Business Details
32 Years
experience
Custom Home Architects in New Jersey
John James Architect, AIA is a New Jersey-based architecture firm with over 30 years of experience specializing in custom residential design. Founded in 1994, we have completed more than 700 projects ranging from modest renovations to expansive estates. Our team of licensed architects and interior designers works closely with clients throughout the entire process, from initial consultation to construction completion. We maintain a hands-on approach, ensuring each project aligns with the client's vision while adhering to budgetary constraints. Our expertise spans diverse architectural styles including classic, transitional, and modern designs.With a strong track record in securing zoning variances and historic preservation approvals, we navigate regulatory challenges efficiently. Our collaborative process includes detailed design phases, competitive contractor bidding, and comprehensive construction administration. The firm's principals remain directly involved in every project, maintaining quality control and personalized service. We serve prominent neighborhoods across Northern New Jersey and maintain NCARB certification for multi-state projects. Our commitment to excellence has earned recognition in publications such as Luxe Magazine and This Old House.
Services
Architectural Design
Interior Design
Kitchen Cabinetry
Pre-Purchase Consulting
Custom Furniture Design
Construction Administration
Zoning Variances
3-D Rendering
Master-planning
Historic Preservation
Details
- Year established: 1994
Highlights and features
- We have completed over 700 residential projects since 1994
- Our detailed design process includes competitive contractor bidding
- We maintain direct principal involvement in every project
- We hold LEED certification and NCARB multi-state accreditation
- We have a proven track record securing historic preservation approvals
Associations and certifications
- LEED
- National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)
- NCARB
What people say
Smooth process
Exceeded expectations
Creative solutions
Personalized attention
Highly recommend
Services
Architectural Design
We create custom residential designs tailored to client needs, from new homes to renovations. Our process combines creative vision with practical execution, ensuring timeless architecture that meets zoning requirements. With expertise in classic, transitional, and modern styles, we deliver functional spaces that reflect individual lifestyles while maintaining historical integrity where needed.
Interior Design
Our interior design services focus on harmonizing aesthetics and functionality. We craft personalized living environments through thoughtful space planning, material selection, and lighting design. The team specializes in creating cohesive interiors that complement architectural elements while addressing specific client preferences and lifestyle requirements across various residential projects.
Zoning Variances
We navigate complex zoning regulations and secure variances for residential projects. Our team prepares detailed submissions and works with local authorities to obtain approvals. With extensive experience in historic districts, we help clients modify properties while maintaining compliance through strategic variance requests and preservation board submissions.
Construction Administration
We provide comprehensive construction administration services to ensure project integrity. This includes contractor selection through competitive bidding, document preparation, and on-site inspections. Our team maintains communication between all parties, addresses construction challenges, and ensures final execution matches design specifications throughout the building process.
3-D Rendering
Our 3-D rendering services visualize architectural concepts before construction begins. Using advanced technology, we create detailed digital models that show spatial relationships and design elements. This helps clients understand proposed changes, make informed decisions, and see how final results will integrate with existing structures and landscapes.
People
John W. James III
Principal Architect
With nearly 30 years leading the firm, John holds a Master of Architecture from Columbia University and licenses in NJ, NY, and CT. He has completed over 700 projects and received LEED and NAHB certifications. His work appears in Luxe Magazine and This Old House.
Zachary Goldstein
Architect
Licensed in NY and NJ with experience in luxury residences and large-scale developments. Zach holds a bachelor's degree from Syracuse University and contributes expertise in triathlon training and furniture making to his architectural practice.
Thomas Borello
Director of Design
With 28 years at JJA and 32 years total experience, Tom has managed over 110 projects. A Rensselaer Polytechnic graduate, he specializes in detailed residential design and brings diverse commercial experience to custom home projects.
Amy Worth
Senior Architect
Having worked at JJA for 30 years, Amy specializes in historic home additions with a Master's from Columbia University. She holds licenses in NJ and NY and brings institutional project experience to residential architecture.
Evaristo T. Valbuena
Senior Architect
With 22 years at JJA and over 100 completed projects, Tito brings international experience from Greece and the Philippines. A University of the Philippines graduate, he contributes diverse climate-adaptive design expertise to the team.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialize in?
We specialize in custom residential architecture including new home design, renovations, historic preservation, zoning variances, and interior design. Our services cover all project phases from initial consultation to construction completion.
Do you work outside New Jersey?
While based in NJ, we're licensed in New York and Connecticut. Our NCARB certification allows us to work in other states through reciprocity. We've completed projects in multiple Northeast locations.
What is your design process?
Our process includes initial consultation, design proposals, site measurements, zoning studies, schematic design, construction documents, contractor selection, and construction administration. We maintain close client collaboration throughout each phase.
How much does an initial consultation cost?
The initial consultation costs $275, which we credit toward your project if you proceed. This hour-long meeting at your property establishes project scope and requirements.
How long have you been in business?
We've been operating continuously since 1994, completing over 700 residential projects. Our principals maintain direct involvement in every project we undertake.
Do you handle historic home renovations?
Yes, we have extensive experience with historic home renovations and preservation. We prepare Historic Preservation Commission submissions and have a strong approval track record for modifications in historic districts.
