Located in southeastern United States just off the Gulf of Mexico, Louisiana is known for being a melting pot of various cultures, which is reflected in its Creole and Cajun cultures. Residents here enjoy a subtropical climate, which allows for humid summers and mild winters. There is also an excellent range of outdoor recreation options, from beaches and swamps to hiking trails and golf courses.
The state’s residential architecture is often regarded to be as diverse as its environment. This list showcases twenty of Louisiana’s best and leading architects behind some of its most noteworthy homes and spaces. This list was curated based on the firms’ various experiences, portfolios, and numerous industry accolades.
studioWTA
7041 Canal Boulevard, New Orleans LA 70130
studioWTA operates out of its office in New Orleans, offering its clients a highly collaborative approach while overseeing each aspect of the process. The firm has worked in some of the most sought-after communities in New Orleans and has extended its services throughout the state. The firm is regarded for its affinity for modern and contemporary themes. Additionally, it is noted for its excellent infusion of green building strategies into its designs and has also worked on a variety of historic preservation projects. Depicted below is one of studioWTA’s best projects.
Located in New Orleans, this single-family was completed back in 2017. It spans over 5,500 square feet and sits in an uptown neighborhood. For this project, the firm’s team opted for modern use of brick, storefront glazing, metal trim, and contemporary detailing. Inside, it has its own library, high ceilings, and exceptional entertainment spaces.
Farmer Payne Architects
6505 Line Avenue, Suite #61, Shreveport, LA 71106
The Farmer Payne team assists its clients at every step, from construction to custom furniture building. In addition to its residential work, it is also known for its excellent commercial spaces. The firm offers its clients an exceptional boutique approach, which ensures that it designs no two homes alike and personalizes its approach for each work. Since its inception, the firm has been lauded in a variety of magazines. Some of these publications include Architectural Digest, Sun Valley Magazine, Mountain Living, and Luxe Interiors + Design. Depicted below is one of our favorites from the firm’s portfolio.
Labeled as the G&T House, this project was designed to meet highly specific design requirements. It showcases the historic style of its neighborhood with touches of excellent modern elements. Some great features include its large glass-paneled windows and passive heating throughout the entire home. The team’s maximization of the space’s natural light, in addition to its exposed beams and beautiful views of the surrounding area, also prove impressive.
NANO
432 N. Anthony Street, Suite #303 New Orleans, LA 70119
Founded in 2001, NANO operates out of its office in New Orleans and has since secured a solid reputation for its great designs. The company is regarded for its exceptional range of architectural and interior design services. Aside from its residential work, it is known for its commercial, educational, industrial, and municipal projects. It also assists with overall strategic planning and tax credit planning. All of its projects comply with the accessibility standards and codes, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Local and National Building and Life Safety Codes. The firm is also certified as a Women’s Business Enterprise by the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council.
One of the firm’s notable works is the Farnham Residence located in the prestigious neighborhood of Metairie, Louisiana. The goal was to transform the client’s large childhood home into something that is tailored for her small family, while being an open, comfortable house for guests. The home’s design was inspired by the late family matriarch’s passion for the fine arts. The team then creatively infused the homes with stunning elements of color, craftsmanship, and creative expression of the home’s history. The 80-year-old home’s floor plan was reconfigured to create an open home with generous light-filled spaces, including a rejuvenated foyer, expanded dine-in kitchen, and updated master suite with a walk-in closet, spa-like bath, and vaulted ceiling. The team did an outstanding job by working closely with the clients to create a perfect home tailored to the family’s needs and lifestyle while balancing the home’s traditional design with bold, modern choices.
Bell Architecture
755 Camp St. New Orleans, LA 70130
Bell Architecture is the product of its principal and namesake’s vision. Michael J. Bell is a fellow of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), which is the highest distinction the organization bestows on its members. He is a native of New Orleans, making him well-versed in some of the area’s most popular architectural vernaculars. In addition, he holds a degree from Tulane University. He founded the firm back in 1992, with the goal of offering organized and comprehensive professional services. Under his leadership, the firm has become regarded for its excellent designs. This has led to features in publications like Louisiana Life Magazine New Orleans Magazine, and Sophisticated Woman Magazine.
The firm’s portfolio depicts a diverse range of designs. From timeless traditional architecture to sleek spaces and homes reminiscent of the French Quarter, the firm can manage projects regardless of scale or complexity. It is also noted for its great trimmings, custom finishes, and detailed touches.
