When you walk through a vibrant neighborhood in New York or spot a striking building overseas, there’s a chance Gary Handel’s touch is behind it. Founder and Managing Partner of Handel Architects, Gary has spent decades turning ideas into buildings that don’t just look good; they improve the way people live, work, and connect. His story is one of vision, dedication, and a belief that architecture should serve people first.
From Cornell University to a Career of Vision
Gary’s journey began at Cornell University, where he earned a Bachelor of Architecture. Even as a student, he dreamed of creating spaces that mattered, blending functionality with beauty. That education laid the groundwork for a career that would eventually span continents and earn international acclaim.
Building Handel Architects into a Global Firm
In 1994, Gary founded Handel Architects in New York City. What started as a small, ambitious firm has grown into an international presence with offices in Boston, San Francisco, Denver, and Hong Kong. Today, over 150 architects, designers, and planners work under his guidance, all sharing his passion for thoughtful, human-focused design.
Personal Touch Designs
For Gary, architecture is about more than bricks and glass; it’s about creating communities. He believes every project should make life better for the people who use it and the neighbourhoods around it. Function, beauty, and innovation work together in his designs, but people always come first.
Signature Projects
- One Blue Slip, Greenpoint Landing, Brooklyn – A modern residential space that blends openness with vibrant urban living.
- Banco Santander Headquarters, Santiago – A global project showcasing Handel Architects’ reach and design expertise.
- The Ritz-Carlton Georgetown – Luxury meets practicality in this hotel designed for an exceptional guest experience.
- Madison House, NoMad, Manhattan – A striking addition to Manhattan’s skyline, combining luxury and livability.
- Sendero Verde, Harlem – A transformative project focused on revitalising and enriching the Harlem community.
Awards That Celebrate Excellence
- Honor Awards, American Institute of Architects
- Global Awards for Excellence, Urban Land Institute
- Recognition, Society of American Registered Architects
- Recognition, Chicago Athenaeum
These awards reflect Gary’s dedication to creating architecture that is both beautiful and meaningful.
Giving Back to Communities
Gary has long believed that architecture should benefit more than clients; it should serve communities. He has contributed pro bono work for urban projects and non-profits, making cities more livable. He’s a Founding Board Member of Friends of the High Line and serves on the Board and as Chair of the Real Estate Committee at the Lower East Side Tenement Museum.
Life Beyond the Drawing Board
While work is central to Gary’s life, he also values family and balance. He finds inspiration in how well-designed spaces bring people together. His personal experiences shape his professional projects, resulting in buildings that feel lived-in, welcoming, and full of life.
Legacy of a Visionary Architect
Gary Handel’s work is a reminder that architecture isn’t just about constructing buildings, it’s about shaping experiences and communities. From his early days at Cornell to some of the most celebrated projects in the world, he has built a legacy where design improves lives, uplifts communities, and leaves a lasting mark on cities everywhere.
Image Credit – nytimes.com
