We are people who enjoy working with each other and those we partner with to design and build spaces and places. We like challenges and strive for great designs that can make our clients happy. We work hard – quietly at our desks or together around the counter, especially on projects that contribute to the reinvention of the Pittsburgh region. We like learning – from each other, engineers, contractors, industry reps and our clients. We also enjoy our time working together – laughing at the antics of the office dogs, drinking good coffee while meeting, and celebrating our personal and professional accomplishments together (usually with Prantl’s Burnt Almond Torte and champagne).
As principal of Margittai Architects, Peter is responsible for the design and management of all the firm’s projects. He founded the firm in 2001 with the goal of creating thoughtful and tailored architectural and interior design solutions, in a collaborative studio environment, for his clients. His firm’s work has received numerous awards and acknowledgements, including Pittsburgh Magazine’s Home Renovation of the Year Award, two Preservation Pennsylvania’s Historic Preservation Awards, and AIA Pennsylvania and AIA Pittsburgh Design Awards.
Peter received his Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Architecture from The Pennsylvania State University (Penn State) and has studied in Rome and at the Ecole D’Art Americaines in Fontainebleau, France. He has also traveled extensively through the U.S., Europe, and Japan.
Peter is active in several local and regional initiatives. He served as the President of Preservation Pittsburgh, is a member of the East Carson Street Local Review Committee and volunteered for the Design Center’s Design Consultants program. Peter also serves as a Board Member and Past President of the College of Arts and Architecture Alumni Society and Past President of the Architecture Alumni Board, both at Penn State University.
Email: peter@margittai.com
Eric earned his Bachelor of Architecture degree from Carnegie Mellon University. With decades of experience in both architecture and construction, he excels in navigating and resolving complex architectural challenges. From documenting existing conditions to conducting in-depth building code analyses, Eric’s expertise spans a wide range of critical project needs. He also has a strong background in overseeing construction and contract management, ensuring that projects are built to exacting standards.
Eric is responsible for managing the team’s workflows, maintaining the quality of documentation, and ensuring projects stay on track with schedule adherence. His leadership ensures that every aspect of the production process runs efficiently and seamlessly.
Outside of work, Eric channels his creativity into designing and building unique structures—whether it’s showcasing his extensive collection of bourbon or crafting multi-level dog mansions for his beloved canine companion, “Pickle.”
Email: eric@margittai.com
Sara is an Architectural Designer with her Bachelor of Science in Architecture from Kent State University. With a diverse background that extends beyond architecture, Sara also proudly served in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard, where she developed a strong sense of discipline, teamwork, and problem-solving that she now applies to her architectural practice.
Currently focused on studying for her Architectural Registration Exams, Sara is driven by a commitment to continuous learning and growth in her field. Outside of work, she’s passionate about home renovation, pouring creativity and attention to detail into transforming her own space. When she’s not working on her latest project, Sara enjoys exploring new adventures with her wife, Emily, and their dog, Sierra, always seeking fresh inspiration from life’s experiences.
Sierra loves coming to the office, making sure to greet everyone with a friendly hello and start the day with plenty of treats.
“I love architecture because it affords me the opportunity to design spaces for others to enjoy, create, live, and grow in. I appreciate working at Margittai Architects because the freedom and culture allowed me to fall in love with architecture again. Plus, Sierra comes to work with me every day!”
Email: sara@margittai.com
Kristy attended The Pennsylvania State University, where she studied accounting and finance. Kristy offers experience in the manufacturing, hospitality and non-profit sectors, providing administration and support services.
Since joining Margittai Architects in August 2017, Kristy has been a key part of the team, handling everything from office operations to finances and marketing tasks.
A Pittsburgh native who returned to the area in 2016, Kristy enjoys spending time with her family and volunteering in her community.
Email: kristy@margittai.com
Emma is an Architectural Designer with her Bachelor of Science in Architecture from the University of Pittsburgh. During her time at Pitt, she was an active member of the Pittsburgh chapter of AIAS, where she served as a board member and immersed herself in the architectural community. Her involvement in AIAS not only deepened her understanding of the profession but also fostered a passion for collaboration and leadership.
When she’s not immersed in design, Emma enjoys staying active and outdoors. Whether playing tennis with friends or exploring the vibrant City of Pittsburgh, she finds inspiration in both the natural world and the urban landscape around her.
“I found a love for architecture through the fundamental idea of designing spaces for others to enjoy. This allows me the freedom to be creative, interact with new people, and learn more about the built environment. At Margittai Architects, I get to explore this passion more every day, and share it with my co-workers, both human and canine!”
Email: emma@margittai.com
At Margittai, Bill is more than just an architectural designer—he’s the bridge between academia and practice. His journey from professor to designer has enriched his understanding of architecture, deepening his appreciation for the craft and fueling his enthusiasm for guiding the next generation of designs.
Bill earned his Master’s of Architecture degree from Kent State University, where his passion for design first took root. His time teaching at the University of Pittsburgh and Chatham University further honed his perspective, shaping his approach to architecture and design. Now, at Margittai, he brings this unique blend of academic insight and real-world experience to every project.
Outside of work, Bill enjoys spending quality time with his family, traveling abroad and building play structures for his kids.
“From a young age, I was drawn to creating—whether it was sketching, building forts and treehouses, or tinkering with everyday objects to invent something new. That innate curiosity and love for design naturally led me to architecture; it’s the only path that ever truly made sense to me.”
Email: bill@margittai.com
Rescued from Humane Animal Rescue by the Margittai Family, Jadie serves as the official greeter and squirrel watcher at Margittai Architects. She appreciates the design of the office as it allows her to run from the front to the back of the building with her canine buddies, visit her co-workers to beg for treats, take naps under their desks and demand belly rubs. She also is very experienced at reminding her owner, Peter Margittai, to leave at the end of the day, by nudging him at his work desk until he looks at his watch and realizes that he is late to go home for dinner with his family.
“Woof.” (interpretation: “Squirrel?”)