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Our Firm
WHAT WE BELIEVE
Our Philosophy
At Andrew V. Giambertone and Associates, Architects (AVGA), our philosophy embodies a deep commitment to the art of architecture, where the perpetuation of craftsmanship is central to our work. We believe that true architecture transcends mere functionality; it is an expression of creativity that enriches the human experience.
Our designs harmoniously blend historical influences with contemporary innovation, resulting in spaces that are not only visually stunning but also deeply resonant with their surroundings. We prioritize collaboration and open communication with our clients, ensuring that their unique visions are thoughtfully translated into tangible realities. With meticulous attention to detail and a dedication to sustainability, we strive to create environments that nurture a sense of community and belonging.
Awards: Most Beautiful Professional Office, 2017
"Every project is a dialogue—a conversation between place, purpose, and the people who will live within it.
My role is to listen carefully, interpret thoughtfully, and design with intention so that
what we create together not only works beautifully, but lives beautifully too."
- A G
Andrew V. Giambertone
FOUNDING PRINCIPAL, A.I.A.
About Andrew
For nearly 30 years, I’ve had the privilege of designing spaces that not only serve their purpose but also resonate with beauty and meaning. I’ve always believed that architecture is about more than just buildings—it’s about people, and the experiences they’ll have within those spaces. That belief has guided me since I graduated from the New York Institute of Technology, where I was honored to receive the Gold Medal for Academic Achievement.
When I opened my firm in 1989, my goal was simple: to approach each project as a true collaboration. I want to understand not just what my clients need, but how they live, what inspires them, and how a space can support their lives in ways both practical and deeply personal.
I’m drawn to the timelessness of traditional architecture and the possibilities of modern design, and I work to strike a balance that feels rooted, yet fresh. Craftsmanship is everything to me—details matter, and every choice we make should be thoughtful. My process is hands-on, and my commitment is unwavering: to create spaces that enrich the lives of the people who use them, for years to come.
Licensed in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, & Florida
"At AVGA, there’s a deep respect for both the process and the people behind it.
Every project is a true collaboration — thoughtful, rigorous, and always grounded in purpose."
- O M
ARCHITECT, A.I.A.
Benjamin Horst
Ben was proud to join AVGA in 2022 after working in New York City for 6 years with an international award-winning architecture firm, concentrating on retail and corporate design for several Fortune 500 companies. He earned his B.S. in Architecture in 2014 and his Master of Architecture in 2016 from Roger Williams University and he is a Registered Architect in the State of New York. Ben’s passion for design, architecture, artwork and furniture-making developed at a young age as he followed in the footsteps of both his grandfather and father in their architectural careers. He is thrilled to be back on Long Island and part of AVGA’s unparalleled team contributing his skills and love for the built environment to the firm’s legacy of high-end, beautifully-designed and executed projects.
ARCHITECT, A.I.A.
Chris Stoddard
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INTERIOR DESIGNER
Erin Breen
Erin J. Breen, an ASID Allied Member and NCIDQ candidate, has served as the lead Interior Designer at AVGA since January 2019. Erin holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design from the Fashion Institute of Technology and received her Master and Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from Hofstra University. Erin’s passion for and thorough understanding of the principles of interior design consistently result in design solutions that are inviting, beautiful, functional, and enhance the lives of the occupants. In addition, Erin draws from her years of marketing experience, specifically client collaboration, strategy development, creative conception & execution, and project management.
ARCHITECT, A.I.A.
James Peter Thomas
James Peter Thomas has worked with Andrew V. Giambertone since 1997 and became Senior Associate at the firm in 2008. Since joining AVGA, Jim has managed large-scale residential projects ranging from new construction, preservation, and restoration as well as commercial development works. His involvement in AVGA projects encompasses many aspects, from initial development, code research to design through final construction documentation. Jim’s expertise and his collaborations with consultants, interior designers and colleagues have enabled him to successfully manage large teams and tackle many of the firm’s most challenging commissions. Jim received his Bachelor of Architecture from the New York Institute of Technology summa cum laude, where he graduated at the top of his class. He is a registered architect in the State of New York.
ARCHITECT, A.I.A.
Jennifer Pynn
Jennifer is a licensed professional who received her Bachelor of Architecture from Virginia Tech in 2004. She began her professional career in her hometown of Huntington, NY, where she worked on a combination of commercial, non-for-profit and residential jobs. She moved on to NYC to specialize in high-end residential design where she worked on a combination of apartments and country houses. Through the design process and extensive construction administration experience, Jennifer has developed a sharp attention to detail and strives to create beautiful architecture inspired by historical precedent yet functional for today’s way of life. After 10 years of experience in the “big city,” Jennifer finds herself back to her roots in Huntington, doing the work she loves most; residential architecture.
ADMINISTRATOR
Lisa Aviles
Lisa Aviles is a welcome addition to the AVGA's staff. Her more than 25 years as an administrative professional in the field of telecommunications and entertainment has given her the tools to transition into an entirely different industry with the skill of a true professional. She enjoys working in such a creative environment and is honored to be part of such an enthusiastic team.
ARCHITECT, A.I.A.
Marianne Andresen
With 25+ years of experience, including being a partner in her own firm, Marianne joined the AVGA team in 2007. She feels that the attention to detail and design excellence that AVGA holds as a standard is without equal and that it inspires her to create & collaborate as part of this dedicated team.
ASSOCIATE DESIGNER, ASSOC. A.I.A.
Olivia McGeough
Olivia McGeough is an Associate Designer at Giambertone Architects. She holds a Master of Architecture and an Urban Design Certificate from the University of Virginia, where she proudly served as class president and as an elected representative of School of Architecture on the university's Graduate and Professional Council. During her time at UVA, Olivia worked as a Fabrication Lab Technician, gaining hands-on experience with design and construction techniques, and conducted research in Computational Tectonics, exploring innovative approaches to materiality and structural form.
After completing her Bachelor of Arts in Architecture at Lehigh University in 2019, Olivia joined Giambertone Architects, where she gained valuable experience over three years before pursuing her graduate studies. She returned to the firm in 2024 and contributes to design teams through all phases of the architectural process, bringing a blend of technical expertise and creative insight to the team's projects.
ASSOCIATE DESIGNER
Rachel Cronin
Rachel received her schooling in Israel where contemporary style is the backbone of design education. Working with Andrew Giambertone since 2010, she has come to appreciate and love traditional design and its concepts. Rachel has a great enthusiasm for computer aided design software and is always eager to add to her knowledge.
“When the new office was being renovated, it felt to all the employees as exciting as if we were renovating our own houses, and that is what the work environment is like - like working at a second home. The atmosphere is relaxed yet with an excited tension as everyone here is enthusiastic about the truly outstanding projects we feel privileged to work on.”