Interview with Hans Strauch, President of HDS Architecture

As founder, principal, and creative director of HDS Architecture, Hans D. Strauch has dedicated 35 years to designing distinctive buildings and communities throughout the US and abroad. With Hans’ vision and leadership, HDS Architecture continues to successfully deliver sophisticated and highly crafted buildings including large scale residential, commercial, retail destination, and medical facilities.

Over the course of his career, Hans has collaborated with leading real estate developers, property owners, and private institutions nationally and internationally. Clients appreciate his expeditious ability to get projects approved by strategically merging regulatory requirements with creative design solutions and economic realities. Hans’ practical experience, along with the talented team of designers and architects at HDS, allows each project to achieve its highest potential.

Hans is Chair of the Board of Trustees at Lesley University in Cambridge, an institution focused on teacher education, counseling and the visual arts. He actively supports several Boston social justice programs including Habitat for Humanity and The Jewish Coalition for Literacy.

Hans received his architecture degree with distinction from Cornell University. With his dedication to environmental sustainability, he endowed the “Strauch Visiting Critic in Sustainable Design” in 2013 in the College of Architecture Art & Planning to advance research and innovative design solutions associated with consequences of global climate change. In 2023, he endowed the “Strauch Early Career Follow” at Cornell to identify, attract and support diverse, talented, early-career educators who contribute fresh ideas and perspectives.

During his free time Hans enjoys playing competitive tennis, reading, and hiking.

Connect with Hans on LinkedIn

525 LINC, Allston MA (Photo courtesy: flaunt Boston)

Interview Questions:

Career | Could you delve into some of the most intriguing highlights of your career, such as your collaboration with the renowned modernist architect Benjamin Thompson at the Cambridge-based Architects Collaborative?

Design Philosophy | Could you elaborate on the unique design philosophy that sets HDS Architecture apart from others in the field?

First Building | The first building that you designed was Temple University Hospital in Philadelphia.

HDS Today | Please provide a snapshot of HDS Architecture today. Who are the other key members of the team?

Design Philosophy | Can you share the design philosophy of HDS Architectures?

Highlight | One of your recent projects is the Caro Tuscan Village in Salem, New Hampshire. Share some key features from this residential community.

Recent Projects | How did your firm become involved with the design of the new Mosse Palais in Berlin?

Environmental Sustainability | In 2013, you endowed at Cornell the “Strauch Visting Critic in Sustainable Design”. Tell us about the endowment and your commitment to environmental sustainability.

The Future | What is your vision for your career and the firm?

HDS Architecture is a Boston-based architecture firm that specializes in distinctive commercial residential design. HDS has realized over 2,500 residential units and multiple commercial mixed-use developments throughout New England and represents regional real estate developers and private land owner clients. Recently completed projects include: 525 LINC, a unique co-living concept in Allston, MA; two residential communities within the live-work-play development of Tuscan Village in Salem, NH; and 95 Saint, a sophisticated luxury apartment development in Boston, MA. HDS Architecture’s client-first approach allows their team of talented architects, designers, and consultants to create well-crafted buildings that are delivered on time and on budget. For more information, visit www.hdsarchitecture.com.