Business Details
40 Years
experience
Award-Winning Sustainable Architecture in New York City
OCV Architects is a versatile, award-winning architectural firm dedicated to building a more equitable society through responsible, sustainable architecture. Since 1986, we have specialized in innovative new construction, historic preservation, and rehabilitation projects across the New York Metropolitan area. Our expertise extends to green design, adaptive reuse, and multifamily housing, with a focus on serving traditionally underserved populations. We collaborate with public agencies, private developers, and community-based nonprofits to create sustainable residences and community facilities that address complex planning solutions. Our team of experienced professionals, including LEED-certified consultants and specialists in tenant-in-occupancy rehabs, has completed over 20,000 affordable housing units and preserved more than 100 buildings across the five boroughs.Our in-house capabilities, combined with long-standing consultant relationships, ensure seamless project management from schematic planning through post-occupancy. Founding partners Richard Vitto, John R. Coogan, and Luis Paz have pioneered groundbreaking initiatives such as New York City's first green roof for a publicly funded supportive housing facility. Our commitment to excellence is evidenced by numerous awards for historic preservation and sustainable design. We maintain offices in Manhattan and serve clients with a focus on community impact, technical expertise, and ethical practice.
Services
Residential New Construction
Supportive Housing
Rehabilitation
Historic Preservation
Community Commercial
Details
- Year established: 1986
Highlights and features
- We have 40 years of experience in multifamily housing and historic preservation
- Our team includes LEED-certified sustainability experts
- We've completed over 20,000 affordable housing units in NYC
- Award-winning historic preservation specialists
- We offer seamless project management from planning through completion
Services
Residential New Construction
We design modern, sustainable residential buildings that meet diverse programmatic needs. Our approach combines innovative planning with environmental responsibility, creating attractive living spaces that address urban challenges. Our work includes luxury apartments, affordable housing, and mixed-use developments across New York City.
Supportive Housing
We specialize in housing for vulnerable populations including veterans and formerly homeless individuals. Our designs integrate social services with living spaces, featuring sustainable elements like green roofs. We've completed numerous projects that combine housing with community facilities and social service centers.
Historic Preservation
Our team preserves architectural heritage while adapting buildings for modern use. We work on landmarked structures and historic districts, maintaining original character while meeting contemporary standards. Our expertise includes tenant-in-occupancy rehabs and preservation of culturally significant sites.
Rehabilitation
We transform aging buildings through comprehensive rehabilitation projects. Our work includes structural upgrades, energy efficiency improvements, and adaptive reuse of industrial spaces. We specialize in government-assisted housing renovations while maintaining tenant occupancy during construction.
Community Commercial
We design community facilities that serve public needs, including parks, social service centers, and commercial spaces. Our approach creates functional environments that enhance neighborhood vitality while maintaining architectural integrity and sustainability principles.
People
Richard Vitto
Founding Partner
Founded OCV Architects in 1986 and pioneered NYC's first green roof for supportive housing. Specializes in multifamily housing and community facilities with numerous historic preservation awards.
John R. Coogan
Founding Partner
40-year housing expert with experience in tenant-in-occupancy rehabs and landmark preservation. Oversaw construction of over 20,000 affordable apartments across the metro area.
Mary Ellen Cooper
LEED Consultant
Certified sustainability expert specializing in progressive supportive housing projects. Implements WELL and Passive House standards for veterans and vulnerable populations.
Barbara Wuehrer Engelking
Partner
Manages diverse projects from landmark renovations to luxury apartments. Expert in adapting historic buildings for modern commercial and residential use.
Luis Paz
Partner
Preservation specialist with experience in over 100 NYC building restorations. Focuses on sustainable new construction and housing improvements across the five boroughs.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialize in?
We specialize in residential new construction, supportive housing, historic preservation, rehabilitation projects, and community commercial developments across New York City.
How long have you been in business?
OCV Architects has been serving the New York Metropolitan area since 1986 with innovative architectural solutions for residential and community projects.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve all five boroughs of New York City, with extensive experience in urban development and historic preservation projects.
Do you work with affordable housing projects?
Yes, we've completed over 20,000 affordable housing units and specialize in government-assisted housing developments and tenant-in-occupancy rehabilitation projects.
Are you experienced in historic preservation?
Yes, our team has received numerous awards for historic preservation work, including adaptive reuse of landmarked buildings and tenant-in-occupancy rehabs.
How do you approach sustainable design?
We integrate LEED, WELL, and Passive House standards into our projects, with specialists in green design and the creator of NYC's first green roof for supportive housing.
