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The Best Architectural Firms in Atlanta, Georgia

8 Min Read

Atlanta, Georgia, is a city that is always on the move. It is where old traditions meet modern innovation, and where one can find a vibrant mix of cultures and lifestyles. From its historic neighborhoods to its bustling downtown, Atlanta is a city that offers something for everyone. It is also a city undergoing a significant transformation, with new buildings and developments all over the city.

If you want to hire an architectural firm in Atlanta, the list below features the leading firms to consider. Our team selected the firms after looking into their portfolio, backgrounds, awards, industry affiliations, and press features. Whether you are looking to design a commercial building, a residential complex, or a public space, you will find an architectural firm on this list that can bring your vision to life.


Square Feet Studio

154 Krog St. NE., #170, Atlanta, GA 30307

Square Feet Studio is an award-winning architecture, planning, and design firm headquartered in Atlanta. The company takes pride in creating smart, simple, and sustainable designs with minimal environmental impact and maximum benefit for future generations. With team members from diverse architecture, interior design, fine arts, and urban planning backgrounds, the firm works collaboratively to match unique skills and experience to each project. 

Square Feet Studio strives to make the design and construction process a rewarding experience for clients by learning about their inspirations and bringing shared visions to life. It has received various awards and recognitions for its exceptional work, including the 2022 Award of Excellence for Interior Architecture and the Aspire Design Award of Merit from AIA. It is also affiliated with the Atlanta Urban Design Commission and the Urban Land Institute and has been featured in several publications, including Yahoo News, Urbanize Atlanta, and Shopping Center Business.


Niles Bolton Associates, Inc.

3060 Peachtree Rd. NW., Suite 600, Atlanta, GA 30305

Niles Bolton Associates, Inc. is an architecture, landscape architecture, interior design, and planning firm based in Atlanta, with a secondary office in Washington, DC. Founded in 1975, it has grown considerably, thanks to its ability to comprehend clients’ needs and design projects that meet their specifications. The company’s success is further amplified by its focus on fostering long-lasting client relationships. 

NBA’s portfolio features designs for multifamily residential properties, educational facilities, institutional buildings, transportation hubs, corporate centers, hospitality venues, retail spaces, and recreational amenities. The company’s work has earned recognition through several accolades, including the 2023 Outstanding Achievement Award from the ACI and the Best Implementation of Mixed-Use or Live/Learn category at the Student Housing Business Innovator Awards. 

Vantage

NBA is affiliated with industry-leading organizations such as the Urban Land Institute, US Green Building Council, American Institute of Architects, National Multi-Housing Council, and Buckhead Coalition. The company’s founder, G. Niles Bolton, established the firm in Georgia in 1975 after serving as an officer with the Army Corp of Engineers in Vietnam.


ai3, Inc.

916 Joseph E. Lowery Blvd. NW., Suite 1, Atlanta, GA 30318

Founded in 2004, ai3, Inc. is an Atlanta-based architecture and design firm specializing in creating spaces that make an impact. The company’s philosophy is based on the idea that design should express the purpose of a client’s vision. This philosophy is ingrained in the company culture and approach to work.

The firm has received multiple awards, including being the TopID Firm Nominee from NEWH and making it to the Atlanta 500 of Atlanta Magazine. Additionally, ai3 is affiliated with prestigious organizations such as the American Institute of Architects, the American Society of Interior Designers, IIDA, international interior design association, and NEWH, network of executive women in hospitality and the Urban Land Institute.

The company’s partners and principals include Patrick Johnson, who has over 30 years of industry experience and who studied architecture at Auburn University, Lucy Aiken-Johnson, Dan Maas, Ann-Marie Lima, Kerry Wittwer, Kellen Minor, Catrina Rosa O’Keefe, Mary Beth Maness and Chris Carfora. Together, they bring a wealth of experience and expertise to every project.


Wakefield Beasley & Associates

5200 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta, GA 30009

Wakefield Beasley & Associates is an interdisciplinary architectural design firm that creates an architecture for outcomes. It is committed to achieving its clients’ goals by engaging with them at every step of the process. This depth of involvement allows the firm’s directors to create places that connect people and spaces, leading to results that exceed expectations.

The firm has received several accolades, including being named one of Atlanta’s Top 25 Architectural Firms by the Atlanta Business Chronicle in 2021. It is also affiliated with several industry organizations, such as the American Institute of Architects, the National Association for Industrial and Office Parks (NAIOP), the Urban Land Institute, and the American Concrete Institute.

Lamar Wakefield, the firm’s principal, is a highly talented architect passionate about art and mathematics. He studied Architecture at the Georgia Institute of Technology and is a member of the American Institute of Architects, the National Council for Architectural Registration Boards, and the National Association of Industrial and Office Properties.

Wakefield Beasley & Associates is an architectural design firm dedicated to creating spaces that meet its client’s unique needs while achieving exceptional results. The firm’s commitment to excellence and interdisciplinary approach makes it a top choice for anyone seeking high-quality architectural design services.


Joel Kelly Design

400 Plasters Ave. NE., Suite 110, Atlanta, GA 30324

Joel Kelly Design is a well-established firm providing residential architectural and interior design services since 1998. Over the years, it has earned notoriety for delivering unique and tailored solutions for various residential projects, ranging from small renovations to multi-million dollar homes. The company’s approach is centered around the client’s vision, and it prides itself on collaborating closely with each client to create a customized design that meets their unique needs and preferences.

The firm’s notable achievements include winning the 2021 Residential Custom Design award from the American Society of Interior Designers. It is also affiliated with renowned organizations such as the American Society of Interior Designers and the Institute of Classical Architecture & Art. The company has been featured in several publications, including Architectural Digest, Atlanta Decorative Arts Center, Rug’s Society, Atlanta Magazine, and Kev’s Best.


Spitzmiller and Norris, Inc.

349 Peachtree Hills Ave. NE., Suite C-5, Atlanta, GA 30305

Spitzmiller and Norris, Inc. is an Atlanta-based residential design firm designing personal residences for clients since 1985. The firm has a wealth of experience developing plans for new houses, remodeling existing homes, and restoring historic houses in an eco-friendly manner. In addition to its traditional residential design work, Spitzmiller and Norris, Inc. has recently expanded its offerings to include high-rise interior designs in addition to its traditional residential design work.

The firm received multiple awards for its outstanding work, including the Ansley Park Christopher Jones Historic Preservation Award in 2020 and the Philip Trammell Shutze Award in 2009, 2010 ,2011,2013 and 2019. Spitzmiller and Norris, Inc. is affiliated with several prominent organizations in the architecture and preservation communities, including the American Institute of Architects, the Atlanta Preservation Center, and the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation which they have won 5 restoration awards.

The firm has been featured in various publications, including Southern Home Magazine, in 2023. With its years of experience, commitment to sustainability, and eye for timeless design, Spitzmiller and Norris, Inc. is a top choice for clients seeking personalized, high-quality residential design services.


William T. Baker & Associates

2727 Paces Ferry Rd. NW., Suite 750, Atlanta, GA 30339

William T. Baker & Associates is a distinguished residential design firm that has garnered international recognition for its high-design and meticulous attention to livability. Over three decades, the firm has redefined the concept of beautiful homes under the leadership of William Baker, a preeminent authority on architectural excellence. In addition to his design work, Baker has dedicated his time to serving on the boards of community organizations focused on affordable housing initiatives and low-income challenges. He is also an esteemed member of several historical societies.

The firm has been honored with several prestigious awards, including the Philip Trammell Shutze Award for Architecture from the Institute of Classical Architecture & Art in 2013 and 2019. It has also earned affiliations with the Institute of Classical Architecture & Art and the International Network for Traditional Building, Architecture & Urbanism.

At present, Baker serves on the board of the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation and has served on other boards, such as the Historic Oakland Foundation and the Georgia Executive Center Fine Arts Committee. 


Bonsai Architectural Designs

10 Executive Park Dr. NE., #228, Atlanta, GA 30329

Bonsai Architectural Designs is a reputable design firm based in Atlanta, known for its outstanding creativity, reliability, and commitment to excellence. The company has earned a well-deserved notoriety for producing unique and innovative designs. Bonsai’s passion for design and constant search for inspiration have made it one of Atlanta’s most recognized design firms.

The company was founded by Corey Austin in 2015 after working and studying under several well-known architects and designers for over a decade. With complete freedom to explore new ideas and express his creativity, Corey’s leadership has been instrumental in setting the company apart as a leading design firm in the Southeast and beyond. He oversees Bonsai’s national platform and day-to-day operations, ensuring that the company upholds its high standards of quality and innovation.

In recognition of its exceptional work, Bonsai has received several accolades, including being among the 2022 Best of Georgia Winners in Architectural Firms by Georgia Business Journal. With a focus on collaboration and a deep understanding of client needs, Bonsai Architectural Designs continues to push the boundaries of design and create functional and beautiful spaces.

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