City lights illuminate a picturesque landscape. The sound of beach waves and rustling trees completes the scene. This is Delaware.
From long walks on the boardwalk on a breezy night or an evening of arts and culture, Delaware is the place to be when looking to relax and unwind. It’s an ideal location to settle down, find peace, and take in the view.
Delaware’s architects are attuned to the state’s unique possibilities. The qualified professionals in this list are skilled at creating modern designs that highlight both the natural surroundings and the architectural context. Your dream home is just a step from becoming a reality, and it starts with choosing the right architect.
SEA Studio Architects
35761 Atlantic Ave., Millville DE 19967
SEA Studio Architects is an award-winning studio that has been building residential and commercial projects since 2009. Named Best Architecture Firm by Coastal Style Magazine, its designs are guided by nature and scenery, with works including farmhouses and beach houses. The firm has been mentioned repeatedly in national and regional magazines for its beautiful and contemporary designs that maximize views and the outdoors.
The Cardinal Residence in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware is a prime example of the team’s sensitive designs that consider a residence’s surroundings. A recipient of the Best Modern Architecture Design in 2017 by Delaware Today, the large residential space features a natural wood exterior. The expansive windows let in natural light and allow a view of the forest.
SEA’s president and principal, Scott Edmonston, AIA, is a Virginia Tech graduate with years of experience under his belt. Scott specializes in sustainable design and preservation of green spaces. SEA Studio Architects take pride in being a full-service architecture firm committed to reducing structures’ environmental impact and carbon footprints through circular and energy-efficient designs.
ArQitecture
3930 Thompsons Bridge Rd., Wilmington, DE 19803
ArQitecture is a premier architecture studio providing high-level, residential designs. The firm provides both architecture and interior finishings for perfect balance and harmonious styling, from conceptual planning to construction.
ArQitecture is led by principal architect Todd Tully Danner AIA, IIDA, who has dedicated his profession to creating innovative designs. His passion for the industry is present in the firm’s attention to detail. Its work has repeatedly received recognition for excellence, with awards including AIA Sustainable Building Design Recognition and an IIDA Judge’s Choice Award.
Todd and his team at ArQitecture are known for providing a personal touch to their work to give clients the ultimate in beauty and comfort.
Becker Morgan Group
309 South Governors Ave., Dover, Delaware 19904
Since 1983, the Becker Morgan Group has maintained a reputation as one of the top-tier, full-service architecture firms in Delaware. Their combined experience, and impressive portfolio make them a sought-after firm for residential design.
Becker Morgan handles engineering, planning, and interior design, and believes in a collaborative experience. The president and principal architect, W. Ronald Morgan, AIA, founded the firm with partner Tom Becker. Ron is a natural team leader, assisted by the firm’s Vice Presidents, Ernest W. Olds, AIA, Gregory V. Moore, P.E., Brad A. Hastings, AIA, LEED AP, and J. Michael Riemann, P.E. Together, their expertise covers the entire design process of building residential homes while upholding a client-focused relationship.
The company’s work on the Eastern Bay Escape showcases the team’s skill in remodeling. The project created additional space for the 8,100-sq.-ft. home and modernized the design. The project won a Best of American Living Design Award from the American Home Builders Association, and the firm has been recognized in industry publications as one of the best.
David D. Quillin Architecture
5705 Waterside Dr., Berlin, MD 21811
Owner and principal David D. Quillin is passionate about architecture. He places emphasis on creative design-thinking and sustainable strategies that meet the needs of his clients. The firm takes on residential and commercial projects of all scales, as well as work from non-profit organizations.
The firm bases its designs on a meticulous process in which dedication to the work, the project goals, the homeowners, and the community are central. David pours his heart and soul into each building or home.
David has earned numerous prestigious awards, including his most recent Editors Choice Awards in Fine Homebuilding Magazine and an Award of Merit in the 2019 AIA/CBC Design Awards. The firm’s residential design in Bethany Beach, Delaware is an example of the team’s standout work. The blue hues of the home’s exterior pop against the colors of the coastal setting.
Davis, Bowen & Friedel, Inc.
1 Park Ave, Milford, DE 19963
Davis, Bowen & Friedel, Inc. (DBF) is in the business of providing value and customer satisfaction to every client. Whether handling a residential, commercial, or cultural project, the firm, headed by president and senior architect Michael Wigley, AIA, LEED AP, is sure to provide a full-scale, professional approach to any problem.
The group is multifaceted with numerous degrees and qualifications. Principals also include senior architect Michael E. Wheedleton, AIA LEED GA; senior engineers W. Zac Crouch, P.E., Jason P. Loar, P.E., and Ring W. Lardner, P.E.; and Jamie L. Sechler, P.E.
Besides architecture and engineering, DBF specializes in surveying and boasts a high-quality, professional service that takes on a diverse array of projects. DBF is a member of the USGBC and has received numerous awards for its innovative and beautiful designs.
Moonlight Architecture, Inc.
29003 Lewes Georgetown Hwy. Lewes, DE 19958
Moonlight Architecture is so named because of its dedication to on-time project completion. The company promises to work day and night to meet the client’s deadlines. Since 1999, the firm has worked on both residential and commercial projects. Its contemporary designs have a personal touch that makes each home truly unique.
