinished. A new wood paneled back drop and decorative moldings were added behind the judge’s bench to accentuate the front of the courtroom.

Issue 50

Project Focus: D&E Residence Hall

Mills Group was hired to conceptualize and provide full design services to Davis & Elkins College for a new three-and-a-half-story, 100-bed dormitory of approximately 31,000 square feet with supporting amenities and site work. The design is planned to be aesthetically homogenous with the existing collegiate vernacular while still allowing for modern architectural features.

The residence hall will feature a common kitchen, multi-purpose room, collaborative study spaces, and laundry and vending amenities. Our design includes an elevator and a second entrance lobby through the building’s lower level to provide ADA accessibility. The site work consists of re-working the adjacent parking areas and creating a new access road. The new freshman dormitory will be the cornerstone to establishing a freshman village.

Employee Focus - Promotion: Chris Clark

Chris is a registered architect (RA) who studied Architecture at Kent State University and has nearly two decades of experience in the architecture field. Since starting employment with Mills Group in 2014, his roles have included Project Manager and Designer. He is our go-to resource for commercial and hospitality projects such as hotels, retail, food services/eateries, corporate headquarters, and more.

In his new role, Chris's responsibilities will include project management, client management, business development, and process/deliverable management.

Employee Focus: Mike Kennedy

Mike Kennedy is an Architectural Design Associate in our downtown Shepherdstown office. He provides architectural production assistance and design work to the project managers via 3D models and construction drawings.

Originally from Jacksonville, Florida, Mike has lived in West Virginia for the past 20 years. When the Mills Group office in Shepherdstown opened, he reached out about potential job openings. His current position offers him exciting local and regional architectural design opportunities and a better life/career balance with a more manageable commute.

Mike obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture from Florida A&M University School of Architecture. An achievement he is most proud of is designing and overseeing the construction of his own house and while being a stay-at-home Dad and caring for his two children.

Outside of work, Mike enjoys spending time with his family, playing guitar, finding/listening to new music, painting, disc golf, soccer, running, hiking, and Irish Road Bowling.

Employee Focus: Tom Kilionski

Tom Kilionski has joined Mills Group as a Project Manager bringing over 35 years of experience in the building industry. Starting as a carpenter’s apprentice in 1983, and advancing through various levels of labor, management and administration, Tom developed a well-rounded knowledge of residential contracting.

Originally from Simi Valley, CA, Tom moved to Morgantown as an independent contractor for residential and commercial projects. A number of these projects he worked directly with Michael Mills which developed the relationship.

Tom attended West Virginia University where he obtained a Bachelor of Arts in History. An achievement he is most proud of is the family and friends he has with his wife.

In his free time, he enjoys spending time working on anything mechanical in nature.

Ali recently started interning at Mills Group in our interior design department. Originally from Long Valley, NJ, she is currently a senior at West Virginia University studying Interior Architecture and minoring in Sustainable Design. Ali heard about the Mills Group Internship through a speaking engagement at WVU by our Director of Interior Design, Alexis Behrens, and Ali knew she could learn a lot from her.

She is most proud of following her passions. After graduation, Ali would like to work towards using her profession to make a change for the earth and the people. A passion would be to learn how she can build with earth materials, such as cobb or adobe, and investigate the possibilities of mycelium in design.

Outside of work and school, Ali enjoys walking with her dog in nature, yoga/stretching, reading, and listening to music.

Nicole Shomo recently started interning at Mills Group in our architecture department. Originally from Belington, WV, she is currently a senior at Fairmont State University studying Architecture and minoring in Graphic Design Technology.

After graduation, Nicole would like to further her education by attending a graduate program for architecture. She would also like to continue interning so that her experience can grow further than it already has. She believes that we never stop learning, so furthering her education will be her main goal for the next few years. Nicole would like to continue at Fairmont State University and stay in West Virginia for as long as she is able to.

In her free time, Nicole’s favorite hobby is reading, and she absolutely loves Harry Potter. She enjoys hanging out with friends, but also enjoys staying in to watch movies, YouTube, and draw occasionally. Nicole loves going around and seeing the surrounding architecture and studying its history.

Ryan Hess (13 years), Victor Greco (9), Julie Doerr (9), and Ryan Baker (9) all recently celebrated their Mills Group work anniversary! Their dedication and continuous effort to make this company a great place is why we are truly happy they have chosen us as the firm to give their expertise to.

