10 Top-Rated Architecture Firms in Boston 2026

Boston has long been one of the most influential architecture cities in the United States, shaped by its strong academic ecosystem, historic neighborhoods, and continuous urban development. The city is home to globally respected universities, research institutions, and cultural centers, which consistently drive demand for thoughtful, future-oriented architectural design.

Architecture firms in Boston are recognized not only for design excellence, but also for their ability to balance historic preservation with modern construction needs. Top firms stand out through strong project portfolios, sustainability leadership, industry awards, and experience across commercial, residential, institutional, and urban-scale developments.

This article highlights the top architecture firms in Boston, showcasing their design expertise, project specialisations, and contributions to the city’s commercial, residential, and urban architectural development.

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Top Architecture Firms in Boston

This section introduces the leading architecture firms in Boston based on design excellence, industry reputation, sustainability focus, and diversity of completed projects.

Boston continues to stand out for its creative and purposeful architecture. Here is a list of the top ten architecture firms making an impact across the city. Known for blending modern ideas with timeless design, these firms are shaping spaces that inspire.

1. BUTZ + KLUG Architecture

Specialization: Residential, Institutional 

Best Projects: Mandarin Oriental, School of the MFA, Allston Skirt Gallery

This Boston-based studio is known for its meticulous attention to detail and commitment to creating compelling spaces. Their work often involves residential renovations and new constructions that blend contemporary aesthetics with traditional elements. As one of the notable residential architecture firms in Boston, they have been recognized for their excellence in design. ​

2. LDa Architecture & Interiors

Specialization: Commercial, Cultural, Residential, Institutional 

Best Projects: Saint Bonaventure Parish New Church Campus - Plymouth, Episcopal Divinity School Deanery Updates - Cambridge,  Downtown Crossing Storefront - Boston 

LDa Architecture & Interiors offers a comprehensive range of design services, including residential, interior, and commercial projects. Their approach emphasizes a balance between traditional New England architecture and contemporary living needs. As a prominent name among landscape architecture firms, they are known for their thoughtful and sustainable design solutions. ​

3. Cannon Design

Specialization: Commercial, Educational, Healthcare, Urban Design, Hospitality, Institutional

Best Projects: Museum of Tolerance, University of Oregon - Hayward Field, California Institute of Technology - Tensick Sustainability Center 

It is a multidisciplinary firm that integrates architecture, engineering, and design to create innovative solutions. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in their Living-Centered Design approach, aiming to improve life for people and the planet. Recognized among sustainable architecture firms, they have been acknowledged for their efforts in creating a more sustainable and equitable future. ​

Also Read: Top 10 Architecture Firms in Massachusetts

Woburn Public Library, project by CBT Architects

4. CBT Architects

Specialization: Commercial, Residential, Institutional, Hospitality, Cultural, Urban Design, Recreational

Best Projects: University of Massachusetts Amherst - Newman Center, 585 Kendall, Woburn Public Library

CBT Architects is a Boston-based firm specializing in architecture, interior design, and urban planning. Their projects range from urban district master planning to large-scale mixed-use developments. As one of the leading commercial architecture firms, they are known for their innovative and client-focused design solutions. ​

5. Dimella Shaffer Architects

Specialization: Institutional, Residential

Best Projects: Miller and Houston Halls, Lasell Village, Delaney at the Vale

Based in Boston, DiMella Shaffer is a privately owned firm offering architectural planning and design services across various sectors, including academic, residential, and workplace projects. Their approach emphasizes collaboration and timeless design, aiming to create spaces that positively influence their environment and the people who experience them.

 

6. Elkus – Manfredi Architects

Specialization: Academic, Corporate, Institutional, Public, Civic

Best Projects: Pier 4 Office Building, New Balance Headquarters, 200 Amsterdam

Elkus Manfredi Architects is a full-service design firm providing architecture, master planning, urban design, interior architecture, and workplace consulting. Their portfolio includes highly acclaimed and award-winning projects across the country. As a prominent name among architectural firms in Boston, they are known for their comprehensive and innovative design solutions. ​

Also Read: 10 Award-Winning Architecture Thesis Projects From Around The World

7. Bargmann Hendrie + Archetype, Inc.

Specialization: Historic Preservation, Residential, Commercial, Institutional, Cultural, Community Centers, Hospitality, Healthcare

Best Projects: Newton Center for Active Living, Herring Cove Bathhouse, Integrational Community Center

Bargmann Hendrie + Archetype, Inc. (BH+A) is a Boston-based firm specializing in various sectors, including recreation centers, workplaces, and housing. In 2026, BH+A was ranked #8 among the top architecture firms in Boston by the Boston Real Estate Times, based on square footage designed in Massachusetts. ​

New Terminal One at JFK International Airport

8. Catalano Architects

Specialization: Residential

Best Projects: Quarry Point, Nonquitt, Monomoy

Catalano Architects focuses on designing homes that are both functional and enduring, aiming to create spaces that suit their inhabitants' lifestyles. Their commitment to honoring the integrity of structures and seamlessly integrating them with their surroundings has earned them recognition as one of the popular architecture firms in Boston. ​

9. Embarc Studio

Specialization: Residential, Commercial

Best Projects: Sowra Power Station, Ferncroft Country Club, 17 Bradston

Embarc Studio, founded by Dartagnan Brown, is a Boston-based firm with experience in residential design, including loft conversions and new construction developments. Their work spans high-end private residences, retail, and restaurant design, positioning them as one of the leading architecture firms in the region. ​

10.Gensler

Specialization: Residential, Commercial, Institutional, Hospitality, Planning, Healthcare, Cultural, Community

Best Projects: Shanghai Tower, New Terminal One at JFK International Airport, Willis Tower

Gensler stands as a global leader in architecture, design, and planning, with 57 offices across the Americas, Europe, Asia, Australia, and the Middle East. In 2026, Building Design+Construction ranked Gensler as the #1 top architecture firm in the U.S. The firm's commitment to human-centered design is evident in projects. 

Also Read: 8 Most Popular Building Information Modelling Software to Master

Why is Novatr the Best Choice to Find the Best Architecture Firm Jobs?

This section highlights how Novatr supports architecture professionals through skill development, BIM training, and career alignment with leading architecture firms.

For architects looking to break into the most competitive spaces, Novatr offers a practical roadmap to success. With a future-forward approach to learning, Novatr equips you with the skills that top American architecture firms actively seek today. 

Their BIM Professional Course is crafted with real industry expectations in mind, combining advanced software training, global mentorship, and real-world projects that sharpen your problem-solving abilities.

  • Get hands-on experience with 10+ essential BIM tools and understand their real-world applications and workflows.

  • Attend 60+ live sessions delivered by 200+ experienced professionals actively working in the industry.

  • Receive one-on-one mentorship from leading experts, including detailed and personalized feedback to help you grow.

  • Access expert career support to improve your resume, portfolio, and LinkedIn profile for maximum impact.

  • Earn dual certification from Autodesk and Novatr to enhance your professional credentials.

  • Deepen your understanding with real-world case studies that reinforce key concepts and skills.

  • Work on capstone projects aligned with ISO 19650 standards to showcase your practical expertise.

  • Get placement support to help you secure roles at top architecture firms in the United States.

With Novatr, you are not just learning, you are preparing to lead! 

Why Boston Is a Hub for Architecture and Design

This section explores why Boston attracts leading architecture firms, driven by academic influence, innovation culture, historic preservation needs, and consistent urban development demand.

Boston has developed into a major architecture hub due to its strong mix of education, innovation, and urban demand.

Key factors driving this growth include:

  • World-renowned universities that influence research-led design thinking

  • A strong focus on adaptive reuse and historic preservation

  • Ongoing commercial, residential, and institutional development

  • Growing emphasis on sustainability and urban resilience

  • A steady presence of global and regional architecture firms

Together, these factors create a competitive environment where architecture firms are challenged to deliver thoughtful, high-quality design that responds to both historic context and future city needs.

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Conclusion 

Exploring Boston architecture firms offers valuable insight into a city where innovation and design are constantly evolving. These firms continue to shape Boston’s urban identity while creating exciting spaces to live, work, and connect. If you are aiming to work with the top architecture firms in Boston, gaining the right skills is crucial.

The BIM Professional Course for Architects by Novatr helps architects with real-world, future-ready expertise that firms actively seek. It is an investment that opens doors to better roles and creative freedom.

Visit Novatr’s Resource Page to stay updated on industry trends and career tools that matter most to aspiring professionals.

FAQs

1. How much do architecture firms in Boston typically charge?

Architecture firm fees in Boston vary based on project scale, complexity, and services offered. Firms may charge percentage-based fees, fixed project rates, or hourly costs, with pricing influenced by experience, reputation, and the level of design and coordination required.

2. How are architecture firms ranked in Boston?

Architecture firms in Boston are commonly ranked using criteria such as design quality, completed project portfolio, industry awards, sustainability credentials, client reputation, and involvement in significant commercial, residential, or institutional developments across the city and surrounding regions.

3. Which Boston architecture firms specialise in sustainable design?

Several Boston architecture firms specialise in sustainable design by focusing on energy efficiency, material responsibility, adaptive reuse, and environmental performance. These firms often integrate sustainability standards into institutional, commercial, and residential projects across urban and mixed-use developments.

4. Do Boston architecture firms handle residential and commercial projects?

Yes, most Boston architecture firms work across both residential and commercial sectors. Their portfolios often include private residences, mixed-use developments, offices, academic buildings, healthcare facilities, and urban planning projects tailored to diverse client requirements.

5. How do I choose the right architecture firm in Boston?

Choosing the right architecture firm in Boston involves reviewing project experience, design approach, sustainability focus, budget alignment, and communication style. Matching the firm’s expertise with your project scale and goals helps ensure effective collaboration and successful outcomes.

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