Best Architecture Firms in California

Ergo Architecture specializes in thoughtful design and permitting for developers, restaurateurs, housing providers, and creatives. Their team offers thorough design options and expert guidance through complex permitting processes, often praised for responsiveness and clear communication. Some projects may take time due to permitting challenges, but clients appreciate their steady support.

Gensler focuses on architecture, planning, and design that shape urban living and create more equitable, resilient cities. Their team works on large-scale projects that consider how people experience and move through spaces. Clients appreciate the comfortable work environment and impressive downtown buildings, though some note employee perks could improve.

Larson Shores Architects specializes in multi-disciplinary design, blending architecture and interiors with a modernist vision that connects buildings thoughtfully to their surroundings. Their services include residential and commercial projects, renovations, and interior design, with clients appreciating their creativity, attentive listening, and collaborative approach throughout the process.

Synthesis Design + Architecture specializes in innovative, technology-driven architectural and design projects that challenge conventional forms. Their work spans interiors, public art, furniture, and installations, often blending creativity with practical needs. Clients appreciate the team’s professionalism and fresh approach, though their process can be intensive given the complexity of their… more...

Synthesis Design + Architecture specializes in innovative, technology-driven architectural and design projects that challenge conventional forms. Their work spans interiors, public art, furniture, and installations, often blending creativity with practical needs. Clients appreciate the team’s professionalism and fresh approach, though their process can be intensive given the complexity of their designs.

Gensler, a worldwide architecture, planning, and design firm, has 53 offices and over 7,000 employees across Asia Pacific, Europe, Greater China and Asia Pacific. Gensler was founded in 1965 and has more than 4000 clients worldwide. It operates across 29 areas of practice that cover the lifestyle, community, health, work, and healthcare sectors. Our mission is to make the world better through… more...

Gensler, a worldwide architecture, planning, and design firm, has 53 offices and over 7,000 employees across Asia Pacific, Europe, Greater China and Asia Pacific. Gensler was founded in 1965 and has more than 4000 clients worldwide. It operates across 29 areas of practice that cover the lifestyle, community, health, work, and healthcare sectors. Our mission is to make the world better through design. We believe that our greatest strength comes from our employees. We are moving together to a new age of design by leveraging our diverse ideas, research and innovation, shared values and One-Firm firm culture. As we tackle global challenges, our ability to empower our employees and work seamlessly together as an interconnected company allows us to have the most impact on our communities.

Kelly Architects specializes in interior architecture for bars, restaurants, and nightclubs, offering full-service design from concept to completion. Their team handles everything from creative layouts to permit procurement, often praised for responsiveness and meeting deadlines. Some clients note the fast-paced projects can be demanding but appreciate the consistent professionalism.

SK7 ARCHITECTURE focuses on creating elegant, timeless residential designs that reflect each client’s vision. The team offers custom home redesigns, additions, and outdoor structures, with detailed plans praised by contractors for their clarity. Clients appreciate their clear communication and flexibility, though some projects may require budget adjustments during the process.

Licensed in BIM and California Building Code, MzzK Architects specializes in architectural design and permit services for commercial, industrial, and residential projects across the Bay Area and beyond. Clients appreciate the team’s clear communication and steady guidance through permitting and construction, even when unexpected challenges arise.

Carrier Johnson + CULTURE specializes in architecture and interior design that thoughtfully integrates local culture and the environment. Their services cover everything from commercial architecture to construction administration, using both traditional drafting and advanced 3D technology. Clients appreciate the team’s friendly approach and collaborative work environment.

ALTUS Draft & Design specializes in residential and commercial architectural drafting and design, with recent projects focused on ADUs, remodels, and tenant improvements. Their services include construction documents, permit sets, and Title 24 analysis, along with help navigating local planning departments. While some clients note delays and revisions, many appreciate the team’s responsiveness… more...

