2025 Fall Preview: Nate Thomas, The Architectural Team

What trends or shifts do you see shaping your industry this fall and into 2026? There’s an urgent need to address the housing crisis, support climate resilience, and tackle the related issues that impact livability across the region. We see opportunity for positive impact and new solutions. Sustainability, resiliency, and regenerative design are key focus points, and our team is actively exploring strategies like geothermal heating and cooling systems, which are efficient and can reduce ongoing operational costs. Our upcoming redevelopment at the Mary Ellen McCormack public housing community will utilize a geothermal approach.

What’s one major project, initiative, or innovation your firm is focused on in the months ahead? Our office is active nationally with architects licensed in 29 states. At the moment we’re very excited about major projects and initiatives close to home. TAT is engaged in a long-term redevelopment of the Anne M. Lynch Homes at Old Colony; recent phases were just awarded full Passive House certification and the final phase is on track to meet net zero ready and Passive House goals. We’re also on the team for the new West End Library, which will create 119 affordable housing units and library space with an all-electric net-zero ready design and a hybrid mass timber structure.