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© Studio Granda
CategoriesArchitecture

10 Best Architecture Firms in Iceland

By Zarkon Group,

These annual rankings were last updated on March 29th, 2024. Want to see your firm on next year’s list? Continue reading for more on how you can improve your studio’s ranking.

Land of breathtaking terrains and jarring winds, Iceland is known for its magical landscapes filled with lava fields, fjords, and verdant hills. Located south of the Arctic Circle, Iceland’s rugged landscape is firmly tied to its built environment, which is fused with a deeply functional architectural language. One of the nation’s earlier building traditions is the turf home. Covered with an exterior turf shell, they simultaneously insulate the home and camouflage into the environment.

The nation’s architecture is equally attributed to its Scandinavian neighbors. In the 18th century, Danish architects introduced gable-fronted structures and stone construction to Iceland, which led to a boom in masonry craft and stone creations. Other foreign influences, such as Classical ideas and Swiss designs, were also imported. Notwithstanding, Icelandic design remained practical. In the 30s, functionalism found its way north and found fertile soil in Iceland.

Following Iceland’s independence from Denmark, modernism began to inform the nation’s architecture. Today’s Icelandic designers admirably balance past and present. Fusing past traditions with modern innovations, contemporary Icelandic architecture remains beautiful, functional and deeply connected to its unrestrained climatic conditions.

With so many architecture firms to choose from, it’s challenging for clients to identify the industry leaders that will be an ideal fit for their project needs. Fortunately, Architizer is able to provide guidance on the top design firms in Iceland based on more than a decade of data and industry knowledge.

How are these architecture firms ranked?

The following ranking has been created according to key statistics that demonstrate each firm’s level of architectural excellence. The following metrics have been accumulated to establish each architecture firm’s ranking, in order of priority:

  • The number of A+Awards won (2013 to 2024)
  • The number of A+Awards finalists (2013 to 2024)
  • The number of projects selected as “Project of the Day” (2009 to 2024)
  • The number of projects selected as “Featured Project” (2009 to 2024)
  • The number of projects uploaded to Architizer (2009 to 2024)

Each of these metrics is explained in more detail at the foot of this article. This ranking list will be updated annually, taking into account new achievements of Iceland architecture firms throughout the year.

Without further ado, here are the 10 best architecture firms in Iceland:

10. Studio Granda

© Studio Granda

© Studio Granda

Studio Granda was established in Reykjavík by Margret Harðardóttir & Steve Christer in 1987. The practice is based in Reykjavik and works on wide range of commercial and private projects.

Some of Studio Granda’s most prominent projects include:

  • B14, Iceland
  • H71a, Hverfisgata, Reykjavík, Iceland

The following statistics helped Studio Granda achieve 10th place in the 10 Best Architecture Firms in Iceland:

Featured Projects1
Total Projects2

9. Teiknistofan Tröð

© Teiknistofan Tröð

© Teiknistofan Tröð

Beauty | Permanence | Utility are the main values of the company, which operates in the spirit of sustainable development.
Each project is one of a kind where local conditions and activities play a key role in the design process. Emphasis is placed on the architecture and technical aspects, utility and efficiency in implementation and operation.
Teiknistofan Tröð provides services and consultation on architecture and planning to public authorities, businesses and individuals.

Some of Teiknistofan Tröð’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Teiknistofan Tröð achieve 9th place in the 10 Best Architecture Firms in Iceland:

Featured Projects1
Total Projects3

8. Yrki architects

© Yrki architects

© Yrki architects

Yrki was founded in 1997 by Ásdís Helga Ágústsdóttir and Sólveig Berg after they had won the 1st prize in an invited competition for Nesstofa, a museum of medical heritage in Seltjarnarnes. Today, a cohesive team of talented designers in the fields of architecture, urban planning and landscape architecture works at Yrki architects. We put our emphasis on meeting our clients’ requests in a professional and viable manner.

Yrki architects offer a wide range of services in the fields of architecture, urban planning and landscape architecture. Our wide expertise of architecture and design reflects in a holistic approach to all our projects where the environment, context and scale shape the design. The name Yrki has a specific meaning in Icelandic.

Some of Yrki architects’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Yrki architects achieve 8th place in the 10 Best Architecture Firms in Iceland:

A+Awards Finalist1
Featured Projects1
Total Projects1

7. BASALT Architects

© Guðmundur Benediktsson

© Guðmundur Benediktsson

Basalt Architects is an architectural office established in 2009 in Reykjavik, Iceland. Led by partners Sigríður Sigþórsdóttir, Hrólfur Karl Cela and Marcos Zotes, Basalt’s dynamic team of architects and designers bring together a rich and extensive architectural design and construction experience in Iceland and abroad. Committed to architecture in concept, design and execution, Basalt provides high quality work and services on projects of different content, expression and scale.

Basalt Architects cover a broad spectrum of architectural design services including wellness, office, commercial, residential, leisure, heritage, retail, cultural, exhibition and urban design projects. Extracting what is unique in each project from an environmental, geographic, cultural and historic context is at the core of Basalt´s design approach.

Some of BASALT Architects’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped BASALT Architects achieve 7th place in the 10 Best Architecture Firms in Iceland:

A+Awards Winner1
Total Projects3

6. Batteriid Archtects

© Henning Larsen, Batteriid Archtects

© Henning Larsen, Batteriid Archtects

Batteríið Architects Ltd. is a consulting architectural firm, founded in 1988, with a broad range of experience in building design and planning. The company benefits from highly trained and well educated employees that emphasize innovative ideas and creative design solutions.
The company’s expertise is a comprehensive knowledge of adjusting buildings to local environment and climate, Universal Design as well Occupational Safety & Health.

Some of Batteriid Archtects’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Batteriid Archtects achieve 6th place in the 10 Best Architecture Firms in Iceland:

A+Awards Winner1
Featured Projects1
Total Projects1

5. Okkarheima / ANNA Landscape architect

© ESJA Architecture, Arkibygg arkitektar, Okkarheima / ANNA Landscape architect, exa nordic

© ESJA Architecture, Arkibygg arkitektar, Okkarheima / ANNA Landscape architect, exa nordic

ANNA is an experienced landscape architect with demonstrated competence in project management. Anna has broad design experience from designing urban and rural spaces to master planning of larger areas. Anna has a passion for creating livable outdoor spaces that enhance public life.

Some of Okkarheima / ANNA Landscape architect’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Okkarheima / ANNA Landscape architect achieve 5th place in the 10 Best Architecture Firms in Iceland:

A+Awards Winner1
Featured Projects2
Total Projects1

4. arkibúllan arkitektar

© arkibúllan arkitektar

© arkibúllan arkitektar

Arkibüllan, which has recently changed its name to A arkitektar, was founded in 1999 by Hólmfríðar Ósmann Jónsdóttir and Hrefna Bjargar Þorsteinsdóttir. The work of A arkitekta / Arkibüllun is often shaped by nature and the surrounding environment. The work on each project begins with a search for clues in as many places as possible: in the landscape, human life and one’s own mind. The clues then become the power generator that leads the work from the first sketch to the fully formed structure.

Some of arkibúllan arkitektar’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped arkibúllan arkitektar achieve 4th place in the 10 Best Architecture Firms in Iceland:

Featured Projects3
Total Projects2

3. EON architecture / Architect – Designer

© EON architecture / Architect - Designer

© EON architecture / Architect – Designer

EON architecture is strongly related to the layers of information connected to each project we design and we build. Each project is a manifesto and a tribute to its site, to its role and to its owner/the client. EON emphasizes the important threads between architecture and environmental issues. The goal is to combine contemporary architecture with environmental issues in relation to style and history. Thus being related to the distinctions and the history in general in our projects is of great importance to us. EON architecture represent the creativity and design of fabulous spaces and built structures and intends to contribute high quality architecture worldwide.

Some of EON architecture / Architect – Designer’s most prominent projects include:

  • House of Shapes, Kopavogur, Iceland
  • Mt.Hekla Volcanic Museum, Rangárþing ytra, Iceland
  • East Street – Offices of Parliament, Reykjavík, Iceland
  • Grandagarður 8, downtown Old Harbour, Reykjavik, Iceland
  • The Pool of Vikings, Iceland

The following statistics helped EON architecture / Architect – Designer achieve 3rd place in the 10 Best Architecture Firms in Iceland:

Featured Projects3
Total Projects11

2. PK Arkitektar

© Rafael Pinho

© Rafael Pinho

PK Arkitektar is an Icelandic architecture and design studio. Its founder, architect Palmar Kristmundsson, draws his inspiration from Iceland’s stunning natural landscape and from his encounters with vernacular Japanese architecture. Over the years, they have developed an exceptional team of architects from around the world. PK’s clients and staff are committed to experimentation and the quest for exciting architectural experiences. Each of PK’s projects is designed to inspire a new sense of place through its clarity of design and unexpected details.

Some of PK Arkitektar’s most prominent projects include:

  • Árborg, Selfoss, Iceland
  • Frístundahús, Brekkuskógur, South, Iceland
  • Turninn, Reykjavík, Iceland
  • BHM, Brekkuskógur, South, Iceland
  • B25, Garðabær, Iceland

The following statistics helped PK Arkitektar achieve 2nd place in the 10 Best Architecture Firms in Iceland:

A+Awards Winner1
A+Awards Finalist2
Featured Projects3
Total Projects5

1. ARKÍS Arkitektar

© ARKÍS Arkitektar

© ARKÍS Arkitektar

ARKÍS is an awarded, progressive architecture firm that has been in operation since 1997. ARKÍS’ works and projects span all levels of architecture, planning and design. ARKÍS has extensive experience with projects in planning and architecture, and from the firm’s founding, ARKÍS has executed numerous large and complex projects, both in Iceland and internationally. That experience, in addition to cross-disciplinary specializations, international high level education and experience of the office’s employees make the firm well equipped to address all projects in architecture, planning and design.

Some of ARKÍS Arkitektar’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped ARKÍS Arkitektar achieve 1st place in the 10 Best Architecture Firms in Iceland:

Featured Projects6
Total Projects7

Why Should I Trust Architizer’s Ranking?

With more than 30,000 architecture firms and over 130,000 projects within its database, Architizer is proud to host the world’s largest online community of architects and building product manufacturers. Its celebrated A+Awards program is also the largest celebration of architecture and building products, with more than 400 jurors and hundreds of thousands of public votes helping to recognize the world’s best architecture each year.

Architizer also powers firm directories for a number of AIA (American Institute of Architects) Chapters nationwide, including the official directory of architecture firms for AIA New York.

An example of a project page on Architizer with Project Award Badges highlighted

A Guide to Project Awards

The blue “+” badge denotes that a project has won a prestigious A+Award as described above. Hovering over the badge reveals details of the award, including award category, year, and whether the project won the jury or popular choice award.

The orange Project of the Day and yellow Featured Project badges are awarded by Architizer’s Editorial team, and are selected based on a number of factors. The following factors increase a project’s likelihood of being featured or awarded Project of the Day status:

  • Project completed within the last 3 years
  • A well written, concise project description of at least 3 paragraphs
  • Architectural design with a high level of both functional and aesthetic value
  • High quality, in focus photographs
  • At least 8 photographs of both the interior and exterior of the building
  • Inclusion of architectural drawings and renderings
  • Inclusion of construction photographs

There are 7 Projects of the Day each week and a further 31 Featured Projects. Each Project of the Day is published on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Stories, while each Featured Project is published on Facebook. Each Project of the Day also features in Architizer’s Weekly Projects Newsletter and shared with 170,000 subscribers.

 

 

We’re constantly look for the world’s best architects to join our community. If you would like to understand more about this ranking list and learn how your firm can achieve a presence on it, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at editorial@architizer.com.

Reference

© MUA Architecture & Placemaking
CategoriesArchitecture

10 Best Architecture Firms in Georgia

By Zarkon Group,

Georgia is located between Eastern Europe and Western Asia, nestled between the Caucasus Mountains and the Black Sea. Being a transcontinental country, Georgia’s architecture reflects many civilization influences, with the most notable period being the medieval era. One example is the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral in Mtskheta, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its exquisite frescoes and architectural details. Throughout history, Georgia has been home to many visionary architects. From the intricate stone carvings of the Vardzia cave monastery to the elegant design of the Tbilisi Opera House, these masterpieces continue to inspire awe and admiration. Among the luminaries of Georgian architecture are Victor Djorbenadze, known for his pioneering work in modernist architecture, and Zurab Tsereteli, whose monumental sculptures and architectural projects have earned international acclaim.

At the start of the 21st century, after the Rose Revolution, which marked the end of the country’s Soviet era, Georgia’s architectural landscape changed dramatically. Especially, Tbilisi, the Georgian capital, became the epicenter for avant-garde architecture. An array of new public architecture projects, such as the Peace Bridge by Michele De Lucchi and the House of Parliament by Alberto Domingo Cabo, introduced new ideas, forms and materials, eventually leading to a modern Georgina architecture that reflected a fusion of global trends and local identity. Nowadays, Georgia continues to evolve with several infrastructural projects and numerous social housing schemes being implemented. Nevertheless, its most contemporary architectural “landmarks” are a series of public buildings, such as the Meama factory by Giorgi Khmaladze, which have emerged through carefully crafted designs, site-specific considerations and environmental awareness.

With so many architecture firms to choose from, it’s challenging for clients to identify the industry leaders that will be an ideal fit for their project needs. Fortunately, Architizer is able to provide guidance on the top design firms in Georgia based on more than a decade of data and industry knowledge.

How are these architecture firms ranked?

The following ranking has been created according to key statistics that demonstrate each firm’s level of architectural excellence. The following metrics have been accumulated to establish each architecture firm’s ranking, in order of priority:

  • The number of A+Awards won (2013 to 2024)
  • The number of A+Awards finalists (2013 to 2024)
  • The number of projects selected as “Project of the Day” (2009 to 2024)
  • The number of projects selected as “Featured Project” (2009 to 2024)
  • The number of projects uploaded to Architizer (2009 to 2024)

Each of these metrics is explained in more detail at the foot of this article. This ranking list will be updated annually, taking into account new achievements of Georgia architecture firms throughout the year.

Without further ado, here are the 10 best architecture firms in Georgia:

10. MUA Architecture & Placemaking

© MUA Architecture & Placemaking

© MUA Architecture & Placemaking

MUA are a Tbilisi-based architectural office with more than 10 years of experience in architecture, urban and spatial design. Their work is a combination of constant dialogue with the environment, versatile exploration methods, a creative approach and in-depth technical knowledge. The team believes in lateral thinking, which provokes the ability to perceive patterns that are not obvious. Their aim is to produce work beneficial to society. With thorough thought, human-centered and bespoke architectural solutions and design, MUA transform spaces into places.

Some of MUA Architecture & Placemaking’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped MUA Architecture & Placemaking achieve 10th place in the 10 Best Architecture Firms in Georgia:

Featured Projects1
Total Projects2

9. AD1369105

© AD1369105

© AD1369105

The bureau designs buildings and facilities with functions and types. By resolving architectural tasks of different scale, we are able to create high quality urban environment.

Some of AD1369105’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped AD1369105 achieve 9th place in the 10 Best Architecture Firms in Georgia:

Featured Projects1
Total Projects4

8. SEDUM.ARCHITECTS

© SEDUM.ARCHITECTS

© SEDUM.ARCHITECTS

SEDUM. ARCHITECTS focuses on works at the intersection of architecture, environment and new technology.

Some of SEDUM.ARCHITECTS’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped SEDUM.ARCHITECTS achieve 8th place in the 10 Best Architecture Firms in Georgia:

Featured Projects1
Total Projects4

7. artytechs

© artytechs

© artytechs

Artytechs was founded in 2014. Since its establishment, the company has collaborated closely with both the public and private sectors, resulting in the successful implementation of numerous projects. The name of Artytechs has become synonymous with international architectural excellence, as the company has received multiple prestigious awards. Artytechs is known for its ability to create intricate and imaginative projects that surpass traditional architectural approaches.

Some of artytechs’s most prominent projects include:

  • Eliava Park, Tbilisi, Georgia
  • Multi Functional Complex, Tbilisi, Georgia
  • Multi-functional complex at Mtatsminda, Tbilisi, Georgia
  • Hotel “Museum”, Tbilisi, Georgia
  • Individual House , Saguramo, Georgia

The following statistics helped artytechs achieve 7th place in the 10 Best Architecture Firms in Georgia:

Featured Projects1
Total Projects7

6. SPECTRUM

© SPECTRUM

© SPECTRUM

Founded in 2014, Spectrum represents fully integrated design build firm based in Tbilisi Georgia, operating in fields of architecture, interiors, master planning that design and builds unique and bespoke projects. Company specializes in providing services in commercial and residential sectors. Team of talented designers, architects, builders and analysts strive to bring Client’s ideas into reality in a most efficient and innovative ways, preserving the environment and always considering the local tradition and context.

Consolidated group of professionals committed to create and deliver world class solutions enriched with local traditions, context and latest technology. We aim to create long lasting values that embrace environmental impact, social and economical platforms with global reach and local context. We relish the challenges inherent across a wide range of work, engaging our expertise and agility to deliver lasting, meaningful design that brings value and contributes towards healthier planet.

Some of SPECTRUM’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped SPECTRUM achieve 6th place in the 10 Best Architecture Firms in Georgia:

Featured Projects1
Total Projects24

5. Laboratory of architecture #3

© Giorgi Mamasakhlisi

© Giorgi Mamasakhlisi

Laboratory of Architecture # 3 is working in the field of architecture and design. It was founded in 2006 by Irakli Abashidze.

Some of Laboratory of architecture #3’s most prominent projects include:

  • Glarros Oldtown, Tbilisi, Georgia
  • Terracotta pavilion house, Tbilisi, Georgia
  • Zzip Honey shop, Tbilisi, Georgia
  • Triangular House, Tbilisi, Georgia
  • Fillet corner house, Tbilisi, Georgia

The following statistics helped Laboratory of architecture #3 achieve 5th place in the 10 Best Architecture Firms in Georgia:

Featured Projects2
Total Projects5

4. MHD Group

© MHD Group

© MHD Group

Design Team LTD “MHD Group” was founded in 2012, and since then, the group has been mainly focused on general architecture and interior design. MHD Group offers the full package of a complete project, including: structural, electrical, plumbing, fire safety, and HVAC design, as well as geological and topographical research. The team brings together professionals in their respective fields with years of experience, who can create exceptional and outstanding building designs in accordance with modern standards and requirements.

The company’s experience comprises designs of various types of buildings, starting with ordinary multi-storied complexes and individual residential houses, as well as atypical and unusual shaped structures and more.

Some of MHD Group’s most prominent projects include:

  • Community Center in Udabno, Udabno, Georgia
  • Public Registry Office, Tbilisi, Georgia
  • Public Service Hall in Tianeti, Tianeti, Georgia
  • Public Service Hall in Stepantsminda, Stepantsminda, Georgia
  • Public Service Hall in Akhalkalaki, Akhalkalaki, Georgia

The following statistics helped MHD Group achieve 4th place in the 10 Best Architecture Firms in Georgia:

Featured Projects2
Total Projects8

3. STIPFOLD

© STIPFOLD

© STIPFOLD

Investing creative power in architecture, design and various imaginative projects. The company’s unique name combines a simplified version of ‘Steep’, and ‘Fold’, conveying the idea of rejecting walls, floors and ceilings as separate entities, but rather continuation of each other, folding into one organism.

Beka Pkhakadze, the founder, studied at Architecture, Design and Urbanism faculty of Georgian Technical University was put to practice at the local government institution for three years. During this period Beka was handling massive projects and was collaborating with international studios and foreign architects. Due to the change of regime, most projects were suspended and he decided to work independently and established his own firm at the age of 25.

Some of STIPFOLD’s most prominent projects include:

  • SLASHBACK, Tskneti, Georgia
  • LENVIX, Tbilisi, Georgia
  • PAPER HOUSE, Tbilisi, Georgia
  • VISSUR, Tbilisi, Georgia
  • VERPON, Tbilisi, Georgia

The following statistics helped STIPFOLD achieve 3rd place in the 10 Best Architecture Firms in Georgia:

Featured Projects2
Total Projects21

2. Architects of Invention

© Architects of Invention

© Architects of Invention

Architects of Invention (AI) is an award winning international partnership practicing contemporary architecture, urbanism, and design led by Nikoloz Japaridze. To accommodate a range of projects throughout the world, AI maintains offices in London and Tbilisi. Since its establishment in 2010 AI has completed 10 buildings in 10 years and produced more than 100 projects and collaborations.

The practice has good international experience contributing to project in Chile, Switzerland, Germany, Canary Islands, Seychelles, India, Russia, China, Czech Republic, France, UK and Georgia. AI has successfully collaborated with many international clients and consultants. Its core consultants’ teams are established in the UK as well as in Georgia.

Some of Architects of Invention’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Architects of Invention achieve 2nd place in the 10 Best Architecture Firms in Georgia:

Featured Projects6
Total Projects17

1. Khmaladze Architects

© NakaniMamasakhlisi Photo Lab

© NakaniMamasakhlisi Photo Lab

Khmaladze Architects is an architecture firm located in Tbilisi, Georgia. Their work is mostly centered around hospitality architecture.

Some of Khmaladze Architects’s most prominent projects include:

  • Coffee Production Plant – Meama, Tbilisi, Georgia
  • Meama Collect – Beach, Batumi, Georgia
  • Fuel Station + McDonalds, Sherif Khimshiashvili St, Batumi, Georgia
  • Seaside Resort, Georgia
  • Top image: Corner Pines, Tbilisi, Georgia

The following statistics helped Khmaladze Architects achieve 1st place in the 10 Best Architecture Firms in Georgia:

A+Awards Winner8
Featured Projects5
Total Projects5

Why Should I Trust Architizer’s Ranking?

With more than 30,000 architecture firms and over 130,000 projects within its database, Architizer is proud to host the world’s largest online community of architects and building product manufacturers. Its celebrated A+Awards program is also the largest celebration of architecture and building products, with more than 400 jurors and hundreds of thousands of public votes helping to recognize the world’s best architecture each year.

Architizer also powers firm directories for a number of AIA (American Institute of Architects) Chapters nationwide, including the official directory of architecture firms for AIA New York.

An example of a project page on Architizer with Project Award Badges highlighted

A Guide to Project Awards

The blue “+” badge denotes that a project has won a prestigious A+Award as described above. Hovering over the badge reveals details of the award, including award category, year, and whether the project won the jury or popular choice award.

The orange Project of the Day and yellow Featured Project badges are awarded by Architizer’s Editorial team, and are selected based on a number of factors. The following factors increase a project’s likelihood of being featured or awarded Project of the Day status:

  • Project completed within the last 3 years
  • A well written, concise project description of at least 3 paragraphs
  • Architectural design with a high level of both functional and aesthetic value
  • High quality, in focus photographs
  • At least 8 photographs of both the interior and exterior of the building
  • Inclusion of architectural drawings and renderings
  • Inclusion of construction photographs

There are 7 Projects of the Day each week and a further 31 Featured Projects. Each Project of the Day is published on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Stories, while each Featured Project is published on Facebook. Each Project of the Day also features in Architizer’s Weekly Projects Newsletter and shared with 170,000 subscribers.