Adamick Architecture
1139 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd., New Orleans, LA 70113
Founded in 2014, Adamick Architecture offers its clients a complete and comprehensive range of design services, and it operates out of its office in New Orleans. It has secured a solid reputation for its stellar work across the New Orleans area and the Gulf Coast Region. Its offices are located on the historic Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard in Central City, and it is best known for its residential and commercial designs. Its portfolio depicts a variety of new construction, renovation, and historic renovations. The firm’s team also assists with other services, such as historic tax credit applications, master planning, and liquor license applications. In addition, the company holds affiliations with organizations like the AIA, the Preservation Resource Center, and the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce.
The project above best embodies the firm’s talent and expertise. Completed back in 2019, this project may be found in Bakery Village and showcases an excellent Greek Revival theme. It spans over 2,400 square feet and houses three bedrooms, two and a half bathrooms, and an excellent modern floor plan. Its tall windows, hardwood flooring, and high-end finishes are particularly impressive.
Kevin Harris Architect, LLC
451 E Airport Ave, Ste A Baton Rouge, LA 70806
Kevin Harris Architect has been in business since 1982 and provides an excellent range of design services. It specializes in residential renovations and new construction. It has also been regarded for its adaptive reuse of much older buildings, in addition to its specialty commercial and historic preservation work. The firm is the product of the vision of its founder and principal, Kevin Harris. He is a fellow of the AIA and is also a best-selling author. He draws inspiration from decades of industry experience and has been lauded on countless occasions, with distinctions from the National Endowment of the Arts, The Commission for the European Communities, and Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and Gulf States AIA design awards. Harris is licensed in four states and holds a degree from the LSU School of Architecture and Harvard University’s Graduate School of Design.
Under his leadership, the firm has become known for its expertise in a variety of popular architectural vernaculars. Additionally, it has become the recipient of a multitude of AIA Awards. The firm is known for its attention to detail and custom finishes.
Lionel F. Bailey AIA Architect LLC
8017 Jefferson Hwy., Suite B-2, Baton Rouge, LA 70809
Lionel F. Bailey is a full-service architecture firm that extends its services throughout the Greater Baton Rouge area. It is an award-winning company and has received magnificent reviews since its inception. The firm offers an excellent design process that can cater to any project regardless of size or scale. It is well-versed in a variety of architectural themes and assures clients that all of its spaces are unique. The firm’s team guides clients from a project’s start to completion. This includes site analysis, programming, and working on both interiors and exteriors. Clients may also expect accurate 3D renders, which ensures minimal revisions throughout the process.
The depicted project was completed back in 2019 and showcases the firm’s work on the Laurel Lakes residence. Designed for a very close-knit family, this home provides a seamless integration of its interiors and exteriors, excellent detailing, and the most unique moldings. Its high fourteen-foot ceilings, Tuscan columns, and wraparound front porch are striking as well.
Cockfield Jackson Architects
6711 Perkins Road Baton Rouge, LA 70808
With over three decades of industry experience, Cockfield Jackson Architects is headquartered in its office in Baton Rouge. It emphasizes the importance of close communications with its clients throughout the entire process, assuring homeowners that their needs and visions are thoroughly met. The company specializes in both residential and commercial services, and its portfolio depicts an affinity for traditional, Greek Revivals, and classic New Orleans French Quarter architecture. The photo below is one of the firm’s best works.
For this project, the firm utilized clean pillars by the front porch. It also has dormer windows, sidings, and tall shuttered windows. Some other exceptional elements include its brick touches and slate roofs.
M2 Studio
1200 Annunciation St., New Orleans, LA 70130
Headquartered in its office in New Orleans, M2 Studio offers a comprehensive range of architecture and interior design services. It begins its process with an initial consultation, where its team gets a better sense of homeowners’ ideas. It utilizes only the best and latest techniques, which it couples with cutting-edge technology.
Aside from its residential work, the firm also specializes in commercial spaces and has since been regarded for its fashionable retail spaces. Its portfolio also depicts several exceptional multifamily projects. The firm’s work has been featured in publications like Southern Living and New Orleans Homes & Lifestyles. At its helm is its owner, Charles J. Neyrey. He offers clients over two decades of industry experience and is best known for his multifamily, educational, health care, sports facility, office, residential, and library work. Showcased below is one of the firm’s best homes.
Labeled on its firm as the Bellaire, this project is located in the heart of New Orleans. Inside, it showcases an open floor plan, which unites its living, kitchen, and dining areas. Its indoor-outdoor spaces and entertaining areas are particularly impressive. Its secluded master suite overlooks the home’s pool.
