Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Architectural Solutions in Orchard Park, NY
FFAE Architects has been delivering architectural excellence since 1961. Our firm combines over 35 years of collective expertise with a client-centric approach, specializing in healthcare environments, senior housing, commercial buildings, and religious facilities. With a team led by dedicated partners, we prioritize clear communication and hands-on project management from concept to completion. Our services span feasibility studies, sustainable design, and code compliance assessments, supported by advanced 3D modeling capabilities. We maintain deep industry knowledge through active participation in professional organizations and local governance.Our principals hold registrations in multiple states and certifications from NCARB, ensuring technical rigor across all projects. From initial programming to construction administration, we focus on functional, financial, and scheduling precision. Our work with New York State Department of Health CON applications demonstrates regulatory expertise. With a legacy of innovation since our founding, we continue evolving through strategic leadership additions in 2017. Our commitment remains to transform client visions into built environments that serve communities effectively.
Services
Feasibility Studies
Master Planning
Sustainable Design
CON Applications
Code Compliance
3D Modeling
Historic Preservation
Space Programming
Construction Documentation
Details
- Year established: 1961
Highlights and features
- We offer 60+ years of combined architectural experience in healthcare and senior housing design
- Our projects receive dedicated partner-level oversight from concept through construction
- We maintain NCARB-certified professionals and multi-state architectural registrations
- Our team specializes in New York State Department of Health CON applications
- We combine 3D modeling technology with traditional architectural craftsmanship
Associations and certifications
- NCARB
Services
Feasibility Studies
Our feasibility studies evaluate project viability through site analysis, budget projections, and regulatory requirements. We assess technical, financial, and operational aspects to guide informed decision-making. This critical first step ensures alignment with client goals and long-term sustainability objectives.
Sustainable Design
We integrate energy-efficient systems and eco-friendly materials throughout the design process. Our approach balances environmental responsibility with functional requirements and cost-effectiveness. This includes LEED certification guidance and life-cycle cost analysis for optimal building performance.
CON Applications
We specialize in preparing New York State Department of Health Certificate of Need applications. Our expertise streamlines regulatory approval for healthcare facility expansions and new constructions. This service includes comprehensive documentation and coordination with state agencies.
Historic Preservation
Our team revitalizes historic structures while maintaining architectural integrity. We combine traditional techniques with modern building codes to extend building lifespans. This includes material analysis, code adaptation, and period-accurate restoration methods.
3D Modeling
We employ advanced 3D modeling for design exploration and client communication. This technology enables spatial analysis, construction sequencing, and photorealistic renderings. Our digital tools enhance decision-making through immersive visual representations of proposed designs.
People
Paul A. Ernst
Principal, President
Paul A. Ernst, NCARB-certified architect with 35+ years at FFAE, specializes in healthcare and religious facilities. Registered in NY, FL, and MI, he chairs Aurora's Zoning Board. Leads complex projects with regulatory expertise.
Ivan N. Garcia
Principal
Ivan Garcia brings 30+ years of architectural experience focusing on eldercare and industrial facilities. As a Principal, he designs innovative solutions for renovations and new constructions. AIA member with comprehensive planning expertise.
Raymond A. Murphy
Principal
Raymond Murphy specializes in healthcare and behavioral health facilities. LEED AP BD+C certified with 20+ years at FFAE, he manages projects from programming through construction. Expert in diverse building typologies and sustainability standards.
William A. Heidt
Senior Associate
William Heidt focuses on architectural technology and sustainable design methods. With 10+ years at FFAE, he excels in 3D modeling and code interpretation for healthcare and residential projects. Recognized for technical documentation expertise.
Alvin T. Fontanese
Principal Emeritus
Alvin Fontanese founded the firm in 1961 and shaped its architectural legacy. Specialized in long-term care facilities and State Health Code revisions. Community leader with decades of design and evaluation expertise in healthcare architecture.
Questions
What architectural services does FFAE offer?
We provide comprehensive services including feasibility studies, sustainable design, code compliance assessments, 3D modeling, and specialized healthcare facility design. Our expertise covers all project phases from initial concept to construction completion.
How long has FFAE Architects been in business?
Our firm's history dates back to 1961 when Alvin Fontanese established the practice. We became a Professional Corporation in 1985 and have maintained continuous operation for over 60 years.
Do you specialize in healthcare facility design?
Yes, healthcare environments have been a core focus since our founding. We specialize in long-term care facilities, adult care centers, and State Health Department-regulated projects with extensive CON application experience.
What makes FFAE's approach unique?
Each project receives dedicated partner leadership with co-partner support. We combine technical expertise with hands-on project management and maintain NCARB-certified professionals across multiple states for regulatory compliance.
How do you handle complex renovation projects?
Our team conducts thorough facility evaluations and forensic analysis before developing phased renovation plans. We specialize in historic preservation while integrating modern building systems and accessibility requirements.
