Matthew Szymanski

Matthew, founder of Arx Design Collaborative, brings over two decades of experience as an architect, along with many years working on the construction side as an architect and project manager within a design-build model. The firm operates using a hybrid design-build approach, intentionally assembling the full project team early in the design process. By sidestepping the traditional design–bid–build model, the team reduces surprises during both pricing and construction.

Drawing on his design-build experience, Matthew brings a dual perspective that balances the art of architecture with the practical realities of budget, constructability, maintenance, sustainability, and long-term material and systems performance. He is passionate about creating designs that elevate the work of builders and craftspeople, support clients’ goals, and respond thoughtfully to the unique qualities of each site. This collaborative process builds strong, lasting relationships with general contractors and has fostered a growing network of builders who value clear, comprehensive plans and seek out like-minded architects. The result is a team-based approach to construction in which all parties are invested in shared goals, communication is consistent, and costly rework is minimized.

Matthew is deeply engaged in service to the broader architectural community. He has served as North Carolina’s AIA Small Firm Exchange (SFx) representative and organized regional initiatives such as regional conference meetups and a growing peer-mentorship group. He has also served extensively within his local AIA section’s outreach efforts, helping lead initiatives that communicate the value architects bring to communities and clients. In addition, Matthew is an active contributor to the AIA Practice & Management Knowledge Community, where he shares and refines strategies for effectively onboarding aspiring architects and supporting consistent, high-quality learning experiences within practice.