We are a full-service, Design + Build firm located in Charlottesville, VA dedicated to solving creative challenges with character and quality.
Creative Design
Gropen’s in-house design team is experienced in both graphic and industrial design. With fabrication in the same facility, our designers have a holistic perspective regarding their projects. Their insight and talent translate into clean, effective, and beautiful finished works.
In addition to standard print design—including branding, business cards, posters, etc.—Gropen uses the latest computer technology to draft and specify complex architectural signage and exhibits. For larger projects, we typically provide scaled photocompositions and detailed prototypes. Professional photography is available on request.
Custom Fabrication
Production abilities include routine and custom fabrication of aluminum, wood, acrylic, stone, composites, and various composite panels. We also frequently work with tempered glass, specialty adhesives, and custom hardware. We are experienced with TIG welding, CNC routing, sand blasting, hand carving, screen-printing, and engraving.
Our large-format high-resolution printers can produce photo-quality prints on a wide variety of substrates. The media may be banner, canvas, highly formable, rigid, transparent, or adhesive-backed.
Our downdraft spray booth is 25 feet long; we use it with low-VOC acrylic polyurethane paints. We can match color to practically all specifications imaginable. Our finished coatings have exceptional exterior life. Our facility allows for edge polishing and profiling on premises
Project Management
Our Project Management team oversees all aspects of our client’s projects. From Pre-design consultation to managing the production and installation, guaranteeing the successful completion through Punch list and Project closeout. Gropen collaborates with our clients to keep a transparent line of communication to maintain a working partnership to surpass expectations.
Installation
Our professional installation team takes pride and care in executing your project’s vision, and in putting the final touches on each project. We have a history of working with organizations on highly sensitive, historically significant sites like Monticello (a UNESCO World Heritage site), Montpelier, and the University of Virginia. Our installation services, including casework and artifact mounting, reflect the highest quality museum standards.
Code Review/Permitting
Our Permitting team reviews, prepares, and files all necessary Signage and Architectural Review permits by municipality. Our team thoroughly reviews respective zoning codes and prepares a comprehensive application to provide our clients with a worry free permitting process. Our Permitting team works closely with our Design and Project Management team to ensure a seamless process.