FIRM SPOTLIGHT | AMAR GROUP LLC
Genell Anderson AIA, NOMA, ICC, NCARB, Founder, AMAR Group LLC
This month, we are highlighting one of Washington, D.C.'s minority-owned firms, AMAR Group, LLC. Serving the community since 1991, AMAR Group, L.L.C. specializes in architectural consulting, interior and exterior renderings, and responsive project planning. As a full-service architecture, civil engineering, facility assessment, and Certified Third Party Inspection Company, AMAR Group caters to a diverse client base, including non-profits, for-profits, and public sector organizations. Some of their clients include RAP, Inc., MiCasa, DC Public Schools, Community Action Group, and DC Housing and Community Development.
Celebrating Genell V. Anderson
Genell Anderson’s journey is truly inspiring. Born in Charleston, SC, she moved to Chattanooga, TN, in 1983 after graduating from Tulane University's architectural program. During her time in Chattanooga, she worked on projects such as revitalizing a section of MLK Boulevard.
Live and Let Live Laundromat
You might be familiar with the Live and Let Live Laundromat at 763 E. MLK Blvd., but you may not know that Anderson was the architect behind its design. She transformed an abandoned structure from the 1920s into a vibrant barber shop and laundry facility. When designing this building, she focused on incorporating elements that resonated with the predominantly Black neighborhood, such as glass-block walls and a statement entryway. Anderson's work was influenced by the postmodern movement and "Trauma-Informed Design," even before it was formally recognized. "Postmodernism had a lot to do with colors and looking at history in a different kind of way," she explained. "I thought those elements would have been good in that neighborhood."
Ms. Anderson, the Founder and Owner of AMAR Group, LLC, has dedicated 30 years to ensuring the success of her firm. With 37 years of experience as an architect, she is registered in DC, Maryland, Virginia, and South Carolina. In addition to her architectural work, she is an ICC Certified Building and Plumbing Inspector. As Principal Designer and Lead Inspector, her expertise includes assessments, feasibility studies, inspections of new and existing structures, construction management, renovation, adaptive reuse, and new building design for educational, recreational, residential, and commercial projects. Ms. Anderson has been honored with the Mayor’s Award for Excellence in Historic Preservation and serves as a board member of the Parks at Main Street (TPMS), supporting the Manor Park and Riggs Park communities.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS/ AWARDS
AMAR Group LLC received the Mayor's Award for Excellence in Historic Preservation for the restoration and rehabilitation of 1134 6th St., NW.
In February of 2006, AMAR Group LLC and Mi Casa Inc. were featured in programs #2519-2526, Season 27 of This Old House for the renovation of a 130-year-old classic row house in Washington, D.C ‘s Shaw district. For more information on this project visit: ThisOldHouse.com
Ms Anderson was featured in Port of Harlem publication:
AMAR Group participates in Jamaica’s House of Parliament Design Competition
Interview between Askia Mohamed and Genell Anderson discussing the passing of much-admired Architect Phil Freelon, FAIA, NOMA and African American architects