STEVEN J. KONIUK, PE, RA
Founder | President | Principal
KONSTRUCT
Steven is a highly accomplished dual-licensed engineer and architect, an exceptional combination that sets him apart in the built environment. With a deep passion for real estate development, he founded KONSTRUCT in 2020 to seamlessly integrate architecture, engineering, and pre-development services. Steven’s broad expertise spans all phases of development, from acquisitions and financial modeling to capital syndication and navigating zoning codes and tax abatements. This unique skill set enables him to deliver comprehensive, strategic solutions that drive successful outcomes for residential and commercial projects.
As both the architect and engineer of record for multifamily developments across the NY/NJ/PA tri-state area, Steven is known for managing complex projects from inception to completion. He has single-handedly designed and engineered full scope architectural and engineering systems for a wide range of asset classes demonstrating his ability to oversee all aspects of a project and ensure its success.
Steven’s career is marked by significant contributions to both public and private sector projects. Before founding KONSTRUCT, he played a key roll in Bala Consulting Engineers’ expansions into NYC, managing high-value, multidisciplinary projects. Notable achievements include upgrading pharmaceutical distribution centers to be tornado-resistant and leading the design and engineering of large-scale, complex structures, including over 200,000 SF of curtain wall systems for high-rise buildings.
Beyond his technical expertise, Steven is a visionary leader with a strategic focus on business growth. He actively acquires businesses to broaden KONSTRUCT’s capabilities, positioning the firm for continued success. Through strategic acquisitions, partnerships, and expanding service divisions, Steven is committed to delivering innovative, integrated solutions across diverse market sectors, cementing KONSTRUCT’s reputation as an industry leader.
STEVEN S. COHEN, AIA, PP
SCA Founder | Principal
STEVEN S. COHEN, ARCHITECT, PC
Mr. Cohen brings over 40 years of experience in professional planning and architecture, with a distinguished career spanning multi-unit residential housing, commercial developments, and specialized facilities for older adults. His extensive portfolio includes more than 15,000 housing units—ranging from market-rate and subsidized to high-rise and low-rise structures—as well as hotels, office buildings, recreational facilities, and nursing homes. His project responsibilities have encompassed all aspects of design and administration, from planning and schematic design to project management and coordination of architectural, engineering, and construction services.
A recognized leader in modular housing and innovative building systems, Mr. Cohen was part of a team awarded a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) grant in 1969 to develop a building system that ultimately produced over 30,000 units worldwide. His expertise in modular construction includes precast concrete, light-gauge metal framing, and wood frame systems, delivered complete from factories and set in place on-site. Additionally, Mr. Cohen has designed specialized facilities for older adults, including senior centers, adult day care facilities, and housing for individuals with physical disabilities, developmental challenges, and brain injuries.
Mr. Cohen’s work extends internationally, with successful projects in the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Germany, Austria, Mexico, Israel, and Iran. In the early 1970s and late 1980s, he led joint venture developments between U.S. and foreign companies, enhancing his global expertise. Beyond his professional practice, he has actively participated in industry organizations such as the American Institute of Architects (AIA), the American Association of Homes for the Aging, and The American Gerontological Society. He has served on the AIA Housing Committee and is the current Chairman of the Princeton Borough Zoning Board of Appeals. With extensive experience in civil and site planning for residential and commercial properties, Mr. Cohen remains committed to delivering cost-effective, high-quality design solutions worldwide.
nicholas nassiff, pp, aicp, mpa
Director of Planning & Pre-Development
KONSTRUCT
Nicholas is a seasoned real estate development and construction professional with extensive experience in planning, project management, and sustainable infrastructure. He has founded and exited multiple companies across development, construction, and planning services. His expertise spans land use, entitlements, financial modeling, syndication, and complex project structuring. Nicholas has advised local, regional and national multi-family builders and developers as well as institutional equity groups, private equity groups and community development organizations, playing key roles in high-profile projects.
As a former senior advisor to Greener by Design, he led energy, environmental, and resiliency initiatives, including developing microgrid systems, implementing sustainable infrastructure, and securing funding for urban planning projects. Prior to his advisory career, Nicholas was part of the NJDCA, overseeing the HUD CDBG-DR-funded Post-Sandy Planning Assistance Grant Program, directing federal funds for green infrastructure improvements in 50 municipalities. He has negotiated and collaborated with state agencies, municipalities, and private developers to implement sustainability solutions, ensuring projects met regulatory and financial objectives.
At KONSTRUCT, Nicholas helps clients navigate complex development challenges, collaborating with developers, municipalities, and financial stakeholders to optimize outcomes. His strategic approach integrates planning, financing, and construction expertise to drive successful projects from concept to completion. Beyond his work, he advocates for resilient, high-performance urban development.
