Business Details
Innovative Architectural Design Solutions
Freecell Architecture finds it essential to engage with materials, methods, and structures to solve design problems. We consider the studio to be an open, as in FREE, organism, as in CELL, that absorbs, processes, and grows from outside influences and resources. Our approach creates site-specific, three-dimensional constructs that transform and question the use and perception of space. With a standard of thorough commitment, we listen to client needs, respond with solutions, understand limitations, and act with timely efficiency. Our devotion stems from the love and satisfaction of completing projects. As a licensed architecture office and woman-owned small business, we guide craftspeople and builders to realize work while ensuring attention to detail and craft.Our core service involves listening, designing, and implementing projects. We maintain an extensive database of specialists including cabinetmakers, architectural metalworkers, general contractors, and digital fabricators. Our services span renovation and new building design, property and site analysis, need assessment and programming, presentation drawings, renderings, and models, material innovation and research, construction documents, NYC DOB compliance, permit applications, bidding, construction administration, contractor sourcing, and material manufacturer selection.
Services
Architectural Design
Building Renovation
Site Analysis
Construction Documents
Material Research
Permit Applications
Contractor Sourcing
Highlights and features
- We offer 15+ years of collaborative architectural expertise with industry-recognized professionals
- Our extensive network includes specialized craftsmen and digital fabricators for precision execution
- Woman-owned firm with LEED-certified sustainable design capabilities
- We maintain rigorous NYC DOB compliance and permit application expertise
- Our process combines material innovation with spatial logics for unique solutions
Associations and certifications
- LEED
Services
Architectural Design
Our architectural design service creates site-specific, three-dimensional constructs that transform spatial perception. We combine material innovation with geometric precision to address functional requirements while challenging conventional design paradigms. Our approach emphasizes collaboration with specialized craftsmen and digital fabricators to achieve unique solutions that balance aesthetic vision with technical execution.
Building Renovation
We specialize in transforming existing structures through strategic renovations that preserve historical integrity while implementing modern functionality. Our process involves careful assessment of building conditions, code compliance requirements, and spatial optimization opportunities. Recent projects demonstrate our ability to extend and reconfigure buildings while maintaining their architectural character and adapting to contemporary needs.
Material Research
Our material research service focuses on developing innovative applications for architectural surfaces and components. We explore unconventional material combinations and fabrication techniques to create distinctive design solutions. This includes custom wall treatments, encaustic tile laminations, and terrazzo-slab countertops that enhance both aesthetic quality and functional performance in residential and commercial environments.
Construction Documents
We produce comprehensive construction documentation packages that translate design concepts into executable technical specifications. Our documentation process ensures precise communication of spatial relationships, material assemblies, and construction methodologies while maintaining compliance with NYC Department of Buildings regulations and permitting requirements.
Permit Applications
Our permit application service manages the complete NYC DOB compliance process for architectural projects. We prepare and submit required documentation, coordinate agency reviews, and ensure all design elements meet current building codes and zoning regulations while maintaining design integrity throughout the approval process.
People
Lauren Crahan
Principal Architect
NY State licensed architect with LEED certification and principal of Freecell Architecture. Rhode Island School of Design graduate with teaching experience at UPenn, RISD, and Parsons. Combines spatial logics with material research expertise.
John Hartmann
Collaborating Architect
15-year collaborator with Freecell Architecture. Cooper Union graduate awarded Rome Prize and MacDowell Residency. Teaching experience at Parsons and Cooper Union, with international workshop leadership in China.
Sam McBride
Architectural Designer
Joined Freecell in 2014 with MArch from Drury University. Recipient of Henry Adams AIA Medal and Librarium Award. Specializes in innovative spatial solutions and digital fabrication techniques.
Gia Wolff
Collaborating Architect
Harvard GSD graduate with expertise in user-environment relationships. Wheelwright Prize winner for 'Floating City' project. Creates installations that explore spatial experience concepts, including Tate Modern's 'Canopy' exhibit.
Questions
What architectural services does Freecell offer?
We provide full-spectrum architectural services including residential/commercial design, renovations, site analysis, material research, construction documentation, and NYC DOB compliance.
Do you handle both residential and commercial projects?
Yes, we specialize in both residential and commercial architecture with notable projects in Brooklyn brownstones, Chelsea apartments, and Manhattan showrooms.
What makes your firm unique?
Our approach combines material innovation with spatial logics, maintaining an extensive network of specialized craftsmen and digital fabricators for precision execution.
Are you LEED-certified?
Yes, our firm holds LEED certification and incorporates sustainable design principles into our architectural solutions.
How do you handle construction administration?
We guide craftspeople and builders throughout the process, ensuring attention to detail and craft while managing NYC DOB compliance and permit applications.
What geographic areas do you serve?
While based in Brooklyn, we serve Manhattan, Los Angeles, Raleigh, Miami Beach, and other locations through our network of specialized collaborators.
