Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Architectural Design & Planning Services in Buffalo, NY
CJS Architects has dedicated five decades to delivering exceptional architectural design services through collaborative client partnerships. Our team of licensed architects and LEED-certified professionals combines seasoned expertise with innovative thinking to create spaces that reflect client values while addressing functional needs. We specialize in architectural design, historic preservation, interior design, and sustainability consulting, with notable projects including the Strong National Museum of Play and the Buffalo Central Terminal. Our commitment to sustainable practices is demonstrated through energy-efficient solutions and LEED-certified projects. Recognized by the AIA Design Awards Jury for our talented design team, we maintain long-term client relationships by prioritizing clear communication, budget adherence, and timely delivery.Our work spans diverse sectors including education, healthcare, residential, and cultural institutions. With offices in Buffalo and Rochester, NY, we integrate architecture into complex urban infrastructures while preserving architectural heritage through historic tax credit projects. Our visualization experts utilize cutting-edge technology to create clear design representations for client approval and fundraising purposes. This combination of technical expertise, historical sensitivity, and forward-thinking design has established us as a trusted leader in the architectural field.
Services
Architectural Design
Historic Preservation
Interior Design
Sustainability Consulting
Master Planning
Construction Administration
Building Condition Surveys
LEED Certification
Urban Revitalization
Visualization Services
Details
- Year established: 1973
Highlights and features
- 50 years of architectural expertise across diverse project types
- LEED-certified professionals specializing in sustainable design
- Proven success with historic tax credit projects and preservation
- Award-winning design team recognized by AIA and community groups
- Integrated approach combining architecture with urban planning
Associations and certifications
- LEED
Services
Architectural Design
Our architectural design services create functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces tailored to client needs. We handle projects from initial concept through construction administration, ensuring designs meet building codes and sustainability standards. Our team specializes in educational, cultural, and commercial buildings that enhance community environments.
Historic Preservation
We preserve architectural heritage through comprehensive historic preservation services. This includes preparing Historic Structures Reports, securing tax credits, and rehabilitating notable buildings by renowned architects. Our work maintains historical integrity while adapting structures for modern use and sustainability requirements.
Interior Design
Our interior design solutions create timeless, functional spaces that reflect client identity. We handle everything from space analysis and furniture selection to finish specifications and installation drawings. Our approach combines aesthetic vision with practical considerations for commercial and residential environments.
Sustainability Consulting
We integrate sustainable practices into all project phases through our LEED-certified expertise. Services include energy efficiency analysis, resource management strategies, and life cycle costing assessments. Our team helps achieve LEED certification for projects seeking environmental performance recognition.
Master Planning
Our master planning services create cohesive community developments that balance diverse infrastructure needs. We specialize in campus planning, residential developments, and urban revitalization projects. The process includes feasibility studies, public engagement, and contextual analysis to create sustainable, functional spaces.
People
Craig W. Jensen
Partner
With decades of experience, Craig leads our architectural team, focusing on innovative design and client collaboration. His expertise ensures projects meet both aesthetic and functional goals while maintaining budget and schedule commitments.
Dirk Schneider
Partner
Dirk brings international architectural expertise to our firm, specializing in complex projects that require technical precision and creative problem-solving. His background enhances our ability to handle diverse design challenges across multiple sectors.
Robert E. Stark
Partner
Robert focuses on project management and client relations, ensuring seamless execution from concept to completion. His leadership helps maintain our high standards for quality and client satisfaction across all project phases.
Michael Ellison
Senior Project Manager
As a senior project manager, Michael oversees complex architectural projects, coordinating teams to ensure timely delivery and adherence to specifications. His technical expertise and organizational skills contribute to successful project outcomes.
Jonathan Claeys
Senior Project Architect
Jonathan leads architectural design efforts with a focus on innovative solutions that balance creativity and practicality. His attention to detail ensures projects meet both functional requirements and aesthetic visions.
Questions
What architectural services does CJS Architects offer?
We provide comprehensive architectural services including design, historic preservation, interior design, sustainability consulting, and master planning. Our expertise spans educational, cultural, residential, and commercial projects.
How experienced is CJS Architects' team?
With 50 years of collective experience, our team includes licensed architects, LEED-certified professionals, and specialists in historic preservation who have completed diverse projects across multiple sectors.
Do you handle historic building preservation projects?
Yes, we specialize in historic preservation including tax credit projects, rehabilitation of notable structures, and working with preservation offices to maintain architectural heritage while meeting modern requirements.
What areas do you serve?
While based in Buffalo and Rochester, NY, we serve clients throughout New York State and have completed projects in Louisiana and other locations requiring our specialized expertise.
How do you incorporate sustainability into designs?
Our LEED-certified team integrates energy-efficient systems, sustainable materials, and life cycle analysis into every project. We've achieved LEED certification for multiple large-scale projects including museums and educational facilities.
What design approach do you use for projects?
We employ a collaborative approach combining client input with technical expertise. Our process includes visualization tools to ensure clear communication and create spaces that exceed client expectations.
