New Jersey is said to be a small state. However, despite its size it is an incredibly varied state. Alongside scenic highways and small towns, the state blends a modern and fast-paced lifestyle with a laid-back lifestyle similar to quiet retirement towns. Because of this diverse type of living, New Jersey has some of the highest residential home markets in the country. Consistently, the state has been named as one of the safest, healthiest, and best places to live in the nation. This reputation has turned into an ideal location for families and now has a collection of beautiful homes created from the minds of artistic architects who have been serving state clients for years, sometimes even decades.
In this list of the best residential architects in New Jersey are professionals who create pieces that highlight the experiential side of architecture, presenting homes that are not only functional but highly distinctive in design and have the potential to become award-winning pieces.
Clawson Architects
511 Valley St., Maplewood, NJ 07040
The tendency to proactively take on challenging residential design projects is one of Clawson Architects’ signature traits. Its establishment in 2000 has brought more elegant and highly detailed homes to New Jersey clients who have been privy to the firm’s varied portfolio of more than 600 beautiful homes. So far, these include pieces that come in the modern, traditional, Mediterranean, and Craftsman styles that have been featured in publications like Architectural Digest and Period Homes Magazine.
The Erwin Park Home for one is a beautiful piece that lights up Montclair with its light paletted shingle facade. This residential home was once a simple cottage built in 1960 but with Clawson Architects, it was transformed into a whimsical two-story craftsman with new design elements like deeper overhangs, double brackets, and curving walls from the gable into the center shed roof. Despite its quiet presence, this residence is an award-winning piece that was given the American Institute of Architects (AIA)’s 2020 Gold Medal for Design Excellence.
Seth A. Leeb Architect
1719 Route 10 East Ste. #100, Parsippany, NJ 07054
From the countryside farmlands to the suburban neighborhoods and city metros, Seth A. Leeb Architects is a familiar name for a large number of New Jersey locals. After its establishment in 1998, the firm has completed a plethora of structures ranging from commercial and industrial facilities and religious structures to residential single-family homes and multi-family complexes. Its large volume of work has been the topic of interest in various publications like Dream Houses of New Jersey, Builder/Architect Magazine, and Old House Interiors Magazine among several others.
This highly motivated firm is well-known for thinking of solutions for zoning restrictions, historical issues, or tight budgets while still completing its collection of traditional and Craftsman homes. Its custom homes, renovations, and tenant fit-outs have been products of its work with clients spanning from Texas, Vermont, and New York.
RHG A+D
491 Bloomfield Ave, Montclair, NJ 07042
Holistic and engaging pieces have been RHG A+D’s bread and butter since its establishment in 2003. Over the years, this boutique firm has completed residential and commercial pieces that adapt to the modern era and bends to the uniqueness of the home or business owner. These pieces have gained the attention of professionals from publications like Lepere, DesignNJ, Kitchen + Bath Ideas, Sophisticated Living, and One Kind Design along with several others. The inspired modern and contemporary designs that have gathered eyes from these publications can be spotted in both the regional and international markets. Currently, RHG A+D’s talented team is guided by the expertise of founder Rachael Grochowski. Prior to founding her own firm, Grochowski’s project scope ranged from five-star restaurants like the Lafite in Kuala Lumpur’s Shangri-La Hotel to the flagship Greenhouse Spa in NYC.
Stonewater Architecture + Interiors
350 Springfield Ave. Ste. #200, Summit, NJ 07901
Stonewater Architecture + Interiors’ portfolio presents an expert touch on high-end custom homes and home renovations. Since its establishment in 2009, Stonewater Architecture + Interiors has expanded its reach from New Jersey and New York all the way to Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and Florida. These areas have been the spots for beautiful residentials that present various designs ranging from the traditional to the Tudor, modern, colonial, and Craftsman styles.
One great example of the firm’s skills is the Tudor-style home in Summit, New Jersey. Unlike the usual Tudor homes, this residence blends this historic style with modernity. High ceiling brings eyes to this floor plan which includes classic embellishments, hand-carved limestone surrounds, timber detailing and leaded windows. This home was awarded AIA New Jersey’s 2012 Silver medal from the organization’s annual design competition.
