Profile
Creed
I believe most of our houses could be better.
That’s because I see room for improvement in every house, from the pretty near-perfect to the downright rundown. And over the past two decades, I’ve built my practice on helping homeowners realize the full potential of the houses among which I grew up.
To that end, I design carefully considered residential architecture for a variety of situations and budgets. I provide services to homeowners who strive to thrive in suburban communities while maintaining diverse cultural, professional, and familial ties to New York City.
From day one of my practice, I made it my business to ennoble the common suburban house with innovative alterations and additions that balance brains with beauty. To new house construction, I eagerly contribute my awareness of current design trends and knowledge of architectural history.
My approach is consistent: to provide one-of-a-kind designs for every project. In the spirit of collaboration, I work closely with you through the phases of your project, intently listening and carefully guiding you through your numerous decisions. Together, we work toward your unique vision of home.
Thankful — I am fortunate to design houses and, thereby, make homes.
Credits
I am an architect because of my mother and in business for myself because of my father. Ironically, my parents’ divergent influences led me to the singular pursuit to become a residential specialist in architecture. On the sidelines, and sometimes on the frontline, my brother has been my constant and loudest cheerleader.
It doesn’t hurt to have an architect as a best friend whose understanding family has helped me on more than one occasion by fixing a meal or swinging a hammer during one of my family’s building projects. Another architect friend and her husband are champions who offer thoughtful words or make a fitting gesture at precisely the right moment.
My long-time assistant has revealed herself as a firm ally in conquering both architectural and office-related goals. Several helpers along the way have taken a personal interest in my life’s work, especially the factotum and the photographer, both of whom set this Website in motion.
I am fortunate to work with a group of familiar contributors who are regularly awarded the contracts to bring my ideas to life on my clients’ behalves. Skillful general contractors establish a collaborative atmosphere on our jobsites. Electrician and plumber meet practical requirements with undaunted determination. My artisan cabinetmaker and go-to painters can always be counted on for their meticulous finishing touches.
I am grateful to my clients, from one-time design counseling clients to longtime patrons, especially those of “the friends and family network.” You presented me with one-of-a-kind design problems that made rote solutions impracticable. Without your particular challenges to my creative and technical skills, I’d have no body of work to present here.
Credentials
- Licenses
New Jersey– architecture and real estate
New York– architecture - Certifications
National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) - Memberships
American Institute of Architects (AIA)
National Trust for Historic Preservation - Education
Master of Architecture
Bachelor of Arts, Major: Architecture
Columbia University
New York, New York - Awards
Great American Home Awards
First Place— Sympathetic Addition
National Trust for Historic Preservation
Old House Journal - Books
The Architect’s Business Problem Solver
New York: McGraw-Hill - Articles
"Plug and Plank" and "Twin Deck Railing"
Expressive Details by Duo Dickinson - Television
"Before and After" HGTV
"New Spaces" HGTV