Meet New Principal: Matthew Herbert, AIA, LEED AP

Principal Matthew Herbert joined Design Collective, Inc. (DCI) in 2001 and since that time has led some of the firm’s most notable and successful design and development projects across a wide range of construction typologies.

An innovative thinker and problem solver, Mr. Herbert’s expertise spans development and renovation of workspace, retail, entertainment and mixed-use housing projects; cultural facilities; laboratories; and diverse structures for education ranging from K-12 to university projects. He offers an in-depth understanding of emerging technologies, design trends, delivery methods and contractual vehicles that are transforming the practice of architecture and client expectations.

• Under Mr. Herbert’s leadership, DCI has completed more than dozen projects for the National Aquarium in Baltimore since 2011, ranging from guest services spaces to high-profile new exhibits. His guidance assures that every project enhances the guest experience, educational value and operational efficiency of this landmark institution in Baltimore.
• Since 2001, Mr. Herbert has worked closely with the University System of Maryland to develop key projects at Coppin State, Towson University, UMBC and the University of Maryland, Baltimore campuses.  From programming and feasibility studies to facilities renovations and new construction, Mr. Herbert’s experience is vital to ensuring each project meets institutional goals and student needs.
• Among his current notable projects, Mr. Herbert is leading the first phase of the Crescent development in Howard County, Maryland, for Howard Hughes Corporation. This 220,000 sq. ft. office space will serve as a corporate headquarters for a nationally recognized Maryland-based healthcare company.  
• Mr. Herbert is overseeing the development of a 72,000 sq. ft. building as part of the Stadium Square masterplan in Baltimore and is collaborating with the Caves Valley Partnership and Greenebaum Enterprises to design a new headquarters for United Way of Central Maryland in the historic Sharp Leadenhall community. 
•  He is also overseeing construction of 319-unit two-tower apartment building in McLean, Virginia, for LCOR, the first phase of a seven-building redevelopment project designed to increase available housing in conjunction with Metro expansion in the area.
• Mr Herbert is working with Orchard Development, Toby’s Dinner Theater and the Howard County Arts Council on a new center for the visual and performing arts project in Downtown Columbia. The project is being developed to include performance space, gallery, classroom and artist flats.

As principal, Mr. Herbert is an active leader in business development for DCI. Just as important, he is dedicated to cultivating and maintaining current client relationships through excellence in service and support beyond the ribbon-cutting.

With a highly collaborative approach to both private- and public-sector projects, Mr. Herbert strives always to optimize the built environment while preserving historical, environmental and cultural resources. His leadership encompasses project management, architectural detailing and design, consultant coordination, construction administration, building and life safety code analysis, and sustainability.

Active in the firm’s mentorship program and as a project manager and studio leader, Mr. Herbert is committed to nurturing staff talent and a culture of excellent service at DCI.

Mr. Herbert earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in architecture from the University of Maryland and holds a certificate in historic preservation. Prior to joining DCI, he was a designer at RMJM Hillier in Washington DC.