Goshow Architects; Leadership Collaboration, Excellence

    Goshow’s founding principle is “green building design for the public sector, for the public good.” Part of the firm’s success can be attributed to its focus on people, planet, and profit. “We’re very interested in doing projects that have social meaning beyond just pretty picture architecture. That’s part of our culture,” says Founding Partner Eric Goshow. This extends to caring for the people that work for the firm which has a flexible work schedule. “We want to make sure they have the opportunity to have fulfilling lives,” says Goshow. 

    Nancy and Eric Goshow started the firm out of their home in 1978. Today they operate from the 5th floor of a Class B building with 11,000 sq ft in a 28th Street location north of Madison. The office floor is a big square, with a north studio and a south studio. Tables are organised so everyone has a chance to see what everyone else is doing. “We’re open and think that creates a collaborative environment which is part of our sustainable approach,” says Goshow. 

    One of the things they look for is being a self-starter. “That’s very important to Nancy and myself because we want our people to be happy when they’re in the office,” says Goshow. “People have to be energised about what we are doing. People that come to us will feel fulfilled if that’s what they want to do too,” says Goshow.

    What distinguishes the Goshow architect is a belief in things that have a social purpose. To that end, staff are encouraged to get involved in the firm’s chapter at the American Institute of Architects as well as the civic culture of the city. “People love what architects have to say and we want our staff, young and old, to be ambassadors. We like to see people get out and participate in the civic affairs of New York,” says Goshow.