Nestled in the heart of Orange County, Irvine, California, is a vibrant city known for its modern architecture and forward-thinking urban planning. As a hub for technological advancement and cultural diversity, Irvine showcases a seamless blend of contemporary design and natural beauty, making it an ideal canvas for architectural ingenuity.
In the realm of architectural creativity, the list below spotlights the leading firms in Irvine. Our team has meticulously selected these firms based on their exceptional portfolios, demonstrated expertise, industry accolades, and contributions to the city’s evolving skyline. From avant-garde commercial structures to elegant residential masterpieces, these architectural firms are adept at translating visions into tangible works of art that harmonize with Irvine’s dynamic landscape.
KTGY
17911 Von Karman Ave Ste 200, Irvine, CA 92614
Founded in 1991, KTGY is a full-service architecture, branding, interiors, and planning firm that brings creativity, artistry, and meticulous attention to detail to every design. With six locations across the nation, it ensures that its clients and communities receive the best, regardless of building type or location. Through a highly collaborative culture their designers apply diverse specialties and local expertise to blend modern sustainable practices and impeccable design standards, to execute new visions into real world success.
KTGY’s accolades include the 2023 World of Modular’s Awards of Distinction, where it secured First Place for a Permanent Modular Dormitory under 10,000 square feet at Lafayette Triangle. It is also affiliated with esteemed organizations such as the American Institute of Architects, the US Green Building Council, , and BIA Bay Area & San Diego. The public may also find its presence in notable press outlets like Business Wire and Archinect.
MCG Architecture
15635 Alton Pkwy Ste 100, Irvine, CA 92618
MCG Architecture is a dedicated firm passionately delving into original design, advanced technology, and personalized service across diverse sectors, including retail, hospitality, commercial, entertainment, and urban revitalization. With a remarkable 90-year legacy, its nationwide team of professional architects, designers, and planners thrives across various office locations, backed by licensure in 49 states.
This broad presence ensures MCG Architecture’s close proximity to projects and clients spanning the United States and Canada. Spearheaded by industry leaders Kevin James, chairman of the board, and Page Winkler, president, MCG Architecture shapes spaces harmoniously, blending creativity, expertise, and a client-centric approach. Through a fusion of decades-long experience and a forward-looking mindset, it continuously explores design horizons while delivering tailored solutions that stand the test of time.
RDC – Architects
245 East Third St, Long Beach, CA 90802
RDC – Architects stands as a recognized figure in the retail design and architecture realm. Its legacy spanning four decades brings a holistic approach to crafting retail experiences. The firm’s profound understanding of retail intricacies stems from enduring client partnerships and a seasoned team. This depth and expertise position the team to navigate the dynamic shifts within the retail landscape.
Awards received by RDC include the prestigious 2016 Gold Key Award for Best Restaurant Casual Dining. Aligned with the American Institute of Architects and the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards, its affiliations reflect its commitment to industry excellence. Notable mentions in Interior Design Magazine and Boutique Design Magazine underscore the firm’s impact.
Key figures at RDC include CEO Brad Williams, a graduate of Woodbury University, and partner Mitra Esfandiari, holding a Master of Architecture from California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo, along with postgraduate studies from UCLA.
DRA Architects
32 Executive Park Ste 100, Irvine, CA 92614
The DRA Architect team has amassed 26 years of experience crafting exceptional commercial architecture. Collaborating closely with diverse developers and nonprofit entities—from industry giants like The Boeing Company Real Property Management to ambitious startups—DRA Architects consistently delivers professionalism and responsiveness, all while being mindful of clients’ budgets. By prioritizing its client needs, it has forged enduring relationships, a testament to its dedication.
Principal architects at DRA include Carrie M. Hoshino, who holds a Bachelor of Architecture from California State Polytechnic University–Pomona. Another principal, Stephen P. Zieg, brings a strong architectural foundation from Phoenix Institute of Technology with an AA in Architecture.
DRA Architects is affiliated with the American Institute of Architects, underscoring its commitment to architectural excellence and industry standards. Its enduring partnerships and dedication to tailored designs define the studio’s legacy.
MG2
3333 Michelson Dr Ste 100, Irvine, CA 92612
MG2 is a global architectural powerhouse, weaving together architectural design, strategic planning, cost management, interior design, branding, and program consulting services with a focus on strategy and technical finesse. With a commitment to crafting dynamic community spaces, enriching consumer interactions, and tailoring client programs, it ranks among the nation’s largest architecture firms and premier retail design studios globally.
The firm has been creating award-winning consumer experiences and healthy community environments for more than fifty years. MG2 has appeared in The New York Times, Development Magazine, Retail Brew, WWD, Hotel Management, The Wall Street Journal, and Restaurant Development + Design. In their 30+-year careers, the firm’s CE0 and Chairman of the Board Mitch Smith AIA, LEED AP and President Russ Hazzard AIA have grown the company to six offices-Seattle, Irvine, New York, Washington D.C., Minneapolis, Shanghai-and 450 employees. For its recent projects, the firm was honored with Fast Company’s Innovation by Design Award, Interior Design’s NYCxDesign Award, Retail TouchPoints’ Brand Experience Award, Shop!’s Design Award, Retail Design Institute’s International Design Award and VMSD’s International Visual Competition Award.
Avalon Architectural, Inc.
18006 Sky Park Cir Ste 100, Irvine, CA 92614
Avalon Architectural, Inc. is a boutique architectural design firm in southern California. While its central focus is crafting custom residential spaces, its versatile experience spans various project types. These encompass commercial ventures, retail areas, private car showrooms, tenant improvements, hospitality venues, multifamily structures, and master planning. The firm’s canvas stretches across California and Nevada, from coastal retreats to hillside dwellings and desert landscapes.
Avalon Architectural’s foundation is built upon a harmonious blend of seven core principles. It is a National Council of Architectural Registration Boards member, underscoring its commitment to excellence. The firm’s work has found its way into the spotlight through features in Luxe Magazine and Coast. At the helm, Thomas Charles Stewart, principal, guides its endeavors with a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Arizona. Avalon Architectural, Inc. embodies a dedication to transforming spaces into reflections of beauty and purpose.
Bundy-Finkel Architects
1120 Bristol St Ste 120, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Established in 1991, Bundy-Finkel Architects delivers quality service and enduring value for clients and projects. Operating through collaborative processes, the firm crafts and executes designs that harmoniously integrate function, aesthetics, and sustainability. Aligned with sustainable practices, the firm holds affiliations with the US Green Building Council and LEED certification.
Principal architects Tim Bundy and Richard Finkel, both California State Polytechnic University graduates at Pomona, bring their expertise to the forefront. Complementing their architectural degrees, Tim Bundy’s international studies experience at California State University – Florence and Richard Finkel’s associate degree from Pierce College enrich the design perspectives they bring to the team. Under their direction, Bundy-Finkel Architects stands as a testament to the pursuit of architectural excellence, striving to transcend mere structures and create enduring, purposeful spaces.
David R. Olson Architects
470 Wald, Irvine, CA 92618
David R. Olson Architects is a comprehensive professional architecture firm focusing on custom residential, retail, commercial, and restaurant design. The studio’s establishment dates back to 1991, rooted in the commitment to delivering the utmost level of service guided by the industry’s most esteemed standards of conduct. Its objective centers around crafting designs that stand the test of time, seamlessly embracing and elevating the lifestyles of its clientele.
The company holds industry involvement with the American Institute of Architects and the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards. Recognized by respected publications such as Interior + Design Magazine, California Homes, and Orange County Homes, its work reflects its dedication to originality and excellence. Principal architect David R. Olson, a distinguished alumnus of California State Polytechnic University-Pomona with a Bachelor of Architecture, as well as the University of Athens, spearheads the company’s creative vision.