Technology Focus: 3D Printer

Mills Group is proud to announce the incorporation of 3D printing to our tech arsenal! With the Raise3D Pro3 Plus, we are now able to expand our design Workshop and bring our 3D drafting models to life. By combining three-dimensional visualization modeling and design, the 3D printer works together with other facets of our Workshop to help realize our creative visions, from architectural models to customized gifts and everything in between.

The printer works by slowly extruding material as a series of layers that stack and generate the model. Among its list of features, the Raise3D Pro3 Plus features dual-extrusion to allow two simultaneous material in a single print. It also boasts a host of features such as auto-bed leveling and even a camera that help streamline the 3D printing process.

Generating three dimensional digital models is an integral part of our design process here at Mills Group, and the integration of the 3D printer allows us to take that a step further and generate physical 3D models of our design concepts. The implementation of the printer is one of the many ways Mills Group has remained relevant and up-to-date with the latest technologies and strategies.

Project Update: Market Street Garage

Mills Group was honored to be part of the groundbreaking for the new 290-space, fully automated parking garage that we designed in collaboration with the City of Wheeling. The $12.3 million structure will also include multiple electric vehicle charging stations, emergency call safety buttons, bicycle racks, and fully glazed elevator and stairwells for visual interest and extra safety.

The façade design is contextual to the historic vernacular architecture and there will be a direct pedestrian electronic access to an adjacent multi-story apartment building (within an adaptive reuse and potential historic tax credit building to the south).

Click here to view the live construction progress!

Jefferson County Ministries

Mills Group has continued the tradition of providing pro-bono design services to deserving entities throughout West Virginia, particularly in areas in which one of our offices is located. Started in 2020 by Managing Principal Michael Mills, these services have been awarded as a way to thank those communities for growth and success.

This year, the Jefferson County Community Ministries (JCCM), located in Charles Town, WV was the representative for the eastern panhandle.

Earlier this year the city of Ranson, WV graciously donated a parcel of land to the Jefferson County Community Ministries for a new community services center.

Currently, the administrative offices and support services such as a food pantry and clothing closet operate from a repurposed retail facility in downtown Charles Town (immediately adjacent to Ranson) with area churches providing meals on a rotating basis at various locations.

The organization was founded in 1983 as a faith-based non-profit group. Besides the services mentioned, JCCM provides acute medical treatment, day programming, a cold weather shelter and support services to over 1,500 people and 500 families each year. While many of the services offered are contained in their Charles Town facility, they are still reliant on area churches and businesses to provide shelter and meals off site.

The new facility will be all inclusive, and will contain health and medical care, food, clothing and other aid to vulnerable citizens, children and families in Jefferson County. This will also be the first facility in the county to provide emergency housing to at-risk families, with the potential to accommodate approximately 8 families and 80 individuals.

The request was that the new building resemble “a combination of a family home and religious structure”, which was the focus of the resulting concept drawings. Using materials and proportions found in many residential designs, the 26,000 square foot, two story proposed facility has a welcoming façade placed in a public yet inviting setting. The greenspace surrounding the building will contain a variety of vegetation to enhance the idea of a residence and lessen any institutional appearance. This will include bicycle racks and a trellised area with a small playground in a less public portion of the site. The city of Ranson is working with the owners to improve the surrounding landscaping and access, including the extension of city sidewalks and opportunities for public transportation.

When completed, this will provide a unique, all-inclusive and very much needed community services center to serve Jefferson County and the surrounding area, as well as an appealing contribution to the northeast portion of town.

PKB Children's Museum Graphics

Discovery World on Market, the home of the Mid-Ohio Valley’s only child-focused museum, is under construction in the historic 1903 the Masonic Temple, located on the corner of 9th and Market, Parkersburg, WV. The museum will not only feature hands on learning through STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math), but will also educate those that visit on the historical significance of the principles that make up STEAM, to the greater Parkersburg area.

All through this multi-level building are environmental graphics and signage that celebrate the local industries. Full size wall murals highlight images representing steamboats, oil and gas to celebrating the wood crafting of the region. This structure is listed in the National Register of Historic Places both individually and as part of the District.

First Presbyterian Church

Partnering with the design committee of Spruce Street’s First Presbyterian Church, Mills Group has explored a reimagining of the sanctuary to bring the space a sense of place and beauty with the flexibility demanded of contemporary churches. Emphasizing the existing architectural elements and responding to the congregation’s desires, the new vision unifies the nave as a single cohesive architectural body designed to facilitate worship and fulfill the other initiatives of the church and its community.

