Urban Architectural Initiatives, RA, P.C. (UAI) is an architectural and planning firm with extensive experience in housing and community facilities, as well as educational, residential, health care, religious, commercial, transportation, historic restoration and urban revitalization projects. A primary focus has been serving nonprofit, community-based organizations that provide housing, treatment and social services to various special needs populations including the homeless, mentally ill, senior citizens and single mothers. The practice draws on the varied experiences of its principals and staff, combining a strong interest in urban building types with a broad and in-depth knowledge of the construction industry.

UAI was formed by David Hirsch and Tony Shitemi in 1996 and has grown to become a diverse, ten person firm. After establishing site-specific parameters we work with the client to define and understand their program followed by a design charrette that explores concepts of space and image appropriate to the project. We engage our clients in the full design process and have comprehensive experience working with government regulating and funding agencies and with clients whose projects require careful consideration of needs and suitable allocation of resources. We have fully integrated sustainable design in our practice to achieve buildings that reduce energy costs, are ecologically friendly, and provide a healthy indoor environment, and we have 2 LEED accredited professionals on our staff.

Every project begins as a blank slate in which the architect’s role is to identify, organize and prioritize a variety of design-influencing factors such as the site condition, the client’s wishes and the entire consultant team’s recommendations. The office is especially committed to maintaining the highest quality product resulting from a well-founded design approach, proper documentation of the construction requirements and meticulous supervision during the construction process. It is our mission to provide the most creative design solutions to satisfy the various challenges of a project.  Our buildings are warm and welcoming environments that enrich the lives of individuals, families and communities.

UAI has successfully completed many projects for the City of New York, State of New York, and the United States Federal Government. UAI’s principals and staff have longstanding relationships with a wide range of governmental agencies and local community groups. The firm brings to its clients a dedication to the design and production process as well as in-depth knowledge of governmental guidelines, standards and regulations, UAI continues to expand its list of completed projects in the five boroughs and the tri-state area.