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.

Thanks for coming!
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