Issue 49

Project Focus: 705 Bank

Dave Thomas President & CEO called on Mills Group to create a design for a new bank branch that also had the potential to become a billboard for Clear Mountain Bank. The site location in the Evansdale/Suncrest area is on the corner of one of the most active four-way intersections and close to both hospitals.

The new 2,300-square-foot facility will provide many new amenities including the bank’s video teller service that will enable customers to bank during extended hours with a live video teller from the comfort of their car. The new branch will also offer secure self-serve safe deposit boxes, a tech/coffee bar, three banking offices, a meeting room, and three drive-thru lanes. We designed the main spatial components of the bank to reflect the hierarchy of the customer as the main focus and the supporting spatial components focusing on the staff.

The building will boast very contemporary design aesthetics with clean lines and the interior will reflect our most recent design in their Pierpont branch. The glass front offers great views of the area and will feature a prominently displayed LED branded mountain, represented in the bank’s logo, through the interior and exterior of the building.

Employee Focus: Stephen DeNeui

Stephen DeNeui brings expertise to Mills Group as the Preservation Associate in our Morgantown office. Stephen researches and documents historic buildings and towns, assists in writing historic structure reports and historic rehabilitation tax credit applications, and provides a contextual background to the architects and designers working with historic resources.

Originally from a small town in rural Minnesota, Stephen enlisted in the U.S. Navy which brought him to the greater Chicago area where he met his now wife. Upon the arrival of their first child and the completion of his contract, Stephen began his studies of Architecture at the University of Kentucky’s College of Design. Building on the discipline and problem-solving of his Navy career, Stephen excelled in his program, being awarded The History & Theory Award, The A4LE Research in Design Award, The Sustainability & Passive Design Award, and The CoD Studio Award.

After graduating Summa Cum Laude from the University of Kentucky with his bachelor’s in architecture, Stephen was given the chance to undertake a MSc of Historic Conservation in Oxford, England. He wrote his MSc’s thesis on the historic preservation of post-conflict sites that was awarded a Distinction. His time in England ended on a high note, being awarded The Stephen Levrant Prize for his work in Historic Conservation Area Planning and receiving his MSc with a Distinction.

After returning to the US, Stephen was hired by a legacy historic preservation architecture firm where he worked in Williamsburg, VA. It was then, that Mills Group reached out to Stephen and asked if he would join the ongoing efforts of saving history right here in West Virginia. He joined the firm in 2022 and has been in awe of the beauty of The Mountain State, its historic architecture, and its legacy of storytelling.

Outside of work, Stephen loves spending time with his wife and children reading, exploring, playing and designing games, and, of course, telling stories.

Employee Focus: RJ Spellman

RJ Spellman joined Mills Group as an Interior Design Associate in our Morgantown office. He is responsible for assisting with digital modeling, finish selections, research, existing condition documentation, and space planning.

Originally from Hopwood, PA, RJ attended Pierpont Community and Technical College where he obtained an Associate’s Degree in Interior Design in 2019.

An achievement RJ is most proud of is making the Dean’s or President’s Lists every semester at Pierpont with the support of his family and husband.

Outside of work, RJ enjoys landscape and architecture photography and hiking state and national parks.

Employee Focus: Amber Kwasniewski

Amber Kwasniewski joined Mills Group as a Project Manager and Senior Interior Designer. Originally from Beverly, WV, Amber attended the University of Charleston where she obtained her Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design.

After years of working in Washington, DC, she returned home to focus on a budding family business. After selling her portion of the business, she desired to return to practicing architectural and interior design.

Besides starting and establishing a successful business, her biggest achievements have been through problem solving. It might be helping someone utilize their space better or coming up with a creative way to make a farm task more efficient.

Outside the office, Amber enjoys propagating fig trees, playing volleyball, helping on her family’s farm, painting and creating handmade Halloween costumes.

Employee Focus: John Tingley

John Tingley recently joined Mills Group as a Senior Technical Architect bringing over 40 years of technical expertise with existing and new structures. He previously worked with Michael Mills at EYP and they were also partners in a design-build firm, Domain.

Originally from Glen Ellyn and Kankakee, Illinois, John attended the University of Oregon where he obtained his Bachelors in Architecture.

News

Mills Group Wins BOM 2024

Ryan Hess joins Board of West Virginia Chapter of American Institute of Architects

Building Blocks - Issue 53

Building Blocks - Issue 52

News

Mills Group Wins BOM 2024

Ryan Hess joins Board of West Virginia Chapter of American Institute of Architects

Newsletter

Building Blocks - Issue 53

Building Blocks - Issue 52