Welcome to RFM Architecture

President, Principle-In-Charge

Richard McCann is originally from the Pacific Northwest where he accomplished two degrees at the University of Washington - Bachelor of Music Composition degree in 1963 and Bachelor of Architecture degree in 1967. Richard was recruited by recognized theatre architect B. Marcus Priteca, FAIA, and there gained specialized knowledge of "heritage" architecture. Richard’s independent professional career began in 1976 when he established R.F. McCann & Company Architects in Seattle and later a second office in Hollywood, both operating as full service firms providing all phases of performance facility design. California proved fruitful, the Seattle office was closed, and in 1988 he moved the Hollywood firm to Pasadena where he remains an integral part of all design and technical components on every project.

When asked what sets him and his firm apart from competitors, Richard will say it is his understanding and intimate familiarity with theatre construction, both old and new, a combination that proves invaluable for specialty design - new, restorative, or adaptive - preserving the qualities of both vintage and modern American theatres. Holding to the belief that each theatre design offers unique circumstances, Richard approaches every project with an, “It can be done” attitude.

Richard McCann’s work has earned national recognition. He has received awards from the National Trust for Historic Preservation for the 5th Avenue Theatre, from the Washington State Office of Historic Preservation for “Project of the Year” for the Pantages Theatre, and from the Los Angeles Conservancy and City of Glendale for the Alex Theatre. Other awards include AIA chapter awards, recognition by the Theatre Historical Society of America, and various awards for his designs of civic performing arts centers.

Memberships:
American Institute of Architects, Pasadena Chapter
N.C.A.R.B. – six states
Licensed Architect in California and Washington

*President, Principle-In-Charge* Richard McCann is originally from the Pacific Northwest where he accomplished two degrees at the University of Washington - Bachelor of Music Composition degree in 1963 and Bachelor of Architecture degree in 1967. Richard was recruited by recognized theatre architect B. Marcus Priteca, FAIA, and there gained specialized knowledge of "heritage" architecture. Richard’s independent professional career began in 1976 when he established R.F. McCann & Company Architects in Seattle and later a second office in Hollywood, both operating as full service firms providing all phases of performance facility design. California proved fruitful, the Seattle office was closed, and in 1988 he moved the Hollywood firm to Pasadena where he remains an integral part of all design and technical components on every project. When asked what sets him and his firm apart from competitors, Richard will say it is his understanding and intimate familiarity with theatre construction, both old and new, a combination that proves invaluable for specialty design - new, restorative, or adaptive - preserving the qualities of both vintage and modern American theatres. Holding to the belief that each theatre design offers unique circumstances, Richard approaches every project with an, “It can be done” attitude. Richard McCann’s work has earned national recognition. He has received awards from the National Trust for Historic Preservation for the 5th Avenue Theatre, from the Washington State Office of Historic Preservation for “Project of the Year” for the Pantages Theatre, and from the Los Angeles Conservancy and City of Glendale for the Alex Theatre. Other awards include AIA chapter awards, recognition by the Theatre Historical Society of America, and various awards for his designs of civic performing arts centers. Memberships: American Institute of Architects, Pasadena Chapter N.C.A.R.B. – six states Licensed Architect in California and Washington

A theatre, a concert hall, or any other performance space is an exciting and socially unique environment. Understanding a building’s function and public expectations for buildings of this nature calls for design that should never be done routinely or approximately. To house a performance successfully and avoid old misconceptions and mistakes, a demand for knowledgeable and sensible planning coupled with an expertise on the entire performing facility process is required. R.F. McCann & Company Architects believes a theatre architect should be much more than a narrow specialist. We are able to work with the realities of project start-up challenges and lead that project through to completion, meeting the client’s requirements to operate a financially successful theatre operation. Research and analysis are our first objectives when we begin any project. Design work doesn’t begin until we are confident we understand the parameters of the task and develop a clear understanding of client priorities. Our professional philosophy ensures that even conceptual work is based in reality, not just “pretty pictures”. The solutions offered are in response to the program and budget rather than a predetermined image that restrains project possibilities. R.F. McCann & Company Architects provides creative solutions to otherwise complicated and expensive projects.