Though under multiple names, RBS Design Group Architecture has been an integral part of Owensboro for almost 45 years. The business’s capabilities have changed through mergers, name changes, and growth and evolution, but one thing remains constant: quality personal service.
Esteemed architect Otto Ranney launched an architecture firm in Owensboro in 1978. He joined forces with Terry Blake the following year to create Ranney and Blake Architects. In 1984, they merged with Strehl Engineering to become Ranney, Blake, and Strehl Architecture and Engineering.
Eleven years later, Mike Ranney, Jim Ivy, and Craig Thomas became partners and established RBS Design Group, PSC. as the company’s new official name. They opened a second location in Louisville in 2021 to serve clients better throughout the Commonwealth.
“Now, heading into our 45th year of business, Craig Thomas, Mike Ranney, and Jeanie Cannon lead our talented and knowledgeable staff,” said marketing coordinator Sidney Bennett. “We take pride in being small enough to provide great personal service yet large enough to handle projects of any size and scope.”
The company offers various innovative design services for new and existing facilities.
“Our goal is always to meet our clients’ goals and to improve their work environment,” Bennett said. “As an architecture firm, we offer a range of services, including master planning, feasibility studies, and forensic architecture.”
Bennett said the company uses the latest technology, including 3D renderings and virtual reality, to bring visions to life during the planning phase.
RBS’s footprint spans Owensboro and Daviess County, including working with local city and county officials to design multiple parks, fire stations, the Edge Ice Center, and the Owensboro Regional Farmers Market.
They’ve also partnered with the Owensboro and Daviess County Public School districts to create several safe learning environments for kids in the community.
“RBS has had a hand in helping Owensboro develop for years, and we find it extremely important to be involved with our community,” she said. “We are also proud to partner with our 2 amazing local school districts, who continually look out for the well-being of the community’s youth.”
RBS has also provided architectural needs to local nonprofits to assist in underserved parts of the community.
“Our team is honored to be able to give back to the community in which we live and work,” Bennett said.
Learn more about RBS Design Group on its website here, or search RBS Design Group across all major social media outlets.
Bennett said the team at RBS is a partner from concept to completion, seeing each project through.
“We strive to create designs that will positively impact the organization and the community it serves,” she said. “We lead the client and design team through the process, giving the owner options and following through with what they choose – bringing their needs and vision to life.
The Chamber Member of the Week program is a Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce membership benefit. Founded in 1913, the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce has worked to provide valuable benefits and services to member businesses and individuals for over a century.
Today, with a membership base of nearly 1,000, the Chamber is a guiding force in community and business development initiatives, serving as the center of business advocacy for the Greater Owensboro region.
To learn more about becoming the Chamber Member of the Week or inquire about Chamber membership, contact Shelly Nichols, Chamber Vice President, at 270-926-1860 or [email protected].
