• Collaborating and communicating with our clients on each step of the process
• Integrating function with engaging architecture for pleasing, productive environments
• Creating inspired design solutions with real and lasting value
• Optimizing unique site planning opportunities, natural daylighting/ views and sustainability
• Honoring client financial capabilities, budgetary considerations and time constraints
Our goal is to develop designs that are appropriate for the needs of our clients while creating indoor and outdoor spaces that make a positive contribution to the human experience.
By integrating function and thoughtful planning with inspiring architecture, we create environments that are engaging to the users – of all ages.
We consider how people enter, use and move through a site or building – and provide for future flexibility and change.
We reject design fads and fashion, but endorse a timeless design expression that enhances the experience for all.
We respect budgets and timelines.
In 1985 co-founder Frank E. Dittenhafer II, FAIA, LEED AP launched Murphy & Dittenhafer Architects. Over the years, it has grown to include a staff of 20, with offices in Baltimore, Maryland, and York, Pennsylvania.
The M&D staff of seasoned professionals and emerging talent has consistently developed high quality master plans and designs for building renovations, facility additions and new construction – that exceed the expectations of our clients.
Our team brings optimism, energy and imagination to each commission.
Murphy & Dittenhafer provides award-winning architectural, interiors and planning services for master planning, renovation, adaptive reuse, historic preservation, expansion and new construction for clients throughout the Mid-Atlantic region.
Our integrated design and planning approach incorporates environmentally responsible/ sustainable practices, comprehensive accessibility considerations, as well as recognition of and compliance with applicable ordinances, codes and regulatory requirements – translating into design solutions that are both practical and appropriate, and which provide excellent long term value to our clients.
Rather than viewing parameters as limitations, we see them as contributing factors to our creative process of developing unique, positive design solutions.
Our work includes projects on a multi-million-dollar scale as well as modest facility designs that are significant in a variety of ways.
Our range of design solutions includes master site planning, faith-based community facilities, libraries, schools, performing arts spaces, college/ university campuses, residential facilities, “cutting edge” interior design/ building repurposing and historic preservation. We pay attention to the details – regardless of project size, scale or scope.
Throughout our history we have been recognized with over 160 awards – more than any other local firm in the Baltimore/ Central Pennsylvania region.
While awards are just one measure of success, they are an indication of the intensity and high professional standards with which Murphy & Dittenhafer approaches each project.
Frank E. Dittenhafer II, FAIA, LEED AP
Firm co-founder Frank Dittenhafer has been broadly recognized for his wide-ranging expertise in all aspects of project design and management. Focused on meeting and exceeding client expectations, Frank has achieved excellence through creativity, practicality and persistence.
Click here to learn more about Frank E. Dittenhafer II.
Read about our latest projects,
community initiatives and more.
Read about our latest projects,
community initiatives and more.
Murphy & Dittenhafer Architects are working at a fast and aggressive pace to meet the school’s tight deadline.
As a graduate of Penn State, Frank Dittenhafer has made it a priority to give back to the school and students who will be future leaders in the industry.
The much-needed addition by Murphy & Dittenhafer Architects was created to be flexible and consistent with the architecture of St. John the Evangelist Roman Catholic Church.
Murphy & Dittenhafer Architects recently presented the conceptual design for the Downtown Shenandoah Innovation and Event Center.
The Western Maryland Community College underwent updates, improvements, and modernization.
The two-story school will feature a green roof, outdoor amphitheater, and three playgrounds.
The team at Murphy & Dittenhafer Architects employs adaptive reuse to revitalize downtown relics some might consider “white elephants.”
As a York Central Market board member for over ten years, Frank Dittenhafer recalls the uphill climb of the Downtown York centerpiece.
Three of the firm's projects were recently recognized for their contributions to Architectural design and community engagement.
“At the end of the day, we’re supporting the quality of people’s lives with these projects,” says Frank Dittenhafer of Murphy & Dittenhafer Architects.
The project is a blending of new and old, with a ‘wonderfully harmonizing’ economical and contemporary design.
Three downtown York projects were recognized during The 2017 Commonwealth Awards, a 10,000 Friends of Pennsylvania signature recognition program
The space inside the former used furniture store has served not only the architectural firm and its Interiors division but the community, as well.
“For us, it’s about relationships, about making a better life for people where you can,” says Frank Dittenhafer.
Frank Dittenhafer of Murphy & Dittenhafer Architects discusses the future – and importance of – actual buildings.
The AIA Central PA Architects Foundation Fund chose Christina Accomando to receive its annual scholarship.
Murphy & Dittenhafer Architects' co-founder accepts Governor Tom Wolf’s appointment to Capitol Preservation.
Murphy & Dittenhafer Architects’ work on the library included everything from a new entrance to interior design.
Preservation Pennsylvania honors Murphy & Dittenhafer's work on York College of Pennsylvania’s Center for Community Engagement.
Murphy & Dittenhafer Architects shape vision for York’s future with design for John McElligott’s Innovation District.
Architectural firm’s Baltimore office is an ideal location for a group of people with a passion for history and architecture.
After breaking ground on the $26 million project at Prince George’s Community College last year, M&D and its partners have been hard at work on the "transformation project."
Architect Todd Grove says the end goal for the project is all about balance: keeping durable elements but adding a modern feel and efficiency.
“This is not just another project,” says Frank Dittenhafer. “It is going to change, in a very positive way, the landscape of downtown York.”
The firm brings new life to older properties as it makes them more relevant for how people live and work today.
As time and styles change, churches today are continuously trying to find new ways to welcome people into their worship and fellowship spaces.
Murphy & Dittenhafer Architects works with closely with the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education to update aging buildings.
When it comes to his architectural firm, Frank Dittenhafer says the administrative team is worth celebrating as the “Super Stars of Murphy & Dittenhafer.”