SANTA ANA, CA—Planning and design firm MVE Institutional has transformed itself into SVA Architects Inc. The rebranding, which comes as the firm recently observed its 10-year anniversary as its own entity distinct from MVE Group, solidifies the firm's identity in the design world.

The newly named firm will be led by Ernesto Vasquez and Robert Simons. Known for creating environments that are socially and environmentally responsible as well as economically viable, Vasquez is widely renowned as a community advocate and leader. His designs incorporate smart-growth principals, specializing in public/private partnerships with universities, cities, county governments, housing authorities, transit authorities, K-12 schools, mixed-use complexes and international developments.

Simons leads the firm's design practices in creating learning and living environments that aim to improve the quality of local communities while enhancing the experience of all participants. He specializes in the design and planning of higher-education and K-12 facilities, expansion and modernization programs and planning and architecture for student housing, civic, recreation, cultural, community, public safety and commercial spaces.

According to Vasquez, “This rebranding will help our firm be more reflective of who we are today. We will continue to offer our expertise to give outstanding service to our clients.”

Simons adds the firm will strive to offer the best of both worlds to its clients. “The experience of our leaders is typical of that found at the larger design firms, but we are smaller, allowing us to be more nimble and accommodate our clients in ways that larger firms often can't.”

As GlobeSt.com reported in November 2013, Vasquez, a founding partner of MVE Group, moved from his position as officer of the firm to become chairman and CEO of related company MVE Institutional. Vasquez had served in his former capacity for 37 years.

The move was to allow Vasquez to focus exclusively on MVE Institutional. His transition to full-time leadership at the firm was a result of the company's rapid growth over the past decade. MVE Institutional has received numerous awards, including several Gold Nuggets and LEED certifications.