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Savvas Sarafidis

Savvas Sarafidis

New York, NY, US

 
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About 

As a Registered Architect with international presence I consider myself a nimble and highly adaptive individual maximizing available resources no matter how small or large they are. My background has made me a decision maker driven by data analysis and experience.

My expertise is in residential and commercial design, construction administration and management, design analysis and development, construction documentation, material specification, and on-site construction supervision. 

I’m a manager who provides innovative solutions to complex and novel situations leading by example through the creation and implementation of training programs and coaching staff and management ensuring consistent methodologies. I’m experienced in high-end projects, specializing in envelope design and forensics. 

I apply both traditional and cutting edge 3D modeling techniques to the architectural design process. I’m very passionate in planning strategies, use of space and design presentations. I’m a professional deeply committed to the highest standards of ethics and personal excellence.

I relish in research, education as well as a contributor to several international architectural publications. 

I am a team leader skilled in navigating organizational complexity and collaborating with cross-functional teams and key stakeholders. I utilize coaching and mentoring to deliver unique client experiences. 

I adopt a strategic approach to align organizational goals and timelines with optimized budgets. I love to mentor new talent, and the establishment of high-performing agile cultures.

Elsewhere:

Employment 

Skolnick Architecture and Design Partnership, New York, NY, US, Senior Architect

• Led design teams in analysis, planning and programming for significant architectural projects increasing productivity by 20%.
• Developed overall project plans and specific designs meeting owner and regulatory requirements.
• Managed budget and schedule during planning and design phases while developing creative and innovative design solutions with technical integrity.
• Led the Construction Administration team with problem-solving, daily Coordination of an extremely complex project with a myriad of special requirements meeting all deadlines and budget.
• Managed constant clarification, redesign and site testing of major and minor exterior envelope details, with weekly review of weatherproofing and accuracy of design implementation which fulfilled compliance requirements avoiding any delays.
• Directed with sensitivity and extra care the Preservation and Restoration of historical and decorative building elements and handled relations with LPC.

Key Project:
19E 70th Street Townhouse, New York NY
Super high-end conversion of landmarked townhouse into single-family residence and art museum, 10 levels, pool and spa at basement, 40,000 sf total area.
Team Size: 30 Consultants/Engineers • Methodology/Tools: BIM Revit Integrated Design, Hand-Sketching and Detailing.

Aug 2018 - current
 

Markel Architecture, Long Island City, NY, US, Director of Design

• As a creative direction leader, oversaw the branding of the firm through the exterior re-design of several new ground-up residential developments in the Bronx which led to the firm's sale bringing a net profit in a year's time.
• Established general design guidelines increasing team member efficiency.
• Oversaw fit-out and interior design projects for commercial office spaces which diversified portfolio.
• Introduced and structured the sustainability strategy of the firm towards an ethical and principled approach to resource management.
• Implemented bioclimatic, ecological and PH design standards achieving up to 90% reduction in energy consumption.
• Pursued a distinctly modernist aesthetic approach in dialogue with the neighborhood’s existing fabric to ensure community consent.

Key Project:
Passive House at 746E 214th Street, Bronx NY
New Ground-up Residential Development with cutting edge sustainable characteristics, affordable design and PH certification, 5 levels, basement, 8,000 sf total area.
Team Size: 3 Consultants/Engineers • Methodology/Tools: BIM Revit Integrated Design, Renderings in 3d Studio Max and Photoshop, PHPP Analysis Software.

Jul 2017 - Jul 2018
 

Propylaea Architecture, New York, Senior Designer/Project Manager

• Directed design development and construction documentation for large private residences. Constructed material specification process with outline of detailed technical requirements. Oversaw construction site operations and conduct regular on-site visits. Spearheaded consultation meetings with project stakeholders to formulate budget requirements. Managed the project flow and progress through client engagement.
• Repositioned stalled project with CD drawings within timeline without overruns.
• Reversed project mishaps and poor workmanship through site visits and re-negotiation with contractors.
• Reengaged the project owners with design alternatives, procurement and stakeholder relations strategies that accelerated the work progress.

Key Project:
Residence in Plandome, NY. Large waterfront private residence with pool, 3 levels, 16,000 sf total area

Oct 2016 - Jul 2017
 

ss.mm design, Athens, GR, Founder, Managing Principal

• Provided strategic direction and architectural consultancy. Supervised a team of architects and communicated best-practice technologies, construction documentation procedures, and proper compliance standards.
• Masterminded the design of complex commercial and residential structures. Coordinated design phases with innovative sketches, drawings, and photorealistic renderings.
• Forged relationships with subcontractors, and resolved zoning logistics, regulatory requirements and financial issues.

Key Projects:
Summer House in Southold, NY • Energy Efficient & Clever Residence, Paiania, Gr • Apartment Building in Aghia

Mar 2003 - Oct 2016
 

Michael Graves Architecture & Design, New York, NY, US, Designer

Involved in all design phases (including CD) and presentation of several high-profile projects and world-wide competitions. Networked with numerous experts in planning, urban design and architecture.

Key Projects: Athens 2004 Olympic Games, Olympic Media Village and Shopping Mall in Maroussi, Athens Greece • University of Southern California's Institute for Theoretical Physics, Los Angeles • Jacksonville Public Library Competition, Florida

Mar 2001 - Mar 2003
 

Costas Kondylis and Partners, New York, NY, US, Designer

Contributed to the initial design phases of numerous high rise residential projects, including zoning analysis under the guidance of zoning expert David West. Introduced the first office 3d modeling process (software: Form-Z, Photoshop), creating photorealistic renderings and animations as integral parts of the architectural design process and presentation.

Key Projects: The Anthem 222 East 34th Street, NY • Chelsea Centro, 200-220 West 26th Street, NY • Trump World Tower, 845 First Avenue, NY

May 1999 - Mar 2001
 

Education 

Columbia University, New York, NY, US, Masters, Architecture and Urban Design

May 1998 - May 1999
 

National Technical University of Athens, Athens, GR, MArch, Architecture

Architectural Engineering

Oct 1991 - Mar 1998
 

Awards 

Fulbright, Scholarship

1998
 

Areas of Specialization 

Skills