Beer Architectural Group
112 Town Center Dr., Warren, NJ 07059
Beer Architectural Group’s experience throughout the Northeast and Southwest U.S. is inspired by bold architecture. Established in 1986, Beer Architectural Group has a portfolio of unique contemporary and traditional architecture for both residential and commercial clients. Its work on modern, colonial, Victorian, and traditional homes has been recognized by publications like New York Spaces Magazine, Dream Homes of NJ, New Jersey House & Home, and Forbes.
Among its many works, its most notable one is the castle-like Sommerset house—a French country-style residence in New York. Beer Architectural Group has a long list of beautiful pieces like this and they are all guided by the expertise of Jeffrey Beer. With his passion and discriminating eye for detail, Beer is able to transform unique spaces into the firm’s bold style while still reflecting the client’s preferences and lifestyle.
RS Mannino Architects + Builders
38 Park Ave. 3rd Floor, Rutherford, NJ 07070
Established in 2015, RS Mannino Architects + Builders has a diverse team that balances its strong architecture skills with a strong background in construction. Over the years, it has become a specialist in providing luxury residences, townhouses, and apartments. As a result, the company has been featured in publications like Design NJ and Vue.
Among its many projects, its most notable one is the Cliffside Contemporary in Cliffside Park. This beautiful modern home design combines four different forms: porcelain box, glass boxes, metal roof/facade, and concrete stairs that together highlight panoramic views of the surrounding area. The home’s interiors utilize minimalist design and warm textures–the living room has an open layout, designed with the minimal amount of walls needed to support the floors above and provide enough storage and privacy while creating a breathable space. The central floor meanwhile opens up from the first floor all the way to the roof where a large window invites skylight into the center of the house.
Appel Design Group
220 South Orange Ave. Ste. #100, Livingston, NJ 07039
APPEL DESIGN GROUP, P.A., ARCHITECTS is a second generation firm founded in 1961 to provide comprehensive architectural services to both public and private clients. Our 13 person, award winning firm in Livingston, NJ continues its focus on collaborative architectural design and creative problem solving for a wide range of commercial, institutional, and residential projects. The success of the firm is directly attributable to an emphasis on professional service and expertise in creative problem solving. The principals and staff encourage an interactive design process with the client ensuring a design solution clearly addressing a project’s requirements. ADG is recognized for implementing projects which are both creatively and effectively designed and logically constructed. This strength is continually proven by the large number of clients who return to us with repeat commissions.
ADG has long term experience with a wide range of project types. The firm has a portfolio of successfully completed projects ranging from institutional and commercial, to housing developments, both public and private as well as custom single family new homes and renovations. We also specialize in multi-family and mixed use redevelopment work. Our experience with these diverse projects and building types throughout the tri-state area has afforded us the opportunity to develop familiarity and expertise with code issues on all levels from local/municipal to state and federal agencies having jurisdiction. Appel Design Group has won dozens of Metropolitan Builders Association of New Jersey awards over the past 20 years for renovations, both commercial and residential, as well as new construction for residential and mixed use development projects.
WESKetch Architecture, Inc.
1932 Long Hill Rd., Millington, NJ 07946
Established in 1995, WESKetch Architecture, Inc. is a design-build firm committed to designing healthy environments. With a team of collaborative and highly experienced professionals, the firm has completed an extensive array of commercial and residential projects. In the residential sector, the firm has designed homes in various styles including the traditional, Craftsman, Victorian, modern, farmhouse, and Tudor styles.
One notable work is a Craftsman Farmhouse revival in New Providence. Previously a Cape-Cod style house, this simple residence features a double-gabled front roof and a full porch. Meanwhile, the interiors have hints of exposed brick, black doors that balance out the home’s light palette and blacksmith-finished pendant fixtures. Projects like these have gained the firm attention from publications like The Wall Street Journal, Design NJ, This Old House, and New York Spaces, among many other publications.
Bol Architecture
1127 Watching Ave., Plainfield, NJ 07060
For Bol Architecture, combining tradition with hints of contemporary innovation and technology is the backbone of every project. Since its establishment in 1974, the firm has completed works in various markets including the commercial and residential markets.
For both its new homes and additions with distinctive features, Bol Architecture has been featured in publications like Design NJ, Better Homes and Gardens, and New Jersey Monthly among many other older features that recorded the firm’s skills even years before the present. It has also won the AIA Design Awards’ Gold Medal.
