About
We solve problems.
Motley Design Group specializes in renovation, historic preservation, and urban design. Our portfolio spans many building types and sectors, but a single thread runs through all of it: we take on work that demands ingenuity, persistence, and practical problem-solving.
We are among Arizona's leaders in historic preservation, trusted to steward buildings that carry real cultural and community weight. Our new construction work reflects the same sensibility, drawn to projects with difficult site constraints, complex zoning, or unusual programs that require thoughtful solutions rather than standard responses.
What sets us apart is not a signature style or celebrated aesthetic. It is a reputation, earned over years, for delivering buildings that are functional, beautiful, and cost-effective. Our clients value an approach that is grounded and reliable, where the architecture serves the project rather than the other way around.
Whatever your building type or circumstances, we bring the same rigor and care to every project. We would welcome the chance to learn about yours.
Robert (Bob) Graham AIA NCARB
Principal Architect
Bob's 40 years of experience in architecture has focused on historic preservation, urban infill and rehabilitation projects. He is a native Phoenician and the product of Arizona schools, receiving his B. Arch from ASU in 1985.
Bob is a leader in the historic preservation field. He has many significant rehabilitation projects and historical studies to his credit. In addition, he has been deeply involved with the preservation of Arizona’s heritage as a private advocate as well as through his involvement with preservation groups.
Mr. Graham is very active in the community and leads or serves on a number of boards and commissions related to preservation, historical education, and urban form. As a downtown resident he has been active in promoting the sensible redevelopment of central Phoenix.
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President, Arizona Preservation Foundation 1990-2
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APF President’s Award, 1996
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Young Architect Citation, AIA Arizona 1997
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Arizona Heritage Preservation Award, 1999
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Phoenix Central City Village Planning Committee (2013-2014 Chair)
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Member, Phoenix Design Review Committee (2025 Chair)
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President/Founder, Grand Avenue Rail Project
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President, Grand Avenue Members Association
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President, Arizona Street Railway Museum
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Founder and Band Leader, Phoenix Pioneer Band
Roberta Graham
Preservation Planner, Architectural Designer
Roberta Graham has dual degrees in architectural design and in planning, Her 25 years of experience has included site planning, landscape design, architectural design, and office management. She has worked at land planning, landscape, and architectural firms. She also serves as principal office manager for Motley Design Group.
Derek Deschler, RA
NCARB, CLARB
Associate Architect
Derek comes to Motley Design Group with 12 years of architectural experience, 8 as a Registered Architect. He received his Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from the University of Illinois and his Master of Architecture from Arizona State. His background includes work on public works, aviation, office/warehouse , and multifamily projects. In addition to his architectural design and management capabilities, he has a strong background in landscape architecture.
Anjali Ramohalli
Architectural Designer
Anjali joined MDG in 2023 As a recent graduate of the University of Arizona's architectural program, where she received her B. Arch. in 2022. Since joining the firm she has supported a wide variety of projects, including tenant improvements, residential remodels, historic rehabilitations, public facilities, and industrial projects. She aims to design humanistic projects that inspire positive social change, support local communities, and prioritize overall health and well being.
Deeksha Kankanala
Architectural Designer
Deeksha is a recent graduate of ASU’s Masters of Architecture program following her degree in civil engineering. Her interest in conservation and restoration of historic resources led her to apply with Motley Design, where she has worked since March, 2025. Deeksha’s strength is her balance of artistic creativity, shown in her design work as well as her pursuits in painting and pottery, with the practical aspects of construction, advanced by her engineering background.