About

What Architects

The Practical:

What Architects enhances the built environment across the United States. We are qualified and experienced at crafting one-of-a-kind solutions. We blend the artistic and the functional to create forward-thinking designs that exceed expectations.

As a full service architecture firm, we offer the following design services in a variety of scopes and project types:

      Programming
      Renovation
      Additions
      New Construction
      Site Analysis
      As-Builts
      Architectural Design
      Sustainability Strategies
      Interior Design
      Interior Fitout
      Construction Documentation
      Bidding and Negotiation
      Construction Administration
      Post-Construction Services
      Marketing Plans

The Idealistic:

What Architects questions how design is done. We create extraordinary buildings that take a unique approach while fully meeting the utilitarian requirements of the client.

We design structures meant to be an integral part of the community. What Architects pushes for a deep level of communication and collaboration. We bridge gaps between neighbors and developers. We design with the goal of building connections and working hard so that each project can be designed to last.

Can we push the boundaries of design while still living in reality? The answer is up to you. What Architects is here to guide you.

Danton Spina, RA, NCARB

Principal

B.Arch: Syracuse University
MS.Arch: California Polytechnic State University

Danton has designed several buildings in the Philadelphia area. He has also worked on projects in California, Maryland, D.C., Virginia, New Jersey, Texas, Germany, and Tanzania. He has been a finalist in over a dozen international architecture competitions. His designs have won prizes such as "best community engagement" and "best craft." Danton's work has been published in Architecture + Design + Discourse (AeD Press) and most recently a book, entitled "The Love Tactic: 72 Hour Urban Action" (ARCH +). He also enjoys teaching architecture and has taught coursework at Williamson Free Trade School, CalPoly, Philadelphia University, and Jefferson University.

Danton prides himself on his strong leadership abilities and strives to work hard in everything he does. He loves creating and loves being in a high energy and fun work environment. Danton particularly excels at conceptualization and the planning phase of design. While his strengths lie in programming, modeling, and visualization, he also brings ever growing experience in residential and commercial design and construction to the table. He strives to elegantly balance clients’ needs by anticipating concerns and maintaining an open dialogue among the client and the entire design and construction team.

Interests:
Danton’s vast experience with theater, film, and game design shapes his sense of interactivity in architecture. In college, he founded an award-winning theater group for which he continues to produce and perform in New York City and Philadelphia. He was a contributor to the first season of the Emmy Award winning series, “HitRecord on TV”. He has designed sets for theater and film, and has spoken on the topic of “gameful” architecture at DesignPhiladelphia among many other conventions.