Derek Johnson

AIA, LEED AP, CPHC
Principal, Corporate and Commercial, Boston

Derek has built his career around a clear, steady commitment to thoughtful design and long-term project stewardship. Architecture became his path early on, but it was his academic and professional experience—particularly time spent studying in several European capitals—that sharpened his understanding of how cities evolve and how resilient design shapes their future. That perspective continues to guide his work today as he focuses on creating buildings that endure, adapt, and contribute lasting value.

As the leader of Boston’s Corporate and Commercial practice, Derek merges his expertise in adaptive reuse and ground-up design. He has contributed to some of our most significant and transformative projects in the City of Boston and the Northeast region, uncovering the hidden potential within existing buildings and sites. He approaches every project with the belief that “you never get a second chance to make a last impression.” His combination of technical rigor, curiosity, and commitment to follow-through makes him a trusted partner to clients and colleagues alike.

  • This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Derek accepting an Honor Award for Design Excellence for the Exchange at 100 Federal
2019 BSA Design Awards Gala
On Adaptive Reuse
“We ask, ‘what is the most sustainable thing we can do with a project,’ and for me that’s working with what we already have. We can revitalize a building and make it current and fresh without having to always demo and start from scratch.”
Derek leads a meeting at 191 Spring Street, a nearby adaptive reuse project.

Derek's Featured Work

The Exchange
Work
The Exchange
Boston, Massachusetts
View Boston
Work
View Boston
Boston, Massachusetts