Business Details
32 Years
experience
Award-Winning Global Architecture & Design Solutions
Founded in 1994, Handel Architects is committed to creating buildings that serve as catalysts for positive urban and social change. With over 120 architects and designers across offices in New York, San Francisco, Boston, and Hong Kong, we specialize in multifamily residential, hospitality, mixed-use, and adaptive reuse projects. Our work includes iconic developments such as the National September 11 Memorial, Sendero Verde, and the Dream Downtown Hotel, reflecting our expertise in high-density urban environments and sustainable design.We prioritize a collaborative design process, ensuring client needs are met through open communication and innovative solutions. Recognized with over 250 awards, including AIA Honor Awards and ULI Global Awards, we integrate sustainability into every project, having pioneered Passive House buildings and LEED-certified structures globally. Our commitment to equity in affordable housing, community engagement, and a supportive office culture further underscores our dedication to responsible, impactful architecture.
Services
Multifamily Residential Design
Hospitality Design
Mixed-Use Development
Adaptive Reuse
Sustainable Architecture
Interior Design
Urban Planning
Affordable Housing
Senior Living Design
Student Housing
Details
- Year established: 1994
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years of experience in sustainable urban architectural design.
- Our team has completed 200+ multifamily residential buildings globally.
- We hold industry-leading certifications including LEED and Passive House standards.
- Our collaborative design process ensures client needs drive every project outcome.
- We have received over 250 prestigious awards for architectural excellence.
Associations and certifications
- AIA (American Institute of Architects)
- ULI (Urban Land Institute)
- LEED
- Passive House Institute
What people say
Award-winning designs
Sustainability expertise
Collaborative approach
Urban transformation
Global experience
Services
Multifamily Residential Design
We create innovative multifamily residential buildings prioritizing efficient layouts, sustainability, and urban integration. With 50,000+ units delivered globally, our expertise spans affordable housing to luxury condominiums. Our designs optimize site potential while addressing market-specific needs through award-winning architectural solutions.
Hospitality Design
Our hospitality design combines brand identity with functional excellence across 30+ completed hotels. From boutique properties to global franchises, we deliver spaces that enhance guest experiences while meeting operational requirements. Recent projects include Dream Downtown Hotel and Ritz-Carlton Georgetown.
Adaptive Reuse
Specializing in transforming historic structures into modern spaces, we unlock sustainability benefits and preserve architectural heritage. Notable projects include Pier 57 and the Aronson Building conversion, demonstrating expertise in balancing old and new elements for functional modernization.
Sustainable Architecture
Pioneering Passive House standards and LEED-certified projects globally, we integrate sustainability into every design phase. Our approach reduces environmental impact while creating healthier spaces, as demonstrated in Sendero Verde, the largest Passive House residential building in the world.
Mixed-Use Development
We design mixed-use buildings that create synergies between residential, commercial, and public spaces. Our expertise creates vibrant 24-hour neighborhoods by strategically combining functions that enhance economic viability and urban street life through over three decades of global experience.
People
Louis Koehl
Architect
Louis Koehl brings extensive architectural experience to Handel Architects' New York office, contributing to complex urban design projects that combine sustainability with innovative spatial solutions for residential and mixed-use developments.
Honyi Wang
Architect
Honyi Wang specializes in high-density urban projects at Handel Architects' New York office, focusing on integrating sustainable design principles with functional architectural solutions for large-scale residential and mixed-use developments.
Cianne Oconer
Architect
Based in the Hong Kong office, Cianne Oconer contributes to international projects with expertise in merging cultural context with contemporary architectural solutions, ensuring designs respond to both local and global urban challenges.
Gary Handel
Founding Partner
As founding partner, Gary Handel established the firm's commitment to urban transformation through architecture. His leadership focuses on creating socially responsible designs that address evolving urban environments and community needs.
Glenn Rescalvo
Principal
Glenn Rescalvo leads design teams in creating award-winning sustainable projects. His expertise in urban infrastructure and master planning shapes Handel's approach to developing holistic, environmentally conscious architectural solutions.
Questions
What architectural services does Handel Architects specialize in?
We specialize in multifamily residential, hospitality, mixed-use, and adaptive reuse projects, with expertise in sustainable design and urban planning.
Does Handel Architects work on international projects?
Yes, we operate globally with completed projects in cities across North America, Asia, and South America.
What sustainability certifications do you incorporate?
We integrate LEED, Passive House, and other green building standards into our designs to meet sustainability goals.
Can you handle historic building renovations?
Yes, our adaptive reuse expertise includes transforming historic structures while preserving architectural heritage.
How does the collaborative design process work?
We prioritize client input through open communication, ensuring design solutions align with project goals and stakeholder needs.
What awards has Handel Architects received?
We've earned over 250 awards, including AIA Honor Awards and ULI Global Awards for Excellence in design.