BOB RIORDAN, PE
Director of MEP Engineering
KONSTRUCT
Bob is a forward-thinking mechanical engineer with extensive experience in building construction operations, specializing in mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems. As the Director of Engineering at KONSTRUCT and a licensed Professional Engineer, he leads complex projects from initial concept through occupancy and ongoing operations. Bob’s approach emphasizes quality control, energy efficiency, and long-term system reliability, ensuring that every project meets rigorous performance standards while exceeding client expectations. His technical expertise, combined with a strategic mindset, allows him to seamlessly integrate MEP systems into diverse building designs, optimizing both functionality and sustainability.
Throughout his career, Bob has held key leadership roles at top engineering firms, including P&A Consulting Engineers, Smith Engineering, Bala Consulting Engineers, and Loring Consulting Engineers. His portfolio features high-profile projects across residential, commercial, and institutional sectors, such as the Edge on Hudson Residential Complex, LeFrak Residential Tower, and multiple developments for the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. Known for his ability to manage multidisciplinary teams, Bob excels at coordinating all phases of design and construction, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standards. His critical thinking skills, proactive problem-solving approach, and commitment to client satisfaction have earned him a strong reputation in the industry.
Bob holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Villanova University and is a member of ASHRAE's NY Chapter. His professional licensure and dedication to ongoing industry engagement reflect his commitment to advancing engineering best practices. With a career spanning self-employment and senior leadership positions, Bob brings a unique combination of technical aptitude, project management expertise, and collaborative leadership to every project he undertakes. His ability to balance the technical complexities of MEP systems with broader project goals makes him a trusted advisor and leader in the field of building construction engineering
josephine scarpulla
Director of Finance
KONSTRUCT
Josephine is the Director of Finance at KONSTRUCT, where she oversees all aspects of financial strategy, accounting, and operational management in the parent company as well as subsidiaries. With more than 30 years of experience in the financial sector, she plays a pivotal role in supporting KONSTRUCT’s integrated approach to architecture, engineering, planning, and real estate pre-development consulting services. Josephine’s leadership ensures that KONSTRUCT remains a highly capable organization, leveraging sound financial practices to drive growth, optimize operations, and deliver exceptional value to clients and stakeholders.
Prior to joining KONSTRUCT, Josephine was the Chief Financial Officer at Joele Frank, Wilkinson Brimmer Katcher, a leading strategic communications firm. During her tenure, she spearheaded the firm’s financial and operational expansion, implementing critical system upgrades, streamlining processes, and consistently reporting profitability growth. Her career also includes key roles as Controller at prominent law firms, where she led financial restructurings, administered partnership accounting, managed payroll and pension plans, and directed ERP system integrations. Her proven track record of enhancing business efficiency and profitability makes her a trusted leader in the financial sector.
Josephine holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Pace University. Her proficiency extends to a wide range of financial systems and reporting applications, including Aderant CMS, Juris, Elite, NetSuite, and MS SQL Servers. Known for her analytical mindset and results-driven approach, Josephine is passionate about delivering value through strategic financial leadership and operational excellence.
pETER vAN DEN KOOY, PP
Strategic Partner | Planning & Housing Administration
ACUITY CONSULTING SERVICES, LLC
Peter is a seasoned professional planner and expert in housing administration and programming. As an owner and principal at Acuity Consulting Services, he has over 20 years of experience providing planning, environmental permitting, and program administration services to public and private sector clients across New Jersey, New York, and other locations throughout the United States. Peter specializes in affordable and workforce housing planning, offering technical expertise in housing program implementation, master planning, redevelopment studies, and sustainability initiatives. His comprehensive understanding of municipal planning processes and regulatory frameworks allows him to navigate complex development challenges effectively.
As a strategic partner of KONSTRUCT, Peter and his team brings deep expertise in affordable housing administration and program management to support projects that require intricate planning and compliance solutions. He has led the administration of over 1,000 affordable housing units and has worked with more than 50 public and private sector clients to develop and implement housing programs that align with local and regional planning goals. His proficiency in preparing Housing Plan Elements, Fair Share Plans, feasibility studies, and implementing ordinances ensures that projects meet regulatory requirements while fostering sustainable community growth.
Peter is a certified Administrative Agent, having completed all Council on Affordable Housing (COAH) Certification Modules and earning an Affordable Housing Professional Certification from Rutgers University Center for Government Services. His extensive background in housing policy, program administration, and community development makes him a valuable asset in shaping equitable and resilient housing solutions.