New York, renowned as the city that never sleeps, presents an exceptional landscape for residential living. Its iconic skyline, bustling neighborhoods, and rich cultural tapestry make it a unique destination. Here, various housing options cater to diverse preferences, from elegant apartments in historic brownstones to contemporary condominiums gracing the skyline.
New York’s distinctive charm lies in its unparalleled convenience. Proximity to subways, parks, and essential amenities ensures a seamless urban experience. The city’s vibrant ambiance offers many activities, from attending Broadway productions and exploring world-class museums to savoring culinary delights at trendy eateries.
For families, New York provides access to top-tier educational institutions and abundant green spaces for recreational pursuits. The city’s robust job market across various industries offers unparalleled professional opportunities.
Here are New York’s eight best residential architects if you’re considering building a home in the city.
Bates Masi Architects
132 North Main St, 2nd Floor, East Hampton, NY 11937
Bates Masi + Architects LLC, an architectural firm with a history that stretches back 50 years in New York City and the East End of Long Island, takes a unique approach to each project. It starts by delving into extensive research on architecture, materials, craftsmanship, and the environment. This thorough exploration results in distinctive solutions tailored to the specific needs of individuals or groups.
Attention to detail and a comprehensive approach to design have always been central to its philosophy. The firm’s portfolio encompasses a wide spectrum, including urban and suburban residences, schools, offices, hotels, restaurants, retail spaces, and furniture in the United States, Central America, and the Caribbean.
With a remarkable 223 design awards received since 2003 and features in notable national and international publications, such as The New York Times, New York Magazine, and Architectural Digest, Bates Masi + Architects LLC continues to leave a lasting imprint on the world of architecture.
1100 Architect
550 Seventh Ave, 22nd Floor, New York, NY 10018
1100 Architect, a New York-based firm, has crafted exceptional architecture since its founding in 1983 by David Piscuskas and Juergen Riehm. With an unwavering commitment to site-specificity, it designs buildings that harmonize with their surroundings. Each of its creations is a unique embodiment of its environment, rooted in history and environmentally sensitive.
The architectural studio is renowned for its meticulous attention to detail. It brings a thoughtful touch to every project, considering the essence of each material chosen, resulting in enduring architectural marvels that engage the senses.
Recognized for its excellence, 1100 Architects has received accolades, such as the 2019 Interior Design NYCXDesign Award for Large Apartment (Greenwich Street Loft). The firm is also affiliated with respected organizations like the American Institute of Architects (AIA).
With David Piscuskas and Juergen Riehm at the company’s helm, both accomplished architects in their own right, 1100 Architect continues to shape the world with original and context-sensitive designs.
BKSK Architects
230 W. 38th St 16th Fl, New York, NY 10018
BKSK Architects, established in 1985, embodies a core philosophy: that design carries profound significance and impact. This principle remains central to the firm’s identity, even as it has grown.
As a firm of over 45 dedicated architects and interior designers, BKSK Architects offers a comprehensive suite of services from initial conceptual studies to post-occupancy evaluations. Headquartered in the vibrant heart of New York City, the firm stands as a leader in sustainable architecture. It has an intimate understanding of urban environments’ intricacies and environmental sustainability demands.
BKSK Architects has garnered recognition for outstanding work, receiving the prestigious American Institute of Architects (AIA) New York State Design Award, Merit, in 2023. The firm maintains affiliations with esteemed organizations like the AIA and the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).
Under the leadership of principals Harry Kendall and Joan Krevlin, both highly accomplished in their fields, BKSK Architects combines expertise, a commitment to sustainability, and a reverence for meaningful design to shape spaces that resonate with purpose and consequence.
The Brooklyn Studio of Architecture
45 Main St, Studio 824, Brooklyn, NY 11201
The Brooklyn Studio, founded in 1997, is a prominent name in architecture and interior design. Committed to the restoration and enhancement of New York City’s historic heritage, it weaves a tapestry of extraordinary spaces while upholding the age-old traditions of craftsmanship.
The studio understands that architecture and design can bring communities together, enrich lives, and ignite joy. With a team of 30 architects, interior designers, and creatives, The Brooklyn Studio embraces diversity and inclusivity, with team members from five continents and many languages spoken within its walls.
