Architecture is the intricate blend of creativity and functionality, shaping the spaces where we live, work, and play. It serves as a powerful medium of expression, reflecting cultural values and societal aspirations while responding to the environment and human needs. Every structure tells a story, from towering skyscrapers that redefine city skylines to intimate homes that nurture personal connections. The design process is a thoughtful exploration of materials, light, and form where innovative solutions meet aesthetic vision, resulting in spaces that inspire and endure. Through architecture, we create not just buildings but the very fabric of our communities, enhancing our everyday experiences and shaping the world for future generations.
"A design isn’t finished until someone is using it." —Brenda Laurel
Here is the list of the best architects and architecture firms in Ann Arbor, Michigan, whose works we admire.
1. Angelini & Associates Architects | Architecture Firm in Ann Arbor, Michigan
Address: 200 Huronview Blvd, Ann Arbor, MI 48103, United States
Angelini & Associates Architects, founded by Bradford and Theresa Angelini, is an award-winning architectural firm based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, known for its innovative and high-quality design solutions. With over 30 years of experience and over 450 completed projects, they specialize in both new construction and renovations that span a wide range of styles, tailored to meet the specific needs of their clients. The firm's collaborative approach integrates the insights of the entire team, ensuring that every design is carefully crafted with attention to sustainability, site context, and the clients' preferences. Angelini & Associates are particularly skilled in energy-efficient and sustainable designs, with expertise in LEED certification. They offer a wide array of services, including custom homes, remodeling, historic building conservation, and green building practices.
Check out Notable Projects and Portfolio: By Angelini & Associates Architects.
2. Architectural Resource | Architect in Ann Arbor, Michigan
Address: 2301 Platt Rd. Suite 30, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, United States
Architectural Resource is a design firm based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, specializing in custom homes, sustainable design, and historic renovations. With a focus on green building practices, their projects are known for their transformative quality, creating homes that are both aesthetically pleasing and environmentally responsible. The firm is recognized for incorporating energy-efficient technologies and sustainable materials into their designs, such as the award-winning LEED Platinum Nautilus House. Additionally, their work often includes whole-house remodels that blend contemporary modernism with traditional elements, preserving the integrity of historic properties while updating them for modern living.
Check out Notable Projects and Portfolio: By Architectural Resource.
3. Chris Allen Architect | Architecture Firm in Ann Arbor, Michigan
Address: 706 Hiscock St., Ann Arbor, MI 48103, United States
Chris Allen Architect, located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is a design firm specializing in custom residential and commercial architecture. With over three decades of experience, Chris Allen brings a deep understanding of architectural principles and a client-focused approach to each project. Known for his ability to blend form with function, Allen creates spaces that are both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional. His firm works on a wide range of projects, from modern homes and lakefront properties to mixed-use developments. With a commitment to sustainability, Chris Allen Architect integrates energy-efficient solutions and environmentally conscious materials into every design. Whether it's a renovation or a brand-new build, the firm’s expertise in zoning, regulatory compliance, and project management ensures smooth and successful project execution.
Check out Notable Projects and Portfolio: By Chris Allen Architect.
4. Hobbs + Black Architects | Architecture Firm in Ann Arbor, Michigan
Address: 100 N State St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, United States
Hobbs + Black Architects is a Michigan-based firm known for its diverse and impactful projects, spanning sectors like civic, healthcare, education, and mixed-use developments. Their designs emphasize functionality and aesthetic harmony, aiming to create spaces that inspire and foster connection. A notable example is their transformation of the historic Eaton Building into Liberty Lofts in Ann Arbor, where they successfully blended contemporary loft living with the building’s industrial heritage. The firm also takes pride in its deep engagement with clients, ensuring that each design solution is personalized and responsive to the unique needs of the project. From large-scale corporate campuses to residential revitalizations, Hobbs + Black creates environments that balance innovation with practicality.
Check out Notable Projects and Portfolio: By Hobbs + Black Architects.
5. HopkinsBurns Design Studio | Architecture Firm in Ann Arbor, Michigan
Address: 113 S 4th Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, United States
HopkinsBurns Design Studio, based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is a firm known for its innovative approach to architecture that blends respect for historical preservation with forward-thinking design. Their work focuses on creating spaces that are both livable and inspiring, emphasizing a commitment to sustainability through the adaptive reuse of existing buildings. The studio has worked on a wide range of projects, from restoring historic landmarks to designing new, context-sensitive developments in urban neighborhoods. Their philosophy is centered around creating engaging places that honor both heritage and the future, making them a vital part of the communities they serve. A standout example of their work is the restoration and expansion of the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, where they’ve successfully navigated the challenges of preserving a historic structure while adding modern elements that align with the hotel’s legacy.
Check out Notable Projects and Portfolio: HopkinsBurns Design Studio.
