Top 10 Architecture Firms in Washington
1. Shalom Baranes Associates
Shalom Baranes Associates is renowned for its transformative urban projects and is one of America’s top architecture firms. Established in 1981 by Shalom Baranes, the firm has greatly influenced the city's architectural landscape through its residential, commercial, institutional, and governmental design expertise.
Specialisations: Urban design, mixed-use developments, historic preservation, sustainable architecture
Notable Work: CityCenterDC, Burnham Place
Contribution: Redefining Washington's urban landscape through innovative, large-scale developments that blend modern design with historical context
2. Hickok Cole Architects
Hickok Cole is an architecture and interior design firm renowned for its innovative approach to sustainable and adaptive reuse projects. Founded in 1988, the firm has been at the forefront of integrating mass timber construction and achieving net-zero energy renovations, notably with the American Geophysical Union headquarters.
Specialisations: Sustainable architecture, adaptive reuse, mass timber construction, mixed-use developments
Notable Work: American Geophysical Union headquarters, National Geographic Museum of Exploration
Contribution: Pioneering sustainable design and adaptive reuse in Washington, setting new standards for environmentally conscious architecture
3. OTJ Architects
OTJ Architects is renowned for its human-centric, sustainable, and adaptive reuse projects across the United States. Known to be a sustainable architecture firm, it was founded in 1990. The firm specialises in workplace design, cultural institutions, and mixed-use developments, strongly emphasising wellness, equity, and innovation.
Specialisations: Workplace strategy, adaptive reuse, sustainable architecture, cultural and nonprofit spaces
Notable Work: Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, Knight Foundation HQ
Contribution: Redefined modern workplace and cultural design in Washington, through innovative, sustainable, and people-focused architecture
4. BBGM
BBGM is an internationally renowned architecture and interior design firm based in Washington. Established in 1987, BBGM specialises in designing high-end hotels, resorts, mixed-use developments, and large-scale residential projects.
Specialisations: Hospitality design, mixed-use developments, high-rise residential, adaptive reuse
Notable Work: InterContinental DC Wharf, Watergate Hotel
Contribution: Shaped Washington's luxury hospitality and residential architecture with iconic, globally recognised designs
5. Bonstra | Haresign Architects
Bonstra | Haresign Architects is an architectural design studio renowned for its transformative urban projects. Founded in 2000, the firm specialises in mixed-use, multi-family residential, and adaptive reuse developments that enhance community engagement and urban revitalisation. It is a leading residential architecture firm.
Specialisations: Mixed-use developments, multi-family residential, adaptive reuse, historic preservation
Notable Work: SoLo Piazza, Ten at Clarendon
Contribution: Revitalising Washington's urban fabric with sustainable, community-oriented architectural solutions
6. Robert M. Gurney, FAIA, Architect
Robert M. Gurney Architect is a firm renowned for its modernist residential designs that emphasise clean lines, natural light, and a strong connection to the surrounding environment. The firm has transformed various types of residences, from urban row houses to suburban homes, into contemporary living spaces. Gurney's work is characterised by meticulous attention to detail and a harmonious blend of modern aesthetics with functional living.
Specialisations: Modern residential architecture, adaptive reuse, urban infill projects
Notable Work: Harkavy Residence, Lorber Tarler Residence, Metropole 708 Penthouse
Contribution: Redefined modern living in D.C. through innovative designs that integrate seamlessly with their environments
7. Kube Architecture
KUBE Architecture is a firm recognised for its bold, modern residential designs that emphasise spatial innovation and material expression. The firm's work often features geometric forms, open floor plans, and a strong connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Specialisations: Modern residential design, spatial innovation, indoor-outdoor integration
Notable Work: Chesapeake House, Casa Abierta
Contribution: Pushing the boundaries of residential architecture in D.C. through innovative designs that prioritise openness and connectivity
8. FORMA Design Inc
FORMA Design Inc. is an award-winning architecture and interior design firm based in Washington, known for its modern, minimalist residential work. Founded by Andreas Charalambous in 1994, the firm creates sleek, functional spaces with a European design sensibility. FORMA is celebrated for transforming urban homes through clean lines, open layouts, and thoughtful spatial planning.
Specialisations: Modern residential design, interior architecture, sustainable design
Notable Work: Flat at 3303 Water Street, Penthouse at the Metropole
Contribution: Advanced D.C.’s residential design with refined, modernist architecture rooted in functionality and clarity
9. Maurice Walters Architect
Maurice Walters Architect firm specialises in urban design, multifamily residential, and mixed-use projects. Founded in 2007 by Maurice Walters, AIA, LEED AP, the firm focuses on thoughtful redevelopment of urban environments, aiming for timeless designs that address each site's unique characteristics and client needs.
Specialisations: Urban design, multifamily residential, mixed-use developments, adaptive reuse
Notable Work: Longfellow Building conversion in Dupont Circle
Contribution: Revitalising Washington, D.C.'s urban landscape through sustainable and context-sensitive architectural solutions
10. Lawlor Architects
Lawlor Architects is known for its unique residential architecture. Established in 2003 and located in Capitol Hill's historic district, the firm is reorganised for its thoughtful, clean-lined designs that blend modern and classic elements. Lawlor Architects offers comprehensive services, guiding clients from initial design concepts through construction completion, with a focus on collaboration and attention to detail.
Specialisations: Single-family residential design, historic preservation, sustainable architecture
Notable Work: Capitol Hill rowhouse renovations, Light House project
Contribution: Enhancing Washington, D.C.'s residential landscape through innovative and context-sensitive designs
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