Hoffmann Architects, an architecture and engineering firm specializing in the rehabilitation of building exteriors, is pleased to welcome two new team members to the technical staff in the firm’s Manhattan office.

John P. Graz, RA joins the firm as Senior Architect.With more than 20 years of experience in architectural design and restoration, he has expertise in building enclosures that ranges from historic preservation to waterproofing design to new construction peer review. As Senior Architect, Graz is responsible for overseeing project teams and mentoring junior staff in the development of design solutions for the building envelope that meet technical, functional, and aesthetic objectives. He applies his architecture degree from the University of Toronto and extensive background in project management and collaborative team leadership to the assessment, design, and construction administration of roof, facade, plaza, and parking structure projects in the New York area. He lives in Old Greenwich, Connecticut.

Rachel C. Palisin, PE, LEED AP BD+C joins Hoffmann Architects as Project Engineer.An experienced professional engineer with a background in restoration and sustainable design, Palisin studied Historic Preservation at the post-graduate level at the University of Maryland School of Architecture, Planning & Preservation, and she holds a Master of Structural Engineering degree from Washington University in St. Louis. Relocating to New York from the Washington, DC area, Palisin brings expertise in project management to diverse structures and situations, from historic landmarks to contemporary designs.For projects in the greater New York City area, Palisin applies her broad experience in engineering and preservation to the diagnosis and resolution of building envelope distress, as well as to the development of design details in consultation for new construction. She lives in New York.

Founded in 1977, Hoffmann Architects specializes in the rehabilitation of the building envelope. The firm’s work focuses on the exteriors of existing structures, diagnosing and resolving deterioration within facades, roofing systems, windows, waterproofing materials, plazas/terraces, parking garages, and historic and landmark structures. We provide consulting services for new building construction, as well as litigation and claim support. Our technical professionals investigate and correct damage resulting from time and weather, substandard or improper construction, design defects, material failures, poor workmanship, structural movement, and stress.