Our Practice

Blanchard Group is an architectural firm. The singular focus of our practice, campus planning for independent schools, was founded on a simple belief—great places happen intentionally.

We also believe that places for education are powerful things. Done well, they’re inspired settings that enrich learning, reflect culture, and ground us with their sense of place. This belief is certainly shared by our clients, who recognize the great value of their campus settings.

Shaping places that truly express our clients’ intents and aspirations requires a sharp, strategic awareness; a fluency in the formative issues shaping the independent school community; in educational methodologies, past, present, and on the horizon; in the importance of the culture of giving; in how to work with communities that value broad, bottom-up engagement; in stewardship, often over long periods; and of course, an inspired sense of placemaking.

From our office in Richmond, Virginia, we’ve worked with well over one hundred independent schools nationwide and abroad. Our work has set the stage for remarkable transformations at institutions large and small, boarding and day, co-ed and single sex; located in urban, suburban, rural, and historic settings—great places really do happen intentionally.

Leadership

Our practice leaders are always hands on, supported by dedicated project teams who combine extensive experience; outstanding character; sharp, analytical minds; an inspired sense of placemaking; and the ability to work collaboratively with all facets of independent school communities.

Jeffrey Blanchard, AIA, AICP

Principal·

The focus of Jeff’s 35 years of professional practice has been long-range planning for independent educational institutions— linking the direction of an institution to the possibilities of its place. To each opportunity, Jeff brings the enthusiasm to engage and excite the communities he serves, the experience to translate ideas into action, and the leadership to advance his clients’ interests.

Patricia Tedesco, AIA, LEED AP BD+C

Senior Associate·

Patty is a people person, curious and excited to talk to everyone. She’s also fiercely analytical. Rapport and report—a powerful combination. Patty has played lead and supporting roles at Blanchard Group for over a decade, working with institutions on their campus development strategy—conceiving possible futures, and demonstrating the thoughts at hand aren’t just inspired, but doable.

Janet Chandler, PE, LEED AP BD+C

Senior Associate·

An engineer by training and a poet at heart, Janet understands water travels downhill unless it meets a constriction that directs it upward, then it becomes a glorious fountain. Since joining Blanchard Group ten years ago, Janet has played lead and supporting roles on numerous campus planning and consulting engagements. She is dogged about authenticity—how an institution’s vision, mission, and educational experience is reflected in its campus setting.