Formed in the early 1990s, Architectural Design Associates is the progeny of its predecessor firm, Certosimo Associates, P.A., Architects and Planners. We are licensed architects.
ADA’s staff is strong in the disciplines required to be at the pinnacle of successful design today, with the vision to be at the forefront of the requirements and modernizations of design tomorrow. Our integrated expertise yields ergonomic environments, exceptional elevations, optimal floor plans, and efficiency of flow and function.
ADA’s principles have over 20 years of experience across a range of design disciplines, from Commercial Buildings and Corporate Interiors, Residential Planning and Construction, Medical and Dental Environments, to Historical Preservation Sites. Our experience and our credentials are of the highest caliber.
Our Team
- The principal of our company, Richard S. Jacobs, AIA, graduated from Syracuse University School of Architecture. He opened Architectural Design Associates in the 1990’s as the chief designer. Mr. Jacobs, who has over 25 years of architectural experience, is passionate about both the art of architecture and the science of design efficiency, lending him a practical yet aesthetic eye when architecting commercial buildings, designing corporate interiors, and in conceiving residential homes as well as healthcare environments. Mr. Jacobs’ varied expertise has diversified the firm by expanding ADA’s corporate client base while maintaining our healthcare clients and sustaining our residential market share. He has additionally brought historical acclaim to ADA through remarkable restoration design work of several projects in Ocean Grove, New Jersey. Mr. Jacobs is currently a member of the American Institute of Architects, International Code Council, and the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards.
- The director of our firm, Frank E. Matthews, AIA, graduated from The New York Institute of Technology. Mr. Matthews’ experience in corporate design stemmed from his many years at Certosimo Associates where he oversaw the design and construction of facilities for numerous Fortune 500 companies throughout the United States and abroad. His experience in differentiated building systems range from tilt up concrete construction and precast panel systems to steel or wood framed systems. Mr. Matthews’ keen eye for detail and exceptional organization abilities makes him an excellent client liaison for every project type. Because of the diversity of his expertise and practice, Mr. Matthews is gifted in interpreting clients’ desires and transforming those ideas into reality. Mr. Matthews is a member of the American Institute of Architects, the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards, and International Code Council.
- Matthew J. Certosimo, RA remains with our firm on our Board of Directors. Mr. Certosimo spent his earlier years at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP. He then formed Certosimo Associates, P.A in the early 1970’s. Matt brought the experience of a world-renowned design company to a personal architectural firm, at all times lending his expertise and skills to Rich and Frank while educating them about corporate and residential architecture.
- Our in-house staff consists of well-qualified CAD operators, as well as an administrative staff to handle administrative needs. They work on a wide array of projects while bringing organization, enthusiasm and streamlined communication efforts to our studio.