About us
Founded in 2004 in a bedroom-turned home office within a self-designed family residence, Harper Design+Build is a Brooklyn-based architecture and design firm specializing in high-end residential architecture, renovations, and new construction. Through a collaborative, design-driven approach, the firm creates thoughtful, bespoke projects. With fully integrated services encompassing architecture, interior design, and development, Harper Design+Build guides each project seamlessly from initial concept through completion in Brooklyn, New York, and beyond.
The firm is led by husband-and-wife team Ryan Harper and Christine Harper, whose combined expertise as architects and builders brings exceptional depth to the practice. Together, they lead a dedicated team of designers and architects committed to delivering projects that are both refined and rigorously executed.
Their background as builders informs every stage of the design process, providing clients with early insight into feasibility, cost, and constructability. From the outset, they work closely with clients to shape a shared vision for their property, balancing the functional demands of everyday living with carefully considered details and high-quality finishes.
Christine Harper
Principal, Architect
Christine Harper is a New York–licensed architect who started specializing in high-end residential architecture in 1998. She brings a high level of professionalism to every project, combining strong design leadership with meticulous attention to detail. Known for her ability to manage complex projects on demanding timelines, Christine is a forward thinker throughout both the design and construction process.
Her extensive experience working with the New York City Department of Buildings and management companies adds invaluable expertise to each project. Prior to founding Harper Design+Build, Christine served as a Senior Associate at 1100 Architect for nine years, where her work included a new children’s library for the Central Branch in Jamaica, Queens; a master plan for the Dalton School; public school libraries for the Robin Hood Foundation; condominium developments; and numerous residential gut renovations for high-profile clients.
Christine earned her Bachelor of Science in Architecture from the University of Virginia and her Master of Architecture from the University of Pennsylvania, where she was awarded the Arthur Spayd Memorial Medal as the top designer of her graduating class. Her studies also included time abroad in Vicenza, Italy, and Japan, where she explored architectural traditions, techniques, and cultural approaches to design.
Ryan Harper
Principal, Project Manager
Ryan Harper brings a unique experience to the firm, combining the perspectives of a trained architect and a seasoned general contractor. After completing co-ops globally, he settled in New York City in 1998. His dual background allows him to bridge concept and construction with clarity and precision, resulting in well-managed projects and consistent high-quality outcomes.
Ryan specializes in high-end residential construction and understands the complexities involved in delivering thoughtfully detailed projects on schedule. Before co-founding Harper Design+Build, he worked as a project manager at Gensler Associates and the Saladino Group. At John Saladino’s office, he was deeply involved in the design and management of complex residential projects, including a 12,000-square-foot residence in Kuwait and a 10,000-square-foot home in Santa Barbara.
Ryan received his Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Cincinnati, where he participated in the Co-Op program, gaining hands-on experience alongside formal architectural training. During this time, he worked with renowned firms including B.A.R. Architects, KPF New York, KPF London, and Morphosis.
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