Business Details
Sustainable Architecture & Design in Saranac Lake, NY
Black Mountain Architecture is a creative architectural firm based in Saranac Lake, dedicated to designing human habitats that harmonize with the natural environment. Our team, led by Principal Architect Jesse Schwartzberg, combines high-caliber design with technical expertise in building science, LEED, and Passive House standards to deliver sustainable residential, commercial, and community projects. We prioritize environmental stewardship, economic vitality, and joyful, enduring experiences through our work. With deep roots in the Adirondack region, we navigate local and state code requirements with ease, leveraging trusted relationships with officials, engineers, and contractors.Our five-phase design process ensures clients achieve their vision while balancing budget, schedule, and performance goals. We specialize in guiding projects from concept to completion, offering personalized service that emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and meticulous attention to detail. Our commitment to sustainability and local vernacular design strengthens both built and natural environments, creating spaces that serve communities for generations.
Services
Residential Architecture
Commercial Design
Sustainable Building
Community Projects
Construction Administration
Design Process Guidance
Highlights and features
- We specialize in Adirondack region code compliance and permitting processes
- Our team holds expertise in LEED and Passive House certifications
- We offer a five-phase integrated design process for project clarity
- We maintain trusted relationships with local engineers and contractors
- Our designs balance environmental stewardship with functional aesthetics
Services
Residential Architecture
We create custom residential spaces that harmonize with the Adirondack landscape. Our designs prioritize energy efficiency, sustainable materials, and functional layouts tailored to client lifestyles. From mountain cabins to modern homes, we balance aesthetic appeal with practical needs while adhering to local building codes and environmental standards.
Commercial Design
Our commercial architecture services focus on creating productive, sustainable work environments. We design office buildings, retail spaces, and mixed-use developments that meet business requirements while maintaining environmental responsibility. Our approach integrates energy-efficient systems, accessible layouts, and designs that complement the surrounding Adirondack community character.
Sustainable Building
We specialize in LEED-certified and Passive House-standard buildings that minimize environmental impact. Our sustainable approach includes energy modeling, renewable material selection, and climate-responsive design strategies. We help clients achieve their green building goals while maintaining budgetary constraints and functional requirements across residential and commercial projects.
Community Projects
We design civic and community spaces that foster social connection and environmental stewardship. Our portfolio includes cultural centers, public facilities, and mixed-use developments that serve local needs while respecting Adirondack aesthetics. We prioritize accessibility, durability, and sustainability in creating spaces that benefit entire communities.
Construction Administration
We provide comprehensive construction phase services to ensure design intent is realized. Our team conducts site visits, reviews contractor submittals, and facilitates communication between all parties. This oversight ensures quality control, budget adherence, and timely completion while maintaining the project's original sustainability and design goals.
People
Jesse Schwartzberg
Founding Principal / Creative Director
Jesse Schwartzberg, a Saranac Lake native, leads our design team with 20+ years of regional architectural experience. He specializes in sustainable design and has guided over 150 Adirondack projects from concept to completion.
Kimberly Schwartzberg
Communications Director
Kimberly Schwartzberg manages client communications and marketing with a decade of architectural industry experience. She ensures clear information flow between clients, designers, and contractors throughout the project lifecycle.
Betsy Davison
Office & Operations Manager
Betsy Davison oversees daily operations and client relations with 15 years of architectural office management experience. She coordinates project timelines and maintains the firm's high service standards across all client interactions.
Kristen Starheim
Production Manager
Kristen Starheim leads project execution with expertise in technical documentation. She ensures construction drawings meet regulatory requirements while maintaining design integrity through her 12 years of architectural production experience.
Therese Kowalczyk
Interiors Lead
Therese Kowalczyk specializes in interior design with a focus on sustainable material selection. Her 18 years of experience creating functional, eco-friendly interior spaces ensure seamless integration with our architectural projects.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialize in?
We specialize in residential, commercial, and community projects with a focus on sustainable design, LEED certification, and Adirondack region-appropriate architecture.
How do you incorporate sustainability into your designs?
We integrate Passive House principles, energy modeling, and material selection to minimize environmental impact while meeting client performance goals.
Can you help with local permitting requirements?
Yes, we have extensive experience navigating Adirondack Park Agency regulations, DEC guidelines, and local zoning ordinances.
What is your design process timeline?
Our five-phase process typically spans 6-12 months depending on project complexity, with regular client collaboration throughout.
Do you work with existing contractors?
We collaborate with your preferred contractors or help select qualified local partners for optimal project execution.
