Phoenix, Arizona, known as the Valley of the Sun, is a dynamic city that presents a wide range of possibilities for both residential and commercial properties. With its abundant sunshine, breathtaking natural scenery, and wealth of cultural and recreational amenities, Phoenix offers a high standard of living. Further, the city’s rapidly growing population provides a substantial consumer base and a diverse workforce, which, complemented by a flourishing economy and favorable business environment, makes it an appealing city for businesses.
For anyone seeking an architectural firm in this area, here is a list of Phoenix’s eight best architectural firms. These firms were handpicked by our editorial team based on their extensive expertise and impressive achievements.
Cawley Architects
730 North 52nd St, Suite 203, Phoenix, AZ 85008
Cawley Architects is a renowned commercial architectural firm in Arizona with a rich legacy of over 28 years. With an impressive portfolio that includes over 800 high-value commercial building projects, it has firmly established itself as a leader in the industry. The company’s collaborative project management approach has consistently delivered buildings that excel in form, function, and value. This has led the firm to be recognized through various prestigious awards, including the Judges Award of Merit at the RED Awards and the Excellence in Masonry Award from the Arizona Masonry Guild. Multiple times, the firm has also received the #1 Ranking in Arizona for a Small Architecture Office.
Cawley Architects is led by Founder and President Sherman Cawley. Cawley Architects benefits from his four decades of architectural expertise and his extensive experience in the design-build commercial industry.
Marlene Imirzian & Associates Architects
8906 North Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85020
Founded in Phoenix in 1997, Marlene Imirzian & Associates Architects is a highly regarded architectural firm known for its design excellence and integration of sustainable practices. Providing comprehensive design services ranging from master planning to building design, it caters to clients in the diverse sectors of education, public work, healthcare, historic preservation, commercial, and residential. The firm’s approach combines practicality and creativity, enabling it to deliver projects that balance budget constraints with a commitment to high-quality design.
Firm Principal Marlene Imirzian, who is a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects (FAIA), brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the firm. Her leadership has led to the firm being recognized through prestigious accolades like the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Distinguished Architecture Citation Award and the Engineering News Record (ENR) Southwest’s Project of the Year. With a Master of Architecture from the University of Michigan, she has also held esteemed positions and affiliations within the architectural community, including an AIA Design Fellowship.
RKAA Architects
2233 East Thomas Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85016
RKAA Architects, Inc. has been a prominent force in commercial architecture since 1976, consistently delivering outstanding design services on a national scale. With a strong emphasis on creating functional yet visually appealing spaces, the firm has achieved repeat business from numerous local and national developers and retailers over its 47-year history. It understands the diverse needs of building owners, tenants, contractors, and municipalities, so it ensures that each project is catered to the unique client’s needs.
The firm is led by its CEO and founding partner, Robert W. Kubicek, who is an AIA member. RKAA Architects benefits from his 46 years of experience catering to the needs of national tenants. Under his leadership, the firm has been recognized through accolades such as the Best Architectural Services Award from Inside Self-Storage Magazine and the Best New Facility Award from Mini-Storage Messenger.
BWS Architects
4636 N. 32nd St, Phoenix, AZ 85018
Founded in 1992 and with offices in Tucson, Phoenix, and Flagstaff, BWS Architects is a highly regarded architectural firm known for its commitment to community-centric design. The firm’s highly trained team of professionals, which includes six registered architects, brings extensive expertise and a keen eye for contextual design and functionality to every project. With a passion for creating functional and visually appealing spaces for people to work, learn, and play in, BWS Architects has amassed an impressive portfolio of impactful projects.
Led by principals Robin Shambach and Frank Slingerland, BWS Architects ensures a hands-on approach to each project, maintaining active involvement from inception to completion. This approach has led the firm to be recognized with numerous prestigious awards, including the Cornerstone Foundation Firm of the Year Award and a mention on ENR’s Best of the Best list.
REALM architecture + design
4340 E Piccadilly Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85018
REALM architecture + design, established by Jacques LeBlanc and Jackson Huggins, is a design firm dedicated to crafting comfortable spaces that offer the utmost enjoyment. Initially founded to focus on residential architecture in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area, the company has since expanded its services to also deliver luxury residential projects in Vancouver, BC. Whether designing homes, nightclubs, restaurants, or workspaces, REALM architecture + design remains dedicated to creating exceptional atmospheres that foster cherished memories.
Jacques LeBlanc, who is a member of the AIA, serves as one of the principals, bringing his expertise to the forefront of the company’s endeavors. Under his leadership, the firm’s commitment to quality and design excellence has been recognized with accreditations from the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and with features in publications such as Architectural Digest.
KQ Architects
2716 N. 16th St, Phoenix, AZ 85006
KQ Architects is a design studio known for creating architecture that prioritizes people and places, independent of passing stylistic trends. Founded in 1978 by Hugh Knoell and Phillip Quidort, both of whom are AIA members, the firm has continuously evolved. Sandra Evans Seward joined the team in 1997, prompting the firm to include interior design services due to her affiliation with the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID). The current partners at the firm are Crystal Luong, an AIA Associate, Jack Leonard, an AIA member and a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Accredited Professional (AP), and Terri Hanshew. Together, they contribute their expertise to drive the firm’s success.
Over the years, KQ Architects has maintained a small and focused team, nurturing opportunities for learning and accomplishment. This has earned the firm numerous prestigious awards, such as the Tucker Design Award and the AIA Arizona Firm of the Year. Its work has also been featured in Luxe Interiors + Design, Phoenix Home & Garden, and Iconic Life.
Hayes Studio
3824 E. Campbell Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85018
Hayes Studio is a renowned design firm that has delivered residential and commercial architecture projects, as well as interior design projects, for over 30 years. With a small collaborative team of licensed architects and interior designers, it focuses on creating exceptional client experiences and bringing clients’ dreams to life through thoughtful designs, all while respecting time and budget constraints. Hayes Studio is accredited by the AIA, reflecting its commitment to maintaining professional standards and delivering high-quality architectural and design services.
The firm is led by Principal Catherine M. Hayes, who is a licensed architect, a licensed interior designer, and a member of the AIA. She has extensive experience in commercial project development, and her influential role in the industry has been recognized by esteemed publications and organizations. This has included being acknowledged as one of the most influential women in Arizona.
PHX Architecture
15990 N. Greenway-Hayden Loop, Suite C-100, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
PHX Architecture is a renowned architectural firm based in Scottsdale and Los Angeles that is known for its expertise in luxury residential, golf clubhouse, and hospitality projects. The firm’s design concepts are driven by a commitment to responding to each project’s unique characteristics, creating spaces that seamlessly blend with the environment and reflect the client’s unique vision.
The firm is led by President Erik B. Peterson, who is a licensed architect with extensive experience in luxury and lifestyle design. His passion for creating distinct and captivating spaces is evident in the firm’s portfolio, earning the firm numerous accolades. These have included the Luxe Interiors + Design Magazine Gold List Award and multiple honors from the Gold Nugget Awards. The firm has also been featured in publications such as Forbes, Architectural Digest, and Modern Luxury Interiors, further highlighting its influence in the industry.
