2026 Ones to Watch - Industry Leaders: Raymond Givargis, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, H2M architects + engineers

“Raymond Givargis is a licensed architect with 30-plus years of experience in the design and development of complex private sector projects. Trusted to lead in a competitive market, he has built a strong design‑driven culture rooted in mentorship, collaboration, and accountability, helping expand H2M’s presence in NYC while strengthening relationships across the real estate and design communities.” 

What advice would you share with emerging professionals striving to become future leaders in commercial real estate?

Leadership is about solving problems, so it is important to create a supportive environment where people feel comfortable bringing them to you. Don’t cut corners by making things look right — actually make them right. Put in the work, take responsibility, and build trust through your actions. That is how real leadership and respect are earned. Running into challenges just means you are taking calculated risks, exploring opportunities, and doing meaningful work.

What daily habit or routine helps you stay focused or motivated as a leader?

I make sure to prioritize sleep, physical fitness, and spending time with my family. 

What recent accomplishment or initiative are you most proud of, and what impact did it have on your firm, clients, or community?

I take great pride in my successful efforts to strengthen H2M’s connection to New York City’s professional community. I focus on building long-term professional relationships, not only with our current and potential clients, but with contractors, showroom owners, and vendors as well. This people-first emphasis has reinforced H2M’s culture of engagement and mentorship, elevated the quality of our project work, and opened the door to bold new projects and exciting opportunities to collaborate with the City’s many outstanding professional.