ELEVATE YOUR VISION
THROUGH INSPIRED ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN
OUR HISTORY
For over 54 years, VITETTA has been a leader in public sector architecture and historic preservation. Founded with a mission to serve government agencies, cultural institutions, and communities, the firm built its reputation on quality, innovation, and long-term client relationships. In the early 1970s, VITETTA became one of the first firms in the U.S. to specialize in historic preservation, contributing to the restoration of some of the nation's most iconic landmarks. With headquarters in Philadelphia, PA and Harrisburg, PA, VITETTA has left a lasting impact through decades of dedicated service and expertise.
OUR EXPERTISE
VITETTA's experienced team specializes in architecture, planning, renovations, additions, and new construction, with a strong focus on public sector projects. Our award-winning Historic Preservation Program includes work on over 60 National Historic Landmarks and 100 National Register properties, including the Pennsylvania State Capitol, Philadelphia City Hall, and the National Gallery of Art. We collaborate closely with clients, administrators, and stakeholders to create strategic, cost-effective solutions that balance modern functionality with historical integrity. By blending technical expertise with innovative thinking, we deliver projects that serve communities today and for generations to come. Our team's diverse experience allows us to approach each project with fresh perspectives, ensuring thoughtful solutions for even the most complex challenges. Whether restoring a landmark or designing a new facility, we are committed to quality, efficiency, and long-term value.
OUR FUTURE
VITETTA has been acquired by DRG Architects and will continue to operate under its own name as a DRG Company. This transition strengthens our resources and expands our capabilities while preserving the legacy and reputation we have built over decades. Our commitment to design excellence, public sector service, and historic preservation remains unchanged. As we move forward, VITETTA will continue to honor its past while embracing new opportunities for growth and innovation.
Pennsylvania Convention Center
The Vitetta Group designed the Pennsylvania Convention Center and led its 2011 expansion, nearly doubling its size. In addition to the convention center, the firm designed the Philadelphia Justice Center and contributed to planning Center City Philadelphia, including Reading Terminal.
The expansion introduced a new main entrance, a 57,000-square-foot ballroom, 63,000 square feet of meeting space, and a 260,000-square-foot exhibit hall—the largest contiguous exhibition space in the Northeast. Constructed with cast stone, metal panels, brick, limestone, and granite, the design seamlessly integrated with the existing structure.
Emphasizing sustainability, the expansion and its annex earned LEED Gold certification in 2011. Located in the Market East section of Philadelphia, the Pennsylvania Convention Center remains a premier multi-use public facility.
Philadelphia Art Museum – Main Museum & Rodin Museum
The Philadelphia Museum of Art, originally opened in 1928 and designed by three Philadelphia architects, faced the need for expansion by the late 1990s due to significant growth. In 1999, VITETTA was selected to develop an “Integrated Master Plan” to guide the expansion while addressing infrastructure and facility upgrades. Their plan, based on in-depth department consultations, prioritized space needs without altering the historic building’s exterior. The solution placed the expansion underground beneath the existing plaza, preserving the museum’s iconic appearance while increasing square footage. The plan also included two additional gallery buildings—the Perelman Building and the Rodin Museum—and a future art storage facility.
Oakmont Rest Stop
Opened in 1940, the Pennsylvania Turnpike was celebrated as “America’s First Super Highway,” showcasing modern engineering and construction during the nation’s recovery from the Great Depression. Built in just 15 months, it employed 15,000 workers and spanned over 190 miles. Alongside the highway, service plazas were introduced to provide dining for travelers. While the Turnpike has been rebuilt multiple times, many service plazas remained largely unchanged since their original construction in the 1940s and 1950s.
In 2006, the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission partnered with HMS Host to reconstruct 17 service plazas under a 30-year lease agreement. The biggest challenge was designing a construction schedule that allowed work to begin after Labor Day and be completed during winter, ensuring the new facilities opened before Memorial Day without disrupting peak summer travel.
Pennsylvania State Archives – New Building
The Pennsylvania State Archives – New Building project involved the design and construction of a modern facility to house the state’s archival records. VITETTA served as the Professional of Record, providing project management, architectural design, procurement assistance, and construction administration. HGA collaborated on the architectural and interior design while also delivering structural, HVAC, plumbing, fire protection, electrical, security, and technology engineering services. Civil engineering was handled by Navarro & Wright, with landscape architectural design by Debra A. Kirkpatrick.
The project was completed in multiple phases. Phase 001, which involved the design and construction of the new archives building, began in May 2020 and was completed in 2022. Phase 002, completed in November 2017, focused on demolishing existing structures and clearing the site. Phase 003 addressed site utility infrastructure, including the demolition and relocation of multiple utilities to support the new facility. Through these coordinated efforts, the Pennsylvania State Archives successfully transitioned into a state-of-the-art facility designed to preserve and protect the state’s historical records.
Pennsylvania State Police Headquarters
The Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) Departmental Headquarters in Harrisburg, PA, underwent a building envelope rehabilitation to enhance its performance and modernize its appearance. The project focused on the transformation of the entrance façade, progressing through several key construction phases. Initially, the building’s pre-construction condition was documented, highlighting the need for improvements. The renovation began with the installation of new curtain wall framing and insulated sheathing, followed by the application of an air and water barrier to ensure weather resistance. As the project advanced, curtain wall glazing was installed, significantly improving the building’s energy efficiency and aesthetics. The final design, as depicted in the rendering, showcases a sleek and contemporary façade that aligns with modern architectural standards. Completed in December 2020 at a construction cost of $10.1 million, the project included comprehensive architectural services, from programming and design development to construction documents, technical specifications, estimating, and full construction administration.
LET'S CONNECT!
