Business Details
25 Years
experience
Your Trusted Architectural Partner in New York and Beyond
Founded in 2001, DBB Architecture has dedicated itself to delivering high-quality architectural and interior design services to underserved communities. Our firm specializes in commercial offices, civic buildings, childcare facilities, and mixed-use residential developments, combining technical expertise with a commitment to social equity. Certified as a Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE), we bring decades of experience collaborating on complex projects with government agencies and private developers across the Northeast. Our team of licensed architects operates in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Washington D.C., maintaining a strong focus on innovation and community impact.Recognized for projects like the Public Safety Answering Center II and the New York City Public Health Laboratory, we prioritize excellence in every design solution. As an equal opportunity employer, we foster diversity and inclusion within our practice while adhering to the highest professional standards. Our approach integrates life safety consulting and sustainable design principles to meet the evolving needs of public and private sector clients.
Services
Architectural Design
Interior Design
Urban Planning
Life Safety Consulting
Civic Infrastructure
Details
- Year established: 2001
Highlights and features
- Minority-owned firm with 23 years of community-focused experience
- Certified MBE/DBE with regional licensing across six states
- Proven expertise in complex civic infrastructure projects
- Collaborative approach with major architectural firms
- Diverse team of licensed professionals with technical excellence
Associations and certifications
- MBE
- DBE
Services
Architectural Design
Our architectural design services create functional, sustainable spaces tailored to client needs. We specialize in commercial offices, civic buildings, and mixed-use developments. With expertise in complex capital projects, we deliver innovative solutions that meet regulatory requirements while enhancing community value. Our approach combines technical precision with creative problem-solving for public and private sector clients.
Interior Design
We provide interior design solutions that optimize space functionality and aesthetics. Our team creates environments that support organizational goals while meeting safety standards. Specializing in commercial and institutional interiors, we focus on creating user-centric spaces that reflect client brand identity and operational requirements through evidence-based design strategies.
Urban Planning
Our urban planning services focus on creating sustainable, equitable communities through comprehensive development strategies. We work with public agencies and private developers to create mixed-use spaces that address housing, transportation, and civic infrastructure needs. Our approach prioritizes community engagement and long-term urban resilience in all planning initiatives.
Life Safety Consulting
We offer specialized life safety consulting to ensure buildings meet all regulatory requirements while protecting occupants. Our services include code analysis, risk assessment, and emergency system design. We help clients navigate complex safety regulations to create secure environments that comply with current standards while maintaining operational efficiency.
Civic Infrastructure
Our civic infrastructure expertise includes designing transportation hubs, public safety facilities, and healthcare centers. We collaborate with government agencies on capital improvement projects that enhance public services. Our team has delivered critical infrastructure like the Public Safety Answering Center II and components of the JFK Terminal redevelopment, demonstrating our capability in large-scale public projects.
People
Dayo Babalola
Managing Principal
AIA-certified architect with LEED accreditation leading DBB's strategic direction. Brings 20+ years of experience in complex architectural projects and firm management while maintaining commitment to community-focused design.
Cindy Chan
Senior Project Architect
AIA-certified professional with extensive experience in large-scale architectural projects. Specializes in technical documentation and construction administration while mentoring junior staff in best design practices.
Karan Sehdev
Senior Project Architect
LEED AP-accredited architect managing complex projects with emphasis on sustainable design. Combines technical expertise with leadership in delivering high-performance buildings that meet client objectives and environmental standards.
Kishel John
Senior Technical Architect
AIA member with specialized knowledge in building systems integration. Focuses on technical solutions for complex architectural challenges while ensuring compliance with evolving construction codes and standards.
Araz Akbarian Kenaraki
Senior Project Architect
Experienced professional leading project teams through all design phases. Specializes in coordinating multidisciplinary efforts for large-scale developments while maintaining attention to technical detail and project timelines.
Questions
What types of projects does DBB Architecture specialize in?
We specialize in commercial offices, civic buildings, childcare facilities, mixed-use residential developments, and transportation infrastructure projects.
Is DBB Architecture certified as a minority-owned business?
Yes, we are certified as both a Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) by multiple agencies.
In which states are you licensed to practice architecture?
Our firm is licensed in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and the District of Columbia.
Can you work on government-funded infrastructure projects?
Yes, we have extensive experience with public sector clients including NYC DDC, EDC, and the Port Authority of NY & NJ.
What sets DBB Architecture apart from other firms?
Our unique combination of MBE certification, community focus, and technical expertise in complex capital projects distinguishes us.
How does the firm approach sustainable design?
We integrate LEED principles and life safety consulting into all projects while maintaining our commitment to equitable design solutions.
