Business Details
23 Years
experience
Innovative Architecture & Sustainable Design Solutions
WORK Architecture is a New York-based architecture and design firm co-founded by Amale Andraos and Dan Wood in 2003. Our practice focuses on creating innovative architectural solutions that address environmental and social challenges while reimagining how communities live, work, and interact. We specialize in public, cultural, and civic projects that integrate architecture, landscape, and ecological systems. Our work emphasizes local contexts, climates, and histories, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. Recognized with prestigious awards including the 2023 Arts and Letters Award in Architecture and AIA New York State Firm of the Year, we have completed transformative projects like the Edible Schoolyards in Brooklyn, public libraries across New York City and Colorado, and the Blaffer Museum Expansion in Houston.Current projects include the Beirut Museum of Art, Cornell University's Sibley Dome Renovation, and a cultural center in Muscat, Oman. Our team combines resolute realism with optimistic vision to push boundaries beyond conventional design. As educators, we contribute to architectural discourse through teaching positions at Columbia University, Yale, and other institutions. Our publications explore themes like urban agriculture and Middle Eastern architecture. With global exhibitions at venues including the Venice Architecture Biennale and MoMA, we maintain a dedication to advancing architectural innovation while prioritizing community impact.
Services
Architectural Design
Sustainable Building Solutions
Cultural Project Development
Urban Planning
Educational Facility Design
Museum Architecture
Public Space Design
Green Infrastructure
International Project Consultation
Historic Renovation
Details
- Year established: 2003
Highlights and features
- We have completed award-winning projects across six countries since 2003
- Our firm integrates architecture with ecological systems for sustainable solutions
- Our principals hold leadership roles at Columbia University and Yale
- We've received the AIA New York State Firm of the Year award
- Our work combines resolute realism with polemical optimism in design
Services
Architectural Design
We create innovative architectural solutions that integrate environmental and social considerations. Our approach combines cutting-edge design with practical functionality for public, cultural, and civic spaces. Projects range from educational facilities to urban infrastructure, emphasizing sustainability and community impact.
Sustainable Building Solutions
Our sustainable design practice merges ecological systems with architectural innovation. We develop energy-efficient buildings that respond to local climates while minimizing environmental impact. This includes green roofs, renewable materials, and energy optimization strategies tailored to each project's unique context.
Cultural Project Development
We specialize in designing cultural institutions that reflect community identity. Our portfolio includes museums, libraries, and performance spaces that balance artistic vision with practical requirements. Recent projects include the Blaffer Museum Expansion and the Miami Museum Garage, both receiving international architectural recognition.
Urban Planning
Our urban planning services focus on creating livable, sustainable cities. We develop masterplans that integrate green spaces, transportation systems, and mixed-use developments. Current work includes strategic planning for Vassar College and a cultural center in Muscat, Oman, emphasizing walkability and environmental stewardship.
Educational Facility Design
We design learning environments that enhance educational experiences. Our work includes the RISD Student Success Center and multiple library projects that combine modern technology with traditional learning spaces. Each design prioritizes natural light, flexible layouts, and sustainable materials to create optimal learning environments.
People
Amale Andraos
Co-Founder & Principal
Dean Emeritus of Columbia University's GSAPP, first woman dean of the school. Recognized thought leader in sustainable architecture, contributing to publications like 'Architecture and Representation: The Arab City'.
Dan Wood
Co-Founder & Principal
Fellow of the American Institute of Architects and former Vice President for Design Excellence at AIA NY. LEED-certified architect with teaching experience at Columbia and Yale. Co-author of multiple architectural publications.
Kaitlin Beckham
Senior Associate
Experienced project leader with expertise in complex architectural implementations. Plays key role in managing large-scale projects from concept through construction, ensuring design integrity and technical excellence.
Claudia Anselmo da Costa
Associate
Design professional contributing to diverse projects across the firm's portfolio. Focuses on integrating sustainable practices into architectural solutions while maintaining aesthetic and functional standards.
Daniel Confroy
Director of Communications
Manages firm communications and marketing strategy. Ensures consistent representation of WORK Architecture's design philosophy through publications, exhibitions, and media relations while maintaining professional industry connections.
Questions
What types of projects does WORKac specialize in?
We focus on public, cultural, and civic architecture including museums, libraries, educational facilities, and urban planning projects that integrate sustainability and social responsibility.
Where is WORKac based?
Our main office is located at 156 Ludlow Street, 3rd floor, New York, NY 10002, with projects across the United States and internationally.
What makes WORKac's approach unique?
We combine architectural innovation with ecological systems thinking, emphasizing local contexts while maintaining a global perspective on environmental and social challenges.
Has WORKac received any architectural awards?
Yes, we've received numerous awards including the 2023 Arts and Letters Award in Architecture, AIA New York State Firm of the Year, and multiple AIA NY honors.
