Norfolk is known for its historical buildings, from museums to naval bases. The area’s homes reflect this influence, with designs that include Colonial, Craftsman, and other traditional styling. The best residential architects in the region offer straightforward processes for updating these classics and constructing new homes that incorporate timeless modern elements.
These firms have received numerous accolades and certifications that assure clients the highest quality finish, reflecting exceptional experience and process.
Work Program Architects
400 Granby St., #301 EOC Office, Norfolk, VA 23510
Notre Dame graduate Mel Price is the innovative principal leading Work Program Architects (WPA). Working alongside Price is principal Thom White. Since the firm’s inception in 2010, the company has developed numerous residential projects and commercial projects (including for municipal and corporate buildings as well as landmarks). The company’s work process takes place in an open studio environment, allowing a collaborative hive that teems with collaboration. The project below is one of the team’s notable recent projects, featuring the Mowbray Arch residence, which takes inspiration from both traditional and modern designs. Its exterior showcases bricks and black-tiled roofing, giving the home a distinct castle-like appearance, and features an eye-catching spiral staircase that grants access from the ground floor to the rooftop. Outstanding projects of this nature fill the WPA portfolio, earning the company recognition such as a 2020 merit award from the Hampton Roads Association for Commercial Real Estate (HRACE) and the 2020 Dogwood Award.
GARC
500 E Main St., 16th Floor, Norfolk, VA, 23510
The Flux House project, shown below, is an impressive example of the GARC team’s ability to provide seamless design services. The project revolved around updating the floorplan, building a two-story addition, and adding substantial lighting for the homeowner’s art collection. GARC also opened up the wall between the dining room and library to create the first floor’s common area. Under the leadership of Suping Li and Yang Tian, GARC has quickly established itself as one of the area’s most reputable firms, able to leverage the principals’ extensive depth in projects both in the U.S. and across China and Singapore. This young company is now an upcoming industry star, having already garnered a variety of awards, including HRACRE’s 2020 Best Interior.
G.M. Frech and Associates
4356 Bonney Rd., Building 3, Suite 102, Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Since founding GMF + Associates in 1984, principal Gregory Martin Frech has infused inspiration into numerous remodeling and addition projects, across a range of Colonial, Craftsman, and modern homes. Pictured below is one of the firm’s notable historical-residence projects in Norfolk. The Nicholson Residence sits along a cobblestone road and features a striking red-brick exterior. To carry this caliber of style to the interior, the team removed plasterboards, exposing the structure’s beautiful original brick walls and ceiling beams. This warm home now exudes its rich historic relevance both inside and out.
Covington Hendrix Anderson Architects
360 Southport Circle, Suite 104, Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Founded in 1998, the Covington Hendrix Anderson Architects firm has achieved licensing in 22 states and completed projects along the entire eastern seaboard. Under the leadership of Jonathan Covington and Christopher Hendrix, the firm has garnered numerous certifications that aid them in their reach. Both Covington and Hendrix are accredited by the American Institute of Architects, with the LEED accrediting Covington and the NCARB accrediting Hendrix. Pictured below is one of the team’s exceptional remodels. The residence features stunning use of wood on both the exterior and interior, providing a rustic appeal. Other details include stone masonry, black-tiled roofing, white columns and arches, and an eyebrow window that defines the facade. For the interior, the team blended classic wooden furniture with a vibrant modern look that is updated and comfortably charming.
Cox, Kliewer & Company, P.C.
2533 Virginia Beach Blvd., Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Gerald Cox founded the company in 1984. Since its establishment, Cox has been directing and overseeing the firm’s projects. These projects can range between modern, traditional, colonial, craftsman, and lakeside residences. In addition, the firm tackles commercial projects from offices, retail stores, and mixed-use developments. Pictured below is one of the firm’s traditional residential projects featuring a beige exterior, black tiled roofing, and wooden doors. The courtyard outside enhances its facade, which complements the overall theme of the home. Despite its small appearance, it provides an intimate setting for the homeowners. In addition, its design and color schemes create a classic pairing that results in a traditional environment.