 

 

We’re constantly look for the world’s best architects to join our community. If you would like to understand more about this ranking list and learn how your firm can achieve a presence on it, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at editorial@architizer.com.

Reference

© Yasutaka Yoshimura Architect
CategoriesArchitecture

30 Best Architecture Firms in Japan

By Zarkon Group,

These annual rankings were last updated on February 20th, 2024. Want to see your firm on next year’s list? Continue reading for more on how you can improve your studio’s ranking. 

Japanese architecture and building formulae have long been revered by the West. Even if the nation’s notably minimalist ethos remains somewhat elusive, the formal exchange between Japan and the rest of the world have been reciprocal and fertile. In addition to its characteristic Buddhist temples, vast Shinto shrines, traditional curved roofed structure and regenerative approach to preservation, Modernism took off in Japan following the Second World War and left a great impression on the international architectural community with its Metabolist movement. Immense structural rehabilitation took place after the war, and pioneering architects like Kenzō Tange made significant contributions to Japan’s built environment by synthesizing traditional architecture with modernism.

This reinterpretation of modernist architectural styles was championed through the 20th century by architects who underscored the interplay of architecture with the landscape. Japanese architects espouse a pragmatic approach to architecture, which can be explained by its unique geography prone to earthquakes and floods. This has led to an onslaught of innovative reinforcement techniques that continue to be explored today. Nevertheless, such structural requirements have never limited the Japanese from erecting transformative and quirky architecture in the past and present. For example, Tadao Ando, a vocal proponent of concrete, demonstrated the heavy material’s ability to embody lightness, and such explorations continue with today’s building community. Among the many structural typologies worthy of envy are Japanese school designs and THE TOKYO TOILET; the country’s pedagogical structures reflect its rich curriculum, which underscores discipline, curiosity and responsibility.

With so many architecture firms to choose from, it’s challenging for clients to identify the industry leaders that will be an ideal fit for their project needs. Fortunately, Architizer is able to provide guidance on the top design firms in Japan based on more than a decade of data and industry knowledge.

How are these architecture firms ranked?

The following ranking has been created according to key statistics that demonstrate each firm’s level of architectural excellence. The following metrics have been accumulated to establish each architecture firm’s ranking, in order of priority:

  • The number of A+Awards won (2013 to 2024)
  • The number of A+Awards finalists (2013 to 2024)
  • The number of projects selected as “Project of the Day” (2009 to 2024)
  • The number of projects selected as “Featured Project” (2009 to 2024)
  • The number of projects uploaded to Architizer (2009 to 2024)

Each of these metrics is explained in more detail at the foot of this article. This ranking list will be updated annually, taking into account new achievements of Japan architecture firms throughout the year.

Without further ado, here are the 35 best architecture firms in Japan:

30. Yasutaka Yoshimura Architect

© Yasutaka Yoshimura Architect

© Yasutaka Yoshimura Architect

Yasutaka Yoshimura Architects is an architecture and urban design practice based in Tokyo. Our aim is to realize new forms of architecture and cities regarding market, laws, norms and environment as opportunities for our design.

Some of Yasutaka Yoshimura Architect’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Yasutaka Yoshimura Architect achieve 30th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Japan:

Featured Projects6
Total Projects6

29. Aisaka Architects’ Atelier

© Aisaka Architects' Atelier

© Aisaka Architects’ Atelier

Aisaka architects’ atelier is located in densely populated suburban Tokyo. Her work revolved mostly around public projects.

Some of Aisaka Architects’ Atelier’s most prominent projects include:

  • AMANENOMORI NURSERY SCHOOL, Chiba Prefecture, Japan
  • Higashitateishi Nursery school, Katsushika City, Japan
  • house in todoroki, Tokyo, Japan
  • KEIUN BUILDING, Tokyo, Japan
  • Tesoro Nursery School, Kojimachi, Chiyoda City, Japan

The following statistics helped Aisaka Architects’ Atelier achieve 29th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Japan:

A+Awards Finalist1
Featured Projects6
Total Projects6

28. bandesign

© bandesign,Ltd.

© bandesign,Ltd.

Architecture has long life and difference from another design. I don’t design with an idea, but I do design for never changing. For example, the sun come up in the east, and set in the west. It is definitely never changing for ever. I want to design intentionally for long life. In addition, long life is closely related with architectural culture. Historical architecture is being existence strongly. Could you imagine the architect’s mind? If he were not enthusiastic, the historical architecture wouldn’t be existence. The design work might be for his life. It is clear that architecture is same as fine art, another art.

Some of bandesign,Ltd.’s most prominent projects include:

  • Mirrors, Gifu Prefecture, Japan
  • Involve, Nisshin, Japan
  • Turn,Turn,Turn,, Aichi Prefecture, Japan
  • Secret Garden, Aichi Prefecture, Japan
  • The Distance, Japan

The following statistics helped bandesign,Ltd. achieve 28th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Japan:

A+Awards Winner1
A+Awards Finalist1
Featured Projects6
Total Projects7

27. CASE-REAL

© CASE-REAL

© CASE-REAL

Led by designer Koichi Futatsumata, CASE-REAL works on interior / architecture projects. With creative ideas and technological studies based on each environment, objective and tasks given for each project CASE-REAL will seek for an essential solution to fit each atmosphere.

Koichi Futatsumata is the representative director of “CASE-REAL” focusing on spacial design, and “KOICHI FUTATSUMATA STUDIO” which specializes in product design. He is based in Fukuoka and Tokyo working internationally with variety of works including architectures, interiors, furnitures and products.

Some of CASE-REAL’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped CASE-REAL achieve 27th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Japan:

Featured Projects6
Total Projects7

26. Yohei Kawashima architects inc.

© ©Koji Fujii /TOREAL (16)

© ©Koji Fujii /TOREAL (16)

Yohei Kawashima architects was founded in 2014 by Youhei Kawashima and is based in Tokyo, Japan. The firm is well versed in the design of large-scale apartment buildings as well as retail architecture.

Some of Yohei Kawashima architects inc.’s most prominent projects include:

  • M_building, Miyakojima, Japan
  • JINS Sendai Izumi, Sendai, Japan
  • O_apartment, Miyakojima, Japan
  • S_apartment, Miyakojima, Japan
  • N_apartment, Miyakojima, Japan

The following statistics helped Yohei Kawashima architects inc. achieve 26th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Japan:

Featured Projects6
Total Projects10

25. MOVEDESIGN

Photo: Yousuke Harigane - © MOVEDESIGN

Photo: Yousuke Harigane – © MOVEDESIGN

There is no fixed color for our job. We design the passion and imagination of the owner and staff members, and convey it visually to the world. We also place the highest priority on creating a happy community where people who sympathize with the place gather. Therefore, MOVE DESIGN works not only with architecture and interiors, but also with interior designers, art directors, copywriters, and other members of the team to connect with customers and provide them with communication to achieve good results. Each store has different colors, and the more colors, the more interesting the city becomes. The concept of MOVE DESIGN is to make each store’s original color and make various colors.

Some of MOVEDESIGN’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped MOVEDESIGN achieve 25th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Japan:

Featured Projects6
Total Projects13

24. Ryuichi Sasaki Architecture

© Takumi Ota Photography

© Takumi Ota Photography

We seeks to re-interpreted architecture’s position within cultural practices that determine meaning, particularly within will of epoch analysis. The investigations traverse not only conventional notions of space, enclosure, and order but also the fluctuating frames that define spaces.

Some of Ryuichi Sasaki Architecture’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Ryuichi Sasaki Architecture achieve 24th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Japan:

Featured Projects6
Total Projects15

23. Tsutsumi And Associates

© Tsutsumi And Associates

© Tsutsumi And Associates

We are an architectural design firm with two offices in Hiroshima and Beijing. Every site has a complex intertwining of various issues that are different from each other. We carefully untangle them, identify the conceptual issues, and aim to create a unique architecture for the client. Such an architecture will not be merely a style for show, but will live with the client for a long time with pleasure.

Some of Tsutsumi And Associates’s most prominent projects include:

  • ANZAS Dance Studio, Beijing, China
  • House in Dawanglu, Beijing, China
  • Tsingpu Baisha Retreat, Lijiang, China
  • Ryoutei Matsuko, Hangzhou, China
  • Hangzhou Spiral Villa, Hangzhou, China

The following statistics helped Tsutsumi And Associates achieve 23rd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Japan:

Featured Projects6
Total Projects17

22. kasa architects

© kasa architects

© kasa architects

We want to create places, not buildings. We share our clients’ ideas and wishes, discovering the joys and comforts of a new way of life. We value the qualities of a place, and we want to create rich spaces by pursuing the possibilities of architecture.

Some of kasa architects’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped kasa architects achieve 22nd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Japan:

Featured Projects6
Total Projects18

21. noiz

© Daici Ano

© Daici Ano

New forms of music in their infancy have often been taken as noise.  The name of noiz / architecture, design and planning takes cue from developments in music history as an everyday reminder of the firm’s commitment to unique and insightful design solutions. Keisuke Toyoda and Jia-Shuan Tsai founded noiz / architecture, design and planning in the beginning of 2006.  Both founding principals have significant work experiences in institutional, commercial and residential design in Japan, China and the United States.

Some of noiz’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped noiz achieve 21st place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Japan:

Featured Projects7
Total Projects47

20. MORIYUKI OCHIAI ARCHITECTS

© MORIYUKI OCHIAI ARCHITECTS

© MORIYUKI OCHIAI ARCHITECTS

Moriyuki Ochiai, born in Tokyo, Japan is an architect and designer. He established his own studio, Moriyuki Ochiai Architects that is active in architectural, interior, furniture, landscape and industrial design. The sources of our inspirations come from being captivated by the vivacious and lively beauty of nature or life.

We can also feel the influence coming from the delicate sensitivity responding to the unique Japanese nature, which can be found in Japanese temples and gardens. We wish to continue creating works that fulfill people’s dreams, become the energy for their lives, and then move on to a deeper dimension that exceeds life itself.

Some of MORIYUKI OCHIAI ARCHITECTS’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped MORIYUKI OCHIAI ARCHITECTS achieve 20th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Japan:

Featured Projects7
Total Projects14

19. Klein Dytham architecture

© Klein Dytham architecture

© Klein Dytham architecture

Klein Dytham architecture (KDa) is a multi-disciplinary design practice known for architecture, interiors, public spaces and installations. Established by Royal College of Art graduates Astrid Klein and Mark Dytham in Tokyo in 1991, today KDa is a multi-lingual office with an international reputation and a high-profile client list which includes Google, Tsutaya, Sony, Virgin Atlantic, Nike, Uniqlo, Selfridges and Japan Rail.

KDa’s built work includes flagship retail stores, restaurants, resort facilities, office fit-outs, houses and private residences. KDa has no stylistic recipe, preferring to work with the client, program and other project parameters to develop a uniquely tailored solution. Materials, technology and context are all key elements of KDa’s design approach, spiced always with an irreverent or surprising twist.

Some of Klein Dytham architecture’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Klein Dytham architecture achieve 19th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Japan:

A+Awards Winner1
Featured Projects10
Total Projects10

18. Tadao Ando Architect & Associates

© Tadao Ando Architect & Associates

© Tadao Ando Architect & Associates

Born 1941 in Osaka, Japan. Self-taught in architecture. Established Tadao Ando Architect & Associates in 1969. Major works include the Church of the Light, Pulitzer Arts Foundation, and Chichu Art Museum. Awarded the Architectural Institute of Japan (AIJ) Prize for the Row House in Sumiyoshi in 1979, Japan Art Academy Prize in 1993, Pritzker Architecture Prize in 1995, Person of Cultural Merit (Japan) in 2003, International Union of Architects (UIA) Gold Medal in 2005, John F. Kennedy Center Gold Medal in the Arts in 2010, Shimpei Goto Award in 2010, Order of Culture (Japan) in 2010, Commander of the Order of Art and Letters (France) in 2013, Grand Officer of the Order of Merit (Italy) in 2015, and Isamu Noguchi Award in 2016. Held solo exhibitions at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in 1991 and Centre Pompidou in 1993. Taught as a visiting professor at Yale University, Columbia University, and Harvard University. Professor at the University of Tokyo from 1997. Professor emeritus of the University of Tokyo since 2003.

Some of Tadao Ando Architect & Associates’s most prominent projects include:

  • He Art Museum, Foshan, China
  • Centro Roberto Garza Sada de Arte, Arquitectura y Diseño, Monterrey, Mexico
  • ICHIGONI at 152 Elizabeth Street, New York, NY, United States
  • Asia Museum of Modern Art, Asia University, Taichung City, Taiwan

The following statistics helped Tadao Ando Architect & Associates achieve 18th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Japan:

A+Awards Winner1
A+Awards Finalist5
Featured Projects5
Total Projects4

17. Kichi Architectural Design

© Kichi Architectural Design

© Kichi Architectural Design

We are Kichi Architectural Design based in Japan. The design of homes is our main business line, but we also design stores and offices. While appreciating the inherent energy of land, we cultivate expansive ideas through repeated consultations with each client. Our aim is to create unique spaces that resonate with the spirits of the people who will live there.

Some of Kichi Architectural Design’s most prominent projects include:

  • House of Blocks, Ushiku, Japan
  • Cubic House Of Kubogaoka, Moriya, Japan
  • Ripple House, Tsukubamirai, Japan
  • Scandinavian Middle, Tsukubamirai, Japan
  • Hotel PatInn, Ogasawara, Japan

The following statistics helped Kichi Architectural Design achieve 17th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Japan:

Featured Projects8
Total Projects30

16. Florian Busch Architects

© Florian Busch Architects

© Florian Busch Architects

Florian Busch Architects is an office practicing architecture, urbanism and socio-cultural analysis. Based in Tokyo, FBA draws on a worldwide network of expert consultants, architects and engineers, accumulating several decades of experience in the ἀeld of building. Understanding architecture as the result of interactions between multiple ἀelds, FBA, from the outset of any project, devises speciἀc strategies working in feedback processes with a diversity of consultants to drive the project towards solutions beyond the imagined.

Florian Busch Architectural Design Office is an office that engages in research on architecture, urban planning, society and culture. Based in Tokyo, we have a network of numerous engineers who have decades of experience and trust in the architectural world.

Some of Florian Busch Architects’s most prominent projects include:

  • House in Takadanobaba, Tokyo, Japan
  • House in the Forest, Hokkaido, Japan
  • ‘A’ House in Kisami, Shimoda, Japan
  • L House in Hirafu, Abuta District, Japan
  • House that Opens up to its Inside, Yūkarigaoka, Sakura, Japan

The following statistics helped Florian Busch Architects achieve 16th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Japan:

Featured Projects9
Total Projects15

15. SUGAWARADAISUKE Architects Inc.

© Takeshi Nakasa (Nacasa & Partners)

© Takeshi Nakasa (Nacasa & Partners)

SUGAWARADAISUKE is an architecture and art-direction office valued internationally, working on different areas like urban design, landscape, architecture, interior, graphic design and branding. Our target is to make our world beautiful and colorful by integrating different scales and elements. The cross-cutting creativity is based on global viewpoints and architectural background.

Some of SUGAWARADAISUKE Architects Inc.’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped SUGAWARADAISUKE Architects Inc. achieve 15th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Japan:

A+Awards Finalist2
Featured Projects8
Total Projects17

14. FORM / Kouichi Kimura Architects

© Keikichi Yamauchi Architect and Associates

© Keikichi Yamauchi Architect and Associates

Established in 1991 by Kouichi Kimura, FORM mission is to create spaces where quiet time flows. Working primarily with residential design, the firm’s architecture has been characterized as poetic, with great attention to form, shadow and light.

Some of FORM / Kouichi Kimura Architects’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped FORM / Kouichi Kimura Architects achieve 14th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Japan:

Featured Projects10
Total Projects8

13. Akira Koyama + KEY OPERATION INC. / ARCHITECTS

© Akira Koyama + KEY OPERATION INC. / ARCHITECTS

© Akira Koyama + KEY OPERATION INC. / ARCHITECTS

Our aim is to find the simplest and the most innovative space composition, construction method or other architectural technique that does tackle the different problems and give a coherent, clever, logical solution. In order to do so, we will investigate and analyze the customer’s requirements, observe the urban context, understand the social interactions, acknowledge local history, culture, regulations and natural environment, study building materials and techniques.

Some of Akira Koyama + KEY OPERATION INC. / ARCHITECTS’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Akira Koyama + KEY OPERATION INC. / ARCHITECTS achieve 13th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Japan:

A+Awards Winner2
A+Awards Finalist2
Featured Projects7
Total Projects24

12. Kiriko design office

© Kiriko design office

© Kiriko design office

Kiriko Design Office was established four decades ago in Kochi Prefecture being surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and the mountains. The firm often works with local materials and designs all types of structures — nursery schools, clinics, apartment complexes, villas, shops and buildings.

Some of Kiriko design office’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Kiriko design office achieve 12th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Japan:

Featured Projects10
Total Projects13

11. yoshihiro yamamoto architects atelier | yyaa

YYAA is an architect office based on Nara / Osaka , Japan. Founded by Yoshihiro Yamamoto, the firm approaches their work as “designers” rather than “architects” and celebrate the individuality of each plan.

Some of yoshihiro yamamoto architects atelier | yyaa’s most prominent projects include:

  • House for Aya, Osaka, Japan
  • Fukinagashi Flat, Osaka, Japan
  • Cafe Franz Kafka, Nara, Japan
  • Okayama Building, Osaka, Japan
  • Crossroad House, Sakai, Japan

The following statistics helped yoshihiro yamamoto architects atelier | yyaa achieve 11th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Japan:

Featured Projects10
Total Projects23

10. Apollo Architects and Associates

photo: Masao Nishikawa - © Apollo Architects and Associates

photo: Masao Nishikawa – © Apollo Architects and Associates

The name “Apollo” originates from Apollon, god of sun and light in Greco-Roman mythology. The firm was named in 2000 with the hope of pursuing architecture composed of the simple materials of “light” and “shadow”, while also aiming to become a luminous presence within the city and society.

Architecture needs to be safe and functional, but it also needs to go beyond that. What we aim to do in addition to those basic requirements is to induce a rich spirituality within the space. Daily life, which is composed of the accumulation of simple and trivial events, requires an enduring continuity.

Some of Apollo Architects and Associates’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Apollo Architects and Associates achieve 10th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Japan:

A+Awards Finalist1
Featured Projects11
Total Projects12

9. ALTS DESIGN OFFICE

‘It searches for always new universality and it is begun to make’various and special something – this is our work .If an architect’s office is requested, many people think that a threshold is high and high-cost and becomes a house in which it is hard to live by design serious consideration. However, such a thing never cannot be found. We search for always new universality, conversing with the chief mourner, and beginning to make various and rich space by using a simple and intelligible method. We are able to create that recast the gaze at fundamental views, reconstructing them from a different angle — a richer and newer space.

Some of ALTS DESIGN OFFICE’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped ALTS DESIGN OFFICE achieve 9th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Japan:

Featured Projects12
Total Projects52

8. Masahiro Miyake (y+M design office)

© Masahiro Miyake (y+M design office)

© Masahiro Miyake (y+M design office)

Cofounded by Hidemasa Yoshimoto and Masahiro Miyake, y+M design office is a Japanese architectural practice that attaches big importance to the idea of connections. Pondering connection between environments and humans, the firm seeks to find the most appropriate design solutions for its clients.

Some of Masahiro Miyake (y+M design office)’s most prominent projects include:

  • béret, Kagawa Prefecture, Japan
  • Floating-roof house, Kobe, Japan
  • House of a Backstage, Tokushima, Japan
  • Slide House, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan
  • Shawl House, Ehime Prefecture, Japan

The following statistics helped Masahiro Miyake (y+M design office) achieve 8th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Japan:

Featured Projects14
Total Projects23

7. emmanuelle moureaux

© Daisuke Shima

© Daisuke Shima

Born in 1971, France. Emmanuelle Moureaux is a French architect living in Tokyo since 1996, where she established “emmanuelle moureaux architecture + design” in 2003. Inspired by the layers and colors of Tokyo that built a complex depth and density on the street, and the Japanese traditional spatial elements like sliding screens, she has created the concept of “shikiri”, which literally means “dividing (creating) space with colors.” She uses colors as three-dimensional elements, like layers, in order to create spaces, not as a finishing touch applied on surfaces.

Some of emmanuelle moureaux INC.’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped emmanuelle moureaux INC. achieve 7th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Japan:

A+Awards Winner2
A+Awards Finalist2
Featured Projects14
Total Projects23

6. Schemata Architects / Jo Nagasaka

© Kenya Chiba

© Kenya Chiba

Jo Nagasaka established Schemata Architects right after graduating from Tokyo University of the Arts in 1998. Currently he is based out of Kitasando,Tokyo. Jo has extensive experience in a wide range of expertise from furniture to architecture. His design approach is always based on 1:1 scale, regardless of what size he deals with. He works extensively in Japan and around the world, while expanding his design activity in various fields.

Some of Schemata Architects / Jo Nagasaka’s most prominent projects include:

  • ºC (Do-C) Ebisu, Tokyo, Japan
  • Takeo Kikuchi Store in Shibuya, Jingumae, Shibuya, Japan
  • WORLD BASICS Pop-Up Store @merci, Paris, France
  • Takahashi Hiroko Oshiage Studio, Narihira, Sumida-ku, Japan
  • House in Hatogaya, Saitama Prefecture, Japan

The following statistics helped Schemata Architects / Jo Nagasaka achieve 6th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Japan:

Featured Projects14
Total Projects20

5. Takeru Shoji Architects

© Takeru Shoji Architects.Co.,Ltd.

© Takeru Shoji Architects.Co.,Ltd.

Our desire is not just to create a living space to solve the changing needs of a house, commercial area, or public spaces, but to also create a living environment that makes those in it by the sole fact of being in it, and those who see it, happy. I want not only those owning and residing in the building, but those living by or just passing by it to feel moved and feel the unique characteristic of the building. It is more important to me to create an “open” environment with my designs than the actual building themselves. My meaning of the word “open” is a place that is well suited for people, and allows them, as human beings, a comfortable place and time to just be.

Some of Takeru Shoji Architects.Co.,Ltd.’s most prominent projects include:

  • Hara House, Nagaoka, Japan
  • YNS, Nishi Ward, Niigata, Japan
  • Wow! Sta., Niigata, Japan
  • sa house, Japan
  • Shiro house, Narayama, Akita, Japan

The following statistics helped Takeru Shoji Architects.Co.,Ltd. achieve 5th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Japan:

A+Awards Winner2
Featured Projects19
Total Projects17

4. Fujiwaramuro Architects

© Fujiwaramuro Architects

© Fujiwaramuro Architects

Fujiwara Muro Architects was established in 2022 by Shintaro Fujiwara and Yoshio Muroi in Osaka, Japan. The firm focuses on designing compact residences with great views.

