Our Story
Celebrating 40 years of excellence, JKRP Architects has been at the forefront of creating spaces that inspire and endure.
Explore our story, from our humble beginnings to the milestones and the people that have defined our legacy. Learn more about our journey.
Our History
1984
JK Roller Architect
Driven by a need to control his own destiny, Jerry Roller founds JK Roller Architects after departing from a practice in Montgomery County, PA.
1986
Americus Hotel
JK Roller showcases its historical rehab expertise with the Americus Hotel project in Allentown.
1986
1126 Walnut Street
The Center City office becomes the creative hub where foundational projects are conceived and brought to life.
1991
United Artists at Riverview
The first major multiplex in Philadelphia blends waterfront and classic theater design.
2000
Harlee Manor
JK Roller expands its healthcare portfolio with this nursing facility in Springfield, PA
2001
Capital Grille
A steakhouse on Chestnut Street becomes JK Roller’s first corporate restaurant project, leading to an ongoing partnership.
2007
Naval Home
JK Roller’s first major adaptive reuse project wins awards from Multifamily Executive, AIA Pennsylvania, and the Preservation Alliance of Philadelphia.
2008
JKR Partners
JK Roller Architects rebrands to JKR Partners, reflecting expanded ownership and two decades of monumental growth.
2010
777 Broad Street
JKR Partners’ first podium project sets a new urban development standard with LEED-registered design.
2015
JKRP Architects
JKR Partners rebrands as JKRP Architects, marking a new era of growth and ownership.
2015
100 E. Penn Square
JKRP moves to a collaborative, creative workspace in the historic Wanamaker Building.
2017
Greenleaf at Cheltenham
This significant retail project introduces a “demalling” approach to restore appeal and community value to the former Cheltenham Mall.
2019
The Hale Building
A major office restoration earns awards from the Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia and AIA Philadelphia.
2020
Compass Family Fun Center
A milestone in JKRP’s entertainment design, marking successful entry into the FEC sector.
2022
U-Haul
This vital self-storage hub in Kensington becomes an important marker of JKRP’s urban self-storage design.
2022
Ciocca Subaru of Philadelphia
North America’s largest Subaru dealership showcases JKRP’s innovative urban design.
2022
510 N. Broad Street
JKRP’s largest modular project, featuring 410 units and a 50,000 SF GIANT store.
2023
ICON 1616 in the NYT
This luxury apartment conversion earns JKRP its first New York Times feature.
2024
40th Anniversary
JKRP Architects celebrates 40 years of growth, evolving into a leading practice with a diverse portfolio.