Rosen Kelly Conway Architecture & Design Firm
16 Maple St., Summit, NJ 07901
Rosen Kelly Conway Architecture & Design Firm was established in 1986 and since then, has been known for applying innovative solutions to its architecture and interior design projects. Over the years, its portfolio has flaunted homes in the modern, Victorian, colonial, and Queen styles. Regardless of the project type, the firm is known for respecting historic patterns while thinking of modern solutions.
Among its most notable works is a two-story colonial revival residence built with KDH Home Design. With its light salmon and light blue palette, it is a refreshing piece surrounded by foliage, a perfect home for growing a family. Currently, the firm is managed by Dave Rosen who is praised for being an empathetic leader and business partner who is committed to all aspects of the firm’s architectural work.
PK Architecture LLC
472 Westfield Ave., Clark, NJ 07066
Celebrating its 20th year anniversary last month, September 2021, PK Architecture has achieved major milestones with its award-winning commercial, residential, and healthcare projects in New Jersey. The Principal Paritosh Kumar with 32 years of experience in this field strives to enhance the quality of life while preserving public health, safety, welfare, and staying within client budget, timing, and quality control.
The firm has received several recognitions from Town Mayors, Dignitaries, Local, State, National, and International Private and Public agencies. Check out their exceptional work at www.pkarchitecturellc.com.
Montoro Architectural Group
150 West Saddle River Rd., Saddle River, NJ 07458
Established back in 1986, Montoro Architectural Group has been in the industry long enough to create more than 100 projects. The residential homes dominantly come in modern, traditional, colonial, and classic styles. Some have also been spotted in South Jersey all the way to Northern Bergen county.
Though the firm’s portfolio has a collection of beautiful homes, its most notable one is the colonial ranch home with 3,000 square feet of area. A unique two-story home, it has a 6,800-square-foot addition complete with a lemonade porch. The home’s charm is reminiscent of a traditional home mixed with modern tweaks. Aside from homes like this, Montoro Architectural Group is also reputable for completing more than 100 shopping centers, alongside schools, libraries, and medical facilities, office and apartment buildings.
SOSH Architects
1020 Atlantic Ave., Atlantic City, NJ 08401
SOSH Architects was established back in 1979. Since then, the firm has grown to the point of worldwide recognition that can be most credited to a highly skilled team of design professionals and support staff. During the decades of work, the firm has worked in a plethora of markets which include the gaming, hotel, dining, retail and entertainment, office, educational, and civic markets alongside the residential market. In the residential sector, its portfolio displays a variety of designs from modern to traditional to meet the desired design aesthetic of the client.
Among these homes is a highly distinctive contemporary home in Longport. At 4,500 square feet, it has a bold geometric design clad in contrasting white and wood paneling. Oriented towards the sea, its windows maximize ocean views while showcasing the double-level living space. The interior, meanwhile, has modern sensibility with vibrant art pieces that give the space personality.
Aric Gitomer Architect, LLC
30 Emerson Rd., Morris Plains, NJ 07950
Aric Gitomer Architect is a firm that grew through word-of-mouth advertising. Since its establishment in 1995, it has been known for residential work including residential design, house design, house additions, and residential alterations. These projects were commonly seen presenting styles like the modern, traditional, and colonial styles, and have been the root of the firm’s exposure within different publications like Architect Magazine, Medium, Buzzfeed, and ArchDaily among others. One of its most distinctive projects is the M. Residence in Verona.
Possessing a more open plan after the firm completed its work, it was redesigned for a bigger space. The firm expanded the front of the house and added a 1,000-square-foot second floor. Learn more about them at aricgitomerarchitect.com
The Architect’s Studio
Offices and Design Studios in Spring Lake, Manasquan and Ocean Grove, NJ
The Architect’s Studio was founded in 1992 by Mark Alexander Pavliv, who is celebrating over 50 years of architectural design practice. The firm’s focus has been on residential projects alongside interior and kitchen design work but is best recognized for historic home renovations and landmark restorations throughout the Jersey Shore and the greater Northeast Region.
