Residential Architecture & Interior Design
Homes designed for how you live, with clarity, organization, and expert guidance from concept to completion.
Heitler Houstoun Architects provides custom residential architecture and interior design for clients in New York City, Westchester, New Jersey, Miami, Orange County, and beyond who value thoughtful design and organized execution.
What We Focus On
At Heitler Houstoun Architects, residential architecture begins with understanding how you live. We design homes for people who need more than floor plans; they need a partner who can navigate complex approvals, coordinate contractors, and deliver spaces that work beautifully for daily life.
Whether you’re combining apartments on the Upper West Side, renovating a Brooklyn townhouse, or building a custom suburban home, we provide full-service architecture from initial design through construction completion. Our approach integrates architecture, interior design, and project management into a single, accountable process.
years of expertise.
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families served.
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states worked in.
Common problems we solve
CO-OP & CONDO BOARD APPROVALS
Navigating board packages, alteration agreements, and landmark approvals without delays or rejections.
PROCESS & COORDINATION
Clients often don’t know what architects actually manage. We clarify every phase from permits to construction oversight and handle contractor coordination.
Challenges of Gut Renovation
Transforming cramped, outdated layouts into open, functional spaces requires managing structural engineers, MEP consultants, and phased construction timelines.
Townhouse Renovations
Rethinking multi-level layouts, adding light, and preserving character while meeting code requirements.
Design & Construction
Plans that don’t translate clearly to contractors create costly delays. Our detailed documentation eliminates miscommunication.
How we work with you
01
Discovery & Feasibility
We begin by understanding your lifestyle, goals, and site. For typical projects, this includes reviewing zoning, board requirements, and building code implications before design begins.
02
Schematic Design
We develop floor plans and 3D models showing how spaces will feel and function. For projects requiring interior design, we integrate fixtures and furniture from the start.
03
Design Development, Construction Documents & Permitting
Detailed architectural drawings, design specifications, and permit documents are prepared. We coordinate directly with condo/co-op boards, DOB, and landmarks when required.
04
Construction Oversight
We remain actively involved throughout construction, reviewing on-site progress, coordinating with the general contractor, and ensuring the finished home matches the approved design.
Why clients choose Heitler Houstoun Architects
Many architecture firms hand off projects after permits are approved. At Heitler Houstoun Architects, we stay involved through construction completion. Our full-service approach to architecture, interior design services, permitting, and project management means one team, one vision, and complete accountability. Clients value our organized execution, clear communication, and deep expertise, especially with NYC residential architecture.
Urban Apartments & Lofts
We design residential architecture for high-rise apartments, lofts, and penthouses across Manhattan and Brooklyn. Projects often involve gut renovations, apartment combinations, and condo/co-op board approvals. Our interior architecture approach integrates custom millwork, material selection, and spatial flow to create homes that feel cohesive and refined.
Townhouses
Townhouse architecture in New York requires balancing historic character with modern functionality. We work on townhouse renovations throughout Brooklyn, the Upper West Side, and beyond, rethinking multi-level layouts, adding natural light, and creating flow between floors. Many projects involve landmark approvals and structural interventions.
Suburban Homes
Custom residential architecture for suburban sites in Westchester County, New Jersey, California, Florida, and other markets. We focus on creating homes that respond to context and family lifestyles. We design new builds and major renovations that balance indoor- outdoor connection, natural light, and functional zoning for entertaining and relaxation.
Gut Renovations & Apartment Combinations
Architectural design for gut renovations involves managing board approvals, structural engineering, MEP coordination, and sometimes phased construction timelines. We specialize in transforming outdated layouts into open, light-filled homes. Apartment combinations require careful planning around load-bearing walls, building systems, and board alteration agreements.
Interior Design & Interior Architecture
Our residential interiors are approached as a complete environment, developed through two complementary services: interior architecture and interior design.
Interior architecture forms the foundation of the space. Design of millwork, architectural finishes, and integrated lighting defines how the home functions and is experienced.
Interior design builds upon that framework, introducing furniture, specialty wall treatments, decorative lighting, and soft goods to shape the character and atmosphere of the space.
While closely coordinated, these are structured as separate components within our proposals, giving clients clarity and flexibility in how their project is defined.
Recent Residential Projects
Questions we often get
Do you handle co-op and condo board approvals?
Yes. We prepare all required drawings, coordinate with building management and present to boards when needed.
What’s included in your interior design services?
Interior design includes FF&E space planning and integration within the architectural environment to ensure the space is not only well-built, but fully realized. We source furniture, specialty wall coverings, decorative lighting, accessories and draperies and manage the process until they are installed. Services include specification, procurement, tracking and coordination of installation.
How long does a gut renovation take in NYC?
Most gut renovations span 12-18 months from design through construction. Timeline depends on board approvals, scope, and building logistics.
Do you work on suburban homes outside NYC?
Yes. We design custom residences and substantial renovations in Westchester, New Jersey, Los Angeles, Orange County, Miami, and across the US.
