Commercial Architects in New York City
Thoughtful design | Regulatory expertise | Real-world performance
Boutique Commercial Architecture Firm in NYC
Designing Workspaces, Retail, and Mixed-Use Buildings
From office interiors and lobby renovations to new industrial and retail buildings, Building Studio’s Commercial Architects helps New York’s owners, developers, and property managers create commercial spaces that perform technically, functionally, aesthetically, and financially.
With more than 30 years of experience designing for the built fabric of New York, our team understands what makes commercial projects here successful.
We collaborate directly with clients, building managers, and tenants to modernize offices, retrofit retail spaces, and adapt historic structures to new uses. Our partner-led approach ensures every project receives the same attention to detail, no matter its scale or complexity.
Some of the Companies We’re honored to work with:
Our Commercial Architecture Services
We offer full-scope architecture and consulting services tailored to the needs of New York’s commercial real estate market.
Feasibility and Zoning Studies
Schematic Design and Space Planning
Architect of Record (AOR) Services
Interior Architecture and Lighting Design
ADA Compliance Review
Construction Documents and Administration
Coordination with DOB, LPC, MTA, and FDNY
Sustainability and Energy-Efficiency Planning
Our process begins with listening. We learn your goals, study your property, and identify what’s possible before developing a design that aligns with both your budget and your vision.
What sets us apart in Commercial Design
Owners and developers choose Building Studio Architects because our designs increase property value through thoughtful planning and quality improvements. We simplify the approvals process with deep experience across New York City agencies, helping projects move forward smoothly. Our spaces are designed for flexibility, meeting today’s needs while anticipating tomorrow’s growth. Each project balances practicality with lasting design and materials, guided by partners who stay involved from concept through completion.
Learn more about our Capital Improvement work here.
Commercial Project Types We Specialize In
Restaurants & Hospitality
Inviting, efficient dining spaces designed with careful attention to circulation, mechanical systems, and code compliance
Office Buildings & Interiors
From lobby renovations to new construction, we design work environments that reflect your business and meet all ADA, DOB, and LPC requirements
Mixed-Use Developments
New buildings that combine residential, retail, and office uses, planned with long-term adaptability and neighborhood character in mind
Building Envelope & Energy Upgrades
Restoring façades, modernizing systems, and improving efficiency to meet Local Law 11 and Local Law 97 standards
Office-to-Residential Conversions
Transforming outdated office buildings into vibrant housing or mixed-use spaces while navigating zoning, code, and design requirements
Capital Improvements
Upgrades that enhance building performance and tenant experience, including façades, elevators, accessibility, and energy systems
Retail BUildouts
Storefronts, interiors, and adaptive reuse for retailers who want to make a strong impression, whether opening a flagship location or updating a neighborhood shop
Tenant Improvement
Reconfiguring and refreshing commercial spaces between tenants, helping landlords attract quality occupants and reduce downtime
Featured Commercial Building Projects in NYC
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![Lobby interior at 50 Rock]()
Rockefeller Center
Variety of upgrades and improvements in Rockefeller Center, the landmarked Art Deco office complex in Midtown Manhattan in conjunction with Tishman Speyer.
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![Birkenstock retail store]()
Williamsburg Retail Shops
Working with L3 Capital to renovate retail space in a formerly an industrial area, now one of Brooklyn’s most highly prized and valuable mixed-use districts.
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![Whittle Headquarters Office Interior]()
Whittle School and Studios Headquarters
This 11,000 square foot office fitout in a Pei Cobb Freed office building overlooks Manhattan’s Bryant Park. The tenant is America’s premier for-profit school corporation, Whittle Schools & Studios.
Our Process
Site Evaluation & Feasibility Study
Optimize site use, zoning, and design to maximize return on investment.
Navigating Approvals
Confidently secure necessary approvals, ensuring your project progresses without unnecessary delays.
Integrated Design Excellence
Deliver cohesive solutions combining architecture, interiors, and sustainability, elevating your project’s appeal.
Construction Administration
Direct partner involvement ensures meticulous oversight from approvals to occupancy.
Our Commercial Projects Portfolio
The Washington Building
Our Commercial Architects in NYC
Led by Michael Goldblum, AIA and John Field, AIA, Building Studio Architects brings more than three decades of experience designing and renovating commercial buildings throughout New York City. Michael’s long-standing role as a commissioner on the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission and John’s extensive background in complex urban projects give our team a rare depth of technical and regulatory expertise.
Our architects combine creative problem-solving with a clear understanding of how people and businesses use space. We design offices, retail environments, and mixed-use developments that enhance daily life while improving property performance.
Building Studio Architects serves clients across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx, helping developers, owners, and management firms create commercial properties that truly belong to and honor New York.