About the Firm

How we work

For our clients, every project is an investment, so each project should offer lasting functional value and aesthetic satisfaction. Bringing our experience in many building types, Fifield Piaker Elman Architects (FPE) can offer a quick, knowledgeable response a variety of design challenges. Our extensive track record of building throughout the greater metropolitan area and in Connecticut shows we know how to get projects built.

The Challenges of Older Buildings

Frequently, our clients are renovating parts of older buildings or adapting an entire historic structure for a new use. Sometimes they simply want to restore the building fabric to maintain its integrity. Whatever the project, we welcome the opportunity to work with these structures. We are exacting in our attention to construction detailing, practical in our solutions, and honor project budgets and schedules.

When it comes to working with older buildings, we know how to incorporate new infrastructure and cope with unexpected discoveries revealed during the construction process. We respect the existing structure and make every effort to maintain the spirit of the original design whenever feasible and appropriate.

Transforming properties environmentally

Environmental responsibility is integrated into Fifield Piaker Elman Architects work. FPE client collaborators are increasingly concerned about water conservation, and electricity and fuel consumption.  FPE has been introducing solid state LED lighting and controls in all of our projects for several years, and have in-house energy code compliance capability. In 2014 FPE completed its first green roof for a private residential roof deck in Manhattan. FPE is currently designing homes with solar arrays and ground source heat pump HVAC systems to significantly reduce anticipated energy usage.  John Fifield serves on the Board of Trustees of Earthplace, a 62-acre environmental museum and education facility in Westport, CT.

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Value Added

FPE consistently delivers a valuable return on investment to our clients. We understand their needs and design to anticipate and accommodate them. Our detail-oriented, hands-on approach has enabled us to create and renovate a great variety of successful building types. One of our four partners heads each of our project teams, insuring the highest level of commitment to each project for the duration of the project.

Meet the Principals