Redesign of the Roundhouse: RVA Architecture’s Vision Led by Modesto Bigas-Valedon
RVA Architecture is honored to have been jury-selected to present a redesign for a Philadelphia landmark. The Roundhouse is the former headquarters of the Philadelphia Police. Geddes Brecher Qualls and Cunningham designed this iconic mid-building.
The Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia and Docomomo US/Greater Philadelphia host the Roundhouse Reimagined Symposium. RVA’s Director of Operations, Modesto Bigas-Valedon, AIA, will present “Casting a New Vision for the Roundhouse”. His redesign focuses on the Roundhouse as a space that unites people, culture, and community.
The event will bring together architects, preservationists, and civic leaders to explore new futures for this iconic but complex structure.
Complicated History transformed into a Community Renewal
The Philadelphia Police Administration Building, known as the Roundhouse, was completed in 1963. It was designed by the architectural Firm Geddes, Brecher, Qualls & Cunningham. Its curving, precast-concrete form represented a new era of civic architecture. It was considered both progressive in design and intent. The building’s distinctive circular geometry and modernist façade made it a landmark of the city.
However, over the decades, the Roundhouse became associated with the city’s difficult social and political chapters. As the headquarters of the Philadelphia Police Department, it became a symbol of tension between law enforcement and the communities it served. This period saw widespread civil unrest and a strong push for institutional reform.
After nearly sixty years, the Police Department vacated the Roundhouse in 2022. They relocated to a new headquarters at 400 North Broad Street. The move reflected the need for updated facilities. The change was also an opportunity to reconsider the building’s future role in the city’s evolving civic landscape.
The Roundhouse Reimagined
At the symposium, Modesto Bigas-Valedon will present RVA Architecture’s concept for the Roundhouse. The proposal seeks to honor the building’s architectural legacy while exploring how a benevolent design can reconnect it with the public.
Rather than focusing solely on the building as an artifact, Modesto’s vision treats the Roundhouse as a living framework. A framework capable of supporting education, culture, health, and community engagement. This design invites Philadelphians to imagine how a once-controversial landmark can be reborn as a place for inclusion, reflection, and progress.
Redesigning with Purpose
The redesign of the Philadelphia Roundhouse offers more than a new use for an existing building. It represents a chance to redefine how civic architecture reflects the people it serves. Modesto’s vision demonstrates how design can acknowledge history while creating opportunities for connection, healing, and opportunity.
By blending his technical expertise and urban design experience, the concept proposes a future that respects the Roundhouse’s architectural significance while reinterpreting it for a modern Philadelphia.
About Modesto Bigas-Valedon AIA, LEED
As Director of Operations at RVA, Modesto Bigas-Valedon brings more than 25 years of experience in leadership, urban development, and organizational strategy. He holds a Bachelor of Architecture from Cornell University and a Master’s in Urban Design with Distinction from Harvard University.
His portfolio includes award-winning and LEED Gold and Platinum-rated projects throughout the East Coast. These span public, private, healthcare, and large-scale developments. As a member of the Philadelphia Latino community, Modesto approaches every project with a focus on cultural context, inclusivity, and social impact.
At RVA, Modesto plays a key role in shaping firm-wide strategies, advancing design excellence while improving internal processes and client collaboration.
About the Roundhouse Reimagined Symposium
The Roundhouse Reimagined Symposium, organized by the Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia, brings together leading voices in architecture and design to explore the next chapter for this civic landmark. RVA Architecture is proud to contribute to this dialogue.
For more information on the event and its participants, visit the Preservation Alliance event page.
About RVA Architecture
RVA Architecture brings over 30 years of expertise in architectural design and project management for healthcare environments, serving outpatient clinics, hospitals, assisted living facilities, and medical offices. Known for an enduring partnership with Select Medical Group, the Firm has contributed to designing over 5,000 outpatient clinics nationwide, along with extensive hospital and assisted living projects. The team’s hands-on approach ensures a comprehensive service offering—from planning and aesthetic concepts to construction management—while prioritizing patient experience and upholding client integrity through focused, creative, and dedicated solutions. Learn more about our services.