ALTUS Draft & Design specializes in residential and commercial architectural drafting and design, with recent projects focused on ADUs, remodels, and tenant improvements. Their services include construction documents, permit sets, and Title 24 analysis, along with help navigating local planning departments. While some clients note delays and revisions, many appreciate the team’s responsiveness and ability to manage complex permitting processes.

WRNS Studio focuses on sustainable, human-scale modernist design that balances beauty with usability. They work on commercial, educational, and cultural projects, helping clients align design with their core values without driving up costs. The team is known for thoughtful, responsible service and a collaborative office environment.

Known for combining innovative design with skilled craftsmanship, Marmol Radziner offers a full range of services from architecture and interior design to furniture manufacturing. Their in-house team includes architects, designers, and master craftsmen who work together to create tailored environments. Customers appreciate the variety of styles and the collaborative approach.

DRAMS Architects specializes in using advanced 3D scanning and BIM modeling to manage residential and commercial projects across the San Francisco Bay Area. Their team handles everything from detailed design plans to permit approvals, with clients appreciating their responsiveness and the precision that helps reduce costly rework. Some find the high-tech approach different at first but ultimately… more...

DRAMS Architects specializes in using advanced 3D scanning and BIM modeling to manage residential and commercial projects across the San Francisco Bay Area. Their team handles everything from detailed design plans to permit approvals, with clients appreciating their responsiveness and the precision that helps reduce costly rework. Some find the high-tech approach different at first but ultimately effective.

Focusing on human-centered design, this global firm shapes urban spaces to improve daily life and future mobility. Their services include architecture, planning, and design across diverse environments. Clients note the quality of their work, though detailed feedback on project timelines or communication is limited.

AT6 Architecture + Design Build offers a combined design and construction approach that helps projects flow smoothly from concept to completion. Their team handles everything from architectural plans to building, focusing on personalized, thoughtful spaces that align with clients’ needs and budgets. Customers appreciate their clear communication and quality results, though some projects have… more...

AT6 Architecture + Design Build offers a combined design and construction approach that helps projects flow smoothly from concept to completion. Their team handles everything from architectural plans to building, focusing on personalized, thoughtful spaces that align with clients’ needs and budgets. Customers appreciate their clear communication and quality results, though some projects have faced supply-related delays.

With roots dating back to California’s first state architect in 1909, Lionakis focuses on creating environments that support learning, healing, and creativity. The firm offers architecture, structural engineering, planning, and sustainability services, with clients appreciating their design quality despite occasional communication delays.

With over 170 years of experience, SmithGroup focuses on innovative architectural design that supports healing, research, and learning environments. Their team blends creativity and technical skill to tackle complex projects, and clients appreciate the firm’s collaborative approach and mission-driven staff. Some find the firm’s size can make communication a bit complex.

Applied Architecture Inc specializes in creating unique, practical spaces that enrich daily living while respecting neighborhood character. The team offers home remodeling, new construction, and mixed-use urban infill designs, guiding clients clearly through permitting and design details. Customers appreciate their thorough communication and realistic advice throughout each project.

Buttrick Projects Architecture+Design specializes in thoughtful residential renovations that blend modern functionality with historic charm. Their work often includes careful updates to classic Bay Area homes, adding light-filled spaces and seamless indoor-outdoor flow. Clients appreciate the team’s attention to detail and collaborative approach, though they focus exclusively on residential… more...

Buttrick Projects Architecture+Design specializes in thoughtful residential renovations that blend modern functionality with historic charm. Their work often includes careful updates to classic Bay Area homes, adding light-filled spaces and seamless indoor-outdoor flow. Clients appreciate the team’s attention to detail and collaborative approach, though they focus exclusively on residential projects.

Specializing in commercial and healthcare renovations with a focus on ADA compliance, Hilliard Architects offers services like feasibility studies, construction documents, and building inspections that many others avoid. Clients appreciate their knowledgeable, responsive team and clear guidance on code requirements, though some projects may require detailed coordination.

