Gabriela Shelburne to Lead Studio G Architects

The firm founder Gail Sullivan will transition to retirement as Shelburne steps into the role of managing principal.

Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in People

Isometric editorial illustration of a miniature apartment building model on a drafting table, representing architectural leadership transition. — Gabriela Shelburne will succeed founder Gail Sullivan as the managing principal of Boston-based Studio G Architects starting in January 2027. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Gabriela Shelburne will take over as managing principal of the Boston-based Studio G Architects on January 1, 2027. This leadership change comes as firm founder Gail Sullivan begins a planned transition toward retirement.

Why it matters

The change marks a significant leadership transition for the firm, which has operated in Boston for more than 30 years. Shelburne, who became a principal in 2024, will oversee management, staff recruitment, and business development.

Studio G Architects has completed major projects including the 68,000 square foot Franklin Cummings Tech building and the 46-unit Residences at Lawrence Hill. The firm is also preparing for the opening of the 23-unit 273 Highland development.

The players

Gabriela Shelburne

She is the incoming managing principal who has been with the firm since 2011.

Gail Sullivan

She is the founder of Studio G Architects who established the firm over 30 years ago.

Studio G Architects

This is a Boston-based architecture firm known for completing developments like Franklin Cummings Tech.

The details

Shelburne has been with the firm since 2011 and has focused on incorporating client workshops and visioning sessions into the design process. The 273 Highland development project, consisting of 23 units, is currently scheduled to open in November 2026.

Shelburne joined Studio G Architects in 2011.
Shelburne was named principal in 2024.
273 Highland is set to open in November 2026.
Shelburne becomes managing principal on January 1, 2027.
Sullivan is scheduled to retire on December 31, 2027.

Market Landscape

The shift at Studio G Architects follows the established industry pattern of founder-led firms passing control to long-tenured principals. This transition aims to maintain the firm's competitive standing in the Boston market after three decades of operation.

Clients currently working with the firm can expect continuity in business development and recruitment processes under Shelburne's management. The upcoming opening of the 273 Highland project serves as a key milestone for the firm during this transitional period.

The takeaway

Successful firm transitions often rely on long-term preparation and the gradual shifting of management responsibilities to internal talent. Stakeholders should monitor upcoming project openings to gauge the firm's operational stability during this leadership handoff.