Some of Fujiwaramuro Architects’s most prominent projects include:

  • House in Mukainada, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan
  • House in Minami-Tanabe, Osaka, Japan
  • House in Muko, Muko, Japan
  • Tiny House in Kobe, Kobe, Japan
  • House in Sekiya, Nara, Japan

The following statistics helped Fujiwaramuro Architects achieve 4th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Japan:

Featured Projects19
Total Projects38

3. NIKKEN SEKKEI LTD

© Eiichi Kano

© Eiichi Kano

At Nikken Sekkei, we take an integrated approach to our projects as a professional service firm. Across all in-house disciplines of architectural design: urban design, research, planning and consulting — our teams work collaboratively to deliver better solutions for clients.

Some of NIKKEN SEKKEI LTD’s most prominent projects include:

  • Showa Gakuin Elementary School West Wing, Ichikawa, Japan
  • JR Kumamoto Railway Station Building, Kumamoto, Japan
  • Ariake Gymnastics Centre, Tokyo, Japan
  • On the water, Nikko, Japan
  • Yamato Konan Building, Tokyo, Japan
  • Top image: Daiwa Ubiquitous Computing Research Building, Tokyo, Japan

The following statistics helped NIKKEN SEKKEI LTD achieve 3rd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Japan:

A+Awards Winner3
A+Awards Finalist9
Featured Projects22
Total Projects35

2. HIBINOSEKKEI+Youji no Shiro

© HIBINOSEKKEI+Youji no Shiro

© HIBINOSEKKEI+Youji no Shiro

Main services of ‘Youji no Shiro’ are designs and surveillances of buildings, renovation and interiors of preschools. We also provide branding consultation services for preschools. ‘Youji no Shiro’, which means ‘The Castle for Children’ in Japanese, is the name of a section of Hibino Sekkei Architecure, based in Kanagawa, Japan.

The company was founded in 1972 and had launched the section that specializes in the design of spaces for children in 1991, reflecting the rapidly altering social situation. By that time, the declining birth rate had become a serious issue in Japan. With fewer children continuing to develop, we became to think that existing preschool architecture where classrooms of same sizes and shapes were lined up weren’t just right.

Some of HIBINOSEKKEI+Youji no Shiro’s most prominent projects include:

  • SH Kindergarten and Nursery, Toyama, Japan
  • Hanazono Kindergarten and Nursery, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan
  • KB Primary and Secondary School, Sasebo, Japan
  • KM Kindergarten and Nursery, Izumi, Japan
  • ST Nursery, Saitama Prefecture, Japan

The following statistics helped HIBINOSEKKEI+Youji no Shiro achieve 2nd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Japan:

A+Awards Winner4
A+Awards Finalist6
Featured Projects25
Total Projects55

1. Kengo Kuma and Associates

© Kengo Kuma and Associates

© Kengo Kuma and Associates

Kengo Kuma was born in 1954. He established Kengo Kuma & Associates in 1990. He is currently a University Professor and Professor Emeritus at the University of Tokyo after teaching at Keio University and the University of Tokyo. KKAA projects are currently underway in more than 40 countries. Kengo Kuma proposes architecture that opens up new relationships between nature, technology, and human beings. His major publications include Zen Shigoto(Kengo Kuma — the complete works, Daiwa Shobo), Ten Sen Men (“point, line, plane”, Iwanami Shoten), Makeru Kenchiku (Architecture of Defeat, Iwanami Shoten), Shizen na Kenchiku (Natural Architecture, Iwanami Shinsho), Chii-sana Kenchiku (Small Architecture, Iwanami Shinsho) and many others.

Some of Kengo Kuma and Associates’s most prominent projects include:

  • Teahouse in Coal Harbour, Vancouver, Canada
  • Botanical Pavilion, Melbourne, Australia
  • V&A Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
  • Darling Square, Sydney, Australia
  • Towada , Towada, Japan
  • Top image: Daiwa Ubiquitous Computing Research Building, Tokyo, Japan

The following statistics helped Kengo Kuma and Associates achieve 1st place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Japan:

A+Awards Winner5
A+Awards Finalist1
Featured Projects43
Total Projects45

Why Should I Trust Architizer’s Ranking?

With more than 30,000 architecture firms and over 130,000 projects within its database, Architizer is proud to host the world’s largest online community of architects and building product manufacturers. Its celebrated A+Awards program is also the largest celebration of architecture and building products, with more than 400 jurors and hundreds of thousands of public votes helping to recognize the world’s best architecture each year.

Architizer also powers firm directories for a number of AIA (American Institute of Architects) Chapters nationwide, including the official directory of architecture firms for AIA New York.

An example of a project page on Architizer with Project Award Badges highlighted

A Guide to Project Awards

The blue “+” badge denotes that a project has won a prestigious A+Award as described above. Hovering over the badge reveals details of the award, including award category, year, and whether the project won the jury or popular choice award.

The orange Project of the Day and yellow Featured Project badges are awarded by Architizer’s Editorial team, and are selected based on a number of factors. The following factors increase a project’s likelihood of being featured or awarded Project of the Day status:

  • Project completed within the last 3 years
  • A well written, concise project description of at least 3 paragraphs
  • Architectural design with a high level of both functional and aesthetic value
  • High quality, in focus photographs
  • At least 8 photographs of both the interior and exterior of the building
  • Inclusion of architectural drawings and renderings
  • Inclusion of construction photographs

There are 7 Projects of the Day each week and a further 31 Featured Projects. Each Project of the Day is published on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Stories, while each Featured Project is published on Facebook. Each Project of the Day also features in Architizer’s Weekly Projects Newsletter and shared with 170,000 subscribers.

 

 

We’re constantly look for the world’s best architects to join our community. If you would like to understand more about this ranking list and learn how your firm can achieve a presence on it, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at editorial@architizer.com.

Reference

© hearthgroup
CategoriesArchitecture

7 Best Architecture Firms in The Philippines

By Zarkon Group,

The Philippines is a country that has a rich tapestry of architectural culture, spanning from the indigenous Filipino Bahay Kubo houses and the Banaue Rice Terraces to contemporary skylines and eco-resorts. Admittedly, Philippine architecture is caught between the East and the West, with American, Spanish and Japanese colonial occupation rapidly transforming its built environment. Many architects were influenced by the country’s intercultural identity. Most notably, national Artist for Architecture Leandro Locsin was known for his distinct style blending the modern and the traditional, crafting masterpieces like the Cultural Center of The Philippines.

During the 1920s, architect Juan Nakpil paved the way for environmentally conscious construction techniques. He utilized bamboo as a locally sourced component for his designs instead of relying on imported materials such as stone and brick. His work was internationally renounced for its authentic Filipino character, introducing an innovative approach to the country’s architecture. Conversely, cities like Makati or Manila have now been transformed into bustling urban centers, filled with high-rise structures incorporating solar framing and rainwater collection systems, thus responding to the challenging tropical climate.

Albeit a geographically small country, The Philippines is architecturally vibrant and diverse. Throughout time, Filipino architects have reveled in the country’s intercultural nature. By creating new “assemblies” between architectural typologies and practices, they are constantly progressing the country’s built environment without sacrificing its cultural heritage.

With so many architecture firms to choose from, it’s challenging for clients to identify the industry leaders that will be an ideal fit for their project needs. Fortunately, Architizer is able to provide guidance on the top design firms in The Philippines based on more than a decade of data and industry knowledge.

How are these architecture firms ranked?

The following ranking has been created according to key statistics that demonstrate each firm’s level of architectural excellence. The following metrics have been accumulated to establish each architecture firm’s ranking, in order of priority:

  • The number of A+Awards won (2013 to 2023)
  • The number of A+Awards finalists (2013 to 2023)
  • The number of projects selected as “Project of the Day” (2009 to 2023)
  • The number of projects selected as “Featured Project” (2009 to 2023)
  • The number of projects uploaded to Architizer (2009 to 2023)

Each of these metrics is explained in more detail at the foot of this article. This ranking list will be updated annually, taking into account new achievements of The Philippines architecture firms throughout the year.

Without further ado, here are the 7 best architecture firms in The Philippines:

7. hearthgroup

© hearthgroup

© hearthgroup

We offer architectural design services to would-be homeowners, business people and property developers. Together with our engineering and design consultants, we deliver design solutions that are sensitive to clients’ needs, responsive to nature and improve the built environment for the benefit of the community.

Some of hearthgroup’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped hearthgroup achieve 7th place in the 7 Best Architecture Firms in The Philippines:

Featured Projects1
Total Projects3

6. Jorge Yulo Architects and Associates

© Jorge Yulo Architects and Associates

© Jorge Yulo Architects and Associates

Since its inception, JYAA has accumulated a few hundred projects of various types, from high rises to luxury residences. The company survived the Asian Financial crisis through fortifying the firm’s interior design services which currently makes up for a sizeable amount of JYAA’s portfolio. JYAA is an efficiently-sized architectural firm that offers comprehensive design services from concept/schematic design to construction coordination/supervision. The company is affiliated with select Technical Consulting Firms to support the offered comprehensive technical services.

Some of Jorge Yulo Architects and Associates’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Jorge Yulo Architects and Associates achieve 6th place in the 7 Best Architecture Firms in The Philippines:

Featured Projects1
Total Projects1

5. DST Design + Build

© DST Design + Build

© DST Design + Build

We are new breed of individuals from the different fields, who are very passionate in the field of architecture, interior design, furniture and landscaping. We strive on modernizing Filipino architecture and interior design and piece all other design elements together in harmony. Moreover the firm remains steadfast on its advocacy to adapt principles and dynamics on building green.

At DST Design Lab we generally work the key concept of creating quality avant-garde architectural + design and workmanship. Our goal are to design and build quality and world renowned projects that will put Filipino architecture in the forefront.

Some of DST Design + Build’s most prominent projects include:

  • “The Tree House” (Multi-Level Residential house), San Mateo, The Philippines
  • “Unfinished Basket” (BOUTIQUE RESORT COMPLEX), San Mateo, The Philippines
  • Modern Nipa Hut (Bahay Kubo) 2-Story ”Family Villa”, San Mateo, The Philippines
  • Modern Nipa Hut (Bahay Kubo) 2 Story Villa ”Honeymooners”, San Mateo, The Philippines
  • Bahay Na Bato Stone and Wood 2-Story Villa, San Mateo, The Philippines

The following statistics helped DST Design + Build achieve 5th place in the 7 Best Architecture Firms in The Philippines:

A+Awards Finalist1
Featured Projects1
Total Projects15

4. DEQA Design Collaborative (formerly DDC Architectural Studio)

© DEQA Design Collaborative (formerly DDC Architectural Studio)

© DEQA Design Collaborative (formerly DDC Architectural Studio)

We create impactful and sensory experience ecosystems that use the power of design to inspire and innovate our everyday. We are a design partner for ambitious clients and bold businesses. DEQA designs through our ideas, objects, places, buildings and communities. We focus on research-driven, human-centric and sustainably focused design.

We integrate planning, architecture, interior design, product design and branding to maximize interdisciplinary cross-pollination in our practice. We design at all scales from the micro to the macro, designing in powers of ten, to create value and innovation. Our process is highly collaborative. We work closely with our clients to understand their visions, values and needs.

Some of DEQA Design Collaborative (formerly DDC Architectural Studio)’s most prominent projects include:

  • Rizal Eco Center, Rizal, Calabarzon, The Philippines
  • Hyve, Taguig, The Philippines
  • Hyphy’s, Pasig City, The Philippines
  • Contemporary Museum of Art and Design Competition Entry, Taguig, The Philippines
  • Vyne, Taguig, The Philippines

The following statistics helped DEQA Design Collaborative (formerly DDC Architectural Studio) achieve 4th place in the 7 Best Architecture Firms in The Philippines:

A+Awards Winner1
Featured Projects1
Total Projects21

3. Jim Caumeron Design

© Jim Caumeron Design

© Jim Caumeron Design

Jim Caumeron Design is a Manila based architectural design firm, centered around residential architecture.

Some of Jim Caumeron Design’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Jim Caumeron Design achieve 3rd place in the 7 Best Architecture Firms in The Philippines:

Featured Projects2
Total Projects2

2. TJSO ARCHITECTS

Arch. T. Jordan Ong graduated B.S. Architecture from the College of Architecture and Fine Arts (Now College of Architecture) at the University of Santo Tomas. He has worked in various reputable architectural firms and has risen among the top key employees on all occasions. He has handled hundreds of residential and high-rise projects during his stay in one of his previous firm, where he worked as department head for construction. But having the drive and passion to pursue his goal, he humbly started his own practice in the summer of 2007 and since has expanded his portfolio, designing various projects ranging from high-end residential projects, townhouses, mid-rise buildings, high rise buildings, restaurants and commercial buildings. He embraced the modern minimalist style, and it shows in all of his works, but has added his own style in the process.

Some of TJSO ARCHITECTS’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped TJSO ARCHITECTS achieve 2nd place in the 7 Best Architecture Firms in The Philippines:

Featured Projects2
Total Projects7

1. WTA Architecture + Design Studio

© WTA Architecture + Design Studio

© WTA Architecture + Design Studio

Define. Design. Refine. We seek to redefine the role architecture plays in our society and focus on the creation of positive social impact. We create architecture for moments. Moments that matter to you, and the people around you. In WTA Architecture and Design Studio, we create spaces that encourage connection. We believe in social architecture that engages people, breaks down barriers and designs hyperlocal communities. At WTA, we build communities.

Some of WTA Architecture + Design Studio’s most prominent projects include:

  • The Book Stop, Manila, The Philippines
  • El Museo del Prado En Filipinas, Manila, The Philippines
  • The Oriental Legazpi, Legazpi City, The Philippines
  • The Oriental Leyte, Tacloban City, The Philippines
  • New Taipei Museum of Art, Taipei, Taiwan
  • Top image: Journey by the Bay, Concept

The following statistics helped WTA Architecture + Design Studio achieve 1st place in the 7 Best Architecture Firms in The Philippines:

A+Awards Winner3
Featured Projects1
Total Projects77

Why Should I Trust Architizer’s Ranking?

With more than 30,000 architecture firms and over 130,000 projects within its database, Architizer is proud to host the world’s largest online community of architects and building product manufacturers. Its celebrated A+Awards program is also the largest celebration of architecture and building products, with more than 400 jurors and hundreds of thousands of public votes helping to recognize the world’s best architecture each year.

Architizer also powers firm directories for a number of AIA (American Institute of Architects) Chapters nationwide, including the official directory of architecture firms for AIA New York.

An example of a project page on Architizer with Project Award Badges highlighted

A Guide to Project Awards

The blue “+” badge denotes that a project has won a prestigious A+Award as described above. Hovering over the badge reveals details of the award, including award category, year, and whether the project won the jury or popular choice award.

The orange Project of the Day and yellow Featured Project badges are awarded by Architizer’s Editorial team, and are selected based on a number of factors. The following factors increase a project’s likelihood of being featured or awarded Project of the Day status:

  • Project completed within the last 3 years
  • A well written, concise project description of at least 3 paragraphs
  • Architectural design with a high level of both functional and aesthetic value
  • High quality, in focus photographs
  • At least 8 photographs of both the interior and exterior of the building
  • Inclusion of architectural drawings and renderings
  • Inclusion of construction photographs

There are 7 Projects of the Day each week and a further 31 Featured Projects. Each Project of the Day is published on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Stories, while each Featured Project is published on Facebook. Each Project of the Day also features in Architizer’s Weekly Projects Newsletter and shared with 170,000 subscribers.

 

 

We’re constantly look for the world’s best architects to join our community. If you would like to understand more about this ranking list and learn how your firm can achieve a presence on it, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at editorial@architizer.com.

Reference

© BFV ARCHITECTES
CategoriesArchitecture

30 Best Architecture Firms in France

By Zarkon Group,

These annual rankings were last updated on December 29th, 2023. Want to see your firm on next year’s list? Continue reading for more on how you can improve your studio’s ranking. 

The French are formative cultural leaders in many respects — from cuisine to art tp fashion. They are viewed as global front-runners in several disciplines, and architecture is undeniably one of them. When we think of France, we often admire the illustrious Gothic churches, the Haussmannian Parisian boulevards, the ornate Baroque palaces, Le Corbusier’s modernist triumphs and the charming countryside towns.

The French built environment is swimming in architectural history, but equally so in contemporary triumphs. It’s not only the Gothic and Renaissance châteaux that make this paysage français so exciting to explore, it is also the architectural innovation taking place today. Revolution is rooted in the French DNA, and the commitment to transforming and creating is not lost in its architectural community. Whether they are reinventing established architectural typologies like school design or invigorating their public spaces through green architecture, the French remain governors of architecture incroyable.

With so many architecture firms to choose from, it’s challenging for clients to identify the industry leaders that will be an ideal fit for their project needs. Fortunately, Architizer is able to provide guidance on the top design firms in France based on more than a decade of data and industry knowledge.

How are these architecture firms ranked?

The following ranking has been created according to key statistics that demonstrate each firm’s level of architectural excellence. The following metrics have been accumulated to establish each architecture firm’s ranking, in order of priority:

  • The number of A+Awards won (2013 to 2023)
  • The number of A+Awards finalists (2013 to 2023)
  • The number of projects selected as “Project of the Day” (2009 to 2023)
  • The number of projects selected as “Featured Project” (2009 to 2023)
  • The number of projects uploaded to Architizer (2009 to 2023)

Each of these metrics is explained in more detail at the foot of this article. This ranking list will be updated annually, taking into account new achievements of France architecture firms throughout the year.

Without further ado, here are the 30 best architecture firms in France:

30. BFV ARCHITECTES

© BFV ARCHITECTES

© BFV ARCHITECTES

BFV Architectes is an architecture studio funded by Jean Bocabeille, Olivier Fassio and Jean-Brice Viaud. This acronym stands for more than 20 years of experience. It embodies both a historical continuity and a strong desire to grow together and broaden the scope of action. The idea of creating a new practice was obvious to the three men, as much as their will to keep building a consistent, efficient and meaningful kind of architecture. Bocabeille, Fassio and Viaud’s projects have been carried out either as collective journeys ([BP] Architectures, Plan01 or Fassio-Viaud Architectes) or individual adventures (Jean Bocabeille Architecte).

Some of BFV ARCHITECTES’s most prominent projects include:

  • PULSE, Saint-Denis, France
  • A MIXED USE PROGRAM: 132 housing units + 1 religious center + 2 retail businesses, Paris, France
  • NURSERY SCHOOL, Épinay-sous-Sénart, France
  • HOUSING PROJECT (& Rooftop), Pontoise, France
  • MORE WITH LESS, Paris, France

The following statistics helped BFV ARCHITECTES achieve 30th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in France:

Featured Projects6
Total Projects13

29. Architecture Patrick Mauger

© D. Boy de la Tour

© D. Boy de la Tour

The agency contributes to the transformation of the city, designing buildings that enrich life by multiplying their possible uses. The fields of activity are highly varied, ranging from urban spaces with studies to modify the reception areas in the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie and the northern Vilette esplanade (definition study) to interior architecture and design for the new layouts of the Louvre museum restaurants and delivery of the first “monolith”, inspired by an lfood on the terraces of the Richelieu wing.

Through their uses, contexts and budgets, the projects reveal a strong personality and are characterized by the emphasis on materials, such as marble powder on a honeycomb structure and Corian for the Louvre, or The Arte Povera treated wood for the CROUS centre in Mabillon.

Some of Architecture Patrick Mauger’s most prominent projects include:

  • Cultural Center, Auneau, France
  • Nièvre’s Departmental Archives, Nevers, France
  • IGN and Météo France Geosciences Centre, Saint-Mandé, France
  • Secrétan covered market, Paris, France
  • Center for Research and Interdisciplinarity, Paris, France

The following statistics helped Architecture Patrick Mauger achieve 29th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in France:

Featured Projects6
Total Projects21

28. A+Architecture

© A+Architecture

© A+Architecture

A+Architecture, leaded by nine partners, Philippe Bonon, Philippe Cervantes, Gilles Gal, Issis Raman, Christophe Aubailly, Vincent Nogaret, Julie Carayon-Couderc, Fabien Thuile et Clément Rabourdin is a team of architects, urban planners and designers with various backgrounds and cultures. Design is always the result of a collective work. Indeed, sharing a large open space favors group dynamics.

Some of A+Architecture’s most prominent projects include:

  • A+Agency, Montpellier, France
  • NEW NATIONAL STADIUM TOKYO 2020, Shinjuku, Japan
  • Jean-Claude Carrière Theatre, Montpellier, France
  • Cultural Centre , Agde, France
  • Port Marianne Secondary School, Montpellier, France

The following statistics helped A+Architecture achieve 28th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in France:

A+Awards Finalist2
Featured Projects5
Total Projects23

27. Dorell.Ghotmeh.Tane / Architects (DGT)

© Dorell.Ghotmeh.Tane / Architects (DGT)

© Dorell.Ghotmeh.Tane / Architects (DGT)

DORELL.GHOTMEH.TANE / ARCHITECTS is a partnership founded in January 2006 in Paris and practicing Architecture, Urbanism and Space Design.

Some of Dorell.Ghotmeh.Tane / Architects (DGT)’s most prominent projects include:

  • THE BUMP, Paris, France
  • LIGHT IS TIME, Milano, Italy
  • NEW NATIONAL STADIUM TOKYO 2020, Shinjuku, Japan
  • Estonian National Museum / “Memory Field”, Tartu, Estonia
  • A HOUSE FOR OISO, Naka District, Japan

The following statistics helped Dorell.Ghotmeh.Tane / Architects (DGT) achieve 27th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in France:

A+Awards Finalist3
Featured Projects5
Total Projects9

26. PETITDIDIERPRIOUX

© PETITDIDIERPRIOUX

© PETITDIDIERPRIOUX

Cédric Petitdidier and Vincent Prioux founded Petitdidierprioux Architectes in 2004. With more than forty staff and two offices in Paris and Lyon, PPX has completed more than forty projects, with just as many currently in development and in construction. Through its work, PPX has garnered expertise in residential housing, consistently striving for social mixing and ‘pleasurable density’ in an effort to reconcile individual and collective housing, including for high-rise buildings.

Each project delivers thoughtful consideration of typological variations and the notion of comfort, through particular attention to context, orientation, materials and energy use. PPX makes understanding any new situation the starting point of its process, and approaches each project free of preconceptions, always with a fresh, yet seasoned perspective.

Some of PETITDIDIERPRIOUX’s most prominent projects include:

  • 152 HOUSING UNITS, Villeurbanne, France
  • 71 HOUSING UNITS IN A SOCIAL RESIDENCE, Paris, France
  • SOCIAL RESIDENCE, Bordeaux, France
  • ATHLETES’ VILLAGE OLYMPIC GAMES 2024, L’Île-Saint-Denis, France
  • 30 SOCIAL HOUSING UNITS, Villefranche-sur-Saone, France

The following statistics helped PETITDIDIERPRIOUX achieve 26th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in France:

A+Awards Winner1
A+Awards Finalist1
Featured Projects3
Total Projects13

25. PCA-STREAM

© PCA-STREAM

© PCA-STREAM

The PCA-STREAM agency brings together 90 architects, urban planners, designers and engineers, capable of responding to the complex challenges of the contemporary world. PCA is the architecture and urban planning agency, STREAM, a unique transdisciplinary research program to which more than 150 researchers from around the world contribute, and whose work is widely disseminated and applied in PCA’s large-scale projects.