HB+A Architects specializes in sustainable, hands-on design with deep experience navigating complex permitting and construction processes across Northern California. Their services span multifamily housing, commercial spaces, and environmental design, with clients appreciating the team’s clear communication and thorough guidance—though projects can involve detailed regulatory steps.

Focused on designing innovative science and technology environments, Perkins&Will blends sustainability with community-driven spaces. Their team offers architectural services that foster interaction and creativity in research settings. Some clients note occasional challenges with meeting deadlines, but the firm’s commitment to thoughtful design stands out.

Arch Studio, Inc. specializes in custom residential and small to mid-sized commercial architecture, with a strong focus on both new construction and renovations. The team also offers interior design and material selection services, often praised for their attention to detail and thoughtful incorporation of clients’ needs. Some clients have noted occasional communication challenges during… more...

Arch Studio, Inc. specializes in custom residential and small to mid-sized commercial architecture, with a strong focus on both new construction and renovations. The team also offers interior design and material selection services, often praised for their attention to detail and thoughtful incorporation of clients’ needs. Some clients have noted occasional communication challenges during construction phases.

Mogavero Architects focuses on transit-oriented community developments that support neighborhood growth and sustainability. Their services include designing residential and mixed-use projects near public transit, with attention to landscaping and infrastructure improvements. Some clients note the firm prefers larger-scale projects, which may affect responsiveness to smaller jobs.

Ferguson Pape Baldwin Architects specializes in creating thoughtful, client-centered designs that range from zero-energy buildings to complex projects like San Diego’s world-famous zoo. Their team focuses on crafting spaces that reflect clients’ cultures and encourage engagement, with a collaborative approach praised for both talent and positive interactions.

Ten Seventy Architecture specializes in modern, creative design with an integrated approach to design and permitting that helps clients navigate San Diego’s building codes. The team works on custom homes and Accessory Dwelling Units, consistently delivering functional layouts and clear communication, though some projects may require patience due to the detailed process.

Gensler, a worldwide architecture, planning, and design firm, has 53 offices and over 7,000 employees across Asia Pacific, Europe, Greater China and Asia Pacific. Gensler was founded in 1965 and has more than 4000 clients worldwide. Its 29 practice areas include work, life, community, health, and lifestyle. Our mission is to make the world better through design. We believe that our greatest… more...

Gensler, a worldwide architecture, planning, and design firm, has 53 offices and over 7,000 employees across Asia Pacific, Europe, Greater China and Asia Pacific. Gensler was founded in 1965 and has more than 4000 clients worldwide. Its 29 practice areas include work, life, community, health, and lifestyle. Our mission is to make the world better through design. We believe that our greatest strength comes from our employees. We are moving together to a new age of design by leveraging our diverse ideas, research and innovation, shared values and One-Firm firm culture. As we tackle global challenges, our ability to empower our employees and work seamlessly together as an interconnected company allows us to have the most impact on our communities. Our incredible global reach and diversity are what fuels us as a group of stars. The shared goal of our team, which includes more than 7,008 talented designers, strategists and innovators, is to make the world a better place.

David Baker Architects specializes in sustainable mixed-use communities that emphasize social equity and environmental responsibility. The team offers architectural and urban design services focused on affordable housing and community-centered projects. Clients appreciate their thoughtful approach, though some note the color palettes can feel generic.

LPAS Architecture + Design specializes in residential, multi-family, retail, office, and educational projects, bringing knowledgeable care to each client’s vision. The team offers a collaborative approach that many customers appreciate, though some find the process takes time. Their focus on thoughtful design suits a variety of project types.

Specializing in modern, warm architecture for both residential and urban projects, Dutton Architects focuses on creating vibrant, walkable communities through thoughtful site and neighborhood planning. The team handles everything from custom homes to large-scale master plans, with clients appreciating their creativity, responsiveness, and attention to detail throughout the design process.