Business Details
23 Years
experience
Sustainable Architecture & Design Services in NY
Phinney Design Group is a multi-disciplinary firm specializing in architecture, interior design, green building consulting, and construction management. Since 2003, we have pursued excellence in design through a collaborative environment that combines technical expertise with creative innovation. Our approach prioritizes sustainability, environmental responsibility, and the unique needs of each project's context and community. We maintain a holistic philosophy, ensuring seamless coordination between architects, engineers, and builders throughout all project phases. Our team of LEED-accredited professionals and award-winning designers brings decades of experience in creating spaces that balance aesthetic appeal with functional efficiency.We emphasize transparency, client collaboration, and adherence to budgetary and scheduling constraints while delivering solutions that exceed expectations. Our portfolio spans diverse sectors, including residential, commercial, hospitality, and institutional projects, all reflecting our commitment to advancing sustainable design practices. With headquarters in Saratoga Springs, NY, we serve clients across New York State and beyond, fostering long-term relationships built on trust and shared vision.
Services
Architecture
Interior Design
Green Building Consulting
Construction Management
Sustainable Design
Land Use Analysis
Urban Planning
Historic Preservation
Residential Design
Commercial Architecture
Details
- Year established: 2003
Highlights and features
- We offer 25+ years of LEED-certified architectural expertise in sustainable design.
- Our integrated design-build approach ensures seamless project coordination from concept to completion.
- We prioritize environmental responsibility, having completed New York State's first certified green building.
- Our team includes seven LEED-credentialed professionals with diverse project experience.
- We maintain a 98% client retention rate through transparent communication and budget adherence.
What people say
Exceptional green building expertise
Award-winning design solutions
Seamless construction coordination
Client-focused approach
Sustainable innovation
Services
Architecture
Phinney Design Group provides comprehensive architectural services spanning residential, commercial, and institutional projects. Our approach combines technical precision with creative innovation to create functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces. We manage projects from initial concept through construction completion, ensuring adherence to budgetary and scheduling parameters while maintaining environmental responsibility.
Interior Design
Our interior design team creates customized environments that balance form and function for residential and commercial clients. We focus on material selection, lighting design, and spatial optimization while maintaining alignment with architectural context. Services include full-scale renovations and new construction interior programs tailored to client needs and lifestyle requirements.
Green Building Consulting
We offer expert guidance on achieving LEED certification and implementing eco-friendly building practices. Our consultants specialize in energy-efficient systems, renewable material selection, and environmentally conscious construction methods. This service helps clients reduce operational costs while minimizing their environmental footprint through proven green technologies.
Construction Management
Our construction management division provides end-to-end project coordination, from permitting to final inspections. We maintain design integrity throughout the building process while managing budgets, timelines, and contractor relationships. This service ensures seamless execution of architectural plans with strict quality control measures in place.
Land Use Planning
We conduct comprehensive land use assessments and develop strategic planning solutions for residential and commercial developments. Our services include zoning analysis, environmental impact assessments, and master planning that balances client objectives with community needs while maintaining regulatory compliance.
People
Michael R. Phinney
Founding Principal
Licensed architect with 25+ years of experience in sustainable design. LEED Accredited Professional and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute graduate. Pioneered New York State's first certified green building in 2001. Leads design teams in creating environmentally responsible solutions across diverse project types.
Brennan D. Drake
Principal
15-year architectural veteran specializing in high-end residential and commercial projects. LEED Green Associate with expertise in construction management. Oversees Saratoga Springs office operations and ensures technical excellence in project execution from concept to completion.
Tara Borodin-Galarza
Senior Associate
20-year architectural design professional with extensive experience in adaptive reuse and historic preservation. LEED Green Associate specializing in residential and hospitality projects. Holds architectural licenses in multiple states and contributes to both design and technical documentation phases.
Patrick W. Piper
Senior Architect
35-year industry veteran with expertise in corporate and government projects. LEED Accredited Professional specializing in technical production aspects of architecture. Oversees complex renovation projects and ensures compliance with federal building standards for institutional clients.
Joshua Galarneau
Director of Construction Management
24-year construction management expert with engineering degrees from Tufts and UC Berkeley. Oversees $2M-$10M residential projects, managing budgets, schedules, and quality control. Ensures seamless integration between design and construction teams for optimal project outcomes.
Questions
What architectural services does Phinney Design Group offer?
We provide full-service architecture, interior design, construction management, and green building consulting for residential and commercial projects.
How does the firm incorporate sustainability into designs?
We integrate LEED-certified practices, geothermal systems, green roofs, and energy-efficient materials to minimize environmental impact.
What project types does the firm specialize in?
Our expertise spans residential, hospitality, institutional, and commercial projects with a focus on adaptive reuse and sustainable new construction.
Can the firm handle complex construction projects?
Yes, our design-build approach and 24+ years of experience managing projects up to $30M ensure successful delivery of complex developments.
Is the firm involved in local community projects?
We actively participate in Saratoga Springs preservation initiatives and have completed multiple award-winning local landmark renovations.