The main office of Pelli Clarke Pelli Architects overlooks the bustle of Chapel Street in downtown New Haven, Connecticut, across from Yale University and in the same spot where Cesar Pelli and Fred Clarke founded the firm over thirty years ago. In 2000, a Manhattan studio was added under the leadership of Rafael Pelli.

Despite the scale and breadth of the firm’s work, visitors are often surprised by the intimate and friendly feeling of the studios. The open, naturally-​lit spaces have an air of energetic focus as small teams of architects meet to discuss their projects and young designers concentrate on the business of making buildings — whether they’re just down the street or on the other side of the globe.