Welcoming John Harden as Partner: Leadership Through Uncertainty and Growth
2020 was a year that challenged everyone—including the team at OLSON LEWIS + Architects (OL+). Yet even amid uncertainty, opportunity emerged. Today, we’re proud to formally announce John Harden as the newest partner at OL+, recognizing his invaluable leadership and steady guidance through one of the most unprecedented years in the firm’s history.
Leading Through Crisis
John joined OL+ as a principal in January 2020. Within weeks, the world changed. A Manchester-by-the-Sea resident, John volunteered to remain on-site at the office during the early days of COVID-19, maintaining day-to-day operations as OL+ transitioned to remote work.
While many architecture firms in New England downsized, OL+ adapted—and grew. Serving the pandemic-critical sectors of Life Sciences, Residential, and Animal Care, the firm saw demand surge. John played a key role in planning staffing strategies, implementing safety protocols, and welcoming new team members into a rapidly evolving workplace.
Throughout these challenges, John modeled calm, creative leadership and fostered a spirit of collaboration across teams and disciplines.
Growing to Meet New Demands
From supporting frontline construction projects to designing residential spaces transformed by the pandemic, OL+ continued to serve clients when and where it mattered most. Under John’s guidance, the firm absorbed rising project volume while preserving its client-focused, human-centered design approach.
His steady presence in the Manchester office allowed OL+ to integrate new staff without a traditional orientation process, ensuring that each team member felt welcomed and connected.
A Vision for the Future
Now, as OL+ transitions beyond pandemic operations, we proudly welcome John Harden as Partner. His architectural skill, dedication to client service, and passion for nurturing a healthy, progressive workplace culture make him an invaluable leader for the next chapter of OL+.
John and his fellow partners look forward to what’s next: creating Beautiful Places that support life, learning, healing, and discovery—today and in the future.
Get in Touch
John Harden, Partner
📧 harden@olsonlewis.com
📞 Office: 978-704-6256 | Cell: 978-473-9750
📍 Visit us at 17 Elm Street, Manchester-by-the-Sea, MA