DNA Workshop
235 South 14th Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70802
DNA Workshop is the product of the vision of local architect and founder, Dyke Nelson. He first gained experience working as a partner and lead designer at Chenevert Architects for nearly a decade. He is experienced in every facet of the architectural process and is particularly known for its new residential homes, historic renovations, and large mixed-use buildings. Under his leadership, the firm has become known for its incorporation of green design and sustainability elements in its work. This has resulted in highly efficient and environmentally responsive spaces.
The firm has been recognized with a multitude of AIA awards. The chosen project is one of the firm’s best works. For this project, its team employed excellent paneled windows and exteriors. It also has a hipped roof and quaint front porch.
Nathan Fell Architecture
639 Julia Street, Suite A, New Orleans, LA 70130
Regarded as one of New Orleans’ best and leading architects, Nathan Fell Architecture is an award-winning company with an exceptional range of services. It is led by its founder and namesake, Nathan Fell. He draws inspiration from over three decades of industry experience. He has managed projects all throughout Chicago, Charleston, and New Orleans. His expertise encompasses single-family residential, hospitality, institutional, office, healthcare, education, and commercial spaces. From predesign through construction, the firm thrives.
The chosen project depicts the firm’s work on the Bienville House. It features excellent twelve-foot high ceilings and exterior decks. It also has a raised pool, with sliding glass walls that open to it, as well as private spaces.
Koch and Wilson Architects
1100 Jackson Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70130
Koch and Wilson Architects’ history dates back to 1916 when Charles Armstrong and Richard Koch established an architectural partnership. They combined their strong Beaux Arts training and love for southern architecture, which reflects itself into the firm’s work today. In 1972, the firm was incorporated and has since been known for its excellent restoration, preservation, and adaptive reuse architecture.
The firm has worked in some of the most sought-after areas in New Orleans and on noteworthy historic structures. These include The Cabildo, Ursuline Convent, St. Patrick’s Church, Gallier House, Hermann-Grima House, and the Trinity Church. The project below is a fine example of the firm’s talent and expertise.
The home, originally known as the Rosileus Homestead, is of the Greek Revival style shown above. The firm added a two-story wing to its rear, as well as a brand new kitchen and two bedrooms. It now has a three-car garage and excellent rear entry as well.
Al Jones Architects
7909 Wrenwood Blvd #A, Baton Rouge, LA 70809
Al Jones Architects is a Baton Rouge practice that stems from the mind of Al Jones, its principal. The firm specializes in custom home designs and renovations. It is best known for their authentic take on many different styles of traditional Architecture and use of old reclaimed materials. In addition to the largest cities in Louisiana, it has managed projects across Florida, Tennessee, Mississippi, Texas, and Virginia. The firm has been in business since 1973 and has also worked on a variety of commercial spaces, such as offices, churches, and other non-residential structures. The project below is one of our favorites from the company’s portfolio.
For this home, the firm’s team employed dormer windows and wood louvered operable shutters. It also has 2 story open galleries and plaster columns. Some other exceptional elements include its custom touches and finishes, as well as its reclaimed slate roofs, copper gutters, and old New Orleans soft red brick.
RHH Architects, APAC
200 Government Street, Suite #100 Baton Rouge, LA 70802
With over two decades of industry experience, RHH Architects commits itself to the highest standards. It operates out of its office in Baton Rouge and provides its clients unique and innovative solutions to otherwise complex and challenging issues that come with custom homes and renovations. At the firm’s helm are partners Trula Remson, Chris Remson, and Sam Herpin. Together, they ensure that each project that the firm takes on receives the benefit of their experience. They personally oversee each phase of the entire process and closely communicate with their clients. Under their supervision, the firm has been regarded for both their commercial and residential work.
The depicted project showcases the firm’s work on the Bayou Fountain Homeplace. Its owners initially wanted a home where their children could grow up in and a space where they could host their extended family. As a solution, the firm came up with this stellar Greek Revival design, reminiscent of an historic St. Charles Avenue estate. It features a large guest suite, various site improvements, a guest cabin, and a large pond, as well as high ceilings and an infinity edge pool.
Zangara + Partners
6107 Magazine St., New Orleans, LA 70118
Headquartered in New Orleans, Zangara + Partners is best known for its custom residential projects, exquisite attention to detail, and love for classic detailing. It strives to incorporate various modern and contemporary touches to its designs and has worked in some of the most wonderful neighborhoods in New Orleans’ historic districts. The firm is also regarded for its creative techniques and the stellar client-architect partnerships it has secured through the years.
The firm is led by its namesake, Daniel Zangara. He holds a degree from the Tulane University School of Architecture. He primarily focuses on historic preservation projects and draws inspiration from timeless architecture. Under his leadership, the firm has been featured in a variety of design publications, such as New Orleans Homes and Lifestyles and The New Orleans Advocate and Preservation.
Ben Patterson Architect, LLC
5925 Line Avenue, Suite 4, Shreveport LA 71106
Ben Patterson Architect is headquartered in Shreveport. It is a specialty design firm that is best known for its exceptional range of architectural services. It is led by Ben Patterson, a licensed architect and active member of the AIA.
Patterson is a native of New Orleans, making him well-versed in some of its most popular architectural vernaculars, and he holds a degree from Louisiana State University’s College of Architecture. He first gained experience working with another architect on this list, Al Jones, back in Baton Rouge for the greater part of eight years. Eventually, he established the firm in 1988. Since then, the company has been recognized on various occasions, in publications like Southern Living and Louisiana Life.
The firm’s hands-on approach is particularly admirable. It has an impressive gallery of homes, which range from Greek Revivals to classic spaces. Often, its projects are distinguished by the firm’s exceptional finishes and custom touches.
Dennis Brady Architect
1130 Octavia Street, New Orleans, LA 70115
Based in New Orleans, Dennis Brady is an architectural firm which has completed projects in Southern California; Austin, Texas; Boston, Massachusetts; and New Orleans; Louisiana. It draws inspiration from nearly four decades of industry experience. At the firm’s helm is its namesake and founder, Dennis Brady. He is an experienced architect, and prior to the establishment of the firm, he gained experience working in the offices of Norman Foster in London, The Architect’s Collaborative in Cambridge, and Perez Associates in New Orleans. He was also involved in the planning for the 1984 World’s Fair and is licensed to operate in Texas, Mississippi, and Alabama as well.
This project is a stellar example of the firm’s talent and expertise. For this home, the firm’s team employed timeless English cottage architecture. It has storybook-like shutters, as well as a shingled roof and long windows.
Brian Gille Architects, Ltd.
810 Union Street, Ste. 330, New Orleans, LA 70112
Founded in 1987 in New Orleans, Brian Gille Architects is a full-service architectural firm that operates out of its office in New Orleans’ historic downtown. It has completed projects across the Gulf Coast and Canada and primarily focuses on single-family residences.
The firm is composed of a talented team of professionals and is an active member of the AIA. It assists its clients with documentation, mechanical and electrical planning, and construction administration, and it is known for its historic preservations and feasibility studies.
Brian Gille Architects is regarded for its commercial work and has received awards from the Historic District Landmarks Commission, the Vieux Carre Commission, and the Division of Historic Preservation.
Sean Fisher Architect
1811 Hastings Place, New Orleans, LA, 70130
Sean Fisher Architect is a full-service architecture firm and is best known for its residential architecture. It extends its services throughout New Orleans. Its portfolio depicts a great range of modern and contemporary spaces and can take on projects regardless of size or scale. The firm is led by its owner, Sean Fisher. He is a San Francisco Bay Area native who first moved to New Orleans back in 2009 to earn his Masters of Architecture at Tulane University. He also studied in Japan, which has allowed him to further expand his experience and influence the firm’s work. The project depicted below is one of the firm’s best work.
Completed back in the summer of 2017, this project was comp[leted in collaboration with the professionals at Sweeny Restoration and Batture Engineering + Land Surveyors. This project is a three-story row house and was remodeled for a small family. It features a contemporary design, an excellent foyer, and clean finishes.
BY DAY
3718 Government Street BR, LA 70806
Established in 2017m BY DAY is a full-service architectural firm that specializes in custom residential, commercial, and hospitality design. It operates out of its studio in Baton Rouge’s historic Mid-City neighborhood and shares a partnership with the professionals at Tiek and Co. The firm offers its clients comprehensive 3D walkthroughs, innovative techniques, and hand-sketched perspectives. The firm credits its success to its use of great materials and the talent and expertise of its professionals. Hance Day Hughes leads the said team. He is the company’s founder and is licensed in both Louisiana and Texas. He focuses on adaptive reuse projects, extensive residential renovations, hospitality projects, and residential remote retreats and holds a Bachelor of Architecture with an architectural history minor degree from Louisiana State University.
The project above depicts the company’s work on the Camellia Residence. Located in the heart of Baton Rouge, the firm was tasked with its extensive renovation and home addition. The firm’s team united its old and new structures, reworked its original shell, and designed various new millwork.
