Our timeline spans nearly 100 years of combined design legacy—beginning with the founding of Arrasmith in 1926 and continuing through Schmidt Associates’ 50-year journey.

From Arrasmith’s iconic Greyhound stations to Schmidt’s award-winning civic spaces, our journey has been built project by project and person by person.

“At first, the very thought of starting an architectural firm seemed crazy.”
— Wayne S. Schmidt, founder and former CEO

And yet, that idea became something extraordinary. From a shared chair in a small downtown office to a multi-studio regional firm, Schmidt Associates has grown through service, vision, and deep community trust.

As we celebrate 50 years of Schmidt Associates and a century of Arrasmith, we pause to reflect on the defining moments, pivotal projects, and enduring values that have shaped our collective legacy. This isn’t just our history, it’s our shared foundation. The schools you’ve walked into, the hospitals your family has turned to, the spaces where communities gather… These are the legacy we’ve built together.

Legacy in Action: Then and Now

Past projects laid the foundation. Today’s projects build upon it.

K–12 Education

Our K–12 Studio celebrates the power of well-designed schools to uplift students and communities. We prioritize access, equity, and excellence in education.

Then: Riverside Elementary, Indianapolis, Ind.
One of our earliest education projects, Riverside Elementary set the tone for learning spaces that inspire. Designed in 1978 for Indianapolis Public Schools, it reflected the trust placed in us and our belief in education’s power to uplift communities.

Now: Northview Middle School, Indianapolis, Ind.
Built on a 60-acre wooded site, Northview Middle School redefines student-centered design. Serving 1,050 students, it integrates wellness, equity, and innovation through grade-level pods, immersive media spaces, and outdoor learning environments. Explore the project.

Healthcare

Our Healthcare Studio creates spaces that prioritize patient experience and staff efficiency. We elevate equity, accessibility, and community health outcomes.

Then: Baptist Hospital East, Louisville, Ky.
Our healthcare legacy began in 1968 with Arrasmith’s design for Baptist Hospital East. Since then, we’ve remained the architect of record for every building on campus, supporting patient care throughout decades of growth.

Now: Harshaw Family Grief Counseling Center, Danville, Ky.
Part of Ephraim McDowell Health’s evolving campus, this purpose-built facility offers comfort, privacy, and connection to nature for individuals and families processing loss. With specialized therapy spaces for children and teens, as well as a meditation room, art studio, and healing garden, the center reflects a whole-person approach to care. Natural light, calming materials, and strategic privacy features create an environment of support and dignity. Explore the project.

Higher Education

Our Higher Education Studio designs spaces that foster student success. We create environments that educate, inspire, and endure.

Then: Indiana University Auditorium, Bloomington, Ind.
Dedicated in 1941, this cultural icon underwent its first major renovation under our care. Historic murals were restored, systems upgraded, and acoustics improved to preserve the venue’s legacy while preparing it for future performances.

Now: Ball State University Residence Halls, Muncie, Ind.
Three residence halls—Schmidt/Wilson, Jack Beyerl, and Botsford/Swinford—support living-learning communities in arts, STEM, and emerging media. From LEED Gold certification to geothermal HVAC and maker labs, each space is student-focused and sustainable.

Community

Our Community Studio brings people together. We shape vibrant civic and cultural hubs that foster connection, well-being, and creative expression.

Then: Indiana Soldiers’ & Sailors’ Monument, Indianapolis, Ind.
A civic icon restored with national attention, the monument’s renovation protected its structural integrity and symbolic meaning. Every update, from bronze conservation to concealed mechanical systems, prepared this historic landmark for future generations.

Now: Kentucky Exposition Center Expansion, Louisville, Ky.
This 350,000-square-foot multipurpose building anchors a campus celebrating Kentucky’s agriculture, education, and tourism. Schmidt Associates leads a complex project team to bring the state’s largest classroom into a bold new chapter. Learn more about this project.

Energy and Sustainability

Our commitment to sustainability spans all studios. We integrate high-performance systems, energy efficiency, and environmental stewardship into every project.

Then: Eagle Creek Park Earth Discovery Center, Indianapolis, Ind.
Geothermal HVAC, native materials, and sustainability education define this facility. Located within one of the nation’s largest urban parks, it exemplifies conservation and environmental learning. See the transformation.

Now: West Perry Branch Library, Indianapolis, Ind.
With solar panels covering up to 80 percent of its energy load, UFAD systems, and flexible indoor-outdoor learning zones, this LEED Gold library represents a new standard for sustainable, community-centered design. Learn more about this project.

Design That Stands the Test of Time

Legacy isn’t just about age. It’s about impact.

Across decades and disciplines, some projects leave a mark that only deepens with time. These award-winning works exemplify how thoughtful design drives revitalization, culture, and pride.

• Hammond Block, Indianapolis, Ind.
  Our move into this restored 1874 structure helped spark Mass Ave’s transformation. The project blended preservation and purpose to breathe life into a historic corridor.
  AIA Indiana 2-Year Award; Merit Award, Indianapolis AIA; Excellence in Development, Metropolitan Development Commission; Beautification Award, The Commission for Downtown
• Penrose on Mass, Indianapolis, Ind.
  This mixed-use development includes 40,000 square feet of retail and 235 apartments. It supports the local economy while complementing the Mass Ave cultural district.
  2019 Monumental Affair Merit Award – Neighborhood Revitalization
• Community Justice Campus, Indianapolis, Ind.
  A 12-story civic centerpiece, this facility consolidates justice services in a sustainable, accessible complex that anchors Twin Aire’s revitalization.
  AIA Indiana Award of Merit; AIA Orlando Award of Honor; Multiple Monumental Affair Honors

Thank You for Being Part of Our Legacy

Every project, partner, and milestone has contributed to a legacy that continues to grow. As we reflect on nearly 100 years of impact and look to the future, one constant remains: our commitment to servant leadership and putting people first. Thank you for being part of our story. We’re proud of what we’ve built together, and we’re even more excited for what’s ahead.

As we enter the next chapter of our legacy, we’d love to hear your story. Share a memory or milestone you’ve experienced in a Schmidt space—past or present.