The Architect’s Studio, under the direction of its founder, has been awarded the AIA New Jersey Architect of the Year. Prior to founding his own firm, Pavliv was associated with Beyer Blinder & Belle—a prestigious New York architectural and planning firm where he worked as senior associate, director of project development and was the recipient of the Presidential Design Achievement Award presented at White House ceremonies. With his experience, the firm has envisioned design solutions that have garnered the attention of publications such as This Old House and Interior Design. Learn more about them at springlakearchitect.com
Max Parangi Architects
7 Daniel Dr., Englewood, NJ 07631
Max Parangi Architects was established in 1994. Though it was first opened as a boutique architectural firm, Max Parangi Architects has grown a reputation for developing architecture of distinction that eventually grew to be recognized by both national and international clients. Over the years, it has completed projects in various markets including the private, commercial, corporate, institutional, and public markets.
Among its most notable residential projects is the Englewood Cliffs estate. One of the neighborhood’s most impressive estates, it has been featured in several magazines. Alongside an incredible great room, it has an open floor plan that highlights cathedral ceilings embellished with 16×16 skylights and exposed stained beams. To highlight its classical design, the interiors have travertine and granite flooring and classic countertops throughout. The facade meanwhile is made of imported Jerusalem stone slabs that pair nicely with a beautiful clay roof. For builds such as these, the firm has been featured in publications such as Westchester Business Journal, New York Spaces, and New Jersey Home & Style among many others.
Vincentsen Blasi Architecture
552 Westfield Ave., Westfield, NJ 07090
Vincentsen Blasi Architecture was established back in 2014. Over the years, it has provided architectural and planning services for clients across New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania. These clients have seen residential projects that dominantly present styles like the modern, traditional, Tudor, and Mediterranean styles. Among its most notable pieces is the Tudor-style home in Mendham, New Jersey. The first floor has a library with a mezzanine level, a study, and an indoor pool. Meanwhile, the lower level has more entertainment spaces like the theater and bowling lanes. The exterior is a blend of slate, granite field stone, and stucco with stained mahogany battens and precast details.
High-end projects like these have gained the firm attention from publications like Westfield Monthly and NJ Magazine. The firm has also gathered awards like the 2018 Harry Devlin Award, the National Historic Trust’s Home of the Year Award, the Great American Home Award, and the Westfield N.J. Historical Preservation Award.
Salustro Partnership Architects
34522 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85266
Founded in 1984, Salustro Partnership Architects is known for presenting homes with fresh designs. Over the years, the firm has completed an impressive range of home styles such as modern, beach house, traditional, and European styles. With sensitivity to different climates, the firm is known for embracing the opportunity to design homes for challenging environments such as hills, shorelines of northeastern states, the low country, South Florida ocean fronts, and New York city avenues.
Among its different projects, its most notable home is the Mountain Ridge house. With 26-mile views, the residence is a highly preferred piece and has been featured in publications like Design NJ.
Daniel Scott Mascione Architect, LLC
1409 New Rd., Northfield, NJ 08225
Daniel Scott Mascione Architect’s 25 years of experience started off with new construction, additions and renovations for the residential and commercial sectors. Over the years, this work has extended to various other sectors including the medical, educational, religious, retail and storage sectors among many others.
Regardless of the project, the firm has demonstrated sharp skills in all of the services the team provides: planning, occupancy, and more.
Midouhas Architects
127 W. Kimberly Ave. Brant Beach, Long Beach Island, NJ 08008
Midouhas Architects specializes in crafting cutting-edge modern homes. Since its establishment in 1984, the firm’s skills have been recognized in over 300 projects. Among these 300, the firm has worked on churches, private schools, governmental projects, and commercial projects alongside its residential works. Dominantly, these homes present the modern, contemporary, seaside, and beach house styles—designs that accurately encompass a vacation home’s luxury aura.
Currently, the firm is managed by owner Stephen Midouhas who is a professional planner with international experience. As a professional who enjoys learning, Midouhas has earned degrees in Environmental Design and Architecture, and has earned a National Council of Architectural Review Boards (NCARB) certification. Combining his skills and years of experience, Midouhas Architects has created projects that have been featured in magazines like The Philadelphia Inquirer, The New York Times, and Philadelphia Style Magazine among many other well-known publications.
