Announcement

McMillan Pazdan Smith (MPS) is announcing its acquisition of Smolen Emr Ilkovitch Architects (SEI) of Rockville, Maryland. This partnership expands MPS’s presence into the U.S. Mid-Atlantic with a new studio and grows the reach of the firm’s K12 architecture, interior design, planning, and advisory practice to clients in Maryland, Northern Virginia, and the surrounding region. The addition reinforces the firm’s place among the top 25 K-12 architecture practices in the United States. 

“We are excited to welcome SEI to the MPS firm family. The SEI team shares our commitment to purposeful and expert design and project execution, exceptional client service, and deep community–centered relationships and presence,” says Chad Cousins, CEO, McMillan Pazdan Smith. “Together, we will support the continued growth, vibrancy, and sustainability of the DMV region with long term community investments, and industry-leading design, planning, and advisory value.”


Gaithersburg

A new emergency veterinary provider is set to make its debut in Montgomery County. VEG ER for Pets, also known as Veterinary Emergency Group, has signed on to take over a portion of the former Party City space in Gaithersburg’s Kentlands neighborhood, which closed in early 2025.

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Clarksburg

The North Face is set to open a new store at Clarksburg Premium Outlets (22705 Clarksburg Road), adding to the growing list of national brands at the shopping destination. Known globally for its outdoor apparel, footwear, and equipment, the brand’s arrival gives residents a more convenient option for gear that previously often required a trip to outlets in places like Hagerstown or Leesburg.

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