Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Architectural Partner in Mount Kisco, NY
KG & D Architects is a distinguished architectural firm dedicated to creating dynamic built environments that reflect the needs of the communities they serve. Founded in 1934, our firm has evolved through decades of innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to sustainable design. Our approach begins with active listening to understand client visions, followed by imaginative design solutions that balance functionality, aesthetics, and environmental responsibility. With a team of highly qualified professionals, we specialize in educational, municipal, and community-centric projects, ensuring each design enhances social infrastructure. Our accolades, including over 30 design awards, underscore our dedication to excellence.We prioritize client collaboration, believing that successful projects emerge from inclusive processes that value every stakeholder's perspective. Our work spans K-12 education, higher education, recreational facilities, and sustainable commercial spaces, all designed to meet evolving needs while respecting historical contexts. As industry leaders, we advocate for responsible design practices and actively contribute to advancing architectural standards through professional organizations and pro bono initiatives. Our legacy is built on trust, expertise, and a passion for shaping spaces that inspire and endure.
Services
Architectural Design
Master Planning
Interior Design
Sustainable Design
Construction Administration
Details
- Year established: 1934
Highlights and features
- We integrate 90 years of architectural expertise with sustainable design principles.
- Our collaborative process prioritizes client and community input in every project.
- Award-winning designs recognized by AIA and Learning by Design publications.
- Specialized in K-12 and higher education facilities with proven educational outcomes.
- Comprehensive services spanning master planning, design, and construction administration.
Associations and certifications
- AIA
- LEED
What people say
Collaborative process
Award-winning designs
Community-focused
Sustainable solutions
Expertise in education
Services
Architectural Design
KG+D's architectural design services create functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces tailored to client needs. We specialize in educational and municipal buildings, combining innovative design with practical solutions. Our process ensures each project meets regulatory standards while exceeding expectations for durability and community impact.
Master Planning
We develop comprehensive master plans for educational and municipal campuses, balancing growth needs with environmental stewardship. Our plans prioritize long-term flexibility, sustainable infrastructure, and phased implementation strategies to accommodate evolving community requirements.
Sustainable Design
Our sustainable design approach integrates energy-efficient systems, eco-friendly materials, and LEED-certified practices. We optimize natural lighting, ventilation, and resource management to create environmentally responsible buildings that reduce operational costs and ecological footprints.
Interior Design
KG+D's interior design services focus on creating functional, inspiring environments that enhance user experience. We specialize in educational and public spaces, selecting durable materials and layouts that support specific activities while maintaining aesthetic coherence with exterior architecture.
Construction Administration
We provide comprehensive construction administration to ensure design intent is realized during building phases. Our team coordinates with contractors, conducts site visits, and manages documentation to maintain quality control, budget adherence, and timely project completion.
People
Erik Kaeyer
Vice President/Principal
Erik Kaeyer, AIA LEED AP, serves as Design Principal at KG+D with expertise in sustainable architecture. He has led award-winning projects like Seven Bridges Middle School and the New York State Judicial Institute. Erik emphasizes contextual design and community impact, integrating site-specific elements into innovative solutions. He actively contributes to local organizations and architectural discourse.
Walter Hauser
Principal
Walter Hauser, AIA, joined KG+D in 2004 and became Principal in 2015. He specializes in educational facilities, managing significant projects for Yale University and Fordham University. With international design experience from Germany and Italy, Walter combines technical expertise with client-focused communication to deliver projects that exceed expectations through collaborative problem-solving.
Sarah Dirsa
Principal
Sarah Dirsa, AIA LEED AP, leads KG+D's educational design initiatives, focusing on learner-centered spaces. As the firm's first female Principal, she champions socially responsible architecture through projects like Pelham UFSD Hutchinson Elementary School. Sarah contributes to national design conversations and received the AIA Young Architects Award for her innovative approach to educational environments.
Brian Mangan
Principal
Brian Mangan, AIA, brings 14+ years of experience in educational architecture, specializing in BOCES facilities and adaptive reuse projects. He led Dutchess BOCES' Alternative High School development and Scarsdale High School renovations. Brian's expertise in energy-efficient design ensures projects balance functionality with environmental responsibility while maintaining historical integrity.
Travis Schnell
Principal
Travis Schnell, AIA, has led transformative projects like Rippowam Cisqua School's Upper Campus and Great Neck Public Library. His community-centric approach extends to volunteer trail-building work. Travis specializes in reimagining existing structures, applying technical expertise to create modern, functional spaces that respect original architectural intent.
Questions
What architectural services does KG+D offer?
We provide full-service architectural solutions including master planning, design, interior architecture, sustainable design, and construction administration for educational, municipal, and community projects.
How does KG+D involve clients in the design process?
We prioritize active listening and collaboration, working closely with stakeholders to ensure designs reflect community needs and project goals through iterative feedback.
Are KG+D's projects focused on sustainability?
Yes, we integrate sustainable practices in all projects, achieving LEED certifications and energy-efficient designs that reduce environmental impact while meeting functional needs.
What geographic areas do you serve?
Primarily Westchester, Putnam, Dutchess, and Rockland counties, with experience across New York State and select national projects.
How experienced is KG+D's team?
Our team includes AIA-accredited architects with decades of collective experience, specializing in educational facilities and community infrastructure projects.
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