We design for
THRIVING COMMUNITIES
URBAN AGRICULTURE
FOOD SECURITY
health & wellness
WE DESIGN FOR LIFE.
​
REGENERATIVE ARCHITECTURE & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Ginkgo Vernacular is a multi-disciplinary architecture and development firm specializing in the design and realization of regenerative structures, infrastructures, and equitable communities. Based in Philadelphia, our work takes place across all scales from the single structure to the urban ecosystem, and our clients range from the individual home owner or real estate investor to large scale commercial developers and municipalities. We specialize in the creation of thriving urban communities which prioritize human and ecological health, resilience, and long-term vitality.
WHAT WE DO
HOME RENOVATIONS
& NEW CONSTRUCTION
We assist homeowners, developers, and real estate investors with customized designs and construction drawings for both rehabs and new construction projects.
COMMERCIAL ARCHITECTURE
& INTERIOR FITOUT
Investing in upgrades for your commercial property or looking to customize space for your new venture? Let us handle the build-out while you focus on the business.
SUSTAINABLE OPERATIONS
CONSULTING
Looking to save money and energy on your existing property? We can help you develop an energy upgrade strategy that minimizes payback time and maximizes your ROI.
OUR MISSION
​
The intention behind Ginkgo Vernacular is to design and construct functional, beautiful, and lasting structures that serve not only their present occupants but many generations to come. Through creative systems design, material selection, and construction techniques, a Ginkgo project is designed for net-positive impact on its site and community in alignment with principles of regenerative development. As this company grows, it is our hope and intention to define a new urban vernacular that prioritizes beauty and value, regeneration and resources, people and planet.
OUR STORY
Founded by Heather Medlin in 2018, Ginkgo Vernacular was created to combine her passions for design, wellness, and sustainability into a full-time production. After spending the first six years of her career in healthcare architecture, Heather decided to launch her own practice and build a team to focus on the design and construction of structures and communities in which people spend the majority of their time.
Guided by a belief that our environments strongly influence our actions and lifestyle choices, the Ginkgo Vernacular team aims to create spaces that support and encourage healthy, active lifestyles while positively impacting the communities around them and revitalizing the urban ecosystems which support them.
​
​
