Business Details
28 Years
experience
Award-Winning Architectural Design in New York, NY
MBB Architects is an award-winning, women-owned architecture and design firm established in 1998, dedicated to creating meaningful environments that enrich lives and promote sustainability. Our collaborative team, including architects, sustainability specialists, and interior designers, works closely with clients across educational, cultural, religious, and private sectors. With decades of experience, we combine the production capabilities of a large firm with the personalized attention of a smaller practice. Our hands-on approach prioritizes communication, research, and stakeholder engagement to deliver technically innovative, mission-driven solutions. We specialize in advancing client goals through design excellence, from campus master plans to adaptive reuse projects. Our sustainability expertise includes LEED Accreditation and Passive House Certification, supported by a Director of Sustainability coordinating practical, cost-effective strategies.The firms leadershipMary Burnham, Jeffrey Murphy, Sara Grant, Taylor Aikin, and Maricela Salaspersonally oversees projects, ensuring alignment with client visions and fostering a diverse, equitable workplace. Recognized for award-winning work, we emphasize inclusive design processes and community impact, balancing preservation with innovation. Our commitment to resilience, energy performance, and carbon reduction is evident in projects like New Yorks first green school roof and St. Patricks Cathedrals geothermal plant. With a focus on long-term value, we create spaces that inspire well-being while safeguarding the planets future.
Services
Architectural Design
Master Planning
Adaptive Reuse
Interior Design
Sustainability
Details
- Year established: 1998
Highlights and features
- Award-winning women-owned firm with 25+ years of architectural experience.
- LEED Accredited and Passive House Certified professionals on staff.
- Personal involvement of partners in every project from start to finish.
- Collaborative approach merging client vision with technical expertise.
- Proven sustainability strategies reducing energy use and carbon footprint.
Associations and certifications
- LEED Accreditation
- Passive House Certification
Services
Architectural Design
MBB Architects creates innovative, technically advanced spaces for institutional and private clients. Our designs prioritize mission alignment, well-being, and sustainability. From ground-up constructions to campus master plans, we balance aesthetics with functionality to deliver award-winning solutions tailored to client needs.
Master Planning
We develop actionable master plans by analyzing client assets and stakeholder input. Our process aligns budgets, goals, and community needs to create vibrant, future-ready spaces. Through qualitative and quantitative research, we ensure long-term viability for educational, cultural, and urban developments.
Adaptive Reuse
Our team revitalizes aging structures while preserving historical integrity. Specializing in academic buildings and houses of worship, we balance modernization with conservation. This approach extends building lifespans, reduces waste, and maintains cultural heritage for future generations.
Interior Design
MBB offers custom interior solutions for residential, cultural, and educational spaces. Our designers collaborate with architects to optimize functionality and aesthetics. From bespoke installations to holistic layouts, we create environments that reflect client identity and enhance user experience.
Sustainability
Our sustainability experts deliver cost-effective, resilient designs to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon footprints. Services include geothermal systems, green roofs, and passive house strategies. With in-house LEED Accredited professionals, we integrate proven methods to maximize environmental and economic benefits.
People
Mary Burnham
Partner
Co-founder and partner with 25+ years of experience in institutional architecture. Serves on professional boards and mentors team members, fostering equity in the architecture field.
Jeffrey Murphy
Partner
Co-founder and partner specializing in historic preservation and adaptive reuse. Leads projects requiring technical precision and cultural sensitivity, ensuring alignment with client missions.
Sara Grant
Partner
Partner with expertise in educational and cultural projects. Focuses on stakeholder engagement to create spaces that enhance community impact and functional efficiency.
Taylor Aikin
Partner
Partner driving innovative design solutions for public and private clients. Integrates sustainability strategies to deliver long-term value while maintaining architectural integrity.
Maricela Salas
Associate Partner
Associate Partner specializing in interior design and client collaboration. Translates client visions into functional, aesthetically cohesive spaces across residential and institutional projects.
Questions
What types of projects does MBB Architects specialize in?
We specialize in architectural design, master planning, adaptive reuse, interior design, and sustainability-focused projects for educational, cultural, religious, and private clients.
How does MBB Architects approach sustainability?
We integrate LEED Accredited and Passive House Certified strategies, geothermal systems, and energy-efficient designs to reduce carbon footprints while maximizing long-term value.
Can MBB handle both new constructions and renovations?
Yes, we work on ground-up buildings, campus master plans, and historic renovations, balancing preservation with modernization to meet evolving needs.
Is MBB Architects involved in community-focused projects?
Yes, our projects emphasize inclusive design and community impact, particularly in schools, cultural institutions, and religious spaces.
Do partners personally oversee projects?
Yes, our partners are directly involved in every project to ensure alignment with client goals and maintain design excellence.
How does MBB ensure client collaboration?
We use stakeholder engagement and research-driven approaches to align designs with client missions, budgets, and long-term objectives.
Reviews (1)
Mary McGoff
Jul 08, 2018
Report
MBB is an outstanding firm. The restoration work performed at St. Patrick's Cathedral is a great example of the quality of their work and the commitment to excellence of this first-class team of architects.
