About Us
Handel Architects was founded in 1994 with a commitment to making cities better places to live. We believe that architecture and design matter, and that through our work, we can make a positive difference in the world. We strive to create buildings that are not just things in themselves, but serve as catalysts for positive urban and social change.
With over 150 architects and designers in New York, San Francisco, Boston, Denver, and Hong Kong, our work encompasses projects like the National September 11 Memorial, urban infrastructure and master planning projects, high-density mixed-use developments, multi-family projects across all income bands, hotels, corporate headquarters, and buildings for non-profit, institutional and educational clients around the world.
Services
- Feasibility Studies
- Master Planning
- Full Service Architecture
- Full Service Interior Design
- Sustainable Design
We look for solutions that can have an impact beyond the project, that can move the needle in some way and contribute to society and culture.
Our design process is open, interactive, and collaborative.
We feel that our best work comes from a collaborative, supportive environment where everyone feels that they have a chance to be heard. Great design shouldn't be the product of arrogance and ego, but a generative, supportive process, where the end result reflects the input and ideas of everyone involved.
We are committed partners.
Handel Architects embraces a responsibility to make our projects a success. This has resulted in an exceptionally high rate of repeat clients, as well as lifelong relationships that we value highly.
Our work for the Santa Barbara Bowl in Santa Barbara, California, spanned 19 years; our work for The Boston Conservatory in Boston included an institutional master plan and two performance buildings.
We believe deeply in the importance of designing sustainably.
Sustainable design is at the core of our practice. Handel Architects has brought sustainability standards to new markets around the world, including groundbreaking Passive House buildings in the U.S., the first LEED Gold office building in Chile, and the first LEED Gold condominium building in New York City.
We believe immigration makes America stronger.
Handel Architects is grateful for the contributions that immigrants make in our society. We employ staff from dozens of countries and our firm is stronger because of it.
In 1948, President Truman addressed a nation grappling with its identity, in a Special Message to the Congress on Civil Rights:
"Throughout our history men and women of all colors and creeds, of all races and religions, have come to this country to escape tyranny and discrimination. Millions strong, they have helped build this democratic Nation and have constantly reinforced our devotion to the great ideals of liberty and equality. With those who preceded them, they have helped to fashion and strengthen our American faith."
This is truly our American story. We encourage everyone to explore New York City's Tenement Museum, which tells the story of Immigration in America.
We are invested in our communities and the partnerships we've created.
Read about our Fifth Street Farm projectOur Community Partners
