Stuart Narofsky & Jennifer Rusch: Design with a personal touch

 Stuart Narofsky, FAIA, and Jennifer Rusch of Narofsky Architecture.

Stuart Narofsky’s approach to architecture focuses on function and personalization. With more than 40 years of experience in custom residential projects, he has built a reputation for creating practical yet thoughtful spaces. His work extends beyond just the structure of a home — Narofsky integrates the interior and landscape design as well for a more consistent look.

He founded the New York-based Narofsky Architecture firm in 1983, concentrating primarily on custom residential projects. Over time, Narofsky expanded his practice to include a broader approach. “It’s a pretty comprehensive design,” he explained, describing how his work often spans from the exterior architecture to the interior finishes and landscaping.

A significant aspect of Narofsky’s work involves collaboration with his wife, Jennifer Rusch, an architect and principal at the firm, specializing in interior design. Together, they developed a process where Narofsky focused on the overall design concept, and Rusch took the lead on the interior details. 

“She really is the interior person. I’m sort of the big picture conception, and then she evolves it into the interior designs,” he said. This partnership has allowed them to handle projects by blending their strengths to create more complete and unified designs for their clients.

Design philosophy

Narofsky’s design philosophy is shaped by pragmatism rather than strict adherence to any particular style. He believes that design should respond to the site, the client’s needs, and other considerations like budget and regulations. “I try to evolve the design to what feels natural to me for all the things that typically influence a design,” he noted.

While he draws inspiration from modernist architects like Frank Lloyd Wright and mid-century figures like Rudolph Schindler and Richard Neutra, Narofsky does not follow any one architectural style. Instead, he takes a flexible approach, allowing the specifics of each project to guide the design process. Narofsky said he is also interested in new materials and construction methods, often incorporating them into his projects to improve functionality and sustainability. “I’m always reading about architecture, keeping up with what’s going on technically and environmentally,” he added.

Stuart Narofsky and Jennifer Rusch collaborated on the award-winning Cardinale Wine Cellar.

Trends and technology

In recent years, Narofsky said he has noticed shifts in his clients’ preferences, especially when it comes to smart home technology. Initially, there was a trend toward fully integrated, high-tech systems, but more clients are now seeking simpler, more user-friendly options. 

“I’m starting to see a retrenchment from overly tight approaches,” Narofsky observed. He added that today’s clients prefer technology that enhances their homes without becoming overly complicated or requiring constant maintenance.

Sustainability is another trend that has influenced his work. He sees a growing demand for materials that require minimal upkeep, reflecting a shift toward environmentally conscious design choices. This interest in sustainability aligns with his focus on creating durable, quality spaces that meet his clients’ needs.

Recognition and collaboration

An award-winning architect, Narofsky’s work was recently recognized with a 2024 Top Shelf Design Award for one of his standout projects — a wine cellar. Although Narofsky conceptualized the project, Rusch handled the details.

“The design of that, the materials, the detail work — that’s all Jennifer,” he acknowledged. Their collaboration is a core strength of their practice, allowing them to balance big-picture thinking with attention to detail.

Rusch plays a critical role in the design process at Narofsky Architecture, focusing on translating the clients’ ideas into functional interior spaces. “I take our clients’ programmatic needs, images they are inspired by, and understanding of their dreams, and hone it all into a holistic solution,” Rusch explained.

Her ability to manage the interior details complements Narofsky’s overarching architectural vision. She ensures that their projects are cohesive and tailored to the client’s needs, whether minimalist, modern, or more traditional in style.

Looking ahead, Narofsky sees the importance of balancing technology with simplicity and sustainability with practical design. He often advises clients to focus on quality rather than size. “Scale back and don’t build as big, but build with quality,” he suggested. This approach, combined with his emphasis on practical design, has shaped his career and continues to guide his work today.

For more information on the company, visit narofsky.com.

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About the author
Michaelle Bradford | Editor

Michaelle Bradford, CCI Media, is Editor of Closets & Organized Storage magazine and Woodworking Network editor. She has more than 20 years of experience covering the woodworking and design industry, including visits to custom cabinet shops, closet firms and design studios throughout North America. As Editor of Closets & Organized Storage magazine under the Woodworking Network brand, Michaelle’s responsibilities include writing, editing, and coordinating editorial content as well as managing annual design competitions like the Top Shelf Design Awards. She is also a contributor to FDMC and other Woodworking Network online and print media owned by CCI Media.