Business Details
35 Years
experience
Award-Winning Architectural Design Services
Founded in 1991 by principal architect Thomas Baio, our firm has established itself as a leader in architectural design across New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Vermont, and Florida. With over 33 years of experience and a staff of certified professionals, we specialize in residential, commercial, and institutional projects, having completed more than 2,800 structures. Our practice emphasizes practical solutions that balance creative design with cost-effective execution, ensuring projects meet both functional and aesthetic requirements. Licensed in five states and certified as a LEED-AP professional firm, we combine technical expertise with a commitment to sustainability. Our work has been featured in prominent publications and recognized through professional distinctions, including membership in the American Institute of Architects.We prioritize direct client engagement through personalized consultations and transparent communication throughout the design and construction process. Our team's diverse educational backgrounds and extensive experience in renovation, restoration, and new construction enable us to tackle complex architectural challenges. We maintain active roles in community preservation efforts through the Millburn & Short Hills Historical Society. Our proven methodology includes detailed construction documentation and on-site administration to minimize project complications. This comprehensive approach has earned us recognition as one of New Jersey's top architectural firms in multiple industry publications.
Services
Initial Consultation
Preliminary Design
Construction Drawings
Bidding Services
Construction Administration
Historical Preservation
Sustainable Design
Site Planning
Interior Design
Project Completion
Details
- Year established: 1991
Highlights and features
- We offer 33 years of architectural experience across five licensed states
- Our team includes LEED-AP certified professionals for sustainable design
- We have successfully completed over 2,800 architectural projects
- Our firm maintains active roles in historical preservation societies
- We provide comprehensive services from initial consultation to project completion
Associations and certifications
- American Institute of Architects
- LEED-AP
Services
Initial Consultation
Our initial consultation process begins with either an on-site or in-office meeting to understand your project needs. We listen to your requirements, discuss potential solutions, and provide cost estimates. This no-charge service includes creating a detailed proposal outlining the scope of work and payment schedule for your project.
Preliminary Design
During this phase, we document existing conditions and develop initial design concepts based on your requirements. Our team creates floor plans and exterior elevations, followed by client meetings to refine the design. This stage typically accounts for half of the total architectural fees and involves multiple design iterations.
Construction Drawings
We prepare detailed technical documents required for permits and construction, tailored to municipal requirements. Our comprehensive review process ensures accuracy and minimizes construction issues. These drawings serve as the foundation for bidding and guide contractors throughout the building process.
Bidding Services
We assist in selecting qualified contractors through competitive bidding, evaluating proposals based on price, quality, references, and timeline. Our service includes recommending payment schedules and facilitating contract negotiations to ensure you choose the best builder for your project.
Construction Administration
Our ongoing site visits and progress reviews ensure construction aligns with design specifications. We address questions, manage changes, and assist with finish selections throughout the building process. This service typically costs 2-3% of construction value and helps maintain project quality.
People
Thomas Baio
Principal Architect
Founder of the firm with 33 years of experience, licensed in five states. Member of AIA and LEED-AP certified, with extensive publications and awards. Holds architecture degrees from NYIT and Harvard GSD.
Alexandra Calvosa
Architect
Graduated from University of Arizona in 2023 with Bachelor of Architecture. Brings contemporary design perspective to residential and commercial projects.
Renae Van Grouw
Architect
2016 graduate of Wentworth Institute of Technology with Bachelor of Science in Architecture. Contributes technical expertise to complex design solutions.
Amanda Kriney
Architect
2021 graduate of New Jersey Institute of Technology with Bachelor of Architecture. Specializes in residential design and historical preservation.
Ian Baio
Architect
2023 graduate of Iowa State University with architecture degree. Provides fresh perspective on sustainable design approaches.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer?
We provide full-service architecture including consultations, design, construction documents, bidding assistance, and construction administration for residential, commercial, and institutional projects.
Do you work outside New Jersey?
Yes, we're licensed in New York, Connecticut, Vermont, and Florida, in addition to our Millburn, NJ base.
How much does an initial consultation cost?
Our initial consultations are complimentary, whether conducted on-site or in our office.
What is your design process?
We begin with needs assessment, followed by preliminary design, construction documents, bidding, and construction administration to ensure project success.
Are you LEED certified?
Yes, our firm holds LEED-AP certification for sustainable design practices.
How many projects have you completed?
We've designed and built over 2,800 structures across various project types since our founding in 1991.
