LUXLIFE MAGAZINE | 29 Winter 2019 graduates, and each employee is trained as a traditional Architect. This certainly goes some way in explaining the firm’s unique portfolio, that aims to reinvent the space and its unique details, rather than merely decorate it. Here Marc continues, “Architects go through very strict and comprehensive educational programs that include not only Architectural Design, History of Architecture and the Arts while at school, but also a technical education in the construction field while working. Because of this, and because our employees already have a strong design background, we further this education with an awareness of craftsmanship in construction, the importance of lighting design and an appropriateness of materials for each project, so every employee ends up with a comprehensive understanding of the built environment. We take the same care to ensure our employees are exposed to all aspects of the process so we can trust that they each make educated decisions in the context of the whole project. This way we develop knowledgeable employees that are very dedicated to their work and results in high quality projects and very satisfied clients whose expectations are exceeded.” Working primarily in Manhattan, Plainspace are at the very forefront of a market that is fast-moving and constantly developing. “One major development which impacted us in a negative way was the slow down in the growth of retail projects. Originally, 40% of our work was in the commercial sector, but today, it is sitting around 10%. Many of the brands we worked with in the past decided to slow down their physical growth and dedicate efforts to increase their online sales. “This slowdown in the retail field led us to reach out for an increase in residential clients and to pursue larger scale residential work. Additionally, we are tapping into the local, smaller ‘up and coming’ commercial and retail brands.” Unsurprisingly, considering their dedication to the client experience, Plainspace forge their own path through the market, taking care to avoid following trends for the sake of following trends. “We are very specific about not following trends, and instead focus on tending to the particular client’s needs and requirements with a more sustainable and longlasting design. As we are trained as architects, we see our projects as three-dimensional problem solving that will work for years to come for our clients. We never treat our projects as surfaces to be decorated or quick fixes, but as complete spaces that function together to form a cohesive assemblage.” “Our interior designs start out with an architectural concept with material selections and details that support this concept. In this, we very often are requested to design all aspects of the project to the most minute details of hardware and joinery, sometimes even selecting cutlery and artwork. We always work in a participatory fashion with our clients where we encourage their collaboration with the design process. When they participate, they get excited and will in almost all cases feel ownership of the outcome” Marc adds. Finally, in her closing comments, Angelica offers more insight into the future of Plainspace as they look to expand their network across the United States. “One of our main goals is to expand to the West Coast and promote our traditional expertise in Architectural Design, Interior Design and Construction into other markets. We are looking into creating ground up buildings and complete projects of the turnkey variety with the same attention to detail and intensity as our current projects. It’s all in the works and we’ll keep everyone posted.” Company: Plainspace Architecture and Design DPC Name: Angelica M. Ruano, Principal and Founder, Marc J. Albertin, Principal Address: 139 Fulton Street, Suite 810, New York, 10038, United States Website: www.plainspaceinc.com Telephone: (+1) 646-882-2933
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