The practice of architecture established by Richard Hanpeter in the Adirondack Mountains represents an evolution and continuum of three generations devoted to fine craftsmanship, durable construction and innovative design.

Rich’s grandfather, Carl August, a master cabinetmaker educated in the European artisan-based guild tradition, earned his Tischlermeister Certification in 1878.  His father, Gustav Henry, was educated in the same tradition receiving his Tischlermeister Certificate in 1922.  Both men were born and raised in Bielefeld, Germany.  After immigrating to America through Ellis Island in 1928, Gus established a general contracting, cabinet and furniture-making business first in New York City and later in North Creek, New York, where he and his wife Ann, whose parents immigrated to America through Ellis Island from Ireland, raised their three sons.

The firm provides clients with appropriate design solutions executed in a thoughtful and conscientious manner.  The office members possess a diverse background in many facets of design, construction and project administration obtained through a balanced combination of education, work and professional experience.  Our knowledge of accurate vernacular architectural forms is extensive and contributes to the successful integration of varied historic and contemporary architectural styles and design elements into the work - prepared in true collaborative effort, with our clients and contractors.

Returning to the Adirondacks from the Midwest in 1984, Rich worked initially as a Project Architect with a local firm for eight years, completing a significant number of wide-ranging projects throughout the area.  With the establishment of his sole proprietorship in 1992, the office has moved forward, completed a unique and diverse collection of single and multi- family residential commissions, as well as commercial, institutional, restoration and highly technical projects on demanding sites throughout the Northeastern United States and Canada.

The scope of professional services offered by the firm includes the traditional range or architectural services, on and off-site construction management for local projects, complete in-house engineering, fully integrated into our highly detailed Construction Documents and interior design.  Additional technical and consultation serviced retained as necessary, given particular requirements of each project.  Professional affiliations include individual membership in the American Institute of Architects, firm membership in the Eastern New York Chapter of the AIA, International Associate Membership in the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada and individual membership in the Architecture Engineering Institute of the American Society of Civil Engineers.