Luke Pantaleo, RA, NCARB

Partner, Facade & Roofing Team Leader

RAND Engineering & Architecture, DPC

A true New Yorker raised in Queens, Luke Pantaleo helps keep existing buildings safe while preserving the architectural character of the New York City built environment. Although his interest in architecture started by designing elaborate houses one high school summer, his practical journey working for a general contractor throughout architecture school forged his pathway to restoration. Luke is part of the building envelope niche and started at RAND Engineering & Architecture, DPC as a Project Associate, where he inspected building facades and roofs, prepared construction documents, and administered construction contracts. His specialty included large multi-discipline capital improvement programs at multi-building complexes throughout the city. Now a Partner and the Facade & Roofing Team Leader at RAND, Luke is awarded the opportunity of leading 40+ individuals to inspect, restore, and preserve hundreds of buildings every year. Additionally, Luke enjoys mentoring architecture students and young professionals; understanding we have a shared responsibility for the next generation. Becoming part of the CCNY Architecture Alumni Group Board has allowed for mentoring at a larger scale. Outside of architecture, Luke co-owns barre3 Long Island City with his wife Lisa, an inclusive fitness studio based on science-backed workouts combining strength, cardio, and mindfulness.

How did your time at CCNY shape your trajectory?

Looking back, graduating Spitzer School of Architecture in 2010 was a unique experience. Like many before us, we were a class that started in the basement of Shepard Hall and worked our way up to the attic. But we were also the first graduating class in the new building with a new school name. Strangers became close friends, which is the best side effect of the studio environment, regardless of what building we were in. School taught us the skills, discipline, and consistency that is needed after graduation. Architecture school isn’t glamorous or carefree; it is rather fast-paced, intense, and somewhat grueling. Essentially, school shaped how we would meander through life and the obstacles thrown into the mix, whether it be a recession, inflation, pandemic, or personal hurdles. As architects, we have the unique ability to problem solve; always looking at the big picture, zooming in on the details, and constantly moving between the two. It is a combination of the lessons, environments, and friendships that have molded my character to help get me here today, and what will keep me moving forward tomorrow.

Luke Pantaleo, B.Arch 2010