OUR PRACTICE
Located in Flatiron District, Steven M. Yang Architect LLC (SYA) is an architectural design studio with a research-based approach for producing bespoke residential projects. Founded in 2005 by Steve Yang, our practice maintains that the appropriate design for each space is driven by our client’s programmatic needs and personal style as well as the inherent qualities of the space. For each client, we craft an individualized experience that appeals to their stylistic and functional needs, while enhancing the surrounding architectural context.
With experience in several building typologies including: Upper East pre-war cooperatives, historic row houses, converted Tribeca lofts, and post-war concrete and glass towers, SYA offers its clients a wide range of design solutions through a variety of architectural styles.
Steven M. Yang Architect LLC is a certified NYC MBE and proud supporter of the Brooklyn Historical Society, Sean Casey Animal Rescue, the Brooklyn Symphony Orchestra, and the Brooklyn Chamber Music Society.
STEVEN M. YANG
AIA
FOUNDING PRINCIPAL
Since establishing Steven M. Yang Architect LLC (SYA), Steve and his talented team have created an impressive portfolio of bespoke high-end residences throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn. A New Jersey native, Steve earned his BS in Architecture from the University of Michigan Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning, and B Arch from the City College Bernard & Anne Spitzer School of Architecture.
His breadth of experience includes: landmarked brownstone restorations in the West Village, Brooklyn Heights, and Park Slope; numerous white-glove Park Avenue co-op gut renovations; loft conversions in SoHo and Tribeca; ground up construction in the Hamptons.
He is a registered architect in NY, NJ, CT, and FL and a member of the AIA.
A resident of Brooklyn Heights, Steve and his family are active supporters of education and the arts. Steve enjoys bike riding with his family, the occasional round of golf, and a few legs of darts.
CHARLOTTE M. ENSIGN
AIA
DIRECTOR
Charlotte grew up in Washington DC where her drive for creative expression was encouraged by family with architecture and design backgrounds. After a childhood and adolescence exploring as many artistic mediums as possible, Charlotte moved to New York City on a full portfolio scholarship granted by Parsons the New School for Design. During her studies, Charlotte received awards and grants for her achievements in design and academics from her alma mater and the American Institute of Architects.
Upon graduating Parsons with a Fine Arts degree in Architectural Design, Charlotte headed straight into the professional realm to design high-end private residences and international and domestic multi-family residential building interiors. Her passion for creating art has evolved into a holistic approach to developing architectural and interior designs.
Charlotte is a registered architect in the state of New York.
LAURIE LAO
DESIGNER
Laurie Lao grew up in southern China where she was influence by her family’s involvement in design and architecture. She developed an interest in the built environment at an early age. Laurie received her Bachelor of Architecture degree from Syracuse University School of Architecture, where her thesis was awarded the James A. Britton Memorial Award and citations for Excellence in Design Research.
While attending University, Laurie studied abroad in Shanghai, New York City, London, and Los Angeles. These experiences shaped her perspective on architecture across different cultural and urban contexts. Through her studies and professional work, Laurie has developed a strong interest in residential design, adaptive reuse, and the relationship between interior space and everyday life.
WILSON DUGGAN
ADMINISTRATOR
Prior to joining the team at SYA, Wilson accumulated over a decade of professional experience in the fine art industry in New York City. His roles have included artist studio and gallery management, exhibition planning, and art curation. He was born and raised in Washington DC and he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Art History from Fordham University.
At SYA, Wilson provides construction administration services, office management, and in-house model shop coordination. He has a passion for creative expression in all forms; from fine art to architecture, cinema, music, and more.