If you’re planning a new project, thinking about a career in architecture, or just wondering who’s responsible for the buildings that define our cities, it’s worth knowing the best architecture firms behind the work. Names like Gensler, SOM, and BIG have played a significant role in shaping everything from landmark office towers to the public spaces that bring communities together. Their work spans airports, hospitals, stadiums, and mixed-use neighborhoods, helping define how we live, work, and gather.
In this guide, we’re covering the 10 best architecture firms in the US, what projects they specialize in, and what makes each firm unique.
10. NBBJ
- CEO: Steve McConnell
- Founded: 1943
- Project list: nbbj.com/work
- Email: info@nbbj.com
- Phone: (206) 223-5555
NBBJ is a Seattle-based global architecture and design firm known for its forward-thinking, people-centered approach. They design spaces with both creativity and people in mind, aiming to support well-being and connection. NBBJ has worked on large-scale campuses for companies like Microsoft and Amazon, and has helped redefine healthcare environments through projects such as NYU Langone Health and Stanford Hospital. NBBJ also stands out for its use of research, data, and emerging technologies to design for both current and future needs.
9. Gensler
- CEO: Andy Cohen & Diane Hoskins (Co-CEOs)
- Founded: 1965
- Project list: gensler.com/projects
- Email: media@gensler.com
- Phone: (415) 433-3700
Gensler is a global powerhouse in architecture and design, with more than 50 offices across the world and a reputation for shaping cities at every scale. Gensler’s work spans a variety of sectors, from commercial real estate and education to transportation and hospitality. Some of their most recognizable projects include the soaring Shanghai Tower and the headquarters of Facebook in Menlo Park, both of which are great examples of the firm’s global reach and design versatility. Gensler is also known for its leadership in workplace design and commitment to sustainability, helping clients reimagine how space supports people and performance. With its experience and diverse projects, it’s easily one of the best architecture firms in the US.
8. SOM (Skidmore, Owings & Merrill)
- CEO: Laura Ettelman (Managing Partner)
- Founded: 1936
- Project list: som.com/projects
- Email: info@som.com
- Phone: (312) 360-4560
SOM is one of the most influential architecture firms in the world, with a legacy built on designing some of the tallest and most recognizable buildings on the planet. Based in Chicago, SOM has worked on buildings such as One World Trade Center in New York and the Burj Khalifa in Dubai. The firm is also known for its focus on sustainability and city-scale planning. Many of their projects blend advanced engineering with green building to support long-term growth and livability in urban areas.
7. HOK
- CEO: Bill Hellmuth (deceased in 2023; current leadership includes board executives)
- Founded: 1955
- Project list: hok.com/projects
- Email: info@hok.com
- Phone: (314) 421-2000
HOK is a global design firm with experience in architecture, planning, engineering, and interior design. The company is known for taking on complex, large-scale projects that focus on sustainability and user experience. Some of HOK’s most well-known projects include the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta and the Salt Lake City International Airport. Their work focuses on blending thoughtful design with real-world needs, resulting in spaces that are creative, efficient, and built with the environment in mind.
6. Perkins&Will
- CEO: Phil Harrison
- Founded: 1935
- Project list: perkinswill.com/work
- Email: info@perkinswill.com
- Phone: (312) 755-0770
Perkins&Will takes a research-driven approach to design, combining creative thinking with scientific insight. The firm works across several sectors, including education, healthcare, civic, and commercial spaces. Their portfolio focuses on sustainability and equity in many of their projects, often using approaches like biophilic design and regenerative planning. You can see this in places like the Chase Center in San Francisco and Bridgepoint Active Healthcare in Toronto, both of which are great examples of the firm’s forward-thinking design values. The firm is also recognized for making its research and resources publicly available, helping foster more collaboration and openness in the industry.
