by: AIA New York
James Crispino, FAIA, NCARB, has focused his entire career on the creation of programmatic hybrids. His work investigates and synthesizes new technologies, patterns of human behavior, and spatial models. He applies this approach in developing new projects globally for academic medical centers, health systems, universities, technology, and research clients. Crispino is active in the AIA, serving on both the Pennsylvania and NYS Boards of Directors. He has previously chaired AIA New York’s Finance Committee as well as its Design for Health Committee. He is a Fellow of the Institute for Urban Design. He founded the Healthcare Committee of the New York Building Congress.
This year, the Jury of Fellows of the AIA elevated Crispino to its prestigious College of Fellows in the second category of Fellowship, which recognizes architect leaders in practice management or practice technical advancement. Crispino was honored for his advancements in healthcare strategy, planning, and architecture by bringing principles of medical research, along with novel implementation methodologies and constant reassessment, to healthcare design. His projects are game changers for institutions and their constituents. His distinction was celebrated at the AIA Conference on Architecture from June 4–7 in Boston, MA, as well as at the Center for Architecture during the 2025 New Fellows Celebration on Wednesday, March 19, from 6:00–8:00pm.
Q: What is influencing your work the most right now?
The idea that is influencing my work right now is creating accessible healthcare systems.
Q: How/why did you decide to pursue architecture?
I wanted to pursue architecture to focus on the social aspect of our profession.
Q: What has been particularly challenging in your recent work?
The biggest challenge in my work is synthesizing human experience and incredibly sophisticated clinical technologies.
Q: What are some of your favorite recent projects that you’ve worked on?
Current projects for Mayo Clinic, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Columbia University, and the Hospital for Special Surgery are among my favorite projects.
Q: What are your greatest sources of inspiration?
My greatest sources of inspiration are found in the needs of our communities.
Editors’ Note: This feature is part of a series celebrating the members of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) New York Chapter who are elevated each year to the AIA College of Fellows, an honor awarded to members who have made significant contributions to both the profession and society. Learn more about Fellowship here.