Kew is extraordinarily proud of the vision and talent of our tenants. Juan Matiz and Sara Matiz of Matiz Architecture & Design (MAD) sat down with us to discuss the innovative design work that MAD does and the firm’s 13-year relationship with the NoMad neighborhood.

Matiz Architecture & Design (MAD) was founded in 2002 by husband and wife team Juan and Sara Matiz. Based in the NoMad neighborhood since its inception, MAD has developed into a diverse “360-degree architecture and design studio.”

The philosophy behind all of MAD’s work is that design is an integrated and cross-disciplined process. The firm integrates architectural projects with its branding and design related work. MAD believes there are a few key ingredients for its clients’ success: extraordinary ideas, creative experimentation, strategic design, multidisciplinary talent and environmental sustainability.

Due to its versatility, MAD has a portfolio of work for a wide variety of national and international clients, including residences, corporate offices, retail spaces and exhibitions. Among MAD’s clients are New York University, Pratt Institute, The Santa Fe Opera, The Boy and Girls Club of America, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Planned Parenthood and innovative startups like Etsy, Dailymotion and OkCupid.

How did your company start?

We started our company in 2002 in the Flatiron Building following the dream of setting up a truly 360 degree design firm in New York City. After 13 years, we are a group of 16 talented professionals with different design backgrounds (architects, interior designers, graphic designers, products designer and brand strategists).

Describe your company in three words.

Multidisciplinary. Creative. Problem-solving.

Why did you choose to be in the NoMad District?

We have been in the NoMad area for 13 years. We choose this neighborhood for its strong architectural presence (i.e. Madison Square Park) and the best design showrooms in town – and we stayed for the memorable food!

How does the neighborhood influence how you do business?

NoMad offers lots of inspirations all around, from its innovative commercial spaces to the amazing artwork displayed every seasons in the Park. For a designer it is the perfect spot, in the middle of it all (major design showrooms are walking distance from our office). It is also the place where lots of our “startup” clients are (Dailymotion, StrawberryFrog). As designers we enjoy coming to work here. [NoMad gives us] the opportunity to thrive, feel constantly engaged with other creative fields, and be happy — both at work and after work.

What are some of your favorite spots to decompress after work?

Live Bait, Eataly Birreria, NoMad Hotel Bar.

Where’s your go-to for morning coffee?

We have a few Italians here – Eataly is the only Italian-approved coffee around.

What’s been your favorite installation in Madison Square Park?

The Buckyball illuminated at night and Echo for sure! Amazing!

What’s your favorite menu item at Shake Shack?

Concrete Shake and Vanilla Shake

To learn more about Matiz Architecture & Design, visit their website.