5. HDR, Inc.
- CEO: John Henderson
- Founded: 1917
- Project list: hdrinc.com/portfolio
- Email: info@hdrinc.com
- Phone: (402) 399-1000
HDR started in engineering but has grown into a leading name in American architecture, especially in healthcare, science, and civic work. The firm’s design team relies on research and close collaboration with clients to create spaces that are both functional and forward-thinking. Projects like the UC San Diego Jacobs Medical Center and the U.S. Embassy in London show how HDR handles complex work with a sharp eye for detail and a focus on quality. The firm has a strong reputation for delivering buildings that meet strict standards for safety, performance, and environmental impact.
4. HKS Architects
- CEO: Dan Noble
- Founded: 1939
- Project list: hksinc.com/what-we-do
- Email: info@hksinc.com
- Phone: (214) 969-5599
HKS is an interdisciplinary design firm that brings a refined, hospitality-inspired approach to projects across healthcare, sports, and commercial sectors. HKS designs with people in mind, aiming to create spaces that look impressive and work well for the communities they serve. Their recent work includes SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, a major player in today’s sports architecture, and the New Parkland Hospital in Dallas, built to improve both care and comfort for patients. The firm is also recognized for its investment in research and its commitment to sustainability and social impact making it one of the best architecture firms in the US.
3. ZGF Architects
- CEO: Sharron van der Meulen (Managing Partner)
- Founded: 1942
- Project list: zgf.com/work
- Email: info@zgf.com
- Phone: (503) 224-3860
ZGF Architects is a Portland-based firm known for its commitment to sustainable, human-focused design. They take on projects in a range of sectors, from healthcare and science to transportation and commercial development. Their approach centers on creating spaces that connect people to their surroundings. Notable projects, such as the NIH Porter Neuroscience Research Center and the Stanford Central Energy Facility, reflect their strong focus on sustainability and smart, efficient design. ZGF often brings nature into its urban projects, aiming to create spaces that support well-being, creativity, and long-term environmental goals.
2. DLR Group
- CEO: Steven McKay
- Founded: 1966
- Project list: dlrgroup.com/work
- Email: info@dlrgroup.com
- Phone: (402) 393-4100
DLR Group is a multidisciplinary design firm with a strong focus on integrated, performance-driven architecture. Because DLR Group is employee-owned, collaboration is a key part of how they work. The firm takes on projects in education, civic, cultural, and justice spaces, always with an eye toward sustainability. Their design process is grounded in research and built to help clients achieve both practical and environmental goals over the long term. Notable projects include the restoration and modernization of the Oregon State Capitol and the inclusive, community-focused design of the Los Angeles LGBT Center. DLR Group is also known for its advocacy in equity and environmental justice within the built environment.
1. Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG – US Office)
- CEO: Bjarke Ingels
- Founded: 2005 (Copenhagen), 2010 (New York office)
- Project list: big.dk/#projects
- Email: info@big.dk
- Phone: (212) 206-6772
Bjarke Ingels Group, or BIG, is world renowed and lands in our number one spot as the best architecture firm in the US. BIG brings a fresh approach to architecture through its New York office. The firm is known for imaginative designs that still serve a practical purpose, often finding new ways for buildings to support both people and the planet. Their U.S. portfolio includes striking projects like The Spiral at Hudson Yards and the VIA 57 West tower, which combines a pyramid shape with modern residential living. BIG is also exploring the future of sustainable design with large-scale projects like Google’s Mountain View campus, developed in partnership with Heatherwick Studio. Their work continues to challenge norms and inspire new possibilities in urban development.
Bottom line
Whether they’ve been around for generations or are relatively new to the scene, this list features some of the best architecture firms in the US helping shape what the built environment looks like across the country. Many are driving important conversations around sustainability, equity, and how thoughtful design can improve daily life and strengthen communities.
Architecture in the U.S. is going through a noticeable transformation. While projects in healthcare, education, and infrastructure continue to drive demand, more firms are turning their attention to sustainability and resilience. Designers are thinking more carefully about how buildings impact the environment, looking at ways to reduce energy use, choose better materials, and build for long-term climate challenges.
Whether you’re a student exploring how to become an architect, a professional comparing the architect vs. engineer career path, or looking for the best 3D modeling architecture software, there’s no shortage of innovation and inspiration in the industry today.
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