Providing high quality New York City architecture, from first sketch to final detail.
The spaces we inhabit shape us, often in ways we never notice. The chance to design your own environment is rare, and we treat it that way. Every project starts with how you want to live, work, and feel in a space, then the design gets built around that.
For more than 23 years, our architects have crafted custom residential and commercial projects across New York City. We pair exceptional design with deep NYC zoning and building code expertise, and we guard your budget like it’s our own.
You also get a full bench of talent. We maintain ongoing relationships with structural and mechanical engineers, landscape architects, interior designers, and expediters, so whatever your project needs, the right expert is already in the room.
What sets us apart is simple. We know construction from the inside out, and that hands-on knowledge is rare among architecture firms.
Peter Holtzman, RA / CPHD / NCARB
Founding principal
In 2005, Peter gut renovated his own Harlem townhouse and did much of the construction himself. Living as owner, builder, and architect all at once gave him something most architects never get: firsthand insight into the budget, timeline, and quality concerns that keep owners up at night.
He draws on that experience every day. Over 23 years in New York City, he has designed custom lofts, townhouse gut renovations, penthouse additions, schools, non-profit facilities, and commercial spaces.
Peter is a Registered Architect in New York State, NCARB certified, and a Certified Passive House Designer. His expertise spans design, architectural detailing, construction management, and a comprehensive command of NYC building and zoning codes.
He earned his Master of Architecture from the University of Oregon and his bachelor’s in urban planning from UC Santa Cruz. When he isn’t designing, you’ll find him in Harlem making overly elaborate meals for his kids and building furniture, slowly.
Carrie Rothfeld, RA / AIA
Project architect
Carrie works at the intersection of architecture and interior design, creating spaces that reflect the people who use them. She blends context, materiality, and function to elevate a space beyond the ordinary.
Her commercial and institutional work at Gensler included clients like the New York Times, KPMG, and Lazard Freres. On the residential side, she has led full apartment, loft, and townhouse renovations, kitchens, baths, landscapes, and single-family homes.
She also brings a deep respect for history, with projects including the adaptive reuse of the Richmond Old Library and exterior restoration of several NYC public schools.
Carrie earned her Master of Architecture from the University of Pennsylvania, where she received the Will M. Mehlhorn scholarship in History and Theory. She lives in Manhattan with her two daughters.
Certified Passive House design
Passive House is an ultra-low energy building standard that’s quickly gaining ground in the US. Done right, it can cut a building’s energy use by 75% to 90% compared to typical new construction.
The payoff goes well beyond lower bills. Passive House design means cleaner air, steadier indoor temperatures, quieter rooms, and lower operating costs for years to come.
As a Certified Passive House Designer, Peter can bring this standard to your project when it makes sense, whether you want a high-performance home or a more sustainable commercial space.