The firm is led by founders and partners Freddy Bara, Associate, AIA, AIBD, and Robert Rollins, R.A. AIA, NCARB, each with 27 years of experience. Moonlight Architecture’s extensive experience ensures that future homeowners’ requirements will be met. The design firm also maintains memberships with the American Institute of Architects, the Lower Delaware-Maryland Officials, the Lewes Chamber of Commerce, and the Home Builders Association of Delaware.
Bernardon
123 Justison St. Suite 101, Wilmington, DE 19801
Bernardon is one of the top ten largest architecture, interior design, and landscape architecture firms in the Philadelphia region with offices in Wilmington, Philadelphia, and West Chester, PA.
Few undertakings are as unique and personal as designing a home. Their custom designs have included new residences, renovations, and additions that range anywhere from 2,000 to 22,000 square feet—all of which are hand-tailored to fit the owner’s unique interests and priorities. At Bernardon, they are passionate about creating custom homes that distinctly reflect the personalities and preferences of every client.
Photo Credit: Marnie Custom Homes
This philosophy translates especially in Ocean of Dreams, a custom home designed by Bernardon and built by Marnie Custom Homes. The oceanfront oasis consists of breathtaking views from almost every direction. Doug Hertsenberg, AIA, a principal with Bernardon who manages the custom residential design studio, and his talented team of designers have the ability and experience to turn any kind of living space into a personalized home that is a true spatial representation of its clients. Learn more about them at bernardon.com
Fisher Architecture, LLC
542 Riverside Drive, Salisbury MD, 21801
Keith B. Fisher, AIA, LEED AP, NCARB, is the principal architect of this architecture and interior design firm that believes in creative solutions to design problems. Keith and his team offer deep insight and industry know-how. Keith’s experience in the field has been instrumental in the firm’s success and growing portfolio. The team aims to learn and improve every day, in partnership with their clients.
One of Fisher Architecture’s strong suits is its passion for communication. The team holds to the principle that the value of their designs stems from close collaboration with the future owners. From private residences to apartments and condominiums, their contemporary projects are aimed at meeting the desires and needs of their clientele while enhancing the community.
R G Architects, LLC
200 West Main St., Middletown DE 19709
With offices in several states, including Delaware, Maryland, and New York, this young firm has built a name for itself in the industry. R G Architects is a passionate group of individuals who are driven to solve even the most complex design problems. They provide special attention to any challenges arising before or during the construction of their clients’ future dream homes.
Gerald D. Rozansi, AIA, and Robert A. Grove, AIA, are the co-owners and principals of R G Architects. In every project, at least one of the two directly commits to leading the team to ensure quality, timeliness, and active communication with their clients.
Along with holding memberships in the American Institute of Architects, they are affiliated with various industry organizations, including the US Green Building Council, the Institute for Classical Architecture, and the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
Breckstone Architecture
2417 Lancaster Ave., Wilmington, DE 19805
Breckstone Architecture is a residential and commercial full-service architectural company. Their firm covers the end-to-end design process in architecture, engineering, interior design, and project management. Breckston also offers special services for historic preservation and restoration, and feasibility studies for their clients.
The firm’s President, Todd T. Breck, AIA PE, was the president of the AIA Delaware Chapter from 2004-2006 and president of the International Concrete Repair Institute. He currently sits on the prestigious State of Delaware Board of Architects. Joining him in leading Breckstone Architecture is the Vice President, David P. Mengers.
Michael Cohalan, Architect
102 Savannah Rd., Lewes, Delaware 19958
Michael Cohalan, AIA, NCARB, is a highly-regarded architect who founded his firm in 2006. In his design practice, he specializes in unique forms and functions. If you’re looking for a design that’s different and personal, then Michael Cohalan, Architect, may be the firm best suited to your needs.
While Michael’s work consists primarily of single-family homes, he has also completed residential additions, multifamily residences, and commercial builds. The firm’s vision is to create unique experiences and explore design opportunities that best represent the client and the site.
Hastings Associates, LLC
102 Central Ave., Ocean View, DE 19970
A house or building should not merely be beautiful but should also fulfill a purpose, according to Hastings Associates, LLC. The visual appeal of a design is only one part of the process, as the essential goal is to create value and purpose for the home and its owners.
The owner of Hastings Associates, George A. Hastings, ABD, has been in the industry for decades. He expanded his portfolio and created a reputation for himself when his projects were displayed in the Beach and Bay Cottage Tour. Since 1988, Hastings Associates has continued to serve its clients by providing upscale designs that are esthetically pleasing and resilient enough to endure the passage of time. For the firm, it’s about making your investment worthwhile.
The firm specializes in residential homes, with a focus on beach cottages. They handle all required steps in the process according to the client’s needs, from initial planning and discussion to contacting the necessary resources and agencies based on the site’s location.
