Honoring the Life and Legacy of John Merkle, TMS Founder

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of one of our founders, acclaimed architect and community leader John Merkle. Since 1984, John has and will continue to represent all that we strive to honor here at TMS. The compassion, detail, and thought he put into each and every one of his endeavors set the tone and laid a foundation of accountability, thoroughness, and personal justification that we strive to emulate as professionals, and as human beings. 

After graduating from the New York Institute of Technology with a Bachelor of Science in Architecture in 1969, John embraced life in the industry, working in both New Hampshire and New York. For some time, he also served as an academic program instructor at the University of New Hampshire, leading a “Management of Physical Structures” course within the Hotel Administration program.

In 1984, John joined forces with another young architect from MIT, William “Bill” Soupcoff. The partnership of these two would endure for over 30 years, and create a legacy that lasted long after their retirements, creating some of the finest architectural designs in New England. 

From unique residential projects to large-scale renovations, John had a passion for the art of architecture, finding inspiration in creating distinctive design solutions for each venture, whether it be making the most out of a 600’ square foot home or resolving life safety concerns in the historic Wentworth Hotel. 

One distinguishing characteristic of John’s was his passion and ability to save and restore celebrated historical structures throughout New England. Throughout his career, John made his mark in the renovations of the iconic Music Hall in Portsmouth, NH, the Wentworth by the Sea Hotel, and the Bridges House (the New Hampshire Governor’s residence), just to name a few. He served as the President of the New Hampshire Preservation Alliance for some time, also serving on the board, and was an active member of the group up until his time of passing.

Most recently, in 2025, John was awarded the New Hampshire Preservation Alliance Award for Excellence in Preservation, Planning, and Civic Engagement. Prior to this, he earned recognition for his work through various awards and leadership position acquisitions. In addition to the NH Preservation Alliance, John also held leadership roles with AIA New England, AIA New Hampshire, and the Exeter Historic District Commission.

John’s impact on the architectural and design community spanned not only New England but all along the East Coast, as he was registered in the states of New Hampshire, Maine, Massachusetts, Florida, New York, and Vermont, and took part in the NCARB as well.

As we remember John and his architectural footprint on his community, let’s take a look back at some of his noteworthy projects. 

 

Wentworth by the Sea Hotel, New Castle, New Hampshire (2003)

Originally built in 1874, the Wentworth by the Sea Hotel experienced eras of flourishing business and times of struggle and changing ownership throughout its history. After the most recent 20 year-span of neglect and deterioration, TMS was tasked with bringing the historic site back to life. This involved restoring the original foundation, reinforcing the precarious wooden structure with a steel skeleton, and adding two new steel frame wings to each side of the existing structure. The hotel reopened in May of 2003, and went on to earn the 2004 AIANH Award of Excellence and the 2007 National Trust for Historic Preservation Honor Award. 

American Independence Museum, Exeter, New Hampshire (2004)

This project involved the relocation and restoration of the 18th century Folsom Tavern which was moved to a new site on the grounds of the museum. This preservation project gave the museum additional educational and display space and was recognized in 2008 with a New Hampshire Preservation Alliance award.

The Music Hall, Portsmouth, New Hampshire (2008)

This restoration of this landmark theatre has been accomplished in several phases, with the first efforts going to restore the proscenium arch and ceiling, with work proceeding towards a major change of the front entry lobby. The structure has been named an American Treasure for the Arts and was awarded a 2008 New Hampshire Preservation Alliance Award. 

Phillips Exeter Academy Faculty Housing, Exeter, New Hampshire (2005/2008)

A group of detached single-family faculty homes built within the campus proper to strengthen the sense of community and ease of pedestrian access to the campus and downtown Exeter. The second phase was awarded LEED certification for its sustainability and energy efficiency.

Bridges House, Concord, NH (2012)

The Bridges House in Concord, NH is officially considered the residence of the Governor of New Hampshire. The house, on land occupied by Revolutionary Veteran Joshua Thompson, was built by Charles Graham in about 1835. Designed in a sophisticated, substantial, yet deliberately simple architectural style known as the Greek Revival, the home was gifted to the state by the former Governor and Senator Styles Bridges for use by the state’s governors and their families. The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. 

 

Cottage Revival, Exeter, New Hampshire (2007)

Over the years, this in-town cottage had been repeatedly renovated. Rather than raze the 112-year-old home, a major restoration was pursued. This project involved the challenge of making a small home feel larger, without expanding the building footprint and to make the small space more efficient and aesthetically integrated. This project received a 2008 Excellence in Architecture Award from AIA NH. 

Castle in the Clouds, Moultonborough, NH (2012)

Opened to the public in 1959, this mountaintop estate, built in 1913, was originally home to Tom and Olive Plant. High up in the Ossipee Mountain Range, this home is a unique example of Arts and Crafts Architecture in New England, expressing that aesthetic movement’s philosophy of living in harmony with nature. The house’s skillful craftsmanship is exhibited all throughout both the exterior and interior, and features several technological innovations of the early 20th century. With Tom Plant’s desire to maintain the integrity of his mountaintop estate property and the stewardship of the families who owned the property since his time, the Lucknow estate has survived in close to its original state. Owned and operated by Castle Preservation Society since 2006, the property is open to the public for guests to enjoy and appreciate the beautiful architecture and its magnificent mountainside setting.

Ocean Front Residence, Seabrook, New Hampshire (2000)

In this residence, the clients requested a modestly-sized year-round beachfront home that combined warmth with open spaces and modern functionality. The challenge was to develop a three-story building that had height restrictions of less than 28 feet on a lot that was 50 x 100 feet in size. 

Farmhouse Restoration, Rye, NH (1988)

This project involved a major renovation and addition to an existing 2,000 square foot residence. The program called for an additional 1,800 square feet of living space as well as an extensive renovation to the existing first floor of the house. The home’s existing footprint could not be significantly expanded, so a second story was added to provide room for an additional bedroom and Primary Bedroom suite. 

Other Projects Include:

Horizon’s Edge in York ME (1998)

Kittery Landing, Kittery ME (1999)

30 Penhallow Street, Portsmouth NH (2001)

Shaker Village Visitor’s Center, Canterbury, NH (2001)

Woodland Solace, Stratham NH (2003)

Family Friendly Renovation, Manchester, NH (2007)

The Music Hall Loft, Portsmouth, NH (2011)

The Music Hall Concessions, Portsmouth, NH (2011)

 

With John’s architectural wisdom came his adept perception of humanity and the art of life. With a passion for fairness, ethics, and outstanding dedication to his craft, he was able to create so many special designs, personal connections, and profound positive impacts on and for the people he was surrounded by. Laying the foundation for our firm over four decades ago, little did John know the influence he would have on the architectural community and the people of New England for years to come. We strive each day to personify what John stood for, and will honor his legacy with persistence and enthusiasm towards making the world a better place, one day and design at a time. 

For those who would like to learn more about John’s life and legacy, his obituary can be found here.