OUR MISSION AND VISION

rfa is an award-winning, published leader in architecture, planning and interior design with offices in Boston, MA and Laguna Hills, CA.

In addition to our commercial and hospitality/residential studios, we are renowned as veterinary hospital architects, animal shelter architects, and boarding/breeding facility architects. We are licensed and regularly practice in nearly every state in the U.S. and abroad. Having completed more than 600 projects over the past 40 years, we offer our clients unrivaled experience, creativity, and dedication.

The following rfa core values guide our talented project teams in the design and management of each commission.

  • We practice a highly collaborative design methodology, engaging our clients in a full partnership throughout the programming, design and construction process.
  • We emphasize the social aspect of architecture because the success of a building lies in how it brings people -- and, often, animals -- together for a common purpose.
  • We are committed to a sustainable design approach, recognizing that we must be responsible stewards of our environment.
  • We respond to the diverse context that makes each site special, respecting local architectural vernacular while instilling a vision for the future.
  • We strive for technical excellence in all aspects of design, recognizing the importance of technological proficiency in highly complex projects which is fundamental to our practice.
  • We make not only your design goals but also budget and schedule a priority.
"It has been my dream since 2010 to one day have the opportunity to operate in a state of the art facility. When we finally reached the point that our business not only was ready, but needed to do so to survive, we began researching firms who's focus was the Pet Care Industry. After speaking with four different firms, we knew we found our home with Warren and his team. The care, constant communication, knowledge and high level of expertise that he demonstrated from our initial conversation has only continued thru our design phase and town approval process. We didn't hire a yes man, we joined a team. If you are looking for a firm that will be part of your team, you have found the right place. They are just as excited as we are and it shows. " — Kristen Delea – Metro Pooch
“RFA has exceeded all of my expectations during the project and schematic drawing phase.  Warren Freedenfeld is a master at his craft and has guided me as we attempt to build one of the most advanced small hospitals in Missouri.  Professionalism, innovation, and passion are just a few words that describe Warren and his firm.  I look forward to the project’s completion and unveiling.” — Michael Vitucci, DVM – County Animal Hospital

BOUNDLESS ENTHUSIASM WITH AN UNYIELDING PURSUIT OF PERFECTION

OUR TEAM

Warren Freedenfeld, AIA, NCARBPrincipal, East Coast
Richard Rauh, AIA, NCARBPrincipal, West Coast
Eric Nelson, AIA, NCARBAssociate, Supervising Architect
Geeta Shrestha, Assoc. AIA, LEED AP BD+CAssociate, Project Manager
Rosetta DohertyDirector of Client Services
Maria DolanFinance Manager
Linda GerryOffice Manager, Graphic Designer
Rega MaiwandiOffice Manager, West Coast
David WildnauerSenior Project Manager
Gershon Gottlieb, RAProject Manager
James Howe, CBOProject Manager
Richard Librizzi, RAProject Architect
Katherine WoodJob Captain
Veronika KakhnovskaJob Captain
Armaan KajaniProject Designer
Angie Ngoc TranInterior Designer
Hyunju SeoTechnical Drafter
Wesley SylvesterTechnical Drafter
Sriniyati RajabakshDesigner/Drafter

OUR STORY

In 2005, the founders of two of the most respected veterinary hospital design firms in America, Warren Freedenfeld, AIA and Richard Rauh, AIA, joined forces to create an unrivaled synergy of expertise, creativity and passion. Rfa is the product of the strategic merger between Rauhaus Architects on the West Coast and Warren Freedenfeld & Associates on the East Coast.

Each of rfa’s principals has made an impressive mark in their field. Richard is well-known for his striking contemporary designs, while Warren is renowned for his skill in comprehensively integrating complex programming details into remarkable contextual architecture. Because of their pioneering contributions, the expertise of these seasoned Architects is admired and in high demand. In addition to achieving a myriad of awards, they have lectured all over the world and published numerous articles in well-respected animal care and architectural journals. Warren and Richard’s exceptional design and technical experience, coupled with their passion for perfection has earned them international acclaim and notoriety.

Building on the fifty plus year reputation of its co-founders, the firm has developed into a uniquely talented, dedicated team with a wealth of diverse, complementary experience. Our professionals and support staff have significantly expanded the firm’s creative capacity and management capabilities to support the unique needs of our projects. Today we offer a broad range of professional services to a diverse group of Animal Care, Commercial and Residential/Hospitality clients.

We have achieved many accolades but our greatest reward is your success

AWARDS

dvm360 Hospital Design Competition

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