Providence, RI According to DBVW, senior principal Martha Werenfels, FAIA, has been elevated to the American Institute of Architects’ College of Fellows. This is a great honor and Werenfels is the first woman in Rhode Island to receive this designation, a milestone they find very notable.

Werenfels is a nationally recognized expert in the field of historic preservation. While a large portion of her work has involved museum-quality restoration of highly significant historic structures, she has also designed and overseen projects that have repurposed historic buildings for new uses by constructing additions that complement the historic buildings to which they are attached while also accommodating expanded programs.

Werenfels has had the distinct honor of preserving some of New England’s most cherished landmarks, such as the Rhode Island State House, the Tabernacle on Martha’s Vineyard, and Connecticut Hall, the oldest building on Yale University’s campus. Each of these projects has required rigorous attention to detail as well as thorough knowledge of preservation technology. Similarly, when designing additions to historic buildings, such as Plymouth Town Hall and Taunton City Hall, Werenfels has adhered to the highest standards of preservation while designing additions that are respectful of and compatible with their historic neighbors.

Much of Werenfels’ work has been with not-for-profit organizations. These clients have included the International Tennis Hall of Fame, the Newport Restoration Foundation, the Preservation Society of Newport County, many municipalities, and several institutions of higher learning. 

Since 2012, she has had the honor of working with Yale University to preserve eighteen of their historic buildings. 

Throughout her career she has also volunteered on the boards of several not-for-profit organizations that have a focus on preserving artifacts, structures and, most importantly, communities.

As a senior principal at DBVW, she has endeavored to hire and mentor younger architects who have a particular interest in preservation. Through this effort, DBVW has built a team of professionals whose technical competency is of the highest caliber and who have a deep appreciation for historic architecture.