Our Story
Nobutaka Ashihara and Howard Spivak were introduced through a mutual friend and instantly connected through their experiences in the world of architecture and building. Ashihara has a background with designing large, ground up hospitality projects in NYC and around the world. Spivak is primarily focused on the NYC market and has experience on a variety of project types, particularly interior buildouts and renovations. Together, they realized the strengths of both firms would benefit one another in their approach to design and ability to complete projects of varying scales. And when they realized they were already working with many of the same consultants and know many of the same people in the industry, the transition became that much easier to work together seamlessly. Both architects are on the National Council Architectural Review Board to practice in many states including: New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Maryland, Minnesota and Florida. Ashihara and Spivak have created a joint effort in their projects that complement each other and add value for the client by bringing a diversity of experience and knowledge to any project, big or small.
Howard Spivak, AIA, LEEP AP
As the founder of Spivak Architects, Howard Spivak has focused on an approach to architecture with a special interest in the client’s design needs, the needs of the project at hand, and teamwork. He uses a creative approach to maximize the use of space to create quality livable spaces. Working closely with his staff, he takes special interest in tailoring the project to fit the client. Mr. Spivak was awarded a Bachelor of Architecture degree from the University of Toronto, followed by a Master’s in Architecture & Urban Design from Columbia University.
Founded in 1986, Spivak Architects has long operated on the model of a design studio, an office where the exchange of ideas is encouraged and our clients become an integral part of the team. Every project is a new avenue for architectural exploration. Our design methodology begins by looking at unexpected solutions, which often produce more inspired and effective answers than straightforward problem solving. At Spivak Architects, design is a collaborative and exploratory effort.
Nobutaka Ashihara, AIA, JIA
Nobutaka Ashihara received a Master of Architecture degree from Harvard University Graduate School of Design, preceded by a Bachelor of Architecture degree from Hosei University Technical College. He also attended Keio University majoring in English Literature. Since 1978, Mr. Ashihara has directed the staff of NAA, providing consulting services to clients in the areas of planning, development feasibility, architecture and interior design.
Prior to forming his own firm Mr. Ashihara served as Vice President/ Design Director of Kajima International; in Los Angeles and New York. He also served as a designer on the staff of Kevin Roche/John Dinkeloo Associates, Hamden, Connecticut. Mr. Ashihara is a current member of the American Institute of Architects (AlA) and Japanese Institute of Architects (JIA).