Business Details
38 Years
experience
Award-Winning Residential Architects in New York
Founded in 1988, Oliver Cope Architect is a distinguished residential architecture firm based in New York City. Our practice focuses on crafting classically inspired American homes tailored to clients' unique needs. With over three decades of experience, we combine technical precision with artistic vision to create timeless, site-specific residences. Our team of fifteen professionals maintains a collaborative approach, prioritizing client vision over rigid design ideologies. Recognized nationally for excellence, our work has been featured in Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, and The Wall Street Journal.Principals Oliver Cope and Olivia Rowan hold prestigious academic credentials and professional affiliations, including the American Institute of Architects. We specialize in townhouses, apartments, and estates across New York, Connecticut, and beyond, working closely with top-tier interior designers and contractors. Our commitment to quality extends to renovations and additions that preserve historical integrity while meeting modern living standards. The firm's first monograph, 'City, Country, Sea,' was published in 2021 by Triglyph Books.
Services
Residential Architecture
Townhouse Design
Apartment Renovations
New Home Construction
Historical Renovations
Details
- Year established: 1988
Highlights and features
- Established in 1988 with 35+ years of residential architecture expertise
- Client-centric approach prioritizing individual needs over design trends
- AIA-certified architects with national award-winning portfolios
- Proven track record in high-end projects featured in major design publications
- Collaboration with top-tier interior designers and construction professionals
Associations and certifications
- American Institute of Architects
- Institute of Classical Architecture & Classical America
What people say
Award-winning portfolios
Historical integrity preservation
Collaborative approach
Luxury residential expertise
Published in major journals
Services
Residential Architecture
Creating custom-designed homes that balance classical elegance with modern functionality. Our approach emphasizes site-specific solutions and client collaboration. Projects range from urban townhouses to coastal estates, each reflecting individual client needs while maintaining architectural integrity.
Townhouse Design
Specializing in New York City townhouse projects with historical context sensitivity. Services include space optimization, modernization, and landmark district compliance. Our portfolio features Carnegie Hill and Upper East Side renovations that preserve architectural heritage while enhancing livability.
Apartment Renovations
Transforming luxury apartments across Manhattan's premier buildings. We maximize space efficiency while maintaining aesthetic coherence. Recent projects include Central Park West and Park Avenue units featuring custom millwork and integrated technology solutions.
New Home Construction
Designing bespoke single-family homes in Connecticut and Long Island. Our process incorporates site analysis, material selection, and interior coordination. Projects emphasize timeless proportions and seamless indoor-outdoor transitions for coastal and suburban settings.
Historical Renovations
Restoring landmark properties while implementing modern updates. Expertise in Carnegie Hill Landmark District projects and Upper East Side townhouses. We maintain historical accuracy through period-appropriate materials and detailing while improving energy efficiency and functionality.
People
Oliver Cope
Principal
AIA-certified architect with 35+ years experience. Harvard-educated, licensed in six states, and member of leading architectural organizations. Founded the firm in 1988 after working at Beyer Blinder Belle and David P. Handlin Associates.
Olivia Rowan
Director of Design
AIA-certified designer with expertise in high-end residential projects. Graduated from University College Dublin, worked at Robert A.M. Stern before joining Oliver Cope Architect in 1990. Multiple award winner for luxury home designs.
Rita Marks
Senior Designer
Pratt Institute graduate with 30+ years New York residential experience. Specializes in complex renovations and landmark district projects. Registered architect with expertise in townhouse and apartment transformations across Manhattan's premium neighborhoods.
Questions
What architectural styles do you specialize in?
We focus on classically inspired American homes, blending historical elements with modern functionality across townhouses, estates, and apartments.
Do you work on renovation projects?
Yes, we specialize in renovations and additions that preserve historical integrity while updating spaces for contemporary living standards.
Which areas do you serve?
Our primary service areas include New York City, Long Island, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Pennsylvania.
Are your architects certified?
Yes, our principals hold AIA certification and maintain active memberships in prestigious architectural organizations.
Can I purchase your design portfolio?
Our monograph 'City, Country, Sea' is available through Triglyph Books and major retailers like Amazon and independent bookstores.
