CPL Cleveland: Inspired Spaces, Inspired Minds

Connection fuels creativity In CPL Cleveland.

Nestled in the heart of Berea, OH, just a 15-minute jaunt from downtown Cleveland, our trendy workspace beckons. Once a bustling dance studio, we reimagined it into a modern haven. The space features expansive windows, contemporary fixtures and vaulted ceilings that emote warmth and natural light. Mirroring our vibrant spirit, this office is steeped in history and custom-tailored to serve both us and our clients.

Two images side by side. On the left, an office with vaulted ceilings, modern furniture, airy light fixtures and a black-and-white checkered floor. On the right, a modern office with contemporary art, an expansive front desk and a black-and-white checkered floor.

CPL Cleveland—formerly Makovich & Pusti Architects—has been an integral part of the local fabric for more than 30 years. This impact resonates through transformative projects spanning the healthcare, K-12, higher education and community sectors, from pediatric facilities to recreation hubs and citywide master plans.

Recent highlights in our diverse portfolio include: the revitalization of the Center for Engaged Liberal Arts at Oberlin College & Conservatory; the Cuyahoga County Children and Family Services building; the Cleveland Clinic Middleburg Heights Family Health Center; and the Kent State University Band Center. Additionally, we’re proud to maintain longstanding partnerships with regional organizations like the MetroHealth care network, the University Hospitals and the City of Cleveland.

A well-lit, brutalist design hallway with polished wooden floors, bright accent colors and expansive windows at the entrance to the Center for Engaged Liberal Arts (CELA) at Oberlin College.

The new Center for Engaged Liberal Arts (CELA) at Oberlin College & Conservatory.

“The evolving nature of our work is what makes it so fulfilling. No two projects, sites or days are ever alike,” said Associate Principal, Stephen Jouriles, AIA, LEED AP.

Central to our design approach is the power of disciplined listening. We believe in fostering open dialogue between us and our clients, investing time to truly understand the people who will occupy their spaces—from students to cancer survivors. This strategy is also demonstrated in the work we do with colleagues in CPL Buffalo and CPL Pittsburgh. We often pool our collective expertise to complete projects along the east coast.

“With engineers, architects, planners and interior designers all under one roof, we’re well-positioned to tackle any design challenge—while expanding our comprehensive industry understanding, together,” added Jouriles.

Two images side by side. On the left, two smiling men in business casual attire drinking coffee at work. On the right, two women standing at a table, engaged in conversation and examining documents in the office's interior design library.

Outside of our projects, CPL Cleveland stays committed to enriching our communities through engagement with local organizations and professional associations. Whether through involvement with the American Institute of Architects (AIA), the Society for Marketing Professional Services (SMPS), the City of Cleveland Storefront Renovation Program, the Lakewood Heritage Advisory Board or the Lakewood Historical Society, we embody our belief in giving back.

Moreover, our leadership advocates for a mentorship model that empowers individuals to express ideas freely and carve out their own unique career paths. That’s why our A/E veterans host an internal “young professionals forum,” offering guidance and coaching towards licensure to cultivate growth for all team members.

“These monthly sessions not only encourage us to share insights, but also serve as a great opportunity to swap software tips and tricks and celebrate career milestones and team ‘wins,’” added Architectural Designer Pamela Haberman.

Camaraderie really is the lifeblood of CPL Cleveland’s culture. Whether we’re engaging in festive traditions (think ugly holiday sweaters and desk-decorating contests), facing off in ping pong and bowling, organizing putt-putt competitions at the nearby TopGolf, bonding over lunch at Coe Lake or brainstorming practical design ideas, “togetherness” truly defines who we are.

Two images side by side. On the left, CPL Berea team members donning holiday pajamas and posing for a photo within the office. On the right, a group of people posing with their 2023 CANstruction contest submission.

Pictured left to right: CPL Cleveland team members donning holiday pajamas during an office celebration, and the team poses for a photo with their submission for the 2023 AIA CANstruction competition.

“We’ve fostered a great work community comprised of diligent, upright ‘do-gooders’—that much is evident when I see the incredible way our team pulls together to shape a brighter future for our friends, neighbors and clients,” said Vice President Don Rerko, AIA, NCARB.