Business Details
35 Years
experience
Environmental Simulation Center in New York, NY
Founded in 1991, our organization specializes in creating innovative digital tools for urban planning and environmental simulations. We collaborate with cities, governments, and private entities to develop performance-based planning solutions using 3D-GIS technology and real-time visualization systems. Our experts have pioneered tools like CommunityViz, which integrates virtual reality with scenario planning, enabling stakeholders to make informed decisions about urban development. We focus on creating adaptable systems that respond to the dynamic nature of urban environments. Our work spans diverse geographic locations, including New York City, Boston, Houston, and Honolulu.We maintain a commitment to using technology as a means to enhance public engagement and improve urban quality of life. Our team combines architectural expertise with advanced computational techniques to address complex planning challenges. We have contributed to significant zoning reforms and environmental impact assessments across the United States. Our approach prioritizes place-based solutions while maintaining global relevance. We continue to develop cutting-edge visualization techniques that help decision-makers understand the environmental consequences of urban development projects.
Services
Environmental Simulations
Urban Design
3D-GIS Development
Scenario Planning
Regulatory Solutions
Details
- Year established: 1991
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years of experience in environmental simulation technology
- Developed CommunityViz, the first GIS-based planning software with VR integration
- Led zoning reforms in major US cities including New York and Boston
- Specialize in real-time visualization systems for environmental impact assessment
- Combine architectural expertise with advanced computational planning methods
Services
Environmental Simulations
We create detailed environmental simulations that help visualize and evaluate the impacts of urban development projects. Our tools analyze factors like sunlight access, shadow patterns, and visual impacts on cityscapes. Clients use these simulations to make informed decisions about zoning and development plans. Our technology combines 3D modeling with real-time data analysis.
Urban Design
Our urban design services focus on creating adaptable frameworks for sustainable city development. We develop performance-based zoning solutions that consider environmental quality and community needs. Our approach integrates digital tools with traditional planning methods to create flexible urban environments. We've worked on landmark projects in New York City and other major urban centers.
3D-GIS Development
We specialize in developing advanced 3D-GIS applications for urban planning and environmental analysis. Our proprietary tools enable interactive scenario planning and impact assessment. These systems allow stakeholders to explore different development scenarios and understand their environmental consequences. Our 3D-GIS solutions combine spatial analysis with visualization technology.
Scenario Planning
Our scenario planning services help communities explore different development futures. We create interactive models that show how urban environments might evolve under various conditions. This approach enables planners to test zoning alternatives and evaluate potential outcomes. Our methods emphasize transparency and stakeholder engagement in the planning process.
Regulatory Solutions
We develop innovative regulatory frameworks for urban development. Our work includes creating performance-based zoning systems that address environmental quality and community needs. We've contributed to major zoning reforms in New York City and other urban areas. Our approach focuses on creating adaptable regulations that respond to changing urban conditions.
People
Michael Kwartler
Founder and President
A licensed architect with over 30 years of experience, Michael established the Environmental Simulation Center in 1991. He pioneered performance-based zoning systems and has led major urban design projects nationwide. His work focuses on integrating technology with urban planning to create more sustainable cities.
Maha Aslam
Senior Research Associate
Maha brings specialized expertise in environmental simulations and urban design research. With over 15 years at the ESC, she has contributed to numerous high-profile projects analyzing urban development impacts. Her work focuses on connecting technical analysis with community planning needs.
Questions
What services does Environmental Simulation Center offer?
We provide environmental simulations, urban design solutions, 3D-GIS development, scenario planning, and regulatory framework analysis for urban development projects.
Where does ESC operate?
We work on projects across the United States including New York City, Boston, Los Angeles, and Houston, with international experience in locations like China and Hawaii.
How long has ESC been in business?
The Environmental Simulation Center was established in 1991 at The New School for Social Research by Michael Kwartler, FAIA.
What makes ESC different from other planning firms?
We uniquely combine advanced digital simulation technology with deep urban design expertise, creating tools that enable interactive scenario planning and real-time environmental impact assessment.
What are ESC's core values?
We believe in technology as a means to enhance urban quality of life, emphasizing adaptable systems that respond to environmental and community needs.
