SHAY ALSTER

Shay Alster, AIA, is Managing Partner at GF55 Architects in New York City, where he leads with a strategic, technology-forward approach. A graduate of Pratt Institute School of Architecture, Alster has overseen the design and construction of more than 12 million square feet of housing across the United States, including over 200 buildings in New York City. Under his leadership, GF55 has built a national reputation for excellence across a broad range of sectors including multifamily housing, retail, education, hospitality, and industrial design.

In this session, Alster will present GF55’s long-term strategy for integrating emerging technologies into all aspects of architectural practice. He will discuss the firm’s intentional approach to hiring architects with strong technical expertise, enabling seamless execution of complex projects using digital coordination and construction administration tools. Alster will also highlight GF55’s active collaboration with technology firms such as ArkDesign.AI—partnerships that have contributed to the firm being among the first recipients of the SARA National Design Award 2024. His presentation underscores the importance of aligning firm-wide operations with evolving technological capabilities, ensuring that innovation supports both design excellence and delivery efficiency.