Some of PCA-STREAM’s most prominent projects include:

  • LABORDE, Paris, France
  • 175HAUSSMANN, Paris, France
  • PCA-STREAM’s CLUSTER, Paris, France
  • TALLEYRAND, Paris, France
  • #CLOUD.PARIS, Paris, France

The following statistics helped PCA-STREAM achieve 25th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in France:

A+Awards Winner1
A+Awards Finalist1
Featured Projects5
Total Projects16

24. NZI Architectes

© NZI Architectes

© NZI Architectes

We founded the NZI ARCHITECTES agency in 2012. Our association is based on a project approach by creative, complementary and participatory experimentation. Fervent activists for environmental innovation, our work is based on the search for contextual urban insertions, paying constant attention to sustainable development.

We are lucky to be able to work on atypical programs that range from participatory housing to straw construction, but also from wood construction to the recycling of offices into housing. This journey, enriched by the diversity of solutions we experience on programs, requires us to be combative to get out of the pre-established standards. Our work is oriented towards the exploration of other and innovative techniques.

Some of NZI Architectes’ most prominent projects include:

  • Transformation of an office building into a wood and straw 139 student rooms, Paris, France
  • Shop to Loft Conversion, Paris, France
  • Levallois Apartment, Levallois-Perret, France
  • PARTICIPATORY HABITAT IN MONTREUIL, Montreuil, France
  • Wood and Stone Early childhood home, Vauréal, France

The following statistics helped NZI Architectes achieve 24th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in France:

A+Awards Winner1
A+Awards Finalist2
Featured Projects4
Total Projects5

23. GARDERA-D

© GARDERA-D

© GARDERA-D

GARDERA-D is a pluridisciplinary architecture agency established in Paris and Biarritz, France. The agency explores a wide scope of investigation and responds to a varied demand for projects, ranging from architecture (housing, workplaces, teaching, equipment …) to interior design and object design.

Each project is approached and studied in a specific way, according to an approach based specifically on a particular attention to usages of buildings and the search for an optimum level in the relationship between architecture and location.

Some of GARDERA-D’s most prominent projects include:

  • ACBA, Agglomération Côte Basque Adour, Bayonne, France
  • House R, Anglet, France
  • 145 Student Housing, Bordeaux, France
  • AZALA, Biarritz, France
  • H+L House, Biarritz, France

The following statistics helped GARDERA-D achieve 23rd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in France:

Featured Projects6
Total Projects8

22. STUDIO 02

© Luc Boegly Photographe

© Luc Boegly Photographe

Based in Vannes since 2007 and claiming the ocean scenery as an inspiration, Studio 02 has found its place among the most prolific architect duos from the new generation. From the Binic nautical pole and the Plomodiern town hall to the overlays at the Baud Cultural Center, Romain Grégoire and Thomas Collet, set their enthusiastic vision of modernity, of a rational architecture, elegant and sophisticated made to please the client.

Faced with the context of each project, Studio 02’s style feeds itself from successive transformations, affirming the idea that no construction can simply just be abstract or monumental. Their architecture has clearly chosen a playground: clear lines, shades and frails… of these living buildings with hung images.

Some of STUDIO 02’s most prominent projects include:

  • City Hall, Plomodiern, France
  • LOTUS, Rennes, France
  • Monterblanc, Monterblanc, France
  • PLUMERGAT, Plumergat, France
  • Cultural center, Baud, France

The following statistics helped STUDIO 02 achieve 22nd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in France:

Featured Projects6
Total Projects8

21. Taillandier Architectes Associés

© Nicolas Da Silva Lucas

© Nicolas Da Silva Lucas

Founded in 1993 by Pierre-Louis Taillandier, Taillandier Architectes Associés (TAA) is an architecture and urbanism agency based in Toulouse, France. TAA is an open-minded organisation, working side by side with private and public partners. The people at TAA give their best to develop architectural solutions aimed to enhance the general experience: regardless of the nature of the project, the answer has to improve the quality of life of the end user and the direct environment.

To reach this goal, the approach needs to be well designed and well built. Every step must be taken very carefully within a structured and professional organization. Much more than a mere architectural momentum, every project designed by Taillandier Architectes Associés solves a series of equations blending program, user and environmental specifics.

Some of Taillandier Architectes Associés’s most prominent projects include:

  • Païcherou Aquatic Center, Carcassonne, France
  • Campus Vidal & Forum des Arènes, Toulouse, France
  • ZAC Niel, Toulouse, France
  • Cour Saint Cyp, Toulouse, France
  • INFINITY, Toulouse, France

The following statistics helped Taillandier Architectes Associés achieve 21st place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in France:

A+Awards Finalist1
Featured Projects6
Total Projects31

20. Atelier Stéphane Fernandez

© Atelier Stéphane Fernandez

© Atelier Stéphane Fernandez

The studio is based in Aix en Provence in the south of France, not far from Marseille. The studio’s work focuses on landscape issues. From the urban landscape to the historical landscape, from the built to the unbuilt, our approach being the field of architecture to a much more complex reality.

With this in mind, the studio works in collaboration with a variety of disciplines (landscape architects, designers, photographers and writers) to produce an approach to the project that is as complete as possible, but above all as sensitive as possible.

Some of Atelier Stéphane Fernandez’s most prominent projects include:

  • Ecole Communale Jacqueline de Romilly, Cannes, France
  • International Accommodation Centre for the Oceanological Observatory, Banyuls-sur-Mer, France
  • Cour et Jardin, Vertou, France
  • Espace Arbois Duranne, Aix-en-Provence, France
  • Logements Monfleuri social housing, Carnoux-en-Provence, France

The following statistics helped Atelier Stéphane Fernandez achieve 20th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in France:

A+Awards Finalist1
Featured Projects7
Total Projects5

19. Mikou Design Studio

Mikou Design Studio is a place of creation and experimentation in architecture and its inter-disciplinary cross-fertilization. We work in a continuous workshop spirit with a multidisciplinary team of architects, engineers, graphic artists, scenographers and town planners from very different cultural backgrounds.

Every project is an excuse for re-questioning and redefining the meaning of a brief, a function, and an urban, social and human context, in order to invent new ways of living, places for sharing and gathering that are more sensitive and more sensual, and which stimulate feelings. Our aim is to get away from preconceptions of form and function in order to transmit more and better.

Some of Mikou Design Studio’s most prominent projects include:

  • Balsanéo Aquatics Centre, Châteauroux, France
  • Swimming Pool Feng Shui, Issy-les-Moulineaux, France
  • Olympic Swimming Pool Tourcoing, Tourcoing, France
  • House of Art and Culture, Beirut, Lebanon
  • High School Jean Lurçat, Saint-Denis, France

The following statistics helped Mikou Design Studio achieve 19th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in France:

Featured Projects7
Total Projects14

18. studio razavi architecture

© studio razavi architecture

© studio razavi architecture

Our work rests on a fundamental principal: the mediation between engineering & architectural culture. It is our belief that successful designs can only materialize by fully synthesizing building technology and architectural sensitivity. Our approach to space is hence determined by a rigorous understanding of existing relationships between technique and culture, free of stylistic limitations, open to context.

Our designs cover a wide spectrum or architectural services from interiors to master planning services for clients in both the public and private sectors. Operating as one firm with two offices (Paris and New York) our portfolio of works spans from Europe to the Americas and includes residential, corporate, hospitality, civic, transportation, and mixed-use projects.

Some of studio razavi architecture’s most prominent projects include:

  • August Debouzy, Paris, France
  • Concrete Town House, New York, New York
  • Mountain House, Manigod, France
  • Apartment XVII, Lyon, France
  • Apartment XVI, Paris, France

The following statistics helped studio razavi architecture achieve 18th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in France:

A+Awards Winner1
A+Awards Finalist1
Featured Projects6
Total Projects15

17. designbuildLAB

© designbuildLAB

© designbuildLAB

The design/buildLAB is a project-based experiential learning program focused on the research, development and implementation of innovative construction methods and architectural designs. Students collaborate with local communities and industry experts to conceive and realize built works of architecture that are both educational and charitable in nature. The aspirations of the program are simultaneously to reinforce the knowledge and skills necessary to the students’ successful and meaningful practice of architecture and to support development efforts in distressed communities by enriching the quality of their built environment.

Some of designbuildLAB’s most prominent projects include:

  • Smith Creek Park, Clifton Forge, VA, United States
  • Maison Pour Tous, Four, France
  • Sharon Fieldhouse, Alleghany County, VA, United States
  • Sharon Fields, Alleghany County, VA, United States
  • Nomad Shelters, Villard-de-Lans, France

The following statistics helped designbuildLAB achieve 17th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in France:

A+Awards Winner2
A+Awards Finalist1
Featured Projects7
Total Projects6

16. Nomade Architectes

© Nomade Architectes

© Nomade Architectes

Raphaël Chivot, Matthieu Laviolle and Vincent Le Garrec – open-neck shirts and no Rolexes – are self-made men. An early schoolboy encounter was important; a sail together across the Atlantic, decisive. An agency was born first from camaraderie, then friendship: Nomade… all clear on the horizon and open-mindedness at a maximum. Which means, no borders. Between Paris and Vannes (its two locations) the agency specializes in all projects. And it works everywhere. Nomade moves and grows.

Ideas swarm in the inventive minds of some thirty faithful co-workers who have taken to organizing themselves around centers of interest, from design to the worksite via research, communication and even computer science.

Some of Nomade Architectes’s most prominent projects include:

  • Janine Jambu Gymnasium, Bagneux, France
  • Valerie Nicolas Gymnasium, Cancale, France
  • “Maison air et lumière” an Active House by Nomade, Verrières-le-Buisson, France
  • Delegation of the vineyard, Clisson, France
  • St Brieuc’s Elderly Establishment, Saint-Brieuc, France

The following statistics helped Nomade Architectes achieve 16th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in France:

Featured Projects7
Total Projects15

15. AUM Pierre Minassian

© AUM Pierre Minassian

© AUM Pierre Minassian

AUM Pierre Minassian is a firm that started its activity by designing houses. Since then the firm has diversified and now deals with a variety of subjects in various fields such as hotels, company headquarters, art galleries, cultural centers, educational buildings, sports facilities and even multi-unit housing. There are however common points between all the projects designed by Pierre Minassian and his team: the minimal design that integrates discreetly and efficiently into the landscape, the use of raw materials such as concrete, steel, wood, stone and glass, the priority given to natural light through the presence of very large-scale glazed façades, and the idea that any building designed by the firm should provide the residents and visitors with a unique living experience.

Some of AUM Pierre Minassian’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped AUM Pierre Minassian achieve 15th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in France:

Featured Projects8
Total Projects13

14. LCR ARCHITECTES

© LCR ARCHITECTES

© LCR ARCHITECTES

LCR ARCHITECTES was founded in 1992 by architects Philippe Lapeyre, Jean-Claude Coustillières and Xavier Ratynski. The team is mainly made up of architects, but also graphic designers, draftsmen and a construction economist among others. Accustomed to carrying out major operations in fields such as culture, education, the tertiary sector, student housing, health, research, collective housing, transport, industry and banking for the most part, this multidisciplinary and expert team guarantees a contextual proposal as well as a real proximity with the contracting authority.

Some of LCR ARCHITECTES’s most prominent projects include:

  • SOUTHERN URBAN TELEPHERIC, Toulouse, France
  • Public College of Labarthe-sur-Lèze, Labarthe-sur-Lèze, France
  • Academy of Art Crafts (ESMA), Auzeville-Tolosane, France
  • EURALIS Headquarters in Lescar, Lescar, France
  • Jean Jaurès subway station, Toulouse, France

The following statistics helped LCR ARCHITECTES achieve 14th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in France:

A+Awards Winner1
Featured Projects5
Total Projects9

13. Atelier Roberta

© archi5

© archi5

Roberta is a creature with three heads. Three backgrounds, three skills, three landscape practices united in a single vision of the project. Roberta pays very specific attention to sites and territories. She relies on her intuition and extensive field experience to open up new avenues for further study. She likes to travel, by train or by road…

Every project is new. Roberta has no preconceptions, and hates recipes. She always asks herself the question of practicality, how to bring a designed project to life, and how to make it her own. She is also sensitive to new materials and technologies, and to innovations taking place on the other side of the border.

Some of Atelier Roberta’s most prominent projects include:

  • Jean Louis Étienne school, Coupvray, France
  • P+R park and ride, Vertou, France
  • ESIEE-IT school of engineering and digital expertises, Pontoise, France
  • Théâtre d’eau, Fumel, France
  • BAT – 170 housing units and shops, Paris, France

The following statistics helped Atelier Roberta achieve 13th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in France:

A+Awards Winner2
Featured Projects7
Total Projects12

12. Franklin Azzi Architecture

© Franklin Azzi Architecture

© Franklin Azzi Architecture

Franklin Azzi and his practice, founded in 2006, develop a transversal approach stimulated by the intertwining of different views and disciplines. In constantly working on architecture, interior architecture, design and contemporary art, he develops a way of designing and building that is applicable to all scales and typologies of space.

From urban micro-architecture such as embodied by the Eiffel Kiosque and its prefabricated structure, to towers in Dubai and Paris, via conversions of existing buildings such as the Alstom market buildings in Nantes, his interventions are based on a quest for sustainability to meet the needs of all users.

Some of Franklin Azzi Architecture’s most prominent projects include:

  • Sasaek – Horizons, Seoul, South Korea
  • EP YAYING, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China
  • TOKO, WEBHELP’S HEADQUARTERS, Paris, France
  • Alstom Warehouses, Nantes Higher School of Fine Arts, Nantes, France
  • EIFFEL KIOSK, Paris, France

The following statistics helped Franklin Azzi Architecture achieve 12th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in France:

A+Awards Winner1
A+Awards Finalist2
Featured Projects9
Total Projects27

11. Coldefy

© Coldefy

© Coldefy

Thomas Coldefy and Isabel Van Haute are the duo of Coldefy & Associates Architects Urbanists, leading the diverse international team based in Lille, France. The firm is characterized by their dynamism and creativity, animated by an international tropism that drives them to participate regularly in professional events around the world as well as in large international competitions.  Their originality and resourcefulness have brought them success in a number of entries, including the Hong Kong Design Institute which they won in 2006 against 162 teams.

Some of Coldefy’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Coldefy achieve 11th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in France:

A+Awards Winner2
Featured Projects6
Total Projects8

10. Dietmar Feichtinger Architectes

© Dietmar Feichtinger Architectes

© Dietmar Feichtinger Architectes

Dietmar Feichtinger Architectes is an architectural studio based in Paris and in Vienna. Founded in 1993, the studio has built a strong reputation for exploring the dynamics between architecture and engineering.

Some of Dietmar Feichtinger Architectes’s most prominent projects include:

  • Financial and commercial department of Voest Alpine Stahl, Linz, Austria
  • Foot and Cyclebridge over the Rhein, Huningue, France
  • Logistic Centre, Gennevilliers, France
  • Sport Centre Ladoumègue, Paris, France
  • LMH Headquarters, Tourcoing, France

The following statistics helped Dietmar Feichtinger Architectes achieve 10th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in France:

Featured Projects9
Total Projects25

9. LAN Architecture

© LAN Architecture

© LAN Architecture

LAN Architecture was founded by Benoit Jallon and Umberto Napolitano in 2002. The agency’s name echoes the partners’ intentions directly. LAN is precisely the acronym of Local Architecture Network and it refers to the local design network applied and developed through specific field skills, experts and authors attending on the projects. The double nationality of LAN enables to bridge different European countries.

In 2004 LAN architecture work was selected by the French Culture Minister for the “Nouveaux Albums des Jeunes Architectes” for its potential and talent. In six years time, the agency has earned a reputation and won competitions both in France and abroad.

Some of LAN Architecture’s most prominent projects include:

  • Hotel Residence in Atacama, Atacama Region, Chile
  • Children’s Toy Library, Bonneuil-sur-Marne, France
  • COMPANY HEADQUARTERS MARCHESINI FRANCE – SAINT MESMES, Saint-Mesmes, France
  • Sprengel Museum extension, Hanover, Germany
  • 30 passive housing units, Paris, France

The following statistics helped LAN Architecture achieve 9th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in France:

Featured Projects9
Total Projects25

8. Hamonic+Masson & Associés

© Hamonic+Masson & Associés

© Hamonic+Masson & Associés

Hamonic+Masson & Associés is Gaëlle Hamonic, Jean-Christophe Masson and, since 2014, Marie-Agnès de Bailliencourt. The practice was founded in 1997, was nominated for the Mies van der Rohe prize in 2001, and in 2002 was awarded the Nouveaux Albums de la Jeune Architecture (NAJA).

The firm became recognized by the general public in 2003 by designing the Maison Métal in Paris’ Parc de la Villette. It was an event that placed Hamonic+Masson at the crossroads of art and architecture, a flexible place that allows for some adventurous undertakings. We have since staged events such as co-curating the French Pavilion at the 2008 Venice Biennial, and opened a series of exhibitions at venues such as the Cité de l’architecture et du patrimoine.

Some of Hamonic+Masson & Associés’s most prominent projects include:

  • HOME , Paris, France
  • New’R, Nantes, France
  • The Docks Dombasles: 25 apartments and offices, Le Havre, France
  • Centre des Archives Contemporaines, Fontainebleau, France
  • Urban Dock, Bordeaux, France

The following statistics helped Hamonic+Masson & Associés achieve 8th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in France:

Featured Projects10
Total Projects13

7. PPA architectures

© PPA architectures

© PPA architectures

PPA architectures is based in Toulouse, France is committed to fabricating urbanity through projects whose programs and contexts are analyzed and questioned from the point of view of use and construction. The agency tries to adjust to specific, generous and comfortable architectural and urban proposals a neutral, constructively flexible and frugal formalization. This intention, ambitious and pragmatic, relies on a collaborative, multidisciplinary and open work methodology to adapt to the contemporary conditions of a useful urbanism and architecture.

Some of PPA architectures’s most prominent projects include:

  • 50 Modular Timber, Toulouse, France
  • Salle des fêtes de Pratgraussals, Albi, France
  • Barn in Pyrenees, Hautes-Pyrénées, Midi-Pyrénées, France
  • Pavilion M, Seilh, France
  • Martel House, Toulouse, France

The following statistics helped PPA architectures achieve 7th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in France:

Featured Projects10
Total Projects20

6. H2O Architectes

© Stéphane Chalmeau

© Stéphane Chalmeau

h2o architectes is an office of creative architectural design also specializing in the restoration of ancient monuments. It is lead by three architects: Charlotte Hubert architect dipl. DPLG and historical preservation architect, Jean-Jacques Hubert architect dipl. DPLG founder of the office and Antoine Santiard architect dipl. EPFL who joined in 2008.

Established as a firm in 2005, the leading architects have had multiple collaborations since 2000. They have executed projects and won international competitions both as independent architects as well as for other major architects (Bruno Decaris, Jakob+MacFarlane, Bernard Tschumi). h2o works on a wide scope of projects and scales including historical monuments and sites, urban planning, architecture and design.

Some of H2O Architectes’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped H2O Architectes achieve 6th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in France:

Featured Projects10
Total Projects17

5. NBJ architects

© NBJ architects

© NBJ architects

Created in 2000 by Elodie Nourrigat and Jacques Brion, N+B architects became NBJ Architectes in 2013. NBJ Architectes projects are inscribed in different scales, whether architectural or urban. Invested in the diffusion of architectural culture, they organize the annual Festival des Architectures Vives which invites young architects to intervene in the courtyards of private mansions in Montpellier and in the city of La Grande Motte.

Some of NBJ architects’s most prominent projects include:

  • House NB, Montferrier-sur-Lez, France
  • Urban Space and Parking in Carros, Carros, France
  • higth school in Morieres Les Avignon, Morières-lès-Avignon, France
  • Office of Technical Center, La Grande-Motte, France
  • Lycée Paul Valéry, Menton, France

The following statistics helped NBJ architects achieve 5th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in France:

Featured Projects10
Total Projects42

4. FREAKS freearchitects

© FREAKS freearchitects

© FREAKS freearchitects

freearchitects is a Paris-based architecture firm lead by three architects favouring prospection, research and experimentation through projects and building process practices from small scale art installations to large scale architecture competitions.

Although nowadays their built projects are mostly located in France, FREAKS’s partners have lived and experienced a wide range of abroad working contexts such as San Francisco, Tokyo, Beijing, Berlin, Mumbai, Singapore, Istanbul and more.

Some of FREAKS freearchitects’s most prominent projects include:

  • SAMMODE research & development center, Lamotte-Beuvron, France
  • Refurbishment of the historical Strasbourg zoo’s pedagogical farm and new visitor center, Strasbourg, France
  • SUR MESURE, Paris, France
  • Pavillion in a garden, Saint-Germain-en-Laye, France
  • Tribal Act Historical Tattoo and Piercing Parlor in Paris, Paris, France

The following statistics helped FREAKS freearchitects achieve 4th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in France:

A+Awards Finalist1
Featured Projects13
Total Projects18

3. Atelier Zündel Cristea

© Atelier Zündel Cristea

© Atelier Zündel Cristea

Officially established in January of 2001, today AZC includes around thirty people organized into four areas: design, research, construction and administration of projects. Our teams are made up of young architects from all over the world, as the diversity of our own respective Swiss-American and Romanian origins has brought us to an understanding of the interest in crossing cultures and transgressing boundaries.

Consequently, the efficiency and creativity of our firm are bolstered by a constant effort in observing what’s going on elsewhere, in striving to work outside our country, in taking an interest in differences. Each of our projects are embodied by a strategy of qualitatively occupying sites, without preconceptions regarding their geographic location, their programmatic requirements, or their scale.

Some of Atelier Zündel Cristea’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Atelier Zündel Cristea achieve 3rd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in France:

A+Awards Winner1
Featured Projects13
Total Projects49

2. archi5

Night view from south west - © archi5

Night view from south west – © archi5

archi5 was founded in 2003, the fruit of its founders’ common agency experience and the approach they share to architecture. A context-based approach to projects is key: the site, the programme, the social and cultural challenges are all examined, analyzed and compared. These data are then transformed into questions.

The projects offer a dynamic and comprehensive response to those issues to the highest standard that has come to be archi5’s trademark. This approach is visible, legible in every building. It confers meaning and form and is perceptible in the projects’ applications, spaces and environmental impact. It is the essence of our confidence in architecture, its capacity to enhance human kinds’ environment. The agency uses its acumen and know-how to instill this ethos throughout and to guarantee its continuity.

Some of archi5’s most prominent projects include:

  • The Marcel Sembat High School, Sotteville-lès-Rouen, France
  • Jean Louis Étienne school, Coupvray, France
  • Angela Davis school, Bezons, France
  • Louise Michel High School, Gisors, France
  • Mont de Marsan Mediatheque, Mont-de-Marsan, France

Top image: Familistère dwellings, Montreuil, France 

The following statistics helped archi5 achieve 2nd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in France:

A+Awards Winner5
A+Awards Finalist4
Featured Projects17
Total Projects34

1. Dominique Coulon & Associés

© Dominique Coulon & Associés

© Dominique Coulon & Associés

Located in the heart of Strasbourg, Dominique Coulon & Associés is a firm of architects of national and international renown. For more than 25 years, the agency has earned a reputation for the quality of the public facilities it designs. It has worked on a wide and varied range of programmes, including a media library, music school, auditorium, school complex, swimming pool, sports facilities, a residential home for the dependent elderly and housing. Dominique Coulon and his associate Steve Lethos Duclos allow their intuition to lead the way as they seek to develop contextual projects that combine contrast and complexity, where the outer envelope hints at inner richness.

