Why Choose HHL?

HHL Architects has been an idea-driven architectural design and planning firm since its establishment in 1969. The founders, Buffalo architects Mike Hamilton, Fred Houston, and Ted Lownie, were primarily focused on improving the quality of the design process and architecture in Western New York. Now, partners Matthew Meier and Kenneth Riter continue to perpetuate this focus on idea-driven design and have expanded these ideals not only in the Western New York area, but also throughout New York State and the country in places such as New York City, Virginia, Tennessee, and Colorado.

Our practice has grown to encompass all project types including new build, renovation/addition, adaptive reuse, restoration/preservation, and planning projects. We apply these capabilities in a wide variety of industries, including residential, cultural, education, corporate, hospitality, and healthcare.

Through intimate knowledge of government and private agencies, contractors, as well as suppliers and building codes, the firm is able to move projects from inception to completion expeditiously. HHL takes particular pride in its responsiveness to client needs, ability to lead and coordinate a team of specialized disciplines, efficiency of production, quality of design, thoroughness of construction documents, and responsible project administration in all phases of work.

Our collective concern for both users and their environment, has led to us working closely with each client to effect optimum realization of their goals. This involvement has also deeply involved the HHL in projects oriented towards the development of the community and its context.

meet The HHL Team

While it’s true that talented individuals have independent success stories, we believe the continuity of key team members is valuable in demonstrating our firms’ capabilities.

The team we have chosen has a proven track record, not only on new construction but also in historic preservation. They have developed the long term relationships and personal commitments to each other that are critical to the team’s success.

CURRENT OWNERS/Leaders

KENNETH RITER, AIA, NCARB

Partner

OUR SENIOR STAFF

OUR TALENTED Staff

JAMES FEIND

Architectural Designer

RUSSELL KOLKER

Architectural Designer

JAMES HEDGER

Architectural Designer

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Position?

ANNETTE RIZZO

Business Manager

in memoriam: HHL’S FOUNDING PARTNERS

michael hamilton

Founding Partner
1969 – 1997
houston

Frederic Houston

Founding Partner
1969 – 2002

THEODORE LOWNIE

Founding Partner
1969 – 2017

CLIENT TESTIMONIALS

As chair of the Buffalo Preservation Board I have had the opportunity to work with HHL Architects on numerous projects involving historic sites or buildings. They have earned a reputation in Buffalo as having the highest expertise and sensitivity when dealing with buildings on local or national historic registers.
PAUL MCDONNELL, DIRECTOR OF FACILITIES, BUFFALO PUBLIC SCHOOLS

The HHL team excels in both technical skills and research capabilities, and has an ability to work through complex projects such as Restoration of the Martin House to accomlish formidable goals in a timely fashion. Their team's passion and commitment comes through in every conversation and challenge undertaken. Their professional accomplishments are enhanced by the personal capabilities and demeanor of all their staff.
MARY ROBERTS, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, DARWIN D. MARTIN HOUSE COMPLEX

OUR CLIENTS

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