Founded in 1996, Urban Architectural Initiatives, RA, P.C. (UAI) is a minority owned, vibrant and diverse group of professionals united around the idea that great architecture is not only for the privileged few. We believe in the foundational power of architecture to help all people lead a healthy, happy and dignified life. 

Since its origins, our firm has distinguished itself by combining expertise, dedication and a uniquely responsive approach to planning, designing and building. With over 110 high-quality buildings and 4,200 apartments completed, UAI’s experience in Community based developments supportive, affordable and community housing is unparalleled and has enriched the lives of thousands of families in the city and state of New York.

Leading housing agencies and organizations have been finding genuine partnerships with us over the past three decades. Their mission is ours. Our culture, informed by openness and optimism, mirrors theirs. Well beyond architecture, our experience, knowledge and commitment serve our partners: we see projects through from conception to feasibility, planning and final completion.

Our work is inspired by a desire to create beautifully designed, warm, efficient and sustainable buildings that respect the needs of our clients and strengthen our overall community, one building at a time.

The guiding principle for UAI’s practice stems from actively engaging the client in the design process to learn about and understand their history and vision, as well as their functional and formal space needs. This simple approach has allowed us to develop extensive experience in housing, civic and cultural community facilities, educational, religious, health care, commercial, rehabilitations, historic restoration and urban revitalization projects.



Architecture

Community & Lifestyle

Construction

Urban Architectural Initiatives, RA, PC

Anthony Shitemi

Ming Yuan Ren

Dwayne Smith Alexander

Ashley Mandat

Yaqub Aisaa

Randy Jiménez

Dominique Etienne

Utkalika Panda Aia, Leep

Tricia Huang

Jorge Chang Aia, Cphd, Ap

Alen Moghaddam Aia

David Hirsch

Michael Tod Smith

Diaa H.

The Design and Architecture Team at Urban Architectural Initiatives, RA, PC is responsible for conceptualizing, planning, and overseeing the creation of high-quality buildings that cater to community needs. Comprising diverse roles from Junior Architectural Designers to Senior Job Captains, this team actively engages with clients to understand their vision and functional requirements, ensuring that projects are beautifully designed, efficient, sustainable, and contribute positively to urban revitalization. They work collaboratively to see projects through from conception to final completion, focusing on supportive, affordable, and community housing that enriches lives.

Design and Architecture Team

Leadership Team

Project Management Team

Design and Architecture Team

About

Team members

Other teams at Urban Architectural Initiatives, RA, PC

Leadership Team

Project Management Team