by: AIA New York
Guy Geier, FAIA, FIIDA, LEED AP, is Managing Partner at FXCollaborative, a New York City-based architecture, interiors, and planning firm. Geier focuses on strategic and business development efforts at the firm as well as working with a wide range of commercial and institutional clients, focusing on developing environments that reflect a client’s mission, vision and program.
Geier attended architecture school at the University of Virginia where he received both a bachelor’s and master’s degree. He has served on the Dean’s Advisory Board and the school’s Foundation Board, recently completing his term as President. In 2010, Geier was also selected as a member of UVA’s Raven Society for his achievements and service to the University. With more than four decades of experience in architecture and interior design, Geier is an active voice of the wider design community and has received numerous honors and recognitions for his contributions to the profession. He is one of only 10 professionals recognized as a Fellow of both the American Institute of Architects and the International Interior Design Association. In 2018, Geier served as President of AIA New York. He has just been awarded the 2025 James William Kideney Gold Medal by AIA New York State for his contributions to the profession. He is active in representing the design professions in public policy and advancing justice, equity, diversity and inclusion initiatives. Geier also hosts the podcast “architecture 5 10 20”, part of the SURROUND podcast network by Sandow, which explores the future of the built environment through interviews with a wide range of thought leaders.
Q: What is influencing your work the most right now?
The most significant influence on my work right now is the growing need for sustainability and resilience in our built environment. The urgency of addressing climate change is driving how we design spaces that are not only beautiful and functional but also environmentally responsible and adaptive to changing conditions. Equally important is the focus on equity—ensuring that the spaces we create serve all communities, fostering inclusion and accessibility.
Q: How/why did you decide to pursue architecture?
My father was an interior designer and exposed me to design at a very early age. As a young person, I was fascinated by how spaces could influence behavior and emotion. While my college advisor suggested I go into engineering, I was drawn to architecture because it exists at the intersection of art, science, and human connection. Architecture offered me a way to shape the world around me, to solve complex problems creatively, and to leave a lasting positive impact on people and communities.
Q: What has been particularly challenging in your recent work?
The most challenging aspect of recent work has been balancing ambitious sustainability goals with the economic realities of many projects. While clients are increasingly aware of the importance of green design, aligning budgets and schedules with cutting-edge strategies often requires innovation and advocacy. Additionally, navigating the rapid technological changes in the industry—such as AI and digital fabrication—has been both exciting and demanding.
Q: Do you have a favorite building and why?
One building that has always inspired me is the Seagram Building in New York City. Its elegance, simplicity, and attention to detail exemplify timeless design. It’s a masterclass in proportion, materiality, and how architecture can embody a cultural moment while remaining relevant decades later. I was fortunate to design a floor in the building for an investment group and it was a thrill to work with the constraints and opportunities presented by the building’s design.
Q: What are your thoughts on architectural education today?
Architectural education today is evolving to meet the demands of the profession, but it still has room for improvement. Students need more exposure to interdisciplinary collaboration, real-world problem-solving, and sustainable practices. While theory remains important, we must ensure that graduates are prepared to address the practical, social, and environmental challenges of the 21st century.