GSBS' guiding philosophy of collaboration also describes its founding. The origins were with Abram Gillies who helped establish Brotherton / Gillies Architects in 1978. Michael Stransky joined the firm in 1979, and it became Brotherton / Gillies / Stransky the following year. In 1983, designer David Brems started his own firm, and by 1986, David Brems + Associates merged with Gillies/Stransky (Brotherton took the Denver portion of the practice in 1984). Stephen Smith joined the firm in 1986, and by 1989 Gillies Stransky Brems Smith was established. In 1986, GSB architect Tom Batenhorst formed GSB/Batenhorst in Fort Worth, Texas.

Under the direction of Abram Gillies and Michael Stransky, GSBS built its practice around the design of complicated, technical buildings and prided itself on the accuracy of its construction documents and its unusually good working relationship with contractors.

With David Brems, a leader in passive solar design and daylighting, GSBS pioneered new designs for office buildings, residences, religious buildings, recreation centers, industrial facilities, and sports facilities.

Stephen Smith, one of the few licensed architects who is also a certified planner, strengthened GSBS's capabilities and led efforts to re-write the Salt Lake City Zoning Ordinance, create the Salt Lake Open Space Plan, and conduct master plans for the Utah Judicial System and the Utah Academic Libraries.

Always committed to contributing to their profession and community, GSBS principals and staff have played many roles in the local, regional, and national chapters of professional organizations including the American Institute of Architects, American Society of Landscape Architects, International Interior Designers Association, and the American Institute of Certified Planners. Additionally, we participate in scores of non-profit organizations, charities, and government committees. For our last two Salt Lake City office locations, we have purchased and renovated buildings in transitional neighborhoods.

GSBS now offices in the Henderson Block building-the first produce warehouse constructed along Salt Lake City's rail lines. We recently remodeled this building, giving special attention to keeping the 103-year-old building in its original appearance, while at the same time creating a productive work environment. The accompanying photos are of our Salt Lake City offices.

Stephen Smith, the GSBS history buff, points out that Thomas Jefferson was a good architect because he was a good citizen. We need to understand our community's characteristics-its strengths and weaknesses, its history, and its aspirations-before we can design buildings and landscapes that work within their contexts. At GSBS, we believe that we need to be good citizens to become good architects.