Fearn-Clendaniel Architects
6 Larch Ave. Suite 398, Wilmington, DE 19804
Architects consider every aspect of the building in their design. They make sure to tick every box of their clients’ requirements. Fearn-Clendaniel Architects, however, adds an extra checklist for ensuring that their design respects the balance of the local community. They are considerate of the home’s surrounding environment while providing on-time project completion within the client’s budget.
The award-winning firm, led by owners and principals Wayde B. Clendaniel, AIA, and Kenneth B. Fearn, AIA, LEED AP, has assembled a trusted group of professionals. Together they are capable of finding creative methods and solutions to unique challenges and situations. In their design of the Halliday residence for a semi-retired couple, they focused more on the personality than the size of the building.
Hillcrest Associates, Inc.
1760 Flint Hill Rd., Landenberg, PA 19350
If you’re looking for a one-stop office to build your dream home, Hillcrest Associates, Inc. is a smart choice. The firm’s team comprises a broad range of professionals. Licensed architects, engineers, land use planners, surveyors, attorneys, and realtors work together for outstanding results. Their vision is to be their client’s strategic planner and to meet their requirements. Projects not only reflect the individuality of the homeowners but also enhance the site’s environment.
Primarily based in Pennsylvania, the firm’s professionals are also registered in Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, and Florida. When considering a big move in the area, this multidisciplinary firm can handle the entire design process to build your residence according to your specifications.
Founding principal Rick Longo, PE, RA, established the firm in 1972. As a registered engineer in Delaware and a registered architect, he is clear in his understanding of the industry and has become an award-winning architect and land developer. Hillcrest Associates’s portfolio is a long list of successful and beautiful designs, from residential projects to commercial spaces.
Buck Simpers Architect + Associates, Inc.
954 Justison St., Wilmington, DE 19801
The goal of every designer, home builder, and architect is to exceed the client’s expectations consistently. The team at Buck Simpers Architect + Associates achieves this goal thanks to their expertise in the industry and ability to solve design problems and create high-quality solutions.
R.W Buck Simpers is a Delaware native who knows the state and its people well. In founding the full-service architecture and interior design firm in Wilmington, he developed a firm keen on innovative and sustainable design strategies. Their model of exceeding expectations and maintaining constant communication has rewarded them with a repeat client base in various markets.
Besides residential homes, they’ve contributed designs for education, corporate office space, healthcare, institutional, and mixed-use facilities. One of their creations in Brandywine River shows their unique design thinking in building a home that combines stone and concrete beautifully against a forested backdrop.
Andersen+Ford Architects, LLC
611 Haverhill Rd, Wilmington, DE 19803
It can take years to build a reputation and recognition in the industry. Cynthia Andersen Ford, RA, LEED GA, had already achieved this before founding the firm in 2007. A trailblazer in the field, she first began working for various firms designing commercial and residential projects. She has served as treasurer on the board of the American Institute of Architects Delaware chapter.
Andersen+Ford Architects provides multiple architecture design services, including renovations, custom homes, sustainable designs, and historic preservation projects.
For their renovation of a mid-1980s home, the owners of the Hendricks Residence were pleased with the firm’s dedication to the project, their professionalism, and their commitment to the owners’ needs and wants. The contemporary additions encompass the foundation and style of the 40-year-old structure, resulting in a unique and beautiful home.
James Robert Clark Architect-Planner Inc.
14134 Union St. Ext Ste 734, Milton, DE 19968
This independently-owned architecture firm was founded by Jim Clark. With over 30 years of experience, they specialize in commercial and residential designs.
A new home is a major investment, whether it is built from the ground up or through extensive renovations. Through collaborating with the client, Jim and his team can find cost-efficient ways to fulfill the homeowner’s wishes. One of the firm’s specialties is creating a layout that follows and responds to natural sunlight. This unique process can affect the experience of the home’s interiors and the heating and cooling.
James Robert Clart Architect-Planner Inc. specializes in coastal home designs and their specific requirements, such as preventing water infiltration.
Archology, LLC
107 S. Washington St., Milford, DE 19963
Good design depends on thoughtful consideration of the context. Archology, LLC is an architecture firm that bases their building methods on the ecology and the natural advantages of the site. Besides creating value for the homeowners, they envision their designs as a long-term enhancement to the community.
Green, sustainable, and hurricane-resistant designs are this full-service firm’s specialty. The firm is led by founding principal Mark Redden, NCARB, partner Lang Redden, and project manager Rachel Loper.
They follow a “No Surprise Design” philosophy and strive to be in constant communication. The firm aims to give clients precisely what they wish while setting a high standard for unique and treasured spaces.
Element Design Group
115 W Market St., Lewes, DE 19958
Element Design Group is a versatile, multidisciplinary firm that provides end-to-end project management. They can provide planning, civil engineering, and landscape architecture services, all centered on creating sustainable and environmentally-friendly designs.
The firm specializes in single-family and multifamily homes, as well as commercial establishments. Their design solutions are customer-focused and powered through the team’s comprehensive knowledge of local community site development requirements. The design-based firm considers the site’s surroundings to create a beautiful, enduring design.
Principal Douglas M. Warner, PE, brings 20 years of experience to the group, along with his expertise in architectural design, engineering, construction, and business management.
