Archetype Design Studio

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The project, which was intimidating when we started, went smoothly starting from our first meeting with Alan. He was direct and to the point. He told us at the initial interview what we needed to hear-- even things we didn't want to hear. It was refreshing. For example, he told us where our expectations/plans were unrealistic with our budget, then came up with creative solutions that accomplished or exceeded our objectives while keeping costs in line. When supplier issues came up, Archetype handled them while keeping us informed at every step. Alan was clearly our advocate-- he even was able to get us upgrades on hardware at no additional cost. Some parts of construction were delayed, as well as supply of some parts, but Archetype managed the project so that, overall, we finished on tim/on budget-- actually, slightly below budget. The kitchen turned out great. We definitely would use Archetype again, and can recommend the firm without reservation.

I've had the opportunity to participate in many real estate ventures outside of New York City, as well as the development of many residential and commercial properties. For the first time I secured a premise in Manhattan 3 years ago. I contracted with Archetype to perform the above services These projects are no easy task in NYC Archetype, through its president Alan Berman and staff, especially Eve and Julie, provided expert advice often times off hours consultations to fit my busy schedule,diligent labor,courtesy beyond expectation,full ministration of duties,exceptional dedication to the task,and magnificent counsel (hand holding). They took the daunting challenge to fruition from its inception proficiently completely,skillfully with incredible adeptness. This group of professionals are reliable,trustworthy and have gained my highest admiration. Without hesitation I would highly recommend Archetype for your architectural needs

I thought Archetype was fantastic and was instrumental in making our renovation and design project into a fun and enjoyable project. We did a basically complete gut renovation of an apartment in the Boulevard, on 86th and Broadway. The staff at Archetype, especially Alan and Juliana, were truly remarkable in their ability to address any problems as they arose, but more importantly, to prevent problems in the first place. I am still amazed how in the renovation/design business, vendors can consistently send the wrong or damaged product. However, any time this happened, the staff at Archetype was right on it and prevented any delays from happening. Archetype was also key in working with the contractor. As anyone contemplating a renovation should know, there are a lot of decisions to make and a lot of people to deal with. It was a tremendous relief to know that I would not have to deal with the contractors and subcontractors on a regular basis and there was a team of people (at Archetype) looking out for me and my family's interests. I thought their design aesthetic was perfect, and seemed to know exactly what I would like and they seemed to know my own taste better than I did. Archetype helped us from architectural questions as to where a wall should go, to color of rooms, to light fixtures and bathroom fixtures - truly everything in my apartment. And, now that we are living in our apartment for almost 2 years, we get rave reviews and non-stop compliments on the work that was done. I highly, highly, recommend Archetype, and Alan, who is the owner, and also make sure you get to work with Juliana, who is really the best.

I worked with this firm twice. The first time to prepare plans for a proposed renovation. This project went well. The architect and designer on the project were professional and responsive. The proposed plan did not move forward until some years later. I returned to the firm and found the individuals I worked with were no longer there. I moved forward in any case and found the services of this new team to be lacking. Communication was dreadful. The design plans lacked any sense of utility. Changes in the design were not coordinated with changes in the construction plan. Billing was confusing. The design team fell short in offering creative budget conscious selections that might actually work for a family. There are numerous design issues I have been left to find solutions for because working with this team became so unpleasant and stressful I could no longer continue. Their price may have been fair if they delivered but due to the services provided I have rated their price poor.

Alan and his team were there from start to finish. Even coming in after the renovation to help us arrange the furniture.