Harry Wheeler
Company: JCJ Architecture
Position: Principal
Bio
Harry Wheeler, AIA, ISHC, is a Principal with over 30 years of experience specializing in design innovation and client-focused service within the hotel, hospitality, and mixed-use markets. Known for his dynamic and engaging leadership style, Harry brings a deep passion for the industry and a proven ability to navigate the unique challenges of each project. His extensive network of connections with owners, operators, global brands, and strategic industry partners has been built over decades of delivering projects that embody design excellence while remaining firmly rooted in client goals and local context.
In 2023, Harry joined JCJ Architecture following a 27-year tenure at Group One Partners, a firm renowned for its expertise in hotel and hospitality projects. At Group One, Harry spearheaded initiatives to secure new business, led multidisciplinary teams, and ensured projects advanced seamlessly through design and regulatory approval processes. His reputation as a visionary designer and thought leader in the hospitality sector has led to speaking engagements at numerous industry conferences, including the NEWH, Inc. Leadership Conference.
Harry holds both a Bachelor of Architecture and a Bachelor of Architectural Engineering from the Wentworth Institute of Technology. Recognized for his contributions to the profession, he was inducted into the International Society of Hospitality Consultants (ISHC) in 2025, joining an elite group of global leaders shaping the future of the hospitality industry.
A committed advocate for collaboration and industry growth, Harry actively participates in numerous professional organizations, including the Boston Society of Architects, the American Hotel and Lodging Association, the Massachusetts Lodging Association, and the National Architectural Preservation Society. Beyond his industry roles, Harry is deeply engaged in civic and educational initiatives, serving on the Advisory Council for the Town of Weymouth and the Wentworth Institute Professional Advisory Council, where he mentors the next generation of design professionals.
Geographic Areas
Harry has led the design and development of a wide range of hospitality and hospitality-adjacent projects across the United States, bringing a deep understanding of regional markets, design standards, and regulatory frameworks. His portfolio spans full-service hotels, boutique properties, resorts, and mixed-use developments, often integrating food and beverage, wellness, and entertainment components.
Licensed in 23 states and certified by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB), Harry is positioned to practice nationwide with full reciprocity. This broad licensure enables him to seamlessly support clients with multi-state portfolios and to engage on fast-paced or phased projects without jurisdictional delays
Expertise
As a licensed architect with over 30 years of professional experience, Harry brings a deep and versatile design expertise to projects ranging from ground-up development to complex renovations and adaptive reuse of existing structures. His portfolio reflects a strong command of both contemporary and contextually sensitive design across hospitality, mixed-use, and commercial sectors.
Harry’s core strength lies in leading the early phases of design—from concept development and feasibility studies to programming and master planning. He is particularly skilled at navigating the permitting and entitlement process, working closely with local jurisdictions, planning boards, and regulatory agencies to secure approvals and advance project goals.
Beyond his architectural capabilities, Harry is a trusted advisor to his clients throughout the development lifecycle. His services include strategic site assessments, due diligence reviews, and development guidance. He routinely collaborates with brokers, financial institutions, and joint venture partners to ensure projects are well-positioned for success—balancing creative vision with financial and operational realities. Harry’s commitment to design excellence is matched by his ability to integrate the broader business and regulatory context into the planning and execution of every project.
Professional Memberships
Harry places a high value on the professional relationships and networks he has built throughout his career. These connections are foundational to his collaborative approach and continued engagement with industry best practices. He actively maintains memberships in the following professional organizations, which support his commitment to leadership, innovation, and ongoing professional development.
- AIA
- NCARB
- ISHC
- LEED
Speaking Engagements
Harry is a frequent speaker at both professional and market-specific conferences and events. He is widely recognized for his thought leadership and deep insights into architecture, interior design, hospitality, and real estate development. His ability to bridge design excellence with industry trends has made him a sought-after voice in the field.
The following is a selected list of recent speaking engagements:
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NEREJ Hospitality Summit – Moderator and Panelist
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The Lodging Conference – Panelist
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Hunter Hotel Investment Conference – Panelist
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ALIS (Americas Lodging Investment Summit) – Panelist
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NEWH – Panelist and Moderator
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BDNY and HD Expo – Panelist
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Brand Symposiums – Guest Speaker for Choice Hotels, Hilton, Hyatt, and Marriott
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Frequent presenter at corporate events and leadership retreats for national development and hospitality companies
- Also he is a routine guest lecturer ant several universities
Articles and Publications
Hotel Investment Today: How Design Can Help Drive ROI in 2025
Harford Business Journal: Increasing number of owners/investors eye office space conversions
Banker & Tradesman: Niches in Hospitality Create Redesign Demand
Representative List of Clients
Throughout his career, Harry has worked with a broad spectrum of clients—from entrepreneurial private developers to publicly traded Fortune 500 investment groups. His versatility and depth of experience allow him to adapt seamlessly to the unique goals and operating styles of each organization. Known for his strategic insight, collaborative mindset, and unwavering commitment to quality, Harry is consistently sought after as a trusted partner. He brings a high level of service, responsiveness, and design excellence to every engagement, building long-standing relationships grounded in results and mutual success.
Education
Harry holds multiple degrees from Wentworth Institute of Technology in Boston, MA, including an Associate of Engineering, a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering, and a Bachelor of Architecture. In addition to his formal education, he has completed hundreds of hours of continuing education and has participated in several accredited programs focused on business development, client relations, and leadership. This ongoing commitment to learning reflects his dedication to professional growth and staying at the forefront of both design and industry practice.