Grace Design Studios Expands Healthcare Portfolio with CRGA Design Acquisition

Grace Design Studios (often referred to simply as Grace) has made a significant move in the architecture, engineering, and consulting (AEC) sector with the acquisition of CRGA Design. This acquisition not only bolsters Grace's existing healthcare design capabilities but also marks a strategic expansion into the Mid-Atlantic region, enhancing their overall presence in the United States.

About the Acquisition

The announcement, made on June 11, 2025, revealed that CRGA Design, a renowned firm with extensive expertise in healthcare facility design, will now operate under the Grace umbrella. Founded in 1982 and headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland, CRGA is known for its dedication to innovative and tailored architectural solutions. The firm specializes in a variety of healthcare environments, including acute care hospitals, ambulatory care centers, private physician offices, and senior living facilities. With nearly 43 years in the industry, CRGA has built a reputation as a trusted partner for healthcare systems seeking modern design solutions that enhance patient experiences and streamline caregiver efficiencies.

The acquisition represents the eighth strategic addition to Bernhard Capital Partners’ AEC platform. According to Grace's CEO, Jerry Hebert, this partnership complements their mission by integrating CRGA's proven expertise in medical planning and design with Grace's comprehensive portfolio of services. Hebert emphasized that CRGA's innovative approach aligns seamlessly with Grace’s goal to deliver quality outcomes in high-growth sectors.

Strengthening Healthcare Design

As healthcare continues to evolve, the demand for innovative facility designs that accommodate new medical technologies and patient needs has never been greater. The enhanced collaboration between Grace and CRGA is anticipated to lead to groundbreaking designs that not only meet regulatory standards but also create healing environments conducive to patient recovery. Sandy Goodman, President of CRGA Design, shared her enthusiasm for the partnership, noting that it would empower their team to extend their reach and continue delivering high-performance healthcare solutions across the nation.

Under the new arrangement, Goodman and Rolf Haarstad, Senior Vice President at CRGA, will continue to lead the firm, maintaining the strong relationships they’ve built with healthcare clients in the Mid-Atlantic region and beyond. This stability is expected to facilitate a smooth integration into the Grace family, allowing for the natural continuation of their collaborative projects and initiatives.

The Bigger Picture

This acquisition is also part of a broader trend within the healthcare design industry, where firms are increasingly merging to offer comprehensive service packages. Patrick Bernhard, Managing Director at Bernhard Capital, highlighted that collaborations like this are essential as advancements in technology fundamentally reshape patient care practices. He pointed out that ongoing investment in healthcare design is vital for adaptability and growth in an industry facing rapid innovation.

Grace Design Studios is no stranger to accolades; the firm operates out of 18 offices across multiple states including Texas, Louisiana, and Florida, and recently secured a spot on BD+C’s prestigious list of top architecture and engineering firms. This recognition underscores Grace’s commitment to excellence in the AEC field and sets a promising stage for the integration of CRGA’s specialized knowledge.

Conclusion

The acquisition of CRGA Design by Grace marks a pivotal step in scaling their healthcare design capabilities and reflects a responsive approach to the dynamic needs of the healthcare industry. As both firms unite, they are poised to set new standards in healthcare architecture, ensuring facilities are not only functional but also designed to enhance the experience of patients and caregivers alike. Looking ahead, the combined expertise of Grace and CRGA promises to deliver future-ready projects that resonate with community health values.