Business Details
Award-Winning Architecture & Design Solutions in New York
Swa Architecture is a full-service architecture and expediting firm with decades of experience delivering comprehensive design solutions. Founded by Steve Wygoda, a licensed architect with over 50 years of industry expertise, we specialize in commercial, residential, and mixed-use design, zoning analysis, and permitting processes. Our team has completed thousands of projects nationwide, maintaining licenses in over 30 states. We pioneered New York City's first Small Sidewalk Caf Rule, demonstrating our commitment to innovative urban design. With a holistic approach, we oversee every project phase from concept to construction, ensuring compliance with local regulations while prioritizing client needs.Our services include code compliance, material sourcing, and construction management, supported by strong relationships with local authorities. We emphasize sustainability, integrating energy-efficient solutions and smart technology into our designs. Our client-focused philosophy ensures tailored solutions that reflect individual visions while maintaining functional and aesthetic excellence. With offices in Manhattan and Long Island, we serve private and public clients nationwide, combining technical expertise with a dedication to community enhancement.
Services
Commercial Architecture
Residential Design
Zoning Analysis
Permit Expediting
Sidewalk Caf Design
Historic Preservation
Construction Management
Code Compliance
Material Sourcing
Project Development
Highlights and features
- We have over 50 years of architectural experience and 25+ years of project delivery expertise.
- Our nationwide licensing enables seamless project execution across 30+ states.
- We pioneered NYC's first Small Sidewalk Caf Rule, demonstrating regulatory innovation.
- We offer holistic project management from zoning analysis to construction administration.
- Our designs integrate sustainability, smart technology, and energy-efficient solutions.
Services
Commercial Architecture
We create functional, code-compliant commercial spaces tailored to business needs. Our expertise spans retail, hospitality, and office environments, ensuring designs maximize usability while meeting zoning regulations. Clients benefit from streamlined permitting and construction oversight.
Zoning Analysis
Our team navigates complex zoning laws to optimize project feasibility. We provide detailed code compliance assessments and strategic planning guidance, reducing delays and ensuring alignment with local ordinances for smoother approvals.
Sidewalk Caf Design
We pioneered NYC's first sidewalk caf regulations and continue designing innovative outdoor spaces. Services include site measurement, custom design, and DOB permit submission to transform urban dining experiences while meeting safety standards.
Permit Expediting
With 25+ years of NYC DOB experience, we accelerate permitting for architectural projects. Our services include document preparation, agency coordination, and compliance verification to minimize delays and ensure timely project commencement.
Historic Preservation
We specialize in restoring and adapting historic buildings while maintaining architectural integrity. Our approach combines modern functionality with period-appropriate materials and techniques, ensuring compliance with preservation guidelines.
People
Steve Wygoda
Founder
Licensed architect with 50+ years of experience shaping NYC's urban landscape. Leader in zoning reform and sidewalk caf initiatives. Committed to community-focused design and sustainable architectural solutions.
Kieran Meehan
Associate
Experienced architectural professional specializing in project coordination and code compliance. Provides technical expertise for commercial and residential developments across multiple jurisdictions.
Ana Carneiro
Office Manager
Manages day-to-day operations and client communications. Ensures efficient project workflow and maintains organizational standards across all architectural services.
Siad Rasheed
Office Manager
Supports project execution and administrative operations. Coordinates team resources to maintain high service standards for commercial and residential architecture clients.
Questions
What architectural services does SWA offer?
We provide commercial/residential design, zoning analysis, permit expediting, historic preservation, and sidewalk café design. Our services cover all project phases from concept to construction.
How experienced is your team with NYC regulations?
We've specialized in NYC DOB permitting since 1998, pioneered the first sidewalk café rule, and maintain licenses in 30+ states for nationwide project execution.
Can you handle multi-state projects?
Yes, our team is licensed in over 30 states and has completed thousands of projects nationwide, adapting to diverse regulatory environments while maintaining consistent quality.
What makes your sidewalk café design unique?
As creators of NYC's first sidewalk café rule, we combine regulatory expertise with creative design to maximize outdoor space while ensuring safety and compliance.
How do you ensure project compliance?
We conduct thorough zoning analyses, code compliance reviews, and coordinate directly with local authorities to address regulatory requirements proactively throughout the project lifecycle.
