The DFA Team

Daniel Frisch began his architectural studies in 1982 at the Harvard University Career Discovery Program in Architecture. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Virginia School of Architecture (’87), and a Master of Architecture from the Columbia University Graduate School of Architecture Planning and Preservation (’91), and is licensed to practice in New York and Connecticut.
In 1991, Mr. Frisch teamed with graduate school friend Edward Cabot and Amy Lesser to found an architecture and interior design firm in Midtown Manhattan. The company moved one block west in 1994 to its current offices at 127 West 56th Street. Mr. Cabot left the firm shortly thereafter, and when Ms. Lesser retired in 1997, Daniel Frisch Architect, PC was incorporated.
Mr. Frisch and his colleagues have designed and executed hundreds of individual projects. We thank our many clients, contractors, consultants, and all the dedicated staff who have pulled together to make each venture a success.

Kate Jiranek began her career in architecture at DFA as an intern during the summer of 2012 and obtained her license to practice in 2016. Kate holds a Master of Architecture from the University of Oregon, and a Bachelor of Engineering from Vanderbilt University. In addition to designing and overseeing individual projects at DFA, Kate also helps to set firm strategies and priorities. Kate is licensed in New York and Connecticut and is committed to sustainability in design as a Certified Passive House Consultant®.
Kate was born and raised in Seattle and loves to visit as often as she can. In her free time, she plays the flute with the acclaimed not-for-profit Brooklyn Wind Symphony where she also serves on the Board of Directors.

Camille Rider attended the University of Southern California, graduating with a Bachelor of Architecture and a minor in Consumer Behavior in 2022. Upon relocating to New York City, she found DFA to be the perfect place to pursue her passion in residential design and gain exposure to east coast architecture. She is passionate about building meaningful connections between people and architecture, and enjoys complimenting her work with other interests, such as interior design and architectural photography. Camille is originally from Columbus, Ohio and in her free time loves to travel and run.

Kent Shell joined DFA after a thirty-year career as a general contractor specializing in New York City co-ops and condominium renovations. As Director of Approvals and Construction Administration, Kent works closely with owners, contractors, managing agents, and co-op boards to make sure projects run smoothly. Kent is also the firm’s point of contact with clients regarding contract and billing matters. Kent holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Virginia Commonwealth University, and in addition to his work in the construction and architecture fields, has charted a course as an independent artist and writer.

Jamie came to DFA as a summer intern 30-plus years ago, soon after the firm was founded, and has been linked with DFA ever since. Jamie is a jack of all trades, with a lifelong love of architecture. He has worked as a freelance travel, design, and resort photographer, and has been the photographer for most of the firm’s projects through the years. In 2012, following time abroad, Jamie joined DFA full-time to oversee DFA’s marketing, brand identity, book design, and technology platforms.