The Best Residential Architects in Florida

Last updated on June 17th, 2024 at 02:33 pm

Building a home is a significant investment, and finding the right residential architect in Florida is crucial for ensuring your project meets your vision and budget. A reputable contractor understands the local market trends and can incorporate popular architectural styles and features that resonate with Florida homeowners. A skilled architect can also recommend materials and design elements suited to Florida’s coastal environment, ensuring the home’s resilience and aesthetic appeal in the market. The average residential project in Florida ranges from $100,000 to $350,000, but high-end projects can exceed $450,000. The timeline for completion can extend up to 32 weeks, assuming no unforeseen issues arise. Given the complexity and financial stakes, choosing a reliable architect is essential to avoid unnecessary delays, costs, and stress.

Construction costs in Florida have averaged around $66.54 per square foot in the past two years. Home to 22.24 million people, it boasts a dynamic real estate market with a median home value of $402,000. A substantial number of contractors support this bustling market. The Florida Building Department data shows that 6,935 contractors are available for residential projects. This abundance of options can overwhelm the selection process, emphasizing the need for a trustworthy and skilled architect to guide your project from conception to completion.

In this article, we aim to simplify your search for the best residential architects in Florida. We’ve curated a list of top professionals who can help bring your dream home to life, ensuring that your investment is well-placed and your vision is realized with precision and excellence.

Overview: The Best Residential Architects in Florida

See Ranking Methodology at the bottom of this article to learn more. 

Phil Kean Design Group

912 West Fairbanks Ave., Winter Park, FL 32789

Phil Kean Design Group offers its clients a complete and comprehensive range of services and operates out of its office in Winter Park. The firm specializes in one-of-a-kind luxury custom home projects and has been decorated with numerous industry distinctions since its establishment. Its team draws inspiration from renowned minds like Frank Lloyd Wright, Neutra, and Schindler and is also noted for its expertise in a variety of architectural vernaculars, including California modernism and Miami modern architecture. 

The photo above won the project the Best of the Show distinction in the 2020 American Residential Design Awards. The firm implemented a recurring theme of straight lines and contemporary finishes, incorporating sleek fixtures to complement the home’s neutral color palette. 

Studio KHORA

1600 S. Federal Hwy. Ste. 970, Pompano Beach, FL 33062

Regarded as among the Top 50 coastal architects by Ocean Home Magazine, Studio KHORA operates out of its office in Pompano Beach and is the proud recipient of many industry distinctions through the years. The firm primarily focuses on contemporary designs and has secured a solid reputation for its architecture and interior design. Some of its best work can be seen in the most sought-after communities. The firm was formerly called Rex Nichols Architects, and its background includes eleven distinctions from the AIA. Among the top Florida architects, Studio KHORA was featured by CNBC in 2022.

One of the company’s best works is showcased above. Spanning over 10,000 square feet, this home was completed in Boca Raton. It features two stories and an elegant, modern design. 

Architecture Joyce Owens, LLC | Studio AJO

2281 Main St., Fort Myers, FL 33901

Architecture Joyce Owens LLC | Studio AJO is a Florida-based architectural, interior, and design firm known for its exceptional work and distinguished, modern designs with immaculately tailored interiors. Studio AJO specializes in a wide variety of architectural solutions and is committed to advocating superb design.

Studio AJO focuses on coastal tropical homes and commercial community projects that result in creative and functional building designs and interiors that serve the needs of their clients and are always dedicated to cutting-edge, environmentally sound solutions sympathetic to their sites and responsive to climate and energy conservation.

The firm is led by its founder, Joyce Owens. She is a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), the highest distinction the organization bestows upon its members. In 2020, she received the AIA Florida Honor Award for Design. Joyce personally ensures that each project benefits from her talents and expertise.  

The featured project depicts a home found in the firm’s portