Scéal is the Irish word for story. 



By listening carefully to the past and future stories of our clients, we offer thoughtful architectural solutions centered on personal, environmental, and cultural context.

What does an Architect do? 


Just drawings of buildings or something more?

First, we listen.



Architects offer a variety of expertise at different stages of a project. In the early stages, we can offer help in assessing your design needs, understanding the feasibility of your project, and introducing you to the complex processes of building permitting and construction.  

We navigate.






As your project progresses, you can think of your Architect like a ship’s navigator plotting a course. We guide our clients through the complex terrain of design possibilities, spot opportunities and pitfalls, and strive to keep your design vision in sight.  

We conduct.




Both large and small projects often require many different professionals - engineers, expeditors, contractors, etc. Scéal knows which professionals you will need for your unique project and will be the single point of contact between this cast of characters.

Think of us as the conductor of an orchestra who keeps the whole team working harmoniously and ensuring that everyone is reading from the correct sheet music. You can sit back and enjoy the music knowing that your project is in capable hands.

Curious to know more?

Let’s chat


Who is Scéal?



Scéal Architecture PLLC is an Architecture and Design firm based in New York City.  

We have a particular passion and expertise for restoration and adaptive re-use of historic buildings. Our services encompass Architectural design, interior design, project management, and sustainable design consulting.


Sorcha Murphy AIA CPHD

Sorcha Murphy is the founder of Scéal, a licensed Architect in New York and a Certified Passive House Designer. Originally from Ireland, Sorcha has over a decade of experience of architect-ing in NYC. Sorcha has a wealth of experience in leading projects of a wide variety of scales, budgets, and typologies, but approaches every new project with the same level of curiosity and dedication.


What do clients say?


"I could not imagine having done this renovation with anyone else. She is literally the reason I love my home, and am now happy and calm after a very stressful day at the office...I want to thank her every day.”

"The level of her commitment to our project was unwavering and Ms. Murphy's attention to detail allowed our apartment to exceed our highest expectations."

“Sorcha has been a godsend for this project, which is very fast-track and demanding... I consider myself extremely lucky to have her on board and commanding such a pivotal role.”


Ready to share your story?


We would love to hear from you.

email: sorcha@scealarchitecture.com




WORK