6. Molly Bachelor Architect | Architecture in Ann Arbor, Michigan
Address: 823 Miner St., Ann Arbor, MI 48103, United States
Molly Bachelor Architect is an architectural practice based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, specializing in residential design. The firm focuses on updating older homes to incorporate modern functionality while preserving their character. Molly Bachelor’s approach includes integrating energy-efficient solutions, such as those aligned with Energy Star, Passive House, and LEED standards, for sustainable living. She works closely with clients from the initial concept through to construction, ensuring that design solutions are elegant and functional. In addition to home remodels, the firm also designs new homes on previously developed sites, offering a balance of modern style and respect for the environment.
Check out Notable Projects and Portfolio: By Molly Bachelor Architect.
7. O|X Studio | Architecture Firm in Ann Arbor, Michigan
Address: 2373 Oak Valley Dr. #180, Ann Arbor, MI 48103, United States
O|X Studio, based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, has built a strong reputation since its founding in 2002 for delivering highly integrated, innovative, and imaginative architectural designs. Their approach focuses on creating functional, efficient spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also pragmatic, reflecting a deep commitment to thoughtful, holistic solutions. The firm works across various sectors, blending creativity with practicality to produce designs that address both the immediate needs and long-term goals of their clients. O|X Studio’s work is characterized by a strong focus on collaboration and engagement, ensuring each project reflects a customized approach, which has garnered them praise for their responsiveness to community and client input.
Check out Notable Projects and Portfolio: O|X Studio.
8. Quinn Evans Architects | Architecture Firms in Ann Arbor, Michigan
Address: 219 N Main St., Ann Arbor, MI 48104, United States
Quinn Evans Architects is renowned for its commitment to architectural excellence, particularly in the realm of historic preservation, sustainable design, and urban revitalization. With a portfolio that spans iconic projects such as the Michigan State Capitol and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, the firm has built a strong reputation for enhancing the cultural and historical significance of buildings while optimizing their functional and aesthetic qualities. Their philosophy emphasizes sustainability through adaptive reuse, believing that "the greenest building is one that is already built." Quinn Evans balances this with an approach to urban regeneration that often includes deeply collaborative efforts to integrate historical insights with modern design needs. The firm has been recognized for its innovative work across various sectors, including civic, educational, commercial, and mixed-use developments.
Check out Notable Projects and Portfolio: By Quinn Evans Architects.
9. SmithGroup | Architecture Firm in Ann Arbor, Michigan
Address: 201 Depot St. #100, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, United States
SmithGroup is a renowned architectural and planning firm that combines design innovation with sustainability across a variety of sectors. With a diverse portfolio that includes cultural landmarks such as the National Museum of African American History and Culture and the Museum of the Bible, the firm is known for its commitment to historical preservation, cutting-edge sustainability, and community-centric design. Their projects, like the DC Water Headquarters and Chandler City Hall, demonstrate their ability to create functional, green, and visually striking spaces that integrate modern technology with environmental responsibility. With a focus on adaptive reuse and environmentally conscious building techniques, SmithGroup has become a leader in creating spaces that not only meet but exceed the needs of their communities.
Check out Notable Projects and Portfolio: By SmithGroup.
10. Steven Sivak Architects | Architecture Firm in Ann Arbor, Michigan
Address: 1158 Pomona Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48103, United States
Steven Sivak Architects, based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is a firm known for its innovative and functional design solutions. Their portfolio includes a wide range of residential and non-residential projects, with a focus on both contemporary and unique architectural forms. Notable projects such as the DLB Boathouse and Holtzman Residence highlight the firm’s commitment to exceptional craftsmanship and design. Steven Sivak Architects places emphasis on creating spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also perfectly suited to the needs of their clients, ensuring both practicality and beauty in each project.
Check out Notable Projects and Portfolio: Steven Sivak Architects.
11. SYNECDOCHE | Architect in Ann Arbor, Michigan
Address: 1342 N Main St. #11, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, United States
SYNECDOCHE is an architecture and design studio co-founded by Lisa Sauve and Adam Smith. The firm is based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and specializes in diverse design services, including architecture, interior design, custom furniture, and installations. Known for their bold approach, the studio has crafted spaces for tech offices, restaurants, breweries, and co-working spaces, among others. Their work is grounded in the belief that spaces should reflect and support the identity of their users, with a focus on creating environments that inspire creativity and community. The firm also operates a non-profit, Do Good Work, dedicated to transforming innovative ideas into impactful spaces for startups and small businesses.
Check out Notable Projects and Portfolio: By SYNECDOCHE.
12. Wright Street Design Group | Architect in Ann Arbor, Michigan
Address: 3003 Washtenaw Ave., Ann Arbor, MI 48104, United States
Wright Street Design Group is also committed to building homes that harmonize with their surroundings, ensuring long-term sustainability through green architecture practices. The firm’s founder, Stanley Monroe, leads a team that prioritizes custom solutions, blending aesthetics with function and environmental sensitivity. Their design approach focuses on efficiency and the use of natural materials. Notably, Wright Street Design Group emphasizes a collaborative process, working closely with clients to bring their visions to life while maintaining a high standard of craftsmanship.
Check out Notable Projects and Portfolio: By Wright Street Design Group.