Raffael understands the complexities of putting together a successful project from initial concept to construction completion. Here at RJA, PLLC we provide clients with feasibility studies with zoning and bulk analyses, emphasizing efficiency of space with attention to sustainability and long-term building value. For private projects, the importance is placed on guiding the client through the various specific agency approvals and ensuring that the process is laid out clearly and with an outline of the potential difficulties and challenges that are going to arise during the entire duration of the project. Transparency is key and is something that is stressed from beginning to end. His technical expertise with construction documents ensures that budgets are adhered to and details are developed with the client in mind, both aesthetically and monetarily. A successful project is only so when the client is satisfied with the product and it works for the program and its use.

Raffael has over 20 years of professional experience in the building industry, including the design and construction of numerous mid-rise and high-rise buildings as well as private sector residential renovations and conversions, retail and hospitality, and commercial office builds. Prior to forming RJA, PLLC Raffael was senior associate at SLCE Architects, LLP and worked on over 16 ground-up mixed-use multifamily developments spread throughout the Boroughs of New York City. Before SLCE, he worked as an associate for Dan Ionescu Architects where he honed his skills in project management and the detail aspects of architecture.

Ground-up projects include high-end market rate rental towers, senior housing, and low-income affordable housing buildings, where Raffael has guided the projects from concept to completion. Many of the buildings are mixed-use developments composed of residential and commercial uses, as well as community facility uses with recreational, non-for-profit, and community support tenants. In the private sector, Raffael has managed and completed numerous high-end apartment renovations, a number of restaurants and bars, and over a dozen corporate office build-outs in Manhattan.

Some of the clients Raffael has worked with include L+M Development Partners, RXR Realty, Dunn Development Corp., MEGA Contracting Group, Monadnock Development, The Community Builders, Conifer Realty, Foxy Management, ACMH, Capital Properties and Ambrose Employer Group and Ligne Roset.

Raffael is licensed in New York and New Jersey, and received his architecture degree from Syracuse University, class of ‘02. He is also a member and certificate holder of NCARB.