Pei Cobb Freed Rebrands as PCF Architects
The New York City-based architectural firm has updated its name and appointed four new partners to its leadership team.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in People
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Pei Cobb Freed and Partners has officially rebranded as PCF Architects, marking a new chapter for the design firm. The studio also announced the appointment of four internal staff members as new partners.
Why it matters
This leadership transition and rebranding signal the continued evolution of the firm, which has historically integrated a new generation of partners every decade since 1980.
The firm, which has operated for 70 years, has undergone three name updates throughout its history. Its portfolio includes projects across 100 cities globally.
The players
PCF Architects
Formerly known as Pei Cobb Freed and Partners, this firm is a New York City-based architectural practice known for major global landmarks.
Christopher Jend
He is one of the four new partners appointed to the leadership team at PCF Architects.
Min Lee
She serves as a newly appointed partner at the firm.
Hitoshi Maehara
He is a member of the new generation of leadership as a partner at the firm.
Matteo Milani
He has been promoted to partner as part of the firm's leadership expansion.
The details
Christopher Jend, Min Lee, Hitoshi Maehara, and Matteo Milani have been promoted to partners at the New York City studio. They join existing partners Michael W. Bischoff, José Bruguera, and Katherine Bojsza in leading the independently owned practice.
Timeline
1980: The firm began its cycle of expanding its partnership every decade.
October 2026: The firm officially rebranded as PCF Architects.
Market Landscape
The firm follows a decennial partnership expansion cycle established in 1980. The latest leadership appointments follow the pattern set by the firm's 1980 decennial partnership expansion cycle.
Clients and project stakeholders should note that the firm remains independently owned and operated despite the name change. Day-to-day operations continue from the firm's existing studio in New York City.
The takeaway
The firm maintains its long-standing legacy of internal promotion by elevating staff to partner roles. This transition ensures continuity in the firm's design practice as it enters its seventh decade of operation.
What happens next
The firm is currently preparing for the opening of a major expansion project for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum.
Further reading
For more on industry leadership changes, visit the New York City People section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Architecturalrecord.
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