Developing a building in New York is an extensive process even for a small projects and modestly sized buildings. Although starting such a project can be an exciting endeavor, it comes with a unique set of challenges. From navigating complex New York City zoning laws and obtaining permits from the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) to designing every detail, the process can be daunting. This is precisely why engaging a architect for your small buildings is a necessity step early in the process.
The first step in any New York property development project, even for a small building, involves consulting with an architect. This initial consultation helps determine development feasibility by assessing the site, reviewing zoning regulations, and determining the property’s potential use.
My name is Jorge Fontan, and I am the founder and owner of Vinculum Architecture, an architecture firm based in Manhattan. Our firm works on various project types and sizes including new small buildings throughout New York. This guide will walk you through the nuances of small-scale architecture in New York and the invaluable role a local expert plays in turning your vision into a reality.
Zoning for Your Small Building in NYC
As an architect, the first item I always want to examine when discussing a new real estate development in New York is the property’s zoning. New York City is divided into many different zoning districts, each with unique regulations and restrictions. Unsurprisingly, the New York City Zoning Resolution spans thousands of pages and is quite complicated. This complexity is precisely why every property development project must begin with a comprehensive zoning analysis to determine precisely what can be built on the site.
The Architect’s Services: What to Expect
At our office, we concentrate on delivering comprehensive, full-service projects, collaborating closely with our clients to help them achieve their specific goals.
Every project begins with a crucial phase of assessment and analysis, often referred to as predesign or feasibility studies. Below is a basic breakdown of the complete architectural services we offer throughout the project:
- Schematic Design: The initial phase involves consultations, site visits, and the creation of concept designs, sketches, and preliminary floor plans.
- Design Development: Once the initial concept is approved, the design is refined, and materials, finishes, and engineering systems are selected.
- Construction Documents: The architect produces detailed technical drawings and specifications required to obtain building permits and accurate cost estimates. This is often the most time-intensive phase.
- Bidding and Negotiation: The architect assists in the contractor selection process, helping evaluate bids and clarify design details.
- Construction Administration: For a full-service experience, the architect observes the construction to ensure it complies with the approved plans and handles requests for changes, acting as your eyes and ears on the job site.
Designing a Small Building in NYC
There are many issues to consider when we design a building. The first issues we consider are the property owner’s intent, construction budget, aesthetic preferences, and overall project goals.
Additionally, we must thoroughly evaluate the project’s context, including factors such as:
- Local architecture: Ensuring the design complements or thoughtfully contrasts with its surroundings.
- Zoning regulations: Navigating legal requirements regarding use, size, height, and setbacks.
- Historic districts: Adhering to specific guidelines and preservation requirements if the property is located within a protected area.
- Environmental Constraints: There are many environmental issues that can affect a building design such as flood zones, wetlands, brownfields with soil contamination, bedrock, or groundwater to name a few.
The final building design is a balance of all the project constraints, client goals, design preferences, and of course budget.
New Modern Small Building In Harlem
Below you can see one of our designs for a small, modern building in Harlem. The project is situated on a block primarily composed of single- and two-family townhouses.
The goal was to construct a new, modern two-family home. While the design is contemporary in its execution, we drew inspiration from historic New York homes, addressing the project through a modern rethinking of design principles and residential use.
Modern Small Building Design in NYC
Luxury Townhouse on the UES Landmark District
This next project is a design for a luxury single-family home located on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, within an incredibly affluent and historically significant neighborhood.
The scope of work constituted an almost complete reconstruction of an existing house. The only elements preserved from the original structure were the foundation and the shared brick party walls on the side property lines. Otherwise, this was a ground-up rebuild within a partial existing structure.
The property sits within a landmark district, surrounded by numerous classical historic townhouses and brownstones. Our design approach was highly contextual: we developed a new limestone facade that draws significant inspiration from the history, context, and architectural vernacular of the site.
UES New Townhouse Design With Limestone Facade
Hiring an Architect for a Small Building in NYC
Working with a qualified architect is the essential first step to successfully developing a property and building in New York City. Starting the project with professional guidance ensures you are moving in the right direction from the beginning.
Every project must be meticulously assessed on its own merits and strategically planned to address its unique constraints and leverage its specific qualities.
Thank You for Reading Our Article on Our Architectural Services for Small Buildings in New York.
I hope this was helpful. If you would like to speak with an architect about a potential project, please get in touch with us directly at Vinculum Architecture.
Contact Vinculum Architecture
This post was written by Jorge Fontan AIA a Registered Architect and owner of New York City architecture firm Fontan Architecture. Jorge Fontan has earned 3 degrees in the study of architecture including two degrees from the City University of New York and a Masters Degree in Advanced Architectural Design from Columbia University. Jorge has a background in construction and has been practicing architecture for 20 years where he has designed renovations and new developments of various building types.