Some of Dominique Coulon & Associés’s most prominent projects include:

  • Housing for elderly people, Huningue, France
  • ‘Pierre Bottero’ media library and park in Pélissanne, Pélissanne, France
  • Multicultural centre in Isbergues, Isbergues, France
  • Regional Court and Industrial Tribunal in Montmorency, Montmorency, France
  • Inter-Generation Centre in Venarey-Les Laumes, Venarey-les-Laumes, France

The following statistics helped Dominique Coulon & Associés achieve 1st place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in France:

A+Awards Winner1
A+Awards Finalist3
Featured Projects35
Total Projects42

Why Should I Trust Architizer’s Ranking?

With more than 30,000 architecture firms and over 130,000 projects within its database, Architizer is proud to host the world’s largest online community of architects and building product manufacturers. Its celebrated A+Awards program is also the largest celebration of architecture and building products, with more than 400 jurors and hundreds of thousands of public votes helping to recognize the world’s best architecture each year.

Architizer also powers firm directories for a number of AIA (American Institute of Architects) Chapters nationwide, including the official directory of architecture firms for AIA New York.

An example of a project page on Architizer with Project Award Badges highlighted

A Guide to Project Awards

The blue “+” badge denotes that a project has won a prestigious A+Award as described above. Hovering over the badge reveals details of the award, including award category, year, and whether the project won the jury or popular choice award.

The orange Project of the Day and yellow Featured Project badges are awarded by Architizer’s Editorial team, and are selected based on a number of factors. The following factors increase a project’s likelihood of being featured or awarded Project of the Day status:

  • Project completed within the last 3 years
  • A well written, concise project description of at least 3 paragraphs
  • Architectural design with a high level of both functional and aesthetic value
  • High quality, in focus photographs
  • At least 8 photographs of both the interior and exterior of the building
  • Inclusion of architectural drawings and renderings
  • Inclusion of construction photographs

There are 7 Projects of the Day each week and a further 31 Featured Projects. Each Project of the Day is published on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Stories, while each Featured Project is published on Facebook. Each Project of the Day also features in Architizer’s Weekly Projects Newsletter and shared with 170,000 subscribers.

 

 

We’re constantly look for the world’s best architects to join our community. If you would like to understand more about this ranking list and learn how your firm can achieve a presence on it, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at editorial@architizer.com.

Reference

Non-Linear Chronologies: 7 Chinese Firms Designing Architecture Against the March of Time
CategoriesArchitecture

Non-Linear Chronologies: 7 Chinese Firms Designing Architecture Against the March of Time

By Zarkon Group,

Architizer’s 12th Annual A+Awards are officially underway! Sign up for key program updates and prepare your submission ahead of the Main Entry Deadline on December 15th.  

Can a building exist simultaneously in the past, present and future? Time-defying architecture is a groundbreaking movement that says, yes, it can. The approach, more than a stylistic exercise, challenges the conventional linear approach of architectural history, integrating eras seemingly seamlessly through a singular design.

Across China, this architectural philosophy is gaining remarkable traction, reflecting a unique cultural junction of reverence and rapid modernization. Chinese architecture firms are at the forefront of this movement, driven by deeply engrained historical consciousness and a drive for global architectural leadership. This fusion of ancient heritage with futuristic vision highlights a unique approach to preserving cultural identity while embracing the technological revolution.

Key to the practice lies in historical knowledge and a precise application of it alongside the technological advancements of the modern world – architects must adeptly navigate between eras, employing techniques from Brutalism to biomimicry, with a sensitivity that avoids pastiche. The seven A+Award winners highlighted showcase innovative structures and materials that have created spaces that are both forward-thinking and multi-layered in time.

Bache Community Center

By DEDANG DESIGN, Suzhou, China.

Jury Award Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Community Centers

Bache Community Center by DEDANG DESIGN, Suzhou, China. Photographs by Dedang Design

The Bache Community Center is a modern building located in Suzhou, designed by DEDANG DESIGN. The center is situated in the old street of Bache, near the historic Grand Canal and is part of a micro-renewal project which aims to revitalize the area in anticipation of the new Soochow University campus.

The building successfully combines contemporary design with a deep sense of heritage and place, with the idea behind the design being to blend the old with the new. Using a “column-free” design, the center appears to “float” above the ground, creating an open and airy space that contrasts with the surrounding cramped quarters of the old street. In a bid to respect the heritage of the site the center has a courtyard that is raised and sunken, surrounded by old bricks, which offers a communal space while incorporating a contemporary architectural language. A ginkgo tree, which is a symbol of life and connects the building to the changing seasons, was included in the atrium.

PUSHINE

By Chongqing Qimo Architectural Design Consulting, Chongqing, China.

Jury Award Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Hotels and Resorts

PUSHINE by Chongqing Qimo Architectural Design Consulting, Chongqing, China

PUSHINE, a stunning resort by Chongqing Qimo Architectural Design Consulting Co., Ltd., is located in the peaceful Jinfo Mountain area of Nanchuan District, Chongqing. Completed in 2021, it is a modern hideaway that incorporates ancient Buddhist and Taoist principles of Zen. The hotel offers a contemporary escape, but it pays homage to age-old concepts and creating an environment that is ideal for rest and contemplation.

The flow of the mountain stream inspires the design of the hotel. It includes cottages and bridges set at different elevations, building a connection between architecture and the natural landscape. PUSHINE is a modern retreat that is a seamless blend of contemporary resort architecture with traditional Chinese philosophy that finds a harmonious balance, offering visitors a tranquil space to experience a profound sense of mental clarity and peace.

 

Chenjiagou “Impression Tai Chi” Theatre

By Architectural Design & Research Institute of Tsinghua University, Jiaozuo, China

Jury Award Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Hall / Theater

Chenjiagou “Impression Tai Chi” Theatre by Architectural Design & Research Institute of Tsinghua University., Jiaozuo, China. Photographs by Zhan Changheng

The “Impression Tai Chi” Theatre is located in Chenjiagou, which is considered the birthplace of Chinese Tai Chi Chuan. Designed by the Architectural Design & Research Institute of Tsinghua University Co., LTD the theater can accommodate up to 1200 people and is a testament to the preservation of natural landscape.

The theatre has a unique mirrored stainless steel facade that reflects the sky, creating a visually appealing connection with the environment without interfering with the visual narrative of the landscape. An annex inspired by traditional Chinese courtyards is constructed using rubble concrete and extends to the exterior, where the natural terrain is followed. Featuring grassy slopes on the roof and surroundings, the theatre design creates a “3D park” that adds value to the guest experience and honors the natural location of the building. It is a prime example of architecture that works with its surroundings, defying traditional notions of architecture to allow for harmonious coexistence.

Free Space with Wood

By Fan Architectural Firm (FANAF), Nanjing, China

Jury Award Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Showrooms

Free Space with Wood by Fan Architectural Firm (FANAF), Nanjing, China. Photographs by ingallery Jin Xiaowen.

The “Free Space with Wood” commercial showroom in Nanjing was designed by Fan Architectural Firm (FANAF) in 2022. The project is a fine example of the importance of preserving historical elements in modern design. The focal point of the space is a restored red brick wall, traditional to historical Chinese architecture, that connects the past with the present.

The showroom is divided into two courtyards using wooden elements and frameless glass to blend the interior and exterior spaces. The entrance courtyard merges indoors and outdoors with a black box, as it integrates the vibrancy of the city. The traditionally inspired internal courtyard features a wooden ceiling that extends outward and a C-shaped teahouse, creating a peaceful atmosphere.

FANAF’s design approach focuses on preserving historical integrity with minimal intervention and maximum preservation while adding contemporary functionality. The design creates a dynamic yet respectful dialogue between old and new.

The Oatmeal Factory

By JSPA Design, Ningwu County, Xinzhou, China

Jury and Popular Choice Award Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Factories & Warehouses

The Oatmeal Factory by JSPA Design, Ningwu County, Xinzhou, China. Photographs by Schran Images

The Oatmeal Factory in Ningwu County , built in 2022 by JSPA Design, is a groundbreaking industrial facility that rethinks what a factory can be. Rather than being a muted and utilitarian space, the factory incorporates elements of nature and sensory experience into its design, creating a space that defies traditional industrial architecture.

The factory is divided into two levels. The lower level is made up of brick walls and houses the technical spaces, which is a tribute to local building traditions. The upper level is a modern concrete volume designed for public spaces. By incorporating patios and gardens, the factory introduces natural light and creates a sense of openness that is not usually found in traditional factories.

By blending traditional brickwork with modern concrete, the factory creates a conversation between past and present. The Oatmeal Factory is an innovative blend of industry and nature, reimagining the role and form of a factory in a contemporary context.

Chongqing Shibati Traditional Style Area

By Beijing AN-Design Architects, Chongqing, China

Jury Award Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Urban & Masterplan

Recently revitalized by Beijing AN-Design Architects, the Chongqing Shibati Traditional Style Area represents the perfect blend of modern technology and traditional spaces. Shibati is located in the old city of Chongqing and is known for its ancient stairway and deep cultural roots dating back to the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The renovation project, covering over one million square feet, was guided by the principle of protecting and inheriting Shibati’s core values. The design retained the original urban layout of “seven streets and six lanes” and preserved the complex elevation changes characteristic of the site.

The restoration process was meticulous and cultural relics, historical buildings, cliffs, stairways and trees that define the mountain city were all restored. Elements like telegraph poles and iron railings were also restored to maintain historical continuity. Modern features were carefully integrated using original styles, techniques and materials. This approach created a seamless blend of old and new, ensuring that the Shibati area remains a living and breathing part of Chongqing’s urban fabric. It is a place where traditional charm coexists with modern functionality.

Stations of Shanghai Metro Line 18

By Shanghai Rail Transit Line 18 Development, Shanghai, China

Popular Choice Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Transport Interiors

Stations of Shanghai Metro Line 18 by Shanghai Rail Transit Line 18 Development, Shanghai, China.

The Shanghai Metro Line 18 has several stations, including the Danyang Road Station, that were designed to transcend time. The line opened in 2021 and runs through the Yangpu Binjiang area, which is rich in history. The stations use contrasting black and white colors to create a modern feel while also emphasizing the region’s industrial past. The unique design combines a minimalist approach with historical storytelling to create a time-defying architecture.

The stations effectively blend different eras and are a great example of how transport infrastructure can transcend its conventional role, becoming a dynamic space where different periods coexist and enhance the urban fabric.

Architizer’s 12th Annual A+Awards are officially underway! Sign up for key program updates and prepare your submission ahead of the Main Entry Deadline on December 15th.  

Reference

Jackson West Medical Center Doral Campus by Perkins&Will
CategoriesArchitecture

7 Formidable Sustainable Firms Dynamically Disrupting the Architectural Status Quo

By Zarkon Group,

The latest edition of “Architizer: The World’s Best Architecture” — a stunning, hardbound book celebrating the most inspiring contemporary architecture from around the globe — is now available. Order your copy today.  

Sustainability has become something of a buzzword in the industry. It’s a term that’s gained momentum as the climate crisis has come to a head, yet its popularity has also diluted its meaning. In some instances, sustainability is employed as a marketing tool, reinforced by superficial practices with little environmental benefit. This kind of greenwashing can make it difficult to discern which firms are making genuine efforts to build a better future.

Recognized within the Best Sustainable Firm category at the 11th A+Awards, the following practices are committed to instigating real change among architects and design professionals. From reducing waste and water consumption, embracing passive design strategies and utilizing reclaimed materials to considering the entire life cycle of a building and giving new life to our inherited structures, here are the sustainable firms disrupting the status quo in 2024 and beyond…

Perkins&Will

Jury Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Best Sustainable Firm

Jackson West Medical Center Doral Campus by Perkins&Will Architect’s Office by Perkins&WillFirm Location: Chicago, Illinois (Headquarters, with offices elsewhere)

Pictured Projects: Jackson West Medical Center Doral Campus, Doral, Florida ; Architect’s Office, Washington, DC

Perkins&Will has a long history of delivering design excellence. In more recent decades, the practice has also become a leading light in efforts to make the industry more environmentally conscious. Its ethos champions the integration of sustainable practices at each stage of the design process, incorporating non-toxic materials, energy-efficient systems and biophilic approaches. The team has even pledged to eliminate embodied carbon from every commercial interior space they design by 2030.

Encompassing a wide array of typologies, from sports stadiums to offices and laboratories, the firm’s body of work epitomizes its mission to create beautiful spaces that enrich the lives of users and the wider planet. Perkins&Will also advocates for equity across the built landscape. Lauded for its work in promoting social justice, the studio has a program that offers free architectural services to nonprofits, supporting affordable housing, childcare, healthcare and education initiatives.

SUP Atelier of THAD

Popular Choice Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Best Sustainable Firm

History museum of Qifeng Village by SUP Atelier of THAD INBAR Pavillion by SUP Atelier of THADFirm Location: Beijing, China

Pictured Projects: History museum of Qifeng Village, Anhui, China ; INBAR Pavillion, Yangzhou, China

Innovative firm SUP Atelier of THAD looks to regional materials and construction traditions to guide its sensitive approach to sustainability. The Beijing-based firm views each project through a highly contextual lens, ensuring its work invigorates both the natural environment and the surrounding community. Fusing state-of-the-art technology with the wisdom of vernacular architecture, the studio shapes new structures that harmonize with the local ecosystem and revives old structures by imparting fresh purpose.

Notable spaces in the team’s impressive portfolio include a remarkable exhibition hall in Yangzhou with an intricate bamboo frame inspired by the form of a fish, and a dilapidated building in a mountain village, restored with historic techniques and salvaged materials into a bustling public hub.

Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM)

Finalist, 11th Annual A+Awards, Best Sustainable Firm

Urban Sequoia by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) Wellesley College Science Complex by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM)Firm Location: New York, New York (Headquarters, with offices elsewhere)

Pictured Projects: Urban Sequoia, Concept ; Wellesley College Science Complex, Wellesley, Massachusetts

After becoming a carbon-neutral business in 2022, Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) has its sights set higher, aiming for all of its active projects to produce net zero operational carbon by 2030. The minds behind some of the world’s most environmentally advanced buildings, the practice’s holistic philosophy utilizes sustainable engineering principles to create spaces that prioritize social well-being and environmental health.

This commitment to overhauling the industry’s practices is seen across every scale of the firm’s work, from macro projects such as expansive masterplans to micro projects like furniture design. One of its most ambitious concepts to date is Urban Sequoia. The futuristic vision fuses high-rise buildings with the functionality of trees, imagining a skyline that can absorb carbon at unprecedented rates.

COOKFOX Architects

Finalist, 11th Annual A+Awards, Best Sustainable Firm

Terminal Warehouse by COOKFOX Architects CITY TOWER by COOKFOX ArchitectsFirm Location: New York, New York

Pictured Projects: Terminal Warehouse, New York, New York ; CITY TOWER, New York, New York

New York-based practice COOKFOX Architecture sees itself as a steward of the world’s natural resources. The firm’s dynamic work across the urban landscape, from private homes and multi-unit housing to offices and retail spaces, reimagines the way spatial users interact with buildings and the organic environment. By drawing on biophilic architecture, its projects place people and nature in direct communion in even the most developed of cityscapes.

Dedicated to contextually responsive design in all its forms, the studio embarks on each brief with intensive research into a site’s cultural, historical and locational facets. The team engages with these different layers of identity, preserving the past and rearticulating it in a modern, regenerative design language.

EHDD

Finalist, 11th Annual A+Awards, Best Sustainable Firm

Lisa & Douglas Goldman Tennis Center (with HGA) by EHDD Millikan Laboratory and Andrew Science Hall at Pomona College by EHDDFirm Location: San Francisco, California (Headquarters, with offices elsewhere)

Pictured Projects: Lisa & Douglas Goldman Tennis Center (with HGA), San Francisco, California ; Millikan Laboratory and Andrew Science Hall at Pomona College, Claremont, California

Since Joseph Esherick founded the firm in 1946, EHDD has been a pioneer of sustainable design, striving to reduce the impact its work has on the Earth. The practice’s Net Zero Energy concept was introduced more than fifteen years ago and it continues to advocate for a more environmentally conscious industry. A proponent of clean electricity, the studio is also endeavoring to reduce structure-based emissions, embracing alternatives including mass timber and ultra-low cement concrete, while undertaking its own research into new, cutting-edge solutions.

While the firm historically made a name for itself in residential and aquarium typologies, it also has expertise in designing libraries, science facilities, educational spaces, museums and zoos. Alongside its focus on sustainability, the team ensures its projects promote equity and inclusivity, shaping environments where users thrive.

Stantec

Special Mention, 11th Annual A+Awards, Best Sustainable Firm

SUNY Upstate University Hospital Nappi Wellness Institute by Stantec The Charles Library at Temple University by StantecFirm Location: Edmonton, Canada (Headquarters, with offices elsewhere)

Pictured Projects: SUNY Upstate University Hospital Nappi Wellness Institute, Syracuse, New York ; The Charles Library at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Comprising designers, engineers and project managers, Stantec is a research-led firm headquartered in Edmonton, Alberta. The studio envisions a future where the organic and built spheres exist symbiotically, development is responsible, biodiversity is abundant and renewable energy is accessible to all. The firm’s aspirations for the future are articulated through its extensive catalog of work, ranging from residential, municipal, educational and commercial spaces to hospitality and infrastructure.

Stantec works closely with its clients to explore the potential of their projects, incorporating opportunities for carbon reduction and energy efficiency. The practice’s architectural toolkit champions passive and net zero design, in line with the LEED framework and WELL Building standards. By combining sustainable practices with creativity and a considerate, community-minded perspective, the firm’s projects help to elevate their users’ quality of life.

Lemay

Special Mention, 11th Annual A+Awards, Best Sustainable Firm

Odea by Lemay Théâtre de Verdure by LemayFirm Location: Montreal, Canada (Headquarters, with offices elsewhere)

Pictured Projects: Odea, Montreal, Canada ; Théâtre de Verdure, Montreal, Canada

Founded back in 1957, Lemay is an interdisciplinary practice driven by innovation. Its team of more than 400 architects, designers and industry experts work across a wide array of scales, covering masterplans, transportation and commercial briefs, as well as residential and office environments.

The firm’s work is rooted in its net positive philosophy, which strives to create sustainable, socially aware spaces that will continue to benefit future generations. This scalable approach seeks to harmonize the built world and the natural environment on three levels: neighborhoods, buildings and interiors. Present in each of these layers of Lemay’s work, practical design measures, responsibly sourced materials and state-of-the-art renewable technologies ensure the delivery of meaningful projects that benefit the planet.

The latest edition of “Architizer: The World’s Best Architecture” — a stunning, hardbound book celebrating the most inspiring contemporary architecture from around the globe — is now available. Order your copy today.  

Reference

© Le Anh Duc
CategoriesArchitecture

30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam

By Zarkon Group,

These annual rankings were last updated on December 15th, 2023. Want to see your firm on next year’s list? Continue reading for more on how you can improve your studio’s ranking. 

Vietnam’s vast and varied architectural landscape is composed of vernacular tradition, colonial doctrine and modernist exploration. Ancient Vietnamese architecture is rooted in its wooden and thatched structures and distinguished by its curved roofs. Eventually, during the centuries of dynastic rule, outsourced external laborers introduced a new Chinese visual language. Then, the French colonial period brought forth Western ideologies.

Following the dramatic political changes of the 20th century, a branch of modernist thinking made its way to Vietnam’s architectural landscape. Locals began to embrace this new wave of modernist architecture as a form of self-expression that differentiated itself from past colonial design; Vietnamese architects found unique ways to express themselves in an increasingly international structural language. Concrete, glass and metal took precedence over the past favoring wood, and modern structures began to appear — especially in Ho Chi Minh City — which attracted foreign business, bolstering the country’s urbanization. This newfound support of modernism and experimentation can be felt in the country’s contemporary architecture, which is often experimental yet site-specific and at the forefront of biophilic design.

Like anywhere in the world, Vietnamese architecture is not only informed by its governance and faith but by the climate. Regionally speaking, the architecture differs to accommodate specific climatic conditions. In the highlands and midlands, for example, one will find stilted homes that accommodate the region’s rain-prone conditions. Whereas traditional one-storied dwellings are found in the region’s dryer lands. Such a hybrid blend of architectural styles and diverse topography makes for a fascinating yet widely diverse built environment.

With so many architecture firms to choose from, it’s challenging for clients to identify the industry leaders that will be an ideal fit for their project needs. Fortunately, Architizer is able to provide guidance on the top design firms in Vietnam based on more than a decade of data and industry knowledge.

How are these architecture firms ranked?

The following ranking has been created according to key statistics that demonstrate each firm’s level of architectural excellence. The following metrics have been accumulated to establish each architecture firm’s ranking, in order of priority:

  • The number of A+Awards won (2013 to 2023)
  • The number of A+Awards finalists (2013 to 2023)
  • The number of projects selected as “Project of the Day” (2009 to 2023)
  • The number of projects selected as “Featured Project” (2009 to 2023)
  • The number of projects uploaded to Architizer (2009 to 2023)

Each of these metrics is explained in more detail at the foot of this article. This ranking list will be updated annually, taking into account new achievements of Vietnam architecture firms throughout the year.

Without further ado, here are the 30 best architecture firms in Vietnam:

30. TOOB STUDIO

© Le Anh Duc

© Le Anh Duc

In 2014, Architect Nguyen Hong Quang founded Toob Studio – an architecture firm that focuses mainly on small to medium residential projects. Simplicity can be seen in our works which frequently have clean crisp angular forms and recognizable spaces. According to researchers, with an urban population of nearly 2,000 people per square kilometers living in Vietnam’s urban areas, most new buildings are typically multistorey, boxy concrete townhouse-like structures with small floor areas, and minimal outdoor space. With an open mind and the willingness to push through boundaries, we will find ways to dissolve these limitations by designing buildings that are more transparent and bring nature into the spaces.

Some of TOOB STUDIO’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped TOOB STUDIO achieve 30th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam:

Featured Projects2
Total Projects2

29. HCRA design

© Cao Hoa

© Cao Hoa

HCRA design is an architecture and interior design firm that focuses on public and commercial projects.

Some of HCRA design’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped HCRA design achieve 29th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam:

Featured Projects2
Total Projects4

28. Space+ Architecture

© Space+ Architecture

© Space+ Architecture

We are always looking for creativity in each design to create aesthetic architectural spaces in terms of form and standards of function. The orientation of Space+ is the design solutions that adapt to the natural, climatic and local cultural conditions of each project. Each design of Space+ will be a Green building, creating comfortable and safe living spaces for users. We always respect community values, sustainability and friendliness with nature and living environment.

Some of Space+ Architecture’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Space+ Architecture achieve 28th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam:

Featured Projects2
Total Projects4

27. RISOU

© RISOU

© RISOU

RISOU is an architecture and interior design firm based on Vietnam. Its work is mostly centered around residential architecture.

Some of RISOU’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped RISOU achieve 27th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam:

Featured Projects2
Total Projects5

26. VHLArchitects

© Hiroyuki Oki

© Hiroyuki Oki

VHLArchitects work on a range of the architectural design process, from buildings to furniture, with the aim to “Create space, Paying the source of life.” We undertake phase formed from the basic idea for the design development phase formation of construction drawings and construction supervision. VHLArchitects with guidelines established to ensure that all projects that are formed with high quality, professional and each work is a feature of the architectural design.

Some of VHLArchitects’s most prominent projects include:

  • Red Flower Coffee Shop, Hải Châu District, Da Nang, Vietnam
  • PHONGHOUSE Awaken the abandoned house Project, Cẩm Lệ District, Da Nang, Vietnam
  • Parametric Bench design, Hải Châu District, Da Nang, Vietnam
  • HOUSING FOR WORKER, Bình Dương, tp. Thủ Dầu Một, Vietnam
  • BF House, Da Nang, Vietnam

The following statistics helped VHLArchitects achieve 26th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam:

Featured Projects2
Total Projects35

25. LVHQ

© LVHQ

© LVHQ

LVHQ is an architectural practice based on Vietnam. Its work is mostly focused on residential architecture.

Some of LVHQ’s most prominent projects include:

  • F-coffee, Đồng Hới, Vietnam
  • O-House, tt. Đô Lương, Đô Lương, Nghệ An, Vietnam

The following statistics helped LVHQ achieve 25th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam:

Featured Projects3
Total Projects2

24. Nguyen Khai Architects & Associates

© Nguyen Khai Architects & Associates

© Nguyen Khai Architects & Associates

Nguyen Khai Architects & Associates is an architecture and interior design studio based in Hue. Its projects are focused mainly on residential architecture.

Some of Nguyen Khai Architects & Associates’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Nguyen Khai Architects & Associates achieve 24th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam:

Featured Projects3
Total Projects3

23. INFINITIVE ARCHITECTURE

© INFINITIVE ARCHITECTURE

© INFINITIVE ARCHITECTURE

Founded in 2008 with practices in architecture, planning, interior, landscape, we have materialized projects in Vietnam and Southeast Asia, with projects ranging from commercial to residential to hospitality.

We are making our way to progress and professionalism in the field, with the simultaneous observations of how architecture results in human living. We love to see local culture conveyed into architecture, as much as we hope to contribute to our community and our country.

Some of INFINITIVE ARCHITECTURE’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped INFINITIVE ARCHITECTURE achieve 23rd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam:

A+Awards Winner1
A+Awards Finalist1
Featured Projects3
Total Projects3

22. CONG SINH ARCHITECTS

© CONG SINH ARCHITECTS

© CONG SINH ARCHITECTS

CongSinh is the creative team, in that each member has won the national and international architecture awards; has the best conditions to express their proficiency.
With high responsibility, each project is team’s dedication and seriously working with the wishing to create more nice architectural works for society. It is also to satisfy the passion and career love of every member of CongSinh. Customer satisfaction is the golden key to open our next success!

Some of CONG SINH ARCHITECTS’s most prominent projects include:

  • The Gills, Số 5, Tân Phú, Quận 7, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
  • Kaleidoscope, District 10, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
  • Vegetable Trellis, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

The following statistics helped CONG SINH ARCHITECTS achieve 22nd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam:

Featured Projects3
Total Projects3

21. SILAA

© SILAA

© SILAA

SILAA architects is a Vietnamese architecture studio, based in the city of Huế. the firm focuses primarily on residential and hospitality projects.

Some of SILAA’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped SILAA achieve 21st place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam:

Featured Projects3
Total Projects4

20. Chi.Arch

© Chi.Arch

© Chi.Arch

Chi.Arch is an innovative architecture, interior, landscape design studio in Vietnam led by principal architects Mr. Truong Minh Tung and Mrs. Ho Nguyen Thuy Quynh. The company was born in Quy Nhon, Vietnam in 2019, but we work in Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam. We are a small team with around ten members. Architecture is a profession with many advantages when working online, so we organize work with many partners in the localities where the works are built in order to control and supervise them. We focus on building all kinds of houses, schools, libraries, resorts, cafes and restaurants, service works and more with the goal of bringing nature into the building through light, trees and ventilation.

Some of Chi.Arch’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Chi.Arch achieve 20th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam:

Featured Projects3
Total Projects8

19. CTA – Creative Architects

© CTA - Creative Architects

© CTA – Creative Architects

CTA stands for Creative Architects, was founded in 2018, is a group of young architects, architectural activities with the spirit of learning and promoting creativity, in order to create experiences, interesting in the architectural space. Besides architectural activities, CTA also has academic, research and creative activities to create solutions to overcome outstanding issues of society today.

Some of CTA – Creative Architects’s most prominent projects include:

  • Am house, Cần Giuộc, Long An Province, Vietnam
  • 2Hien, Tây Ninh, Vietnam
  • Wallhouse, Bien Hoa, Vietnam
  • T house, Dĩ An, Vietnam
  • Cloud, District 7, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

The following statistics helped CTA – Creative Architects achieve 19th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam:

Featured Projects4
Total Projects6

18. Pham Huu Son Architects

© Pham Huu Son Architects

© Pham Huu Son Architects

Led by Pham Huu Son Architect, the PHSA team is young, dynamic, with a range of personal interests and specialities. We focused about simplicity, modernity and sustainable green architecture.

Some of Pham Huu Son Architects’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Pham Huu Son Architects achieve 18th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam:

Featured Projects4
Total Projects4

17. mw archstudio

© mw archstudio

© mw archstudio

MW archstudio is a practice based in ho chi minh city, nha trang city, and hue city, vietnam. The firm offers professional services in masterplanning, architecture and interior design.

Some of mw archstudio’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped mw archstudio achieve 17th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam:

A+Awards Winner1
Featured Projects3
Total Projects7

16. Inrestudio

© Inrestudio

© Inrestudio

Inrestudio is an architectural design studio based in Ho Chi Minh City. Led by a Japanese architect Kosuke Nishijima, the studio aims to discover new architecture specific to Vietnamese culture based on international perspectives. The studio’s design philosophy is represented by its name “in re”, which can be interpreted as “in relation”. As it signifies, the studio engages itself in not only “what we design” but also “what we design about”, valuing the understanding of environment where each project is situated, in order to propose longstanding designs in the rapidly growing society.

Some of Inrestudio’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Inrestudio achieve 16th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam:

A+Awards Winner2
Featured Projects5
Total Projects3

15. 23o5 Studio

© 23o5 Studio

© 23o5 Studio

We, the young architects with enthusiasm of creative labor, with a strong heart and a violent passion, always cherished to create the novel projects and the worth spaces.

Some of 23o5 Studio’s most prominent projects include:

  • Lộc House, Tân An, Thủ Dầu Một, Vietnam
  • Up2green, Lái Thiêu, tx. Thuận An, Vietnam
  • The Memory, Tân An, tp. Thủ Dầu Một, Vietnam
  • The Longcave, tt. Trà Ôn, Trà Ôn, Vĩnh Long, Vietnam
  • BQ-17, Bình Chánh, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam

The following statistics helped 23o5 Studio achieve 15th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam:

Featured Projects5
Total Projects6

14. KIENTRUC O

© KIENTRUC O

© KIENTRUC O

KIENTRUC O is an architectural firm based in HCMC, Vietnam. Lead by a dynamic duo DAM VU and ANNI LE. Its mission is to create architecture that facilitates and embrace a coherent symbiosis between human and the environment. The firm seeks for architectural manifestation as a collective result of keen observations and thoughtful application of local architecture, its people and their cultural tradition, all of which to achieve a harmonious relationship that satisfy human needs and stimulate coexistence between human and the natural ecology. DAM VU and ANNI LE also teaching at Architecture University of HCMC.

Some of KIENTRUC O’s most prominent projects include:

  • BÓ MON PRESCHOOL – The idea of a connecting station, Tú Nang, Yên Châu, Sơn La, Vietnam
  • CHUON CHUON KIM 2 KINDERGARTEN, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
  • HOUSE 304, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
  • CHUON CHUON KIM KINDERGARTEN, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
  • Layerscape-VAS Office, Da Nang, Vietnam

The following statistics helped KIENTRUC O achieve 14th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam:

A+Awards Winner2
Featured Projects6
Total Projects8

13. Block Architects

© Block Architects

© Block Architects

At Block Architects, we undertake a complete solution, covering all stages of design. We actualize projects that possess sustainable values, tremendous vitality and satisfy the human demand for harmony and respect.

Some of Block Architects’s most prominent projects include:

  • OldMeetsNew House, Trà Vinh, Vietnam
  • Duyen Casa II, Cao Lãnh, Vietnam
  • Vegan House, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
  • Lee&Tee House, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
  • THE GAPS APARTMENT, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

The following statistics helped Block Architects achieve 13th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam:

Featured Projects7
Total Projects5

12. AD+studio

© AD+studio

© AD+studio

AD+studio is a small architectural firm expressing the pride of Vietnamese cultural identity through its design. Not paying attention to generating a unique architectural language, our buildings integrate the abundance of construction context with the differences in the users’ lifestyle habits. Diversified local culture and lifestyle of each individual which are aroused and conveyed to the main works are the rich sources defining the characteristics of our architectures. We would like to ‘draw’ the vitality of the works: colorful and motive as always.

Some of AD+studio’s most prominent projects include:

  • THE UMBRELLA, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
  • Stacking-Roof House, Thái Nguyên, Vietnam
  • BACKYARD house, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
  • BOUNDARY house, Binh Duong, Vietnam
  • STACKING BOX, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

The following statistics helped AD+studio achieve 12th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam:

Featured Projects7
Total Projects8

11. 07BEACH

© 07BEACH

© 07BEACH

07BEACH was founded by in 2011 Joe Chikamori, who moved to Vietnam from Japan to grow his practice. He enjoys the freedom to experiment with architecture in Vietnam. Chikamori oversees every part of the design process, which ensures good work is produced for his clients every time.

Some of 07BEACH’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped 07BEACH achieve 11th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam:

A+Awards Winner2
A+Awards Finalist1
Featured Projects2
Total Projects7

10. atelier tho.A

© atelier tho.A

© atelier tho.A

atelier tho.A was founded in 2015. Here, every day we share our belief in a “no-architectural” architectural practice. Architecture retreats behind, as a background, on which activities are freely shown and life continues proliferating. For us, architecture is part of an ecosystem. Its focus is on architectural practice by interrelated activities, including theoretical research (Alab), interior design studios (S.norm), and materials manufacturing (Xay Solution), etc. In particular, at the beginning of each project, Alab provides the database and direction for the designs. At the end of the chain, S.norm utilizes the built space as a given context from which unique and conceptually rich interior products would be created.

Some of atelier tho.A’s most prominent projects include:

  • Dali office, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
  • FA house, Dalat, Vietnam
  • Tien Giang house, Tien Giang, Vietnam
  • Gamma’s office renovation, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
  • Lib house, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

The following statistics helped atelier tho.A achieve 10th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam:

Featured Projects7
Total Projects7

9. Nghia-Architect

© Nghia-Architect

© Nghia-Architect

Nghia-Architect was founded in Hanoi in 2016. We are a young and creative architectural firm dedicated to creating sustainable architecture and high quality designs. We approach our design through both Asian and European principles in order to create a contemporary Vietnamese architectural language.

Some of Nghia-Architect’s most prominent projects include:

  • Maison A, Vietnam
  • Maison T, Hanoi, Vietnam
  • Maison TL, Hanoi, Vietnam
  • MAISON Q, Hoàng Mai, Hanoi, Vietnam
  • Villa LP, Ba Vì, Hanoi, Vietnam

The following statistics helped Nghia-Architect achieve 9th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam:

Featured Projects7
Total Projects9

8. a21 studio

© Hiroyuki Oki

© Hiroyuki Oki

Established in 2009, a small group of designers wishes to bring their conception of life to the surroundings by architecture.

Some of a21 studio’s most prominent projects include:

  • The Tent 1, Natural Heritage Area Trang, Vietnam
  • The Cloud, Natural Heritage Area Trang, Vietnam
  • The Tent 2, Natural Heritage Area Trang, Vietnam
  • Saigon House, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
  • The Nest, Binh Duong, Vietnam

The following statistics helped a21 studio achieve 8th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam:

Featured Projects9
Total Projects12

7. idee architects Vietnam

© idee architects Vietnam

© idee architects Vietnam

Established in 2010, Idee Architect is a professional company in architectural, interior, resort and house design led by principal architects Tran Ngoc Linh, Nguyen Huy Hai and Tham Duc Hung. The main goal of the company is to become the first class architect company and bring Vietnamese architecture to the World. Simplicity drives their design; a focus on pure beauty. IDEE practices to design on the projects with the scale ranging from small to large. We always look towards nature and are interested in the affection of the design on environment improvement as well as the human’s awareness. Through many years, we have won many honor awards and many of our projects are published in newspapers worldwide.

Some of idee architects Vietnam’s most prominent projects include:

  • Mian Farm Cottage, Hà Nội, Vietnam
  • House under the Pines, Hanoi, Vietnam
  • Cam Hai House, Cam Ranh, Vietnam
  • VH6 House, Hanoi, Vietnam
  • Uspace Villa Tam Dao, Vinh Phuc Province, Vietnam

The following statistics helped idee architects Vietnam achieve 7th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam:

Featured Projects10
Total Projects17

6. 1+1>2 Architects

© 1+1>2 Architects

© 1+1>2 Architects

1+1>2 was founded in 2015 by Hoang Thuc Hao. We are a reality-focused firm dedicated to providing exceptional and personalized design services. Our work aims to make a lasting contribution to the urban and natural context by challenging, provoking and exciting. We pay great attention to our material choices and the influence of light in architecture.

Some of 1+1>2 Architects’s most prominent projects include:

  • Chieng Yen Community House, Mộc Châu, Sơn La, Vietnam
  • Dao School, Lao Cai, Vietnam
  • Mother’s House , Sơn Tây, Vietnam
  • Bottle Sail, Đồ Sơn, Haiphong, Vietnam
  • Cam Thanh Community House, tp. Hội An, Vietnam

The following statistics helped 1+1>2 Architects achieve 6th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam:

Featured Projects11
Total Projects8

5. MIA Design Studio

© MIA Design Studio

© MIA Design Studio

MIA Design Studio is an innovative master planning, architecture and interior design studio in Asia with Mr. Nguyen Hoang Manh leading as principal architect. The company was born in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam in 2003. Presently, MIA Design Studio employs fifty regular members of staff, among which are architects, landscape architects, interior designers and technicians. The company frequently collaborates with various freelance associates (civil engineers, mechanical engineers, lightning and acoustic consultants, graphic and textile designers, artists, etc.), who are selectively incorporated in the composition of the design team, accordingly to the specific requirements of the project. The team of architects and designers with great admirers of the modernist movement seeks to fullfil the difficult task of rethinking and giving continuity to this iconic generation.

Some of MIA Design Studio’s most prominent projects include:

  • Naman Retreat Pure Spa, Da Nang, Vietnam
  • Villa Tan Dinh, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
  • Wyndham Phu Quoc, Phu Quoc, Vietnam
  • Sky House, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
  • The Straw, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

The following statistics helped MIA Design Studio achieve 5th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam:

A+Awards Winner4
A+Awards Finalist2
Featured Projects10
Total Projects10

4. MM++ Architects / MIMYA

© MM++ Architects / MIMYA

© MM++ Architects / MIMYA

From traditional to contemporary architecture, from high end to low cost solutions, from small to XXL scale, this architecture office in Ho Chi Minh City is based on three core principles: create beautiful space for everyday life; stay free of “ready-made” solutions and collaborate in the creative process.

About the founders: My An Pham Thi, Architect, Graduated from University of Hanoi. After more than 10 years of practice in different international architecture offices she founded Mimya co. ( MM++ architects ) in Ho Chi Minh City in 2009 with the continuing goal to design an architecture, affordable, adapted to its environment, taking advantage of the tropical weather conditions and bringing to its inhabitants a unique living experience, close to nature. Michael Charruault, Architect Graduated from the french architecture school Paris-Belleville.

Some of MM++ Architects / MIMYA’s most prominent projects include:

  • Go Vap House, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
  • STONE HOUSE, Nha Trang, Vietnam
  • Pattern House, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
  • D2 Town House, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
  • Oceanique Villas, Phan Thiet, Vietnam

The following statistics helped MM++ Architects / MIMYA achieve 4th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam:

Featured Projects15
Total Projects15

3. TROPICAL SPACE

© TROPICAL SPACE

© TROPICAL SPACE

TROPICAL SPACE is an architecture firm based in Ho Chi Minh city, founded by architect Nguyen Hai Long and Tran Thi Ngu Ngon. We are specialized in designing and planning from master planning, urban design, architecture, landscape and interior design. With a deep understanding in Vietnam’s culture and climate, Tropical Space is committed to encouraging the clients toward the use of environmentally friendly, building practices and sustainable material selection. Tropical Space is confident to satisfy clients with innovative and unique designs while ensuring to deliver the projects on time and budget.

Some of TROPICAL SPACE’s most prominent projects include:

  • Terra Cotta Studio, Quang Nam Province, Vietnam
  • ORGANICARE SHOWROOM, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
  • TERMITARY HOUSE, Da Nang, Vietnam
  • LONG AN HOUSE, Long An Province, Vietnam
  • CUCKOO HOUSE, Da Nang, Vietnam

The following statistics helped TROPICAL SPACE achieve 3rd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam:

A+Awards Winner3
Featured Projects14
Total Projects11

2. H&P Architects

© H&P Architects

© H&P Architects

The Corporation H&P Architects (HPA) was established in Vietnam in 2009 by architect groups, engineers, planners and project managers. H&P Architects’ goal is to provide professional solutions to customers. This is demonstrated through multiple investment categories: office, residential, hotel, resort, hospital, private housing, planning and urban design as well as industrial, educational and infrastructure. H&P Architects is committed to meeting the needs and wants of each individual customer with a total solution to satisfy the highest standards of quality projects as well as economic efficiency.

Some of H&P Architects’s most prominent projects include:

  • Brick Cave, Vietnam
  • Cheering restaurant, Hanoi, Vietnam
  • Toigetation, Cao Bang, Vietnam
  • BE friendly space, Vietnam
  • Blooming Bamboo Home, Cầu Diễn, Từ Liêm, Hà Nội, Vietnam

The following statistics helped H&P Architects achieve 2nd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam:

A+Awards Winner6
A+Awards Finalist3
Featured Projects13
Total Projects18

1. Vo Trong Nghia Architects

© Hiroyuki Oki

© Hiroyuki Oki

Established in 2006, VTN Architects (Vo Trong Nghia Architects) is a leading architectural practice in Vietnam with offices in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. All employees work closely on cultural, residential and commercial projects around the world. By experimenting with light, wind and water, as well as using natural and local materials, VTN Architects uses contemporary design vocabulary to explore new ways to create architecture.

Some of Vo Trong Nghia Architects’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Vo Trong Nghia Architects achieve 1st place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam:

A+Awards Winner2
A+Awards Finalist1
Featured Projects22
Total Projects18

Why Should I Trust Architizer’s Ranking?

With more than 30,000 architecture firms and over 130,000 projects within its database, Architizer is proud to host the world’s largest online community of architects and building product manufacturers. Its celebrated A+Awards program is also the largest celebration of architecture and building products, with more than 400 jurors and hundreds of thousands of public votes helping to recognize the world’s best architecture each year.

Architizer also powers firm directories for a number of AIA (American Institute of Architects) Chapters nationwide, including the official directory of architecture firms for AIA New York.

An example of a project page on Architizer with Project Award Badges highlighted

A Guide to Project Awards

The blue “+” badge denotes that a project has won a prestigious A+Award as described above. Hovering over the badge reveals details of the award, including award category, year, and whether the project won the jury or popular choice award.

The orange Project of the Day and yellow Featured Project badges are awarded by Architizer’s Editorial team, and are selected based on a number of factors. The following factors increase a project’s likelihood of being featured or awarded Project of the Day status:

  • Project completed within the last 3 years
  • A well written, concise project description of at least 3 paragraphs
  • Architectural design with a high level of both functional and aesthetic value
  • High quality, in focus photographs
  • At least 8 photographs of both the interior and exterior of the building
  • Inclusion of architectural drawings and renderings
  • Inclusion of construction photographs

There are 7 Projects of the Day each week and a further 31 Featured Projects. Each Project of the Day is published on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Stories, while each Featured Project is published on Facebook. Each Project of the Day also features in Architizer’s Weekly Projects Newsletter and shared with 170,000 subscribers.

 

 

We’re constantly look for the world’s best architects to join our community. If you would like to understand more about this ranking list and learn how your firm can achieve a presence on it, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at editorial@architizer.com.

Reference

Basic Coffee by Office AIO
CategoriesArchitecture

26 Pioneering Architecture Firms Rethinking the Fundamentals of Design

By Zarkon Group,

The latest edition of “Architizer: The World’s Best Architecture” — a stunning, hardbound book celebrating the most inspiring contemporary architecture from around the globe — is now available. Order your copy today.  

As we look forward to a new year and a new era of architectural innovation, the following winning practices from the 11th A+Awards are leading the way. Ranging in size, geography and expertise, these 26 studios came out on top in the Best Firm Categories. Each team was judged on the strength of their portfolio and recognized for delivering some of the most compelling and creative projects the industry has seen over the past 10 years. Join them by submitting your firm for the coveted A+Firm Award today:

Apply for a Best Firm Award

Jurors considered a wide range of criteria and qualities before reaching a fair decision on the firms making extraordinary contributions to their fields. While the following practices excelled in their categories, their work has a broader resonance. Many studios embraced socially and environmentally conscious design approaches, rising to meet some of the most pressing challenges facing the built environment today, from the climate crisis, sustainability and land scarcity to the need for truly accessible and inclusive spaces. Here are the trailblazing architecture and design firms forging exciting new paths for 2024…

Best Interior Design Firm

Office AIO

Jury Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Best Interior Design Firm

Basic Coffee by Office AIO Bar Lotus by Office AIOFirm Location: Beijing, China

Pictured Projects: Basic Coffee, Beijing, China ; Bar Lotus, Shanghai, China

A deft hand at articulating mesmerizing spatial experiences, Office Aio was founded in 2014 by Tim Kwan and Isabelle Sun. The firm’s outstanding portfolio is a testament to its range and expertise, encompassing hospitality, retail, cultural, residential and corporate spheres.

The team’s thoughtful design philosophy reframes constraints as opportunities for creativity. The result is a catalog of projects that combine unique architectural solutions with remarkable contextual sensitivity.

EL EQUIPO CREATIVO

Popular Choice Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Best Interior Design Firm

Patka Restaurant by EL EQUIPO CREATIVO Tunateca Balfegó Restaurant by EL EQUIPO CREATIVOFirm Location: Barcelona, Spain

Pictured Projects: Patka Restaurant, Barcelona, Spain ; Tunateca Balfegó Restaurant, Barcelona, Spain

Specializing in commercial, hospitality and branded projects, this Barcelona-based studio, made up of architect Oliver Franz Schmidt, Natali Canas del Pozo and Lucas Echeveste Lacy, is a master of spatial storytelling. Rooted in a solid conceptual approach, the firm elevates functional design into inspiring schemes that envelop the senses.

Stand-out spaces from the team’s body of work include the transformative Tunateca Balfegó Restaurant, with its school of fish spiraling overhead, and Pakta Restaurant, a Japanese-Peruvian fusion eatery clad in a vibrant, loom-like skin that pays homage to Peru’s textile heritage.

Best Landscape Design Firm

Design Workshop

Jury Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Best Landscape Design Firm

70 Rainey Sky Garden by Design Workshop Highlands Retreat by Design WorkshopFirm Location: Denver, Colorado (Headquarters, with offices elsewhere)

Pictured Projects: 70 Rainey Sky Garden, Austin, Texas ; Highlands Retreat, Aspen, Colorado

Creating socially and environmentally responsible spaces is central to the mission of Design Workshop. With eight studios across the US and an international reach, the renowned firm comprises a collaborative community of landscape architects, planners and strategists.

Adept across diverse scales and geographies, from private gardens to city parks and municipal masterplans, the practice delivers enduring, legacy spaces that forge meaningful connections with the organic world and the wider community.

ASPECT Studios

Popular Choice Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Best Landscape Design Firm

Hongkong Land’s Yorkville - The Ring by ASPECT Studios The Urban Gallery at Hyperlane by ASPECT StudiosFirm Location: Melbourne, Australia (Headquarters, with offices elsewhere)

Pictured Projects: Hongkong Land’s Yorkville – The Ring, Chongqing, China ; The Urban Gallery at Hyperlane, Chengdu, China

Encompassing a global team of landscape architects, urban designers and strategists, ASPECT Studios specializes in carving out exceptional public spaces that benefit the natural environment and enrich the lives of local residents.

The firm’s skillful approach blends cutting-edge technology and practices with playful, conceptual ideas. The studio interprets the unique context and history of a site in its own distinctive voice, producing dynamic surfaces of discovery that elevate each locale.

Best Large Firm (41+ employees)

Olson Kundig

Jury Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Best Large Firm (41+ employees)

ANOHA—The Children’s World of the Jewish Museum Berlin by Olson Kundig Rio House by Olson KundigFirm Location: Seattle, Washington

Pictured Projects: ANOHA—The Children’s World of the Jewish Museum Berlin, Berlin, Germany ; Rio House, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

The pioneering work of Seattle-based practice Olson Kundig can be found throughout five continents. The team’s outlook is grounded in the belief that buildings can be bridges between nature, culture and people, the same philosophy that fueled the firm’s inception back in 1966.

While the practice is historically known for its residential design, its portfolio demonstrates expansive expertise across all manner of typology, broaching commercial, industrial, educational, spiritual and hospitality spaces. Regardless of the scale or function, the studio’s attention to detail, from the big ideas to the minutest of details, is unwavering.

Architects 49

Popular Choice Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Best Large Firm (41+ employees)

Prince Mahidol Hall by Architects 49 VELAA (THE SINHORN VILLAGE) by Architects 49Firm Location: Bangkok, Thailand

Pictured Projects: Prince Mahidol Hall, Salaya, Thailand ; VELAA (THE SINHORN VILLAGE), Bangkok, Thailand

Founded in 1983 by Nithi Sthapitanonda, Architects 49 espouses simplicity and elegant, clean lines. Inspired by the vibrant landscape of Thai art and architecture, the firm imparts a distinctive character to each project it encounters, embracing strong, dynamic forms that quickly cement themselves as local landmarks.

Its astonishing portfolio, spanning Asia and the Middle East, exemplifies the team’s adaptability, ranging from intimate residences to mixed-use developments and sprawling masterplans.

Best Medium Firm (16 – 40 employees)

WOODS + DANGARAN

Jury Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Best Medium Firm (16 – 40 employees)

Desert Palisades by WOODS + DANGARAN Case Study by WOODS + DANGARANFirm Location: Los Angeles, California

Pictured Projects: Desert Palisades, Palm Springs, California ; Case Study, Culver City, California

Headquartered in Los Angeles, WOODS + DANGARAN is renowned for its outstanding work across the residential sphere. Exploration drives its practice, from interrogating a project’s context to establishing a rich, collaborative dialogue with clients.

The studio’s architectural catalog is defined by crisp, disciplined forms. Its approach is holistic, embracing the varied facets of residential typologies, weaving streamlined architecture with stand-out interiors and custom furnishings to curate a fluid spatial journey.

Hooba Design

Popular Choice Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Best Medium Firm (16 – 40 employees)

Hitra Office & Commercial Building by Hooba Design Kohan Ceram Central Office Building by Hooba DesignFirm Location: Tehran, Iran

Pictured Projects: Hitra Office & Commercial Building, Tehran, Iran ; Kohan Ceram Central Office Building, Tehran, Iran

Founded in 2007 by Hooman Balazadeh, Hooba Design has established itself as an accomplished all-rounder. The firm’s impressive scope extends from commercial buildings, such as factories, showrooms and office blocks, to residential apartments and multi-unit housing developments.

Utilizing pioneering design and construction methods, its work is informed by each site’s unique cultural and geographic qualities. Consequently, the studio’s projects strike a considered balance between innovation and contextual sensitivity.

Best Small Firm (6 – 15 employees)

MQ Architecture

Jury Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Best Small Firm (6 – 15 employees)

Magazzino Italian Art Museum by MQ Architecture Stella’s Cucina by MQ ArchitectureFirm Location: Manhattan, New York

Pictured Projects: Magazzino Italian Art Museum, Cold Spring, New York ; Stella’s Cucina, Boulder, Colorado

Demonstrating mastery over typologies including cultural, corporate, hospitality, retail and residential, MQ Architecture specializes in high-end architectural design. The New York-based firm offers its clients a full-service architectural package, incorporating design, permitting and construction management.

The studio’s portfolio showcases its attention to detail and aptitude for problem-solving. Projects like the Magazzino Italian Art Museum display a deft handling of natural light and scale, while Stella’s Cucina is an exercise in delicate yet immersive interior design.

MARS Studio

Popular Choice Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Best Small Firm (6 – 15 employees)

Tianfu Conference Center by MARS Studio SOMESOME Bar & Restaurant by MARS StudioFirm Location: Beijing, China

Pictured Projects: Tianfu Conference Center, Chengdu, China ; SOMESOME Bar & Restaurant, Beijing, China

Headquartered in Beijing, MARS Studio has already made a global impact in the short years since its founding. From planning to conceptual design to construction, the firm instils quality into every step of the project workflow.

After previously making waves at the 10th A+Awards in 2022, this ambitious team has gone from strength to strength. Their stand-out projects so far include a captivating restaurant, defined by its undulating surfaces, and a compelling concept for a futuristic, floating conference center.

Best X-Small Firm (1 – 5 employees)

Blue Temple

Jury Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Best X-Small Firm (1 – 5 employees)

Plot ABC by Blue Temple Infinity by Blue TempleFirm Location: Yangon, Myanmar

Pictured Projects: Plot ABC, Yangon, Myanmar ; Infinity, Yangon, Myanmar

From innovative housing solutions for displaced communities to public parks and playgrounds, Blue Temple’s portfolio comprises an array of compassionate projects instigating real change across the landscape of Yangon in Myanmar.

The firm’s approach is rooted in the wisdom of traditional local materials like bamboo, along with time-honored building techniques. This recourse to the past stands as a counterpoint to the city’s new metal structures and a reminder of the wisdom of vernacular construction.

Rangr Studio

Popular Choice Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Best X-Small Firm (1 – 5 employees)

Buena Vista House by Rangr Studio Compound in the Hudson Valley by Rangr StudioFirm Location: Berkeley, California (Headquarters, with offices elsewhere)

Pictured Projects: Buena Vista House, Berkeley, California ; Compound in the Hudson Valley, Columbia County, New York

Informed by founder Jasmit Singh Rangr’s childhood in India, the remarkable work of Berkeley-based Rangr Studio draws inspiration from the historic architecture of the Mughal Empire. Combined with cutting-edge sustainable materials, the firm’s approach places past and present in dialogue.

Their body of work, from residential to hospitality and educational spaces, is deeply reactive to environmental and cultural contexts. Prioritizing ancient design principles that utilize solar, wind and hydropower, the studio delivers conscientious projects that respond to the challenges of climate change.

Best Young Firm

MUDA-Architects

Jury Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Best Young Firm

Garden Hotpot Restaurant by MUDA-Architects Minjiang Courier Center by MUDA-ArchitectsFirm Location: Chengdu, China

Pictured Projects: Garden Hotpot Restaurant, Chengdu, China ; Minjiang Courier Center, Chengdu, China

Founded in 2015 and establishing its first office in Chengdu two years later, MUDA-Architects has already carved out a strong, definitive voice in its relatively short history. Excelling across commercial, cultural, municipal and interior design spheres, its polished portfolio is a testament to the firm’s ingenuity.

Its team of creative designers is innovative yet considered in their approach. Ever mindful of each project’s cultural and environmental landscape, the studio fuses respect for the past with forward-looking visions of the future.

Leckie Studio Architecture + Design

Popular Choice Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Best Young Firm

Full House by Leckie Studio Architecture + Design Camera House by Leckie Studio Architecture + DesignFirm Location: Vancouver, Canada

Pictured  Projects: Full House, Vancouver, Canada ; Camera House, Pemberton, Canada

Fueled by a desire to push the conventional bounds of architecture, Leckie Studio Architecture + Design was founded in 2015. The ambitious newcomer has set itself apart thanks to a catalog of extraordinary projects across varying scales, spanning residential, commercial and institutional typologies, as well as installations and product design.

While the studio delights in subverting tradition, its pioneering work is fundamentally rooted in creative problem-solving. Combined with sustainable principles and a sensitive regard for locality, the result is artful spaces that articulate the unexpected.

Best Young Interior Design Firm

Pulse On Partnership Limited

Jury Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Best Young Interior Design Firm

SHANGHAI ONE EAST - PALACE CINEMA by Pulse On Partnership Limited BONA INTERNATIONAL CINEMA AT XIAN JOY CITY by Pulse On Partnership LimitedFirm Location: Hong Kong

Pictured Projects: SHANGHAI ONE EAST – PALACE CINEMA, Shanghai, China ; BONA INTERNATIONAL CINEMA AT XIAN JOY CITY, Xi’an, China

This Hong Kong-based interior design practice was established in 2017 by Ajax Law and Virginia Lung. Specializing in the commercial realm, the fledgling firm has already made its mark transforming entertainment spaces, retail stores and offices into rich inner worlds.

Its roster of work displays the team’s skill in creating immersive, multi-layered schemes. In SHANGHAI ONE EAST – PALACE CINEMA, floating installations of glass bricks create a mirage that plays with light and permeability. Meanwhile, their BONA INTERNATIONAL CINEMA AT XIAN JOY CITY project responds to its ancient locale, channeling the lines of historic Chinese architecture to inform striking, abstract tableaus.

Etereo Design

Popular Choice Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Best Young Interior Design Firm

Ghaf Majlis by Etereo Design Sontuosa by Etereo DesignFirm Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates (Headquarters, with offices elsewhere)

Pictured Projects: Ghaf Majlis, Ajman, United Arab Emirates ; Sontuosa, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Where the artistic heritage of Italy meets the aesthetics of the Middle East, Etereo Design harmoniously combines two distinct design cultures to deliver exceptional, inspiring spaces that promote the creativity of their users.

From commercial to residential projects, the firm is deeply involved in every step of project planning, from design conception to material selection and sourcing suppliers. The team’s diverse personal and professional backgrounds allow them to fuse contrasting concepts like engineering and poetry to achieve a measured balance between form and function.

Best Commercial Firm

Stonehill Taylor

Jury Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Best Commercial Firm

The Ned NoMad by Stonehill Taylor NYLO New York City by Stonehill TaylorFirm Location: New York, New York

Pictured Projects: The Ned NoMad, New York, New York ; NYLO New York City, New York, New York

An impressive all-rounder, Stonehill Taylor is particularly skilled at reimagining commercial spaces, from restaurants and hospitality projects to showrooms and corporate headquarters. Its diverse portfolio is indicative of the careful attention the firm gives to each brief, resulting in unique, creative responses to its client’s needs.

The New York-based team’s expansive skillset covers cutting-edge construction techniques, adaptive reuse projects and interior design, as well as furniture and product design. Holistic and meticulous in its approach, the practice delivers remarkably well-rounded schemes.

UUA (United Units Architects)

Popular Choice Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Best Commercial Firm

Dalian 37 Xiang by UUA (United Units Architects) The Exo Towers by UUA (United Units Architects)Firm Location: Beijing, China (Headquarters, with offices elsewhere)

Pictured Projects: Dalian 37 Xiang, Dalian, China ; The Exo Towers, Shaoxing, China

Based in Beijing and London, award-winning practice United Units Architects (UUA) has made a name for itself in the commercial sphere. The pioneering firm’s philosophy pairs technical precision with a humanistic approach, championing integrated design and prefabricated construction methods.

Forward-looking solutions are at the heart of the team’s work. Designing with an uncertain future in mind, the firm ensures its buildings are versatile and adaptable in form, embracing space frames and other architectural solutions to increase the flexibility of each structure, should it need to be repurposed in the future.

Best Cultural Firm

MAD Architects

Jury Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Best Cultural Firm

Harbin Opera House by MAD Architects Hutong Bubble 218 by MAD ArchitectsFirm Location: Beijing, China (Headquarters, with offices elsewhere)

Pictured Projects: Harbin Opera House, Harbin, China ; Hutong Bubble 218, Beijing, China

Futurism and localism collide in the compelling portfolio of Beijing-headquartered MAD Architects. Founded in 2004, the firm’s adventurous, parametric designs are balanced by its sensitive regard for context and community.

This intuitive understanding of the complexities of place establishes a powerful connection between structures, spatial users and the surrounding environment, something that’s vividly demonstrated in the firm’s catalog of work – ranging from the sinuous Harbin Opera House, designed in the spirit of its wetland locale, to the masterful Hutong Bubble 218, which places old and new in communion.

Hariri Pontarini Architects

Popular Choice Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Best Cultural Firm

St Lawrence Centre for the Arts by Hariri Pontarini Architects Baha’i Temple of South America by Hariri Pontarini ArchitectsFirm Location: Toronto, Canada

Pictured Projects: St Lawrence Centre for the Arts, Concept ; Baha’i Temple of South America, Santiago, Chile

Founded in 1994 by Siamak Hariri and David Pontarini, Hariri Pontarini Architects is the mastermind behind numerous landmark cultural buildings, including the curvilinear Baha’i Temple of South America, cloaked in cast-glass panels, and the dynamic concept for the St Lawrence Centre for the Arts, with its permeable glazed skin.

The Toronto-based studio is a full-service architectural practice with an array of awards under its belt. Known for its commitment to quality, the firm uses its clients’ aspirations and requirements as a springboard for creativity.

Best Public Projects Firm

MJMA Architecture & Design

Jury Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Best Public Projects Firm

Churchill Meadows Community Centre and Sports Park by MJMA Architecture & Design UBC Aquatic Centre by MJMA Architecture & DesignFirm Location: Toronto, Canada

Pictured Projects: Churchill Meadows Community Centre and Sports Park, Mississauga, Canada ; UBC Aquatic Centre, Vancouver, Canada

With more than 30 years of experience in delivering valuable community spaces that elevate the civic realm, MJMA Architecture & Design is leading the evolution of public typologies.

Featuring a team of over 60 architects and designers, the firm’s viewpoint is driven by innovation and a desire to make meaningful, positive contributions to the built landscape. From sports and recreation centers to campuses and community hubs, the practice’s varied work across a range of scales establishes it as a key player in its field.

ROBERT MAIER ARCHITEKTEN

Popular Choice Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Best Public Projects Firm

Hydroelectric power plant Töging by ROBERT MAIER ARCHITEKTEN HLR Secondary School by ROBERT MAIER ARCHITEKTENFirm Location: Neuötting, Germany

Pictured Projects: Hydroelectric power plant Töging, Töging am Inn, Germany ; HLR Secondary School, Altötting, Germany

Headquartered in Neuötting in Bavaria, ROBERT MAIER ARCHITEKTEN distinguishes itself with a varied portfolio across the public sphere, encompassing educational structures, municipal buildings and even a hydroelectric power plant.

The team excels at out-of-the-box thinking, pairing in-depth research and creativity to produce astonishing buildings designed to endure and adapt to future demands. Experts at delivering comprehensive schemes, the firm combines urban development, architecture and interior design into a single, harmonious concept.

Best Residential Firm

Alterstudio Architecture

Jury Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Best Residential Firm

Highland Park Residence by Alterstudio Architecture Constant Springs by Alterstudio ArchitectureFirm Location: Austin, Texas

Pictured Projects: Highland Park Residence, Highland Park, Texas ; Constant Springs, Austin, Texas

Highly skilled in shaping rich, residential projects, Alterstudio Architecture’s work is informed by its belief that the built environment should deepen the experiences of spatial users, while drawing attention to the wider world beyond its walls.

The Austin-based firm embraces all aspects of sustainable design, delving beyond mechanical features to consider a structure’s relation to its ecological and cultural surroundings, as well as remaining mindful of finite resources. The practice emphasizes ethical architecture, prioritizing spaces that uplift users and the environment.

DXA studio

Popular Choice Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Best Residential Firm

Conexus Home + by DXA studio Montclair Residence by DXA studioFirm Location: New York, New York

Pictured Projects: Conexus Home +, New York, New York ; Montclair Residence, Montclair, New Jersey

A veritable jack of all trades, DXA studio has an especially deft hand with residential typologies, from multi-unit developments and prefabricated housing solutions to private homes and historic renovations.

Founded in 2011, the firm’s thorough design process is informed by extensive research into a site’s context and complexities. The team’s remarkable work treads the careful line between contrasting virtues, balancing technical excellence with creativity, craftsmanship with contemporary flair and a modern outlook with veneration for the past.

Best Sustainable Firm

Perkins&Will

Jury Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Best Sustainable Firm

The Exchange at 100 Federal by Perkins&Will Water Institute of the Gulf by Perkins&WillFirm Location: Chicago, Illinois (Headquarters, with offices elsewhere)

Pictured Projects: The Exchange at 100 Federal, Boston, Massachusetts ; Water Institute of the Gulf, Baton Rouge, Louisiana

With over 20 studios across the globe and a team of more than 2,000, Perkins&Will has an impressive, international reach. The interdisciplinary firm is a trailblazer, advocating the industry to adopt more sustainable practices while advancing climate action and social justice through its own work.

Committed to designing a better world, the firm still remains faithful to its original mission to create beautiful, inspiring spaces, with an uncompromising approach to design excellence. The firm’s specialisms are wide-ranging, spanning commercial and residential architecture, interior design, branded spaces and landscape design.

SUP Atelier of THAD

Popular Choice Winner, 11th Annual A+Awards, Best Sustainable Firm

Yunzhai Community Center by SUP Atelier of THAD Village Lounge of Shangcun by SUP Atelier of THADFirm Location: Beijing, China

Pictured Projects: Yunzhai Community Center, Xinxiang, China ; Village Lounge of Shangcun, Jixi, China

Established in 2011 in Beijing, SUP Atelier of THAD is committed to championing sustainability across the built environment. By taking inspiration from vernacular design and drawing on salvaged materials and native natural resources, the practice’s work showcases innovative structures that are acutely embedded in their locales.

Stand-out projects from the studio’s portfolio include the Village Lounge of Shangcun, a revived public space that combines reclaimed bricks, tiles, stone and wood from the site with locally sourced bamboo, and the Yunzhai Community Center, a modern iteration of the traditional Chinese garden, which preserves the land’s pre-existing trees.

The latest edition of “Architizer: The World’s Best Architecture” — a stunning, hardbound book celebrating the most inspiring contemporary architecture from around the globe — is now available. Order your copy today.  

Reference

© HDD
CategoriesArchitecture

25 Best Architecture Firms in Shanghai

By Zarkon Group,

From its origins as a humble fishing village to its transformation into a global economic powerhouse, the architectural landscape of Shanghai mirrors the city’s rapid evolution and cutting-edge innovation. Historical neighborhoods such as the iconic Yu Garden, the legendary ‘Bund’ waterfront and the French Concession are some of the most architecturally rich areas in the city, as well as testaments of the diverse cultures that have shaped its urban fabric. In the last decade, Shanghai has attracted the works of famous western architects such as Zaha Hadid’s Sky SOHO airport as well as the Shanghai Cultural Arts Centre with its intricate façade design, completed by Foster and Partners and Heatherwick Studio in 2017.

Albeit a rather futuristic city, Shanghai’s latest architectural efforts include preserving many historical structures. One example is the M50 Creative Park’s adaptive reuse, an old industrial area transformed into a contemporary art district and a popular local attraction. In addition, as a city with one foot constantly set on the future, Shanghai showcases a forward-thinking approach to urban living. By employing ‘smart city’ technology and integrating sustainable design methods into their practices, Shanghai architects stretch the profession into new realms of invention.

With so many architecture firms to choose from, it’s challenging for clients to identify the industry leaders that will be an ideal fit for their project needs. Fortunately, Architizer is able to provide guidance on the top design firms in Shanghai based on more than a decade of data and industry knowledge.

How are these architecture firms ranked?

The following ranking has been created according to key statistics that demonstrate each firm’s level of architectural excellence. The following metrics have been accumulated to establish each architecture firm’s ranking, in order of priority:

  • The number of A+Awards won (2013 to 2023)
  • The number of A+Awards finalists (2013 to 2023)
  • The number of projects selected as “Project of the Day” (2009 to 2023)
  • The number of projects selected as “Featured Project” (2009 to 2023)
  • The number of projects uploaded to Architizer (2009 to 2023)

Each of these metrics is explained in more detail at the foot of this article. This ranking list will be updated annually, taking into account new achievements of Shanghai architecture firms throughout the year.

Without further ado, here are the 25 best architecture firms in Shanghai:

25. HDD

© HDD

© HDD

Shanghai HuaDu Architecture & Urban Design (HDD) is a comprehensive design company with first-rate architecture and engineering qualification issued by State Construction Ministry. HDD has three affiliated institutions, including Shanghai Huadu Construction and Engineering Project Management, Shanghai Chengdao Real Estate, and Urban China Magazine. These institutions could provide all-inclusive consulting services to clients. HDD endeavors to explore and practice a long-life and sustainable development mode which is industry leading in China and integrates all fields of construction and development.

Some of HDD’s most prominent projects include:

  • Mulan Weichang Vistor Centre, Hebei, China
  • “Su Shanghai” community art museum, Shanghai, China
  • APEC summit hotel Beijing Sunrise Kempinski Hotel, Beijing, China
  • Vertical garden _ Chinese Garden meets ultra compact apartment, Shanghai, China
  • TRANSFORMABLE SMART HOME/Zhang Hai’ao , Beijing, China

The following statistics helped HDD achieve 25th place in the 25 Best Architecture Firms in Shanghai:

A+Awards Finalist2
Featured Projects6
Total Projects6

24. Supercloud Studio

© Supercloud Studio

© Supercloud Studio

Supercloud studio is a Shanghai based multi-disciplinary design firm established in 2010 which commits to design excellence, using design as a medium to connect people to each other and to the environment. Supercloud sets out to bring better social interaction to public life. This is why we also span our practice with artists and graphic designers, to enhance the adaptability of our work to the local context, its social life and end users.

Some of Supercloud Studio’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Supercloud Studio achieve 24th place in the 25 Best Architecture Firms in Shanghai:

A+Awards Winner1
A+Awards Finalist2
Featured Projects5
Total Projects4

23. ZZYYstudio

© ZZYYstudio

© ZZYYstudio

ZZYY Studio is an international young design team full of vigor and creativity, currently chaired by Yao Yuan and Liu Yuze. The outside world is unknown. We believe that the most attractive state of design is to create unknown possibilities in the known environment, and stimulate the imagination and business of each space. By responding to the unknown possibility of the site, jumping out of the already known design of the site, creating an unexpected space-time experience in the situation. At the same time, the Institute always examines contemporary and future architectural issues from an open perspective.

Some of ZZYYstudio’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped ZZYYstudio achieve 23rd place in the 25 Best Architecture Firms in Shanghai:

A+Awards Winner3
Featured Projects2
Total Projects2

22. Shanghai United Design Group

© Shanghai United Design Group Co., Ltd.

© Shanghai United Design Group Co., Ltd.

United Design Group or UDG is a comprehensive service design company with A-grade architectural design certification, A-grade urban planning certification and B-grade landscape design certification thus, providing reliable and quality services in completing projects in China. UDG is registered in Shanghai, setting up branches in Beijing, Shanghai, Nanjing, Chengdu, Qingdao, Chongqing, Wuhan, Ningbo, Zhengzhou, Xi’an, Xinjiang, Hangzhou, Hefei.

There are now well over 3,000 professionals working in UDG, including experienced architects, engineers, planners, landscape architects, interior designers and construction management experts from well-known design companies both at home and abroad.

Some of Shanghai United Design Group Co., Ltd.’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Shanghai United Design Group Co., Ltd. achieve 22nd place in the 25 Best Architecture Firms in Shanghai:

A+Awards Winner3
Featured Projects3
Total Projects3

21. Atelier Diameter

© Atelier Diameter

© Atelier Diameter

Atelier Diameter was founded in Shanghai as a part of Zhongsen Architectural & Engineering Designing Consultants (ZSA). We are a group of architects specializing in cultural projects of various scales and programs.

Some of Atelier Diameter’s most prominent projects include:

  • Art Gallery Extension of Nanjing University of the Arts, Nanjing, China
  • Mudu Library, Shanghai, China
  • Micro-Renovation of East China Formal University No.1 Village, Shanghai, China
  • Readers’ House, Beijing, China
  • Reconstruction and Expansion of Gu Zhenghong Memorial Hall, Shanghai, China

The following statistics helped Atelier Diameter achieve 21st place in the 25 Best Architecture Firms in Shanghai:

A+Awards Finalist1
Featured Projects6
Total Projects8

20. RooMoo Design Studio

© Wen studio

© Wen studio

RooMoo is an interior design studio founded in Shanghai by Tao Zhang, Ray Zhang, and Marine Bois. The three come from different backgrounds: landscape, architecture and interior. Combining their strength allows them to realize big-scale and smaller-scale projects such as hotels, commercials and restaurants.

Regardless of the range of scales projects, their central ethos makes each project unique. For each project, they focus on bringing a singular response to the need and aims of all their clients. To do that, RooMoo systematically does some research and investigation for every project. They execute this research with a humble approach and study the ordinary to create the outstanding.

Some of RooMoo Design Studio’s most prominent projects include:

  • B3, Shenzhen, China
  • Le coq wine & bistro in URBN hotel, Shanghai, China
  • Forté, Shanghai, China
  • Le petit chateau, Shanghai, China
  • Halation Bistro & Lounge, Shanghai, China

The following statistics helped RooMoo Design Studio achieve 20th place in the 25 Best Architecture Firms in Shanghai:

A+Awards Finalist2
Featured Projects4
Total Projects13

19. ATAH

© ATAH

© ATAH

Founded in 2013 in Los Angeles/Shanghai, Studio ATAH is an architectural design firm featured by exploring design with contemporary thoughts. The partners of Studio ATAH received complete architecture professional education domestic and abroad, and have been in practice for years in known international architectural firms. Team includes architects, interior designers and technology specialist. ATAH’s project type includes commercial, office, culture, as well as renovation, interior and residential. Through continuous design practice, our work is being built and put into use. In Navajo Indian language, A-Tah means involving.

Some of ATAH’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped ATAH achieve 19th place in the 25 Best Architecture Firms in Shanghai:

A+Awards Winner1
A+Awards Finalist2
Featured Projects2
Total Projects7

18. Shanghai Dushe Architectural Design DSD

© Shanghai Dushe Architectural Design DSD

© Shanghai Dushe Architectural Design DSD

SH-DSD was founded in 2004. DSD focuses on boutique design and controls the amount of annual projects trying to make every piece of work unique and at high level. Oriented by its culture ‘Customized Design’, DSD is capable of integrating the experience of large firm and the creativity of small offices. DSD aims to become the best life design expert in China and to produce acclaimed pieces of work in the field of hotel, culture architecture, complex building and top rank residences. All the projects designed by DSD are original.

Some of Shanghai Dushe Architectural Design DSD’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Shanghai Dushe Architectural Design DSD achieve 18th place in the 25 Best Architecture Firms in Shanghai:

Featured Projects6
Total Projects19

17. RoarcRenew

© RoarcRenew

© RoarcRenew

Roarc Renew is an architectural atelier specializes in urban space renovation. The atelier focuses on urban renewal, space reengineering, remodeling of old districts, trying to create a sustainable urban space, while following the concept of revolutionary design and the history of architecture. Its members and consultants come from Shanghai, Israel and New York. The current design projects include urban renewal, architectural design, interior design, product design and other categories, distributed among Shanghai, Zhangjiajie, Jakarta and other cities.

Using working space and residential space as the starting point, the atelier intends to explore the possibilities of the lifestyles in the Internet Age, which falicitates co- working project as one of the major ways to carry out architectural practice.

Some of RoarcRenew’s most prominent projects include:

  • TaoCang Art Center, Zhejiang, China
  • Carlowitz&CO., Shanghai, China
  • Joy City · Parkside · Herstory Art Zone, Shanghai, China
  • Mixpace · Mandela, Shanghai, China
  • Taioursee Laomendong SPA Shop, Nanjing, China

The following statistics helped RoarcRenew achieve 17th place in the 25 Best Architecture Firms in Shanghai:

A+Awards Finalist4
Featured Projects4
Total Projects11

16. COORDINATION ASIA

© Jan Siefke

© Jan Siefke

COORDINATION ASIA is an award winning agency for design and architecture, specializing in creating high impact environments in museum, exhibition, retail and hospitality design. We are driven by the quest for fresh ideas and extra-ordinary design solutions. Like a concept laboratory, we bridge creative energy and professional realization.From cultural to commercial projects, at COORDINATION ASIA we believe that content precedes aesthetics and that great design is more than simply styling. Our clients like us for our content-driven approach, as well as for our dedicated and reliable way of working. From understanding the needs of the client to drafting ideas and final realization, we make sure every step of the process is met with the highest of standards.

Some of COORDINATION ASIA’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped COORDINATION ASIA achieve 16th place in the 25 Best Architecture Firms in Shanghai:

A+Awards Finalist2
Featured Projects5
Total Projects12

15. Atelier Ping Jiang | EID Arch

© Atelier Ping Jiang | EID Arch

© Atelier Ping Jiang | EID Arch

Atelier Ping Jiang | EID Arch is a leading international practice for architecture and urbanism. Led by Founding Principal Ping Jiang, FAIA, who established the Shanghai-based practice in 2015, the firm strives to provide environmentally sensitive and innovative design solutions for architecture and urban environment. The practice is founded on the belief that architecture should concern itself with the environment, and is deeply committed to design excellence, innovation and sustainability.

The firm has extensive experience in a wide range of building types, including large scale mixed-use developments, office/corporate, retail, hospitality, cultural/civic, institutional and residential uses. Atelier Ping Jiang’s work has been awarded numerous international awards.

Some of Atelier Ping Jiang | EID Arch’s most prominent projects include:

  • LAND Community Center, Xi’an, China
  • Minsheng Wharf Block E15-3, Shanghai, China
  • The Panda Pavilions, Chengdu, China
  • MicroNature, Shanghai, China
  • Shimao Riverside Block D2b, Wuhan, China

The following statistics helped Atelier Ping Jiang | EID Arch achieve 15th place in the 25 Best Architecture Firms in Shanghai:

A+Awards Finalist6
Featured Projects4
Total Projects7

14. TEAM_BLDG

© TEAM_BLDG

© TEAM_BLDG

TEAM_BLDG was founded in 2012, they work with architecture, interior, landscape and product. The two founders of the studio consider that the word “BLDG” is a verb than the meaning of architecture, which should be the processing of constructing, and the finished design is just a start of architects’ work. Relative to any concept or style, they are more focusing on the “atmosphere” of building and space, interior and exterior for people.

Some of TEAM_BLDG’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped TEAM_BLDG achieve 14th place in the 25 Best Architecture Firms in Shanghai:

Featured Projects7
Total Projects14

13. dongqi Design

© dongqi Design

© dongqi Design

Founded in 2014, dongqi Design has an international outlook, and its core team is assembled from outstanding designers who have studied and practised around the world including Europe, Singapore and the United States. dongqi has accumulated practical experiences with integration of leading-edge intelligent capabilities, for example KUKA robot and 3D sand printing.

In 2017, dongqi established its creative arm to close the gap between spatial and brand experiences and allow explorations in a holistic manner combining different disciplines. The practice also maintains collaborative partnerships with practitioners in the areas of art, fashion, science and technology – exploring opportunities for cross-discipline creation. dongqi work has also been widely published.

Some of dongqi Design’s most prominent projects include:

  • GAGA TOAST, Shenzhen, China
  • XC273 by XCOMMONS, Shanghai, China
  • Le Poulet Restaurant & Bar, Shenzhen, China
  • Freshigh, Shanghai, China
  • Hauser & Wirth Pop-up Bookshop, Shanghai, China

The following statistics helped dongqi Design achieve 13th place in the 25 Best Architecture Firms in Shanghai:

A+Awards Finalist4
Featured Projects5
Total Projects11

12. LINEHOUSE

© Jonathan Leijonhufvud Architectural Photography

© Jonathan Leijonhufvud Architectural Photography

Linehouse is an architecture and interior design practice established in 2013 by Alex Mok (Chinese-Swedish) and Briar Hickling (from New Zealand). Both have completed extensive work in Asia, Pacific and abroad. Linehouse operates as a platform to investigate the rituals of inhabitation and how these daily moments can be celebrated through design, transforming the mundane into performative acts.

Linehouse is a collaboration of like-minded individuals from various backgrounds and cultures. The practice has international experience in design and construction, from the small scale and the intricate, to the grand and public. The studio works on projects of varying scales and typologies that allow explorations of both the poetic idea and pragmatic solution.

Some of LINEHOUSE’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped LINEHOUSE achieve 12th place in the 25 Best Architecture Firms in Shanghai:

A+Awards Finalist2
Featured Projects7
Total Projects14

11. LLLab.

© LLLab.

© LLLab.

LLLab. is a design studio based in Shanghai, Stuttgart and Porto operating within the fields of architecture, design, art, urbanism, research and development. The studio is led by four partners Hanxiao Liu, Luís Ricardo, David Correa and Taichi Kuma. Their work focuses on using design as a tool to improve social and cultural life through various scales, from urban projects to micro-architecture or installations.

The principals are driven by an experimental and playful approach that leads to conceptually rigorous and well-executed design projects. Creating distinctive solutions adapted to a context and its users, LLLab produces site-specific design installations and building projects that both provoke and inspire. LLLab. founders Hanxiao Liu, Luís Ricardo and David Correa started their own practice after meeting at the German office haascookzemmrich STUDIO 2050 and the Institute of Computational Design, where they collaborated on various international projects in both practical and academic fields.

Some of LLLab.’s most prominent projects include:

  • Bamboo Bamboo, Canopy and Pavilions,Impression SanjieLiu, Yangshuo County, Guilin, China
  • San Sa Village, Beijing, China
  • Brickyard Retreat Renovation, Beijing, China
  • Bamboo Bamboo, Canopy and Pavilions, Impression Sanjie Liu, Guilin, China
  • LEO Office Shanghai, Shanghai, China

The following statistics helped LLLab. achieve 11th place in the 25 Best Architecture Firms in Shanghai:

A+Awards Winner2
A+Awards Finalist1
Featured Projects8
Total Projects9

10. Kris Lin International Design

© Kris Lin International Design

© Kris Lin International Design

KLID, an international architectural design firm from Taipei, has been in Shanghai for twenty years, and has been serving top 100 real estate developers for a long time. Its business covers sales offices, clubs, art galleries, hotels, luxury villas and flat apartments, offices, public and commercial spaces.

As one of the few design institutes in China which can provide four-in-one integrated design services including architectural design, interior design, renovation design and construction, landscape design, KLID has been adhering to the design concept of “Innovation from Observation” and has strong pursuit for the design works display effect, KLID has always maintained a full-integrated design solution.

Some of Kris Lin International Design’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Kris Lin International Design achieve 10th place in the 25 Best Architecture Firms in Shanghai:

A+Awards Winner2
A+Awards Finalist5
Featured Projects7
Total Projects13

9. OfficeOffCourse

© OfficeOffCourse

© OfficeOffCourse

Founded in 2012, OfficeOffCourse is currently based in Shanghai, Hangzhou and Boston. The core design team covers urban planning, architecture, landscape architecture, interior design and other professions, who previously had professional experience in many world-renowned architecture offices and institutes in the US, Netherland, Japan, Mexico and España and participated in various types of project, with extensive background and practical experience.

The office is engaged in variety of projects in China, Japan, US and Australia, including museum, private residence, office building, urban planning, historical building renovation, school and etc. Collaborating with Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the China Academy of Art as academic platforms, OfficeOffCourse explores and extends the core value of architecture in both globalization and localization.

Some of OfficeOffCourse’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped OfficeOffCourse achieve 9th place in the 25 Best Architecture Firms in Shanghai:

A+Awards Winner6
A+Awards Finalist1
Featured Projects5
Total Projects3

8. Atelier tao+c

© Atelier tao+c

© Atelier tao+c

Co-founded by Tao Liu and Chunyan Cai in 2016, the design works of Atelier tao+c ranging from a piece of pendant lamp to a compound development, from the interior of small urban apartments to the renovation of old rural houses, from shops on the street to a youth community.

Some of Atelier tao+c’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Atelier tao+c achieve 8th place in the 25 Best Architecture Firms in Shanghai:

A+Awards Winner3
A+Awards Finalist3
Featured Projects8
Total Projects10

7. Challenge Design

© Challenge Design

© Challenge Design

The aim of Challenge Design  (Class A architectural design office) has been to provide “refined design and professional service” since its foundation. The company has undertaken projects ranging from “commercial complex,” “resort,” “luxury condo,” “boutique hotel,” “museums,” and “public architectures, winning dozens of awards and unanimous high appraisal. With growing experience in various fields including architecture design, urban planning, interior design, wooden structure design and commercial operation, the company has developed the capability to control whole life cycle of the projects.

Since foundation, Challenge Design has been working to find a way for realization of harmonious co-existence between architecture, human being and the nature, hoping to find a possible way for bring renewed sense experience and creating new thoughts & spatial forms through creative thinking.

Some of Challenge Design’s most prominent projects include:

  • Yuanlu Community Center, Chongqing, China
  • YULIN Artistic Center, Chongqing, China
  • Park Legend Kindergarten, Chengdu, China
  • Cloud Art Museum , Guizhou, China
  • Langtin Yuanzhu Experience Hall, Wuhan, China

The following statistics helped Challenge Design achieve 7th place in the 25 Best Architecture Firms in Shanghai:

Featured Projects14
Total Projects14

6. X+LIVING

© X+LIVING

© X+LIVING

X+LIVING, established in 2011 by Chinese architect Li Xiang, is an international architectural design company involved in multifield projects including retail, office, hospitality, parent-child, malls, etc. As an award-winning company, X+LIVING has always been noted by professional institutions and medias worldwide for its escher-like visuality and immersive spatial experiences.

Owing to the founder Li Xiang’s academic background of architecture, each of X+LIVING’s design works adopts boundary-crossing thinking and unique formal strategy to create theatrical dreamy spaces with story-telling charms that engage the senses and provide fun. X+LIVING takes “design creates value” as the motto and insists on achieving the highest quality of design works from conceptual design to final completion.

Some of X+LIVING’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped X+LIVING achieve 6th place in the 25 Best Architecture Firms in Shanghai:

A+Awards Winner2
A+Awards Finalist3
Featured Projects12
Total Projects46

5. Lukstudio

© Lukstudio

© Lukstudio

LUKSTUDIO is a boutique design practice based in Shanghai, China. Founded by Christina Luk in 2011, the studio is comprised of an international team with diverse backgrounds and cultural perspectives. With a common desire to challenge the status quo of the environment, the team finds joy in creating meaningful design solutions for others. Lukstudio’s strength lies in an ‘everything is possible’ attitude that is influenced by the surrounding context of Shanghai; a fast-paced city where East meets West and tradition is integrated with innovation.

Each project tells its own story, and Lukstudio is proud to identify a narrative, preserving it from concept through to completion to deliver memorable spatial experiences that delight and surprise. We collaborate closely with clients and contractors to deliver artistic solutions within a commercial scope.

Some of Lukstudio’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Lukstudio achieve 5th place in the 25 Best Architecture Firms in Shanghai:

A+Awards Finalist4
Featured Projects14
Total Projects32

4. AIM Architecture

© Dirk Weiblen

© Dirk Weiblen

AIM is a collective of passionate, international individuals. Founded by Belgian and Dutch architects Wendy Saunders and Vincent de Graaf in 2005, AIM brings together architecture with interior and product design to create wholly integrated products and ideas. Headquartered in Shanghai and with an office in Europe, AIM is a global studio with local feeling.

Our approach is deliberate and focused. Each project is approached individually. We pair context to concept and explore the fine line between vision and practicality. The result are unique spaces with a powerful narrative. Bold, playful, and gritty. Well-built projects with refined details. A built-in love of materials, and passion for place and purpose.

Some of AIM Architecture’s most prominent projects include:

  • Fushengyu Hotspring resort, Sichuan, China
  • SOHO Fuxing Plaza- Shopping Mall, Shanghai, China
  • Jiaxing Island, Jiaxing, China
  • Aluminum Lobby in SOHO Fuxing Plaza, Shanghai, China
  • Glass Office in SOHO Fuxing Plaza, Shanghai, China

The following statistics helped AIM Architecture achieve 4th place in the 25 Best Architecture Firms in Shanghai:

A+Awards Finalist3
Featured Projects17
Total Projects32

3. KOKAISTUDIOS

Kokaistudios is an award winning multi-disciplinary design firm founded in 2000 in Venice by Italian architects Filippo Gabbiani and Andrea Destefanis. Founded with the dream to create a collaborative office of young and talented architects devoted to researching and formulating the design solutions to the demands of tomorrow and capable of working on a worldwide basis; the firm has grown after 10 years into a team of 25 people headquartered in Shanghai, P.R.C.Kokaistudios has completed over 120 projects in the last 7 years in all fields of design, and we have received numerous awards.

Some of KOKAISTUDIOS’s most prominent projects include:

  • Top image: Baoshan WTE Exhibition Center, Shanghai, China
  • Shanghai Suhe MixC World, Shanghai, China
  • Bund Financial Center South Mall Interior Design, Shanghai, China
  • Beijing CR Land Galleria Shopping Center – Instreet Renovation, Beijing, China
  • House of the Tree, Shenzhen, China

The following statistics helped KOKAISTUDIOS achieve 3rd place in the 25 Best Architecture Firms in Shanghai:

A+Awards Winner1
A+Awards Finalist2
Featured Projects18
Total Projects45

2. Lacime Architect

© Lacime Architect

© Lacime Architect

Lacime Architect is an architecture firm based in Shanghai. The firm’s projects are mostly centered around cultural and commercial architecture.

Some of Lacime Architect’s most prominent projects include:

  • Vanke Emerald Park, Chongqing, China
  • One City Development, Hubei, China
  • Liva Riverside Book Bar Reconstruction of East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
  • Waterfront Art Gallery, Nanchang, China
  • Financial City Community Center, Suzhou, China

The following statistics helped Lacime Architect achieve 2nd place in the 25 Best Architecture Firms in Shanghai:

A+Awards Winner3
A+Awards Finalist8
Featured Projects22
Total Projects27

1. Neri & Hu

© Neri & Hu

© Neri & Hu

“We don’t ask to be eternal beings, we only ask that things do not lose all their meaning.”
– Antoine de Saint Exupéry

Founded in 2004 by partners Lyndon Neri and Rossana Hu, NHDRO (Neri&Hu Design and Research Office) is a multi-disciplinary architectural design practice based in Shanghai, china. NHDRO works internationally providing architecture, interior, master planning, graphic and product design services. Currently working on projects in seven countries, NHDRO is composed of multi-cultural staff who speak over 20 different languages. The diversity of the team reinforces a core vision for the practice: to respond to a global worldview incorporating overlapping design disciplines for a new paradigm in architecture. NHDRO’s location is purposeful.

Some of Neri & Hu’s most prominent projects include:

The following statistics helped Neri & Hu achieve 1st place in the 25 Best Architecture Firms in Shanghai:

A+Awards Winner9
A+Awards Finalist8
Featured Projects26
Total Projects21

Why Should I Trust Architizer’s Ranking?

With more than 30,000 architecture firms and over 130,000 projects within its database, Architizer is proud to host the world’s largest online community of architects and building product manufacturers. Its celebrated A+Awards program is also the largest celebration of architecture and building products, with more than 400 jurors and hundreds of thousands of public votes helping to recognize the world’s best architecture each year.

Architizer also powers firm directories for a number of AIA (American Institute of Architects) Chapters nationwide, including the official directory of architecture firms for AIA New York.

An example of a project page on Architizer with Project Award Badges highlighted

A Guide to Project Awards

The blue “+” badge denotes that a project has won a prestigious A+Award as described above. Hovering over the badge reveals details of the award, including award category, year, and whether the project won the jury or popular choice award.

The orange Project of the Day and yellow Featured Project badges are awarded by Architizer’s Editorial team, and are selected based on a number of factors. The following factors increase a project’s likelihood of being featured or awarded Project of the Day status:

  • Project completed within the last 3 years
  • A well written, concise project description of at least 3 paragraphs
  • Architectural design with a high level of both functional and aesthetic value
  • High quality, in focus photographs
  • At least 8 photographs of both the interior and exterior of the building
  • Inclusion of architectural drawings and renderings
  • Inclusion of construction photographs

There are 7 Projects of the Day each week and a further 31 Featured Projects. Each Project of the Day is published on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Stories, while each Featured Project is published on Facebook. Each Project of the Day also features in Architizer’s Weekly Projects Newsletter and shared with 170,000 subscribers.

 

 

We’re constantly look for the world’s best architects to join our community. If you would like to understand more about this ranking list and learn how your firm can achieve a presence on it, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at editorial@architizer.com.

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