Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Architectural Partner in Orchard Park, NY
FFAE Architects has been serving clients for over 35 years, delivering tailored architectural solutions that align with specific project needs. Our firm combines deep expertise with a collaborative approach, ensuring every project benefits from dedicated leadership and technical excellence. Founded in 1961, we have evolved into a multidisciplinary team of registered architects and specialists who prioritize clear communication and responsiveness. Our process involves assigning a dedicated partner to each project, supported by co-partners and technical staff, to guarantee seamless execution. We specialize in diverse sectors including healthcare, senior housing, commercial, and residential projects, offering services from feasibility studies to construction administration.Our commitment to sustainable design and code compliance ensures that every solution meets functional, financial, and scheduling goals. With a legacy of innovation and a focus on client satisfaction, we guide projects from initial concept through completion with hands-on expertise. Our team includes professionals with decades of experience in architectural technology, historic preservation, and complex facility design. We pride ourselves on understanding client objectives and translating them into impactful, efficient designs. This dedication to excellence has solidified our reputation as a trusted leader in architectural services.
Services
Feasibility Studies
Sustainable Design
3D Modeling
Code Compliance
Historic Preservation
Space Programming
Construction Administration
Facility Evaluations
Accessibility Surveys
Design Development
Details
- Year established: 1961
Highlights and features
- We offer over 35 years of experience in architectural design and project management.
- Our dedicated partner-led approach ensures personalized attention to every project.
- We specialize in complex sectors including healthcare, adult care, and historic preservation.
- Our team includes registered architects with expertise in sustainable design practices.
- We provide hands-on guidance from initial concept through construction completion.
Associations and certifications
- National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB)
Services
Feasibility Studies
Our feasibility studies assess project viability through comprehensive evaluations of site conditions, zoning regulations, and budget constraints. We identify potential challenges early to ensure realistic planning and cost-effective solutions. This service provides clients with data-driven insights to make informed decisions before committing to full-scale design.
Sustainable Design
Sustainable design integrates eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient systems, and resource-conscious practices into every project phase. We prioritize environmental responsibility while maintaining aesthetic and functional standards. Our approach reduces long-term operational costs and aligns with modern sustainability benchmarks for commercial and residential spaces.
3D Modeling
3D modeling creates detailed digital representations of architectural concepts, allowing clients to visualize spaces before construction begins. This technology enhances communication and decision-making by showcasing design elements in realistic, interactive formats. It streamlines revisions and ensures alignment with client expectations.
Historic Preservation
Historic preservation focuses on maintaining architectural integrity while adapting older structures for modern use. Our team combines traditional techniques with contemporary standards to restore and repurpose culturally significant buildings. This service ensures compliance with preservation guidelines and extends the lifespan of historic properties.
Construction Administration
Construction administration involves managing project execution from permitting to completion. We coordinate with contractors, monitor quality control, and ensure adherence to design specifications. This service guarantees that the final built environment reflects the approved plans while addressing on-site challenges efficiently.
People
Paul A. Ernst
Principal, President
Paul A. Ernst, R.A., has led FFAE since 1985, specializing in healthcare and religious facilities. Certified by NCARB, he brings expertise in architectural design and community planning.
Ivan N. Garcia
Principal
Ivan N. Garcia, R.A., offers 30+ years of experience in architectural design, focusing on eldercare and industrial facilities. His work emphasizes innovative solutions for complex projects.
Raymond A. Murphy
Principal
Raymond A. Murphy, LEED AP BD+C, specializes in healthcare and commercial projects. With 20+ years at FFAE, he oversees all project phases from programming to construction.
William A. Heidt
Senior Associate
William A. Heidt, R.A., excels in architectural technology and sustainable design. His expertise includes 3D modeling and code interpretation for diverse project types.
Wayne A. Folts
Principal Emeritus
Wayne A. Folts, R.A., contributed decades of experience in healthcare facilities and university construction projects. His legacy includes technical precision and client-focused solutions.
Questions
What architectural services does FFAE Architects offer?
We provide feasibility studies, sustainable design, 3D modeling, historic preservation, and construction administration for healthcare, commercial, and residential projects.
How long has FFAE Architects been in business?
Our firm has served clients for over 35 years, with roots tracing back to 1961 when Alvin Fontanese founded the practice.
What industries does FFAE Architects specialize in?
We specialize in healthcare environments, senior housing, commercial buildings, industrial facilities, and historic preservation projects.
How does FFAE Architects approach project management?
Each project is led by a dedicated partner with support from co-partners and technical staff, ensuring clear communication and seamless execution.
Are FFAE Architects' professionals certified?
Yes, our team includes NCARB-certified architects and specialists in sustainable design, code compliance, and construction management.
