Who We Are
Above: Duke University Chapel, Durham, North Carolina
The Office of Horace Trumbauer is one of America’s longest continuously operating architectural and construction practices — a rare, unbroken lineage spanning more than 130 years. Founded on principles of craftsmanship, proportion, and permanence, the firm continues a legacy of building work meant to endure.
OUR FOUNDATION
Grey Towers Castle, Glenside, PA
During the early twentieth century, Horace Trumbauer emerged as one of the most influential and sought-after architects in the United States. His work shaped universities, cultural institutions, estates, and private residences across the country — architecture defined by dignity, refinement, and lasting significance.
To meet the extraordinary demand for his services, Trumbauer assembled an elite team of designers, engineers, and builders, establishing a practice known for discipline, excellence, and architectural integrity.
His insistence on quality and perfection set a standard that continues to define the firm today.
OUR FAMILY LEGACY
Four Generations of Stewardship
Lynnewood Hall, Elkins Park, PA
William Edward Frank (sitting), William Ott Frank
In 1908, William Frank joined the Horace Trumbauer office as chief engineer and draftsman, becoming a key steward of the firm’s design philosophy. Following Trumbauer’s passing in 1937, leadership transitioned to William Edward Frank, who guided the practice through a changing architectural era while preserving its founding values.
Since that time, three generations of the Frank family have led The Office of Horace Trumbauer, maintaining its commitment to excellence while expanding its national reach.
Today, the firm is led by Christopher Edward Frank, with Brendan Russell Frank representing the fourth generation, ensuring the legacy continues with modern vision and enduring standards.
“No American builder in the first three decades of the 20th century could equal his output in the sheer number and splendor of his commissions.”
Historian H. H. Reed
A DOCUMENTED LEGACY
Original Office & Early Business Records
This photograph shows the firm’s original office location before relocating to the Broad & Chestnut site — a place remembered personally by the Frank family. It stands as tangible evidence that today’s practice is the same firm established more than a century ago.
Alongside it, the firm preserves a remarkable collection of early business records, including a late-19th-century Bell Telephone Company billing statement, issued February 15, 1898. This rare artifact captures how telephone communication was tracked and billed at the dawn of modern connectivity — recording prepaid message blocks purchased, used, and remaining. While the system feels almost quaint today, it reflects the discipline, accountability, and operational rigor that defined the firm from its earliest years.
The archive also includes the reverse side of the original card and a Commonwealth of Pennsylvania business filing, further documenting the firm’s legitimacy, leadership, and long-standing professional presence. Together, these materials form a paper trail of continuity — proof that the organization’s history is not just remembered, but verifiably preserved.
OUR PHILOSOPHY
Built to Endure
Residential Project, Pittsburgh, PA
We believe architecture carries moral weight. Buildings should serve communities, express care and clarity, and stand the test of time — culturally, structurally, and artistically.
Great architecture is not defined by trends, but by vision, craftsmanship, and responsibility.
Whether preserving historic landmarks, designing contemporary environments, or creating custom residences from the ground up, we approach every project with discipline, intention, and an unwavering commitment to quality.
“We do not measure success by novelty,
but by longevity.”
A LIVING PRACTICE
Heritage Craftsmanship. Modern Precision.
Residential Project, Pittsburgh, PA
Today, The Office of Horace Trumbauer blends time-honored design principles with modern technologies, construction methods, and project delivery systems.
Our work includes:
- Custom residential design and construction
- Historic restoration and preservation
- Institutional and commercial projects
- Complex renovations and adaptive reuse
Every project reflects the same enduring standard established more than a century ago — architecture shaped with care, integrity, and permanence.