Business Details
26 Years
experience
Innovative Architecture & Design Solutions in New York
Founded in 2000 by Adam Weintraub and Mishi Hosono, KOKO Architecture + Design is a creative partnership dedicated to redefining architectural possibilities through the lens of play. Our multidisciplinary approach spans architecture, interior design, furniture, and industrial design, with a particular focus on early childhood education spaces. With decades of combined experience across residential, commercial, and institutional projects, we integrate global perspectives from our work in Tokyo, Vienna, London, and New York. Our team holds licenses in multiple states and maintains active roles in academic institutions, including the New York Institute of Technology. Recognized by prestigious awards such as the AIA Playhouse Design Competition Peoples Choice Award and Scandinavian House Best Playspace, we combine rigorous academic inquiry with hands-on design innovation.Our expertise extends to transforming unconventional spaces, from retired ferryboats to urban playgrounds, while maintaining a commitment to community engagement through lectures and workshops at institutions like the Cooper Hewitt Museum and Japan Society. The firm's philosophy of questioning design through a child's innocent perspective has resulted in groundbreaking projects including interactive museums, STEM facilities, and award-winning residential designs across four continents.
Services
Residential Architecture
Commercial Interior Design
Children's Learning Centers
Furniture Design
STEM Educational Facilities
Playground Design
Museum Spaces
Urban Design
International Projects
Academic Lectures
Details
- Year established: 2000
Highlights and features
- Established in 2000 with international design expertise
- Specialized in early childhood education spaces since inception
- Award-winning portfolio across four continents
- Academically active founders teaching at NYIT
- Licensed professionals with global project experience
Associations and certifications
- American Institute of Architects
What people say
Award-winning designs
Innovative approach
Global expertise
Child-centered focus
Services
Residential Architecture
We create innovative residential spaces that blend functionality with artistic expression. Our approach combines modernist principles with playful elements tailored to client lifestyles. Projects range from urban lofts to suburban homes, emphasizing natural light, sustainable materials, and flexible living areas that evolve with occupants' needs.
Children's Learning Centers
Our early childhood education spaces integrate developmental psychology with architectural innovation. We design interactive environments that stimulate creativity while meeting safety standards. Features include sensory play areas, adaptable classroom layouts, and nature-inspired elements that support diverse learning styles and social development.
Commercial Interior Design
We transform commercial environments into productive, inspiring workplaces. Our designs balance brand identity with employee well-being through ergonomic layouts, biophilic design elements, and technology integration. Recent projects include creative office spaces for tech startups and cultural institutions.
Furniture Design
Our studio creates unique furniture pieces that complement architectural projects. The Felt Chair and Cloud Chair exemplify our commitment to playful forms meeting functional requirements. Each design undergoes rigorous prototyping to ensure durability while maintaining aesthetic innovation.
Playground Design
We develop interactive play environments that encourage physical activity and creativity. Our playgrounds incorporate unconventional materials and multi-sensory elements. Designs prioritize accessibility and safety while creating visually striking spaces that become community landmarks.
People
Adam Weintraub
Co-Founder
Licensed architect with Harvard and Penn credentials, specializing in interactive spaces for children. Teaches Urban Design at NYIT since 2010. Holds awards for innovative residential and educational projects.
Mishi Hosono
Co-Founder
Licensed New York architect with international experience in Tokyo, London, and Paris. Former associate at Peter Marino Architects. Teaches Japan Summer Studio at NYIT. Member of AIA since 2004.
Eiko Sakai
Senior Associate
Tokyo University and Penn graduate with Guggenheim-exhibited work. Translated architectural texts for Noguchi Museum. Contributed to Walt Disney Concert Hall design at Gehry's office.
Maasa Miyazaki
Project Manager
Harvard GSD graduate with international experience in Japan, Spain, and US. Former editor at Architecture + Urbanism Magazine. Expert in spatial interaction through creative play concepts.
Florence Warner
Project Architect
University of Michigan graduate with global experience in Tokyo, Hong Kong, and Europe. Multilingual designer with material research background. Contributed to housing projects for diverse demographic groups.
Questions
What architectural styles does KOKO specialize in?
We blend modernist principles with playful elements, focusing on functional innovation rather than specific stylistic labels.
Do you work on international projects?
Yes, our portfolio spans projects in the US, Taiwan, Mozambique, Japan, and Europe.
What makes your children's spaces unique?
Our designs incorporate developmental psychology principles and interactive elements inspired by children's artwork.
Can you handle both architecture and interior design?
Yes, we offer comprehensive services covering architecture, interiors, and custom furniture design.
Are your architects licensed professionals?
Our principals hold licenses in New York and Illinois with academic appointments at NYIT.
Do you offer design consultations?
We provide full-service design solutions including initial concept consultations and project implementation.
Reviews (2)
Marilyn Byrd
Oct 19, 2021
Report
Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Responsiveness,Value
Amazing firm who designed our home in Pennsylvania and our loft in New York City. Beyond creative and a pure joy to work with.
Amazing firm who designed our home in Pennsylvania and our loft in New York City. Beyond creative and a pure joy to work with.
David Dangle
Oct 17, 2021
Report
Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Responsiveness
Wonderfully talented architects. Theyd designed our house and our NYC loft. And two offices spaces for me. Professional and delightful to work with.
Wonderfully talented architects. Theyd designed our house and our NYC loft. And two offices spaces for me. Professional and delightful to work with.
