Rami Idlby, AIA
Founder and Principal Architect, RI Architecture
Rami Idlby designs homes in Manhattan and Brooklyn for people who plan to stay. His work includes prewar and postwar apartments, co-ops, condominiums, and apartment combinations.
He founded RI Architecture to bring architecture and interior design together as one discipline. One studio, one set of drawings, and one point of contact from the first site visit through the final installation.
How the work begins
Every project begins with a questionnaire and a site visit. Rami studies how the apartment is used today, what is no longer working, and how the home needs to support the years ahead. A growing family needs different things than a couple preparing for their next stage of life. The plan should reflect that.
From there, the studio develops distinct design options. The studio evaluates each option against the project’s priorities, scope, and anticipated investment so clients can clearly understand their choices before committing to a direction.
Architecture, interiors and furniture together
Layout, lighting, millwork, materials and furnishings are developed as one composition. Where it serves the room, the studio also designs furniture in-house.
The leather-clad desk in the Sutton Place Residence was drawn to fit its alcove to the inch, giving the home office a sense of permanence and individuality.
Knowing the building, not just the apartment
Working in New York apartments means working within the building as well as the home. Rami prepares co-op and condominium submissions, reviews alteration agreements and coordinates Department of Buildings filings, engineers, building management and reviewing architects.
These requirements are identified early so the design develops with them, rather than being compromised by them later.
Rami also brings experience in accessibility and aging in place, designing homes that can remain comfortable, functional, and safe as their owners’ needs change.
Credentials
Rami is a licensed architect in New York State and a member of the American Institute of Architects. He has worked on residential projects in New York since 2013.