Independent Design

Independent Design, LLC is a boutique design firm that has been dedicated to providing innovative architectural solutions to our clients in Massachusetts and New Hampshire since its establishment in 2004. As a Massachusetts certified woman-owned business (MA WBE), we take pride in our ability to offer a diverse spectrum of services, including residential, commercial, historic development, accessibility, aging in place, building energy, and technology consulting.

Our architectural team is composed of professionals who are passionate about creating spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and sustainable. We understand the importance of working closely with our clients to identify their unique needs and collaborate to resolve creative challenges. Our team's expertise in performing all of our design production and documentation using three-dimensional computer models allows clients to visualize the new space prior to construction, making informed architectural decisions throughout the design process.

Over the years, we have had the opportunity to work on various projects that showcase our capabilities. From custom business solutions and vacation homes to renovations and additions throughout New England, we have consistently demonstrated our commitment to delivering high-quality designs that meet our clients' needs. We believe in paying attention to the details that truly make a space special, and our dedication to this principle has earned us a reputation as a trusted and reliable design firm in the region.

Our experience in commercial design, code review, and on-call architect services for both renovation and new construction projects has allowed us to develop a comprehensive understanding of the needs and challenges of our clients in this sector. Some of our notable commercial architecture projects include consulting for the historic re-creation of the MGM Springfield Historic Drill Shed, Wayfinding and Signage for the Historic MGM Springfield structures; the Parking Structure at Wynn Casino and Resort in Everett, MA; the new LEED Silver Blue Cross Blue Shield Corporate Headquarters in Providence, RI; Retail and Hotel spaces at 30 Dalton Street in Boston; and Office Renovations for Hurley & O'Neill Company in Braintree, MA.

At Independent Design, we are committed to developing creative design responses for complex building challenges in New England. We strive to create sustainable, flexible, and accessible design solutions that stand the test of time and delight our clients. Our mission is to provide innovative and effective design solutions that meet the needs of our clients while also promoting sustainable and responsible building practices.

Our team is led by principals Rebecca McWilliams and James Meinecke, who have over thirty years of combined project experience throughout New England. Prior to working together at Independent Design, Rebecca and James gained experience on a wide array of design projects in Newport, RI, Cambridge, MA, and Exeter, NH. Their extensive knowledge and expertise in historic restoration, high-end homes, multi-family developments, commercial offices, interior design, tenant fitouts, and new construction have been instrumental in shaping the firm's practice and planning divisions.

Rebecca McWilliams, Principal, has experience on all phases of public and private building projects. She worked as a BIM Manager for a large A/E firm in Boston for six years where she developed expertise in working as an Owner's Information Manager, BIM Execution Planning, developing Level of Development expectations, BIM Kickoff Meetings, BIM for Green Buildings, model hand-offs, BIM for LEAN process, co-locating teams, "BIG ROOM" coordination meetings, and BIM process support. Rebecca is also an Autodesk Certified Professional and trainer in Revit software. She has presented on best practices for project management and BIM at the Construction SuperConference, Autodesk University, BIMForum, United States Green Building Council, Association of General Contractors of America, and Boston Society of Architects.

James Meinecke, Principal, has over 20 years of experience in developing, rehabilitating, renovating, preserving, and restoring historic structures. His love of old buildings began with the Mohasco Mill in Amsterdam NY, where he spent his high school years. James then relocated to Massachusetts to work with Philips Exeter Academy on large-scale campus historic restoration work. For the past two years, James has worked with Independent Design, developing the firm's practice and planning divisions. At ID, he provides consulting and design services including project management, architectural design-build, accessibility solutions, historic preservation, casework, and life safety code support.