Proxy

is a design firm that extends the most current technologies in software and hardware to create the next generation of building structures.
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Proxy was founded in 2006 by Mark Collins and Toru Hasegawa. Proxy works across a range of projects with a network of collaborators. We provide design services, creative decision support and training. To hear what we can do for you, please send inquiries to contact.us @ proxyarch.com

Proxy designs buildings and products by looking, listening and studying. Every project begins with a process of discovery to understand the parameters of the project - its intrinsic dependencies and its relationship with its environment. We develop and implement custom tools to refine and evolve a series of designs. We search through the space of possibilities latent in any given problem and find solutions that work to maximize the utility of space and material. We would like to bring our expertise and energy to your project.
 

Mark Collins

Mark has worked as an architect in New York City and Atlanta. Since founding Proxy in 2006 with Toru Hasegawa, Mark has focused on applications for digital computing in architecture, leading to a range of clients and platforms. Mark co-directs Proxy and works closely with clients to support the work of the studio. Mark is also an adjunct faculty member at the Columbia University Graduate School of Architecture, Planning & Preservation and the New York University Interactive Telecommunications Program, where he teaches seminars on building construction technology and spatial computing. Mark co-directs the GSAPP Cloud Lab, a research-based laboratory that explores the design of our environment through emerging technologies in computing, interface and device culture.

Toru Hasegawa

Toru has worked as an architect in New York City and Tokyo, where past work included architectural design for residential clients. Since founding Proxy in 2006 with Mark Collins, Toru has worked to explore potentials within the computational paradigm for a range of clients, from individuals to institutions. Working alongside Mark, Toru provides expertise in the service of both design and realization. Toru is also an adjunct faculty member at the Columbia University Graduate School of Architecture, Planning & Preservation and the New York University Interactive Telecommunications Program, where he teaches seminars on building construction technology and spatial computing.

Our Collaborators

Proxy works with a diverse series of innovative and forward looking people and institutions. We believe that the best outcomes grow from collaboration and productive exchange. These groups have been active collaborators in the projects found on this site: