Business Details
Expert Architectural Design & Planning Services in Farmington, CT
Friar Architecture has established itself as a premier architectural firm specializing in educational and public infrastructure projects. With decades of experience designing innovative learning environments and civic spaces, we combine technical expertise with creative vision to deliver functional, sustainable solutions. Our portfolio spans K-12 schools, higher education facilities, municipal buildings, and cultural institutions across Connecticut and beyond.Committed to excellence in design and community impact, we collaborate closely with clients to transform architectural concepts into reality while maintaining strict adherence to budgetary and timeline parameters. Our multidisciplinary team brings deep institutional knowledge and technical proficiency to every project phase, from initial planning through construction documentation.
Services
Architecture
Interior Design
Master Planning
Landscape Design
Ice Arenas
Highlights and features
- Specialized expertise in educational facility design
- Comprehensive architecture and interior design services
- Proven track record with public sector projects
- Integrated master planning approach
- Commitment to sustainable design principles
Services
Architecture
Friar Architecture provides comprehensive architectural services for educational and public sector clients. Our team creates functional, code-compliant buildings that meet specific program requirements while optimizing spatial efficiency. We specialize in K-12 schools, university facilities, and municipal buildings with a focus on durability, safety, and long-term value. Our architects employ the latest design software and construction technologies to deliver innovative solutions.
Interior Design
Our interior design services focus on creating inspiring, functional environments for learning and public use. We develop customized interior solutions that enhance educational outcomes and community engagement. From classroom layouts to corporate interiors, our designers balance aesthetics with practical considerations like ADA compliance, lighting optimization, and material durability in all projects.
Master Planning
Friar Architecture's master planning services create comprehensive development strategies for educational institutions and municipalities. We analyze existing infrastructure, project growth needs, and zoning requirements to develop phased implementation plans. Our approach integrates sustainability principles and future-ready design while maintaining compatibility with surrounding communities and environmental contexts.
Landscape Architecture
Our landscape architecture practice designs functional outdoor spaces that complement building projects and enhance community environments. Services include site analysis, hardscape design, stormwater management, and recreational area planning. We create sustainable landscapes that improve usability of educational campuses and public facilities while addressing climate resilience and maintenance efficiency.
Ice Arenas
Friar Architecture specializes in designing ice arenas and multi-purpose sports facilities that meet professional standards while serving community needs. Our designs optimize spectator flow, athlete accessibility, and operational efficiency. We incorporate advanced refrigeration systems, energy-efficient lighting, and flexible configurations that accommodate various events and programming requirements for municipal and institutional clients.
People
Michael A. Sorano
Principal Architect
Licensed architect with 25+ years of experience in educational facility design. Specializes in complex school renovations and new construction projects. Holds multiple state architecture licenses and maintains active AIA membership.
Robert W. Roach
Senior Interior Designer
Certified interior designer with expertise in educational environments. Focuses on creating functional, inspiring spaces that enhance learning outcomes. NCIDQ-certified with extensive experience in public sector projects.
Bryce Sens
Project Manager
Project management professional overseeing K-12 and municipal building projects. Coordinates design teams, client communications, and construction timelines. Holds LEED accreditation and specializes in sustainable design implementation.
Keith Picz
Landscape Architect
Registered landscape architect with focus on educational campus planning. Designs sustainable outdoor environments that integrate with building projects. Expertise in stormwater management and ADA-compliant site design.
Scott Mitchell
Senior Project Manager
AIA-certified architect managing large-scale public projects. Specializes in municipal facilities and higher education buildings. Brings 20+ years of experience in complex renovation projects and historic preservation efforts.
Questions
What types of projects does CREC specialize in?
CREC focuses on educational facilities (K-12 schools, universities) and public sector projects including municipal buildings, ice arenas, and community spaces.
Do you handle both design and construction phases?
We provide full-service architecture from initial concept through construction documentation, but typically do not act as construction managers.
How long has CREC been in business?
Our firm has completed projects dating back to the 1970s, with current leadership maintaining continuous operations since the 1980s.
What areas do you serve?
While based in Connecticut, we work with clients throughout the Northeast region on educational and public infrastructure projects.
Do you offer sustainable design options?
Yes, our team incorporates energy-efficient systems and sustainable materials in all projects, with LEED-certified professionals on staff.
How do you handle project budgeting?
We work closely with clients to establish realistic budgets early in design and maintain cost control through value engineering and phased implementation.