Its commitment to excellence is recognized within the industry and extends to affiliations like the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Brooklyn. Its work has graced the pages of esteemed publications, such as New York YIMBY.
At the helm is Brendan Coburn, the founder and partner who has steered the studio’s growth and success over the past two and a half decades. With a rich and diverse portfolio, including historic preservation, adaptive reuse, and cultural institutions, The Brooklyn Studio continues to be a beacon of architectural brilliance in the heart of New York City.
GRADE New York
180 Varick St, Suite 916, New York, NY 10014
GRADE New York is a comprehensive architecture and interior design firm specializing in crafting contemporary living spaces with a touch of luxury, all tailored to suit the modern lifestyle with a global perspective. With a commitment to translating individual needs, desires, and aspirations into exquisitely designed environments that radiate sophistication and artistic flair, GRADE New York is a leader in luxury residential design.
Its expertise extends to various projects, ranging from New York City apartments, lofts, and landmark residential conversions to expansive residential real estate developments. GRADE New York’s design prowess is not confined to the city; it also encompasses homes in the Greater New York area, including Westchester, Connecticut, the Hamptons, and various international cities.
Founded in 2004, GRADE New York firmly believes that integrating architecture and interior design leads to harmonious and aesthetically pleasing solutions. With a commitment to excellence and a global perspective, GRADE New York continues to make its mark in luxury residential design.
Workshop/APD
39 West 38th St 7th Floor, New York, NY 10018
Workshop/APD is a design firm that stands out because of its diverse team and wide-ranging expertise. It brings together architects, interior designers, product designers, planners, engineers, and branding experts, making it capable of handling projects of all shapes and sizes. Workshop/APD’s unwavering commitment to innovation while honoring tradition has helped it establish an excellent reputation.
Its unique design style is impossible to replicate because it’s born from the perfect blend of talents, project locations, and client needs. Each project the team undertakes is detailed and crafted with intention, resulting in inviting and distinctive spaces.
With accolades like the 2023 Elle Decor Magazine’s A-List recognition and affiliations with professional organizations like the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the National Council of Architectural Registration Board (NCARB), Workshop/APD’s commitment to excellence is evident. The firm’s principals, including Andrew Kotchen, Matt Berman, and Thomas Zoli, bring extensive knowledge and experience to the company.
Balzer & Tuck Architecture
468 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
For the past 20 years, Balzer and Tuck Architecture has crafted well-thought-out buildings and spaces with a lasting touch of quality and character. Its team of architects, designers, and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design-certified professionals (LEED) works diligently to assist clients in creating efficient and thoughtful homes, retreats, and businesses that contribute positively to the community.
Balzer and Tuck specializes in services like master planning, architectural programming and design, and interior design. Its diverse portfolio showcases expertise in various architectural domains, from single and multifamily residences to adaptive and mixed-use spaces and commercial and institutional buildings.
Notable recognitions, such as the 2021 American Institute of Architects (AIA) Eastern New York Honor Award for Travis Heights, underscore its commitment to excellence. With a strong affiliation with AIA and LEED accreditation, Balzer and Tuck Architecture is led by experienced principals Brett Balzer and Michael Tuck, who bring two decades of expertise.
Since its founding, Balzer and Tuck Architecture has been a dedicated partner in pursuing well-crafted, enduring architectural solutions that harmonize with the surroundings and enrich communities.
Jaklitsch / Gardner Architects
453 West 17th St 4th Flr, New York, NY 10011
Jaklitsch / Gardner Architects, founded in 1998, is a respected design firm with a global reputation for its dedication to outstanding design, meticulous material research, and a strong commitment to craftsmanship. At its core, the company believes that design can convey shared values, relevance, and significance, with a keen focus on context, materials, form, and sustainability.
Under the leadership of principals Stephan Jaklitsch and Mark Gardner, who are accomplished professionals in their field, Jaklitsch / Gardner Architects has garnered recognition and respect in the architectural community. Its work has been acknowledged through various awards and affiliations, demonstrating its commitment to excellence.
With a portfolio that has earned its place in publications like Global Design News, Jaklitsch / Gardner Architects continues to push the boundaries of architectural innovation. The firm’s dedication to design that speaks to the collective and a deep understanding of materials and context make it remarkable in architecture.
