Business Details
13 Years
experience
Your Trusted Architectural Partner in New York & New Jersey
Founded in 2013, Think Wilder Architecture is a full-service architecture firm based in Harlem that serves the New York metropolitan area and beyond. Our mission is to redefine and advance the architecture of communities through innovative design solutions that prioritize client relationships and sustainable practices. We believe that designing buildings is inseparable from building relationships, which forms the foundation for delivering projects that meet all demands. Our team combines passion, diverse experience, and vigor to deliver excellence in design from pre-design through construction. We specialize in understanding the unique needs of our clients and end-users, ensuring that our projects positively impact urban environments.Our commitment to sustainable and passive design strategies is integrated into every project, reflecting our dedication to responsible architecture. With expertise in construction observation, management, and administration, we offer services that many traditional architecture firms do not. Our diverse team allows us to connect with client demographics that are often underserved in the industry. We collaborate with developers, institutions, and government entities to create multifamily housing, schools, commercial spaces, and community centers that benefit large populations. Our goal is to transform communities through thoughtful, context-sensitive design that addresses both functional and aesthetic requirements.
Services
Commercial Design
Community Projects
Residential Architecture
Adaptive Reuse
Sustainable Design
Details
- Year established: 2013
Highlights and features
- We offer 12+ years of experience in architecture and design.
- Our team includes AIA-certified architects with diverse expertise.
- We implement sustainable and passive design strategies naturally.
- Our firm provides construction management services uncommon in architecture firms.
- We specialize in projects for underserved urban communities.
Associations and certifications
- MWBE
Services
Commercial Design
We create functional, aesthetically pleasing commercial spaces tailored to business needs. Our designs optimize workflow, enhance brand identity, and comply with all regulatory requirements. Clients benefit from our expertise in material selection, space planning, and sustainable construction practices.
Community Projects
Our community-focused designs include schools, recreation centers, and civic buildings. We collaborate with stakeholders to create inclusive spaces that serve diverse populations. Projects emphasize accessibility, durability, and integration with surrounding neighborhoods while meeting strict budget parameters.
Residential Architecture
We design custom residential projects ranging from single-family homes to multifamily developments. Our approach balances aesthetic appeal with practical living requirements. Services include space planning, material selection, and integration of energy-efficient systems for modern living.
Adaptive Reuse
We specialize in transforming existing structures into modern, functional spaces while preserving historical elements. Our process includes structural analysis, code compliance upgrades, and innovative design solutions that extend building lifespans while reducing environmental impact.
Sustainable Design
We integrate eco-friendly practices into every project phase through passive design strategies and sustainable materials. Services include energy modeling, daylight optimization, and LEED certification guidance. Our approach reduces environmental impact while creating healthier spaces for occupants.
People
Stephen Michael Wilder
Founder & Principal Architect
Licensed architect with AIA and NYCOBA/NOMA affiliations. Leads design vision and strategic direction while maintaining active project involvement. Brings over 15 years of industry experience to client engagements.
Salvador Pena
Senior Architect
Registered architect with AIA certification. Specializes in project management and technical documentation. Contributes 12+ years of experience in commercial and residential projects across diverse urban environments.
Oni Lloyd
Architect
Licensed architect focused on design development and client coordination. Expertise in community projects and adaptive reuse. Holds 8+ years of experience working on complex urban redevelopment initiatives.
Malika Yapa
Architect
AIA-certified and RIBA-registered architect with expertise in international design standards. Specializes in residential projects and sustainable material selection. Brings global perspective from UK and US market experience.
Oreoluwa Adegbola
Project Manager
LEED AP BD+C certified professional with PMP and CPHD credentials. Manages project timelines, budgets, and sustainability initiatives. Combines 10 years of architecture experience with technical expertise in building systems integration.
Questions
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve New York City, New Jersey, and surrounding regions, with select projects across the United States.
Are you certified as a minority-owned business?
Yes, we are certified as an MWBE firm in New York State.
What project types do you specialize in?
We focus on commercial, community, residential, and adaptive reuse projects with an emphasis on sustainable design.
Can you handle both design and construction management?
Yes, we offer full-service architecture including construction observation, management, and administration services.
How do you approach sustainable design?
We integrate passive design strategies and sustainable materials throughout projects while maintaining aesthetic and functional requirements.
Do you work on historic building renovations?
Yes, our adaptive reuse expertise includes preserving historical elements while modernizing building systems and functionality.