If you know the name of the architect or firm, check in CLIO, Columbia University Libraries online catalog and the Avery Index to Architectural Periodicals under the name. Try biographical dictionaries for further leads. Information about an architect's career and projects can also be found in obituaries found in digitized historical newspapers, like ProQuest historical newspapers.
Francis, Dennis Steadman. Architects in Practice in New York City, 1840-1900. New York: The Committee, 1979.
Avery Reference AA735 N4 F844
Ward, James. Architects in Practice, New York City, 1900-1940. Union, N.J.: J & D Associates, 1989.
Avery Reference AA735 N4 W21
Simply a list of every architect active in New York City with their addresses and office numbers. Ward's volume includes the firm's official landmarks in New York, when known.
Withey, Henry F. Biographical Dictionary of American Architects (Deceased). Detroit, MI: Omnigraphics, 1994.
Avery Reference AA736 W7711
For architects active between 1740 and 1952.
If the architect or firm is not known, look up the building in the AIA Guide to New York City.
Avery Reference AA735 N4 Am35114
Digital copy