Syracuse, New York
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53 years of experience
Trusted Expertise
Our in-house design team conducts detailed interviews to determine the most efficient and creative solutions to meet our client’s goals and budget requirements. We have the experience and manpower to provide every aspect of project planning from initial concept development through construction and move in.
How We started
Founded with a shared vision of excellence and innovation, ZFSA has been a cornerstone of Central New York’s design landscape for decades. Our story began over 50 years ago when Bob Frisch and Garson Zausmer combined their expertise, passion, and commitment to create a design firm that stands out for its unique blend of creativity and practicality.
With deep roots in architecture and interior design, ZFSA was built on the principles of collaboration, precision, and a keen understanding of our clients' needs. From our early days, we have evolved from a small team of visionaries into a highly respected, full-service Design & Build firm. We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional projects that range from luxury hospitality venues and high-profile commercial spaces to warm, inviting residential and community-focused developments.Guided by a philosophy that prioritizes both aesthetics and function, Bob and Garson laid the foundation for a firm that embodies trust, expertise, and a deep connection to the communities we serve. This legacy continues to inspire every member of our team as we work to transform ideas into reality and create spaces where people thrive.
01
Unified Design
and Construction Solutions
Our firm operates through two specialized divisions. The Design Division comprises a team of skilled architects, interior designers, and support personnel who collaborate to create innovative and practical design solutions. Complementing this is our Construction Division, a full-service general contracting arm staffed with experienced construction estimators, project managers, and field personnel. This integrated approach ensures that our designs are not only aesthetically compelling but also grounded in realistic construction techniques and cost-effective practices.
02
Tailored Design
and
Build Services
At ZFSA, we offer both design/build and design-only services, tailored to meet the specific needs of our clients. While many of our projects are completed under our comprehensive design/build model, we also collaborate with contractors, developers, and organizations that manage their own construction efforts. Our portfolio spans a diverse range of sectors, including healthcare, finance, hospitality, food service, corporate, industrial, retail, fitness, and multi-family housing. We have successfully delivered projects involving both renovations of existing structures and the creation of new, ground-up buildings.
03
Comprehensive Solutions,
Every Step
While our primary focus is on Upstate New York, we proudly serve clients as far south as Florida. ZFSA is equipped to handle every phase of project planning, from initial concept development through to the completion of construction. We are renowned for our creativity, meticulous attention to detail, and our commitment to meeting budgetary and scheduling targets. At ZFSA, each project is a testament to our dedication to design excellence and client satisfaction.
Working With ZFSA you get:
Functional and Practical Spaces
Luxury and Premium Design
Timeless Design Solutions
Complete Project Management
Customization and Flexibility
Custom Architectural Design
Our Team
Unlike many large design firms, we pride ourselves on the fact that our firm is not ‘top heavy.' Although the partners of Zausmer-Frisch, Scruton & Aggarwal are your main contacts throughout your project, they work closely with our integrated design and construction teams.
Our Specialties
One began as a collaborative architectural and landscape workshop, and has remained true to its trans-disciplinary way.
Our specialties
Medical and Hospitality
Our team has extensive experience in the design and construction of medical facilities, having worked on hundreds of projects across various specialties, including primary care, dental, orthodontic, and more.
We excel in creating spaces that not only meet the operational needs of medical professionals but also provide a welcoming and calming environment for patients, enhancing their overall experience.
Our specialties
Multifamily Housing
For over three decades, multifamily housing has been a cornerstone of our work. We specialize in a wide range of housing projects, from affordable housing in collaboration with the New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) and other state divisions, to high-end mixed-use developments.
Our expertise ensures that these projects are delivered on time and within budget, meeting state submission requirements while also offering innovative designs that enhance living spaces and commercial areas alike.
Our specialties
Not-for-profit Projects
At ZFSA, we are deeply committed to supporting not-for-profit organizations, helping to create structurally sound and thoughtfully designed spaces that serve those in need. Since our work on the Ronald McDonald House in 1986 to our recent project with Helping Hounds in 2023, we have a long history of partnering with charitable organizations.
Our focus is on designing spaces that not only fulfill their functional requirements but also foster an environment of care and support.