Rafael Viñoly Architects was founded in New York in 1983, and has since become known internationally for its architectural projects around the globe. In addition to site offices around the world, the firm now has affiliate offices in London, Los Angeles, and Abu Dhabi.

The unusually diverse work the firm has completed includes award-winning courthouses, museums, performing arts centers, convention centers, athletic facilities, banks, hotels, hospitals, laboratories, recreational venues, residential complexes, and commercial, industrial and educational facilities. Projects range in scale from laboratory casework to large urban master plans. The firm has also completed several projects involving the restoration and expansion of buildings of significant historical and architectural value. 

Guided by the design leadership of principal, Rafael Viñoly, the firm is managed by the Vice President Jay Bargmann, who also administers projects jointly with each of the firm’s project directors.  These experienced architects, many of whom have been with RVA for over a decade, share the advanced, centralized resources of the firm as well as a high level of commitment and a rich database of knowledge. This structure guarantees consistency and high standards of design and documentation and enables the firm to maintain its longstanding record of successfully completed fast-track, design/build projects, as well as conventionally scheduled and organized assignments worldwide.

The practice’s atelier design intelligence coupled with the capabilities of a large, multi-disciplinary firm produces appropriate, creative responses to program requirements. Intensive research and informed evaluation lead to a variety of design and technical alternatives. These innovations and refinements often result in buildings that function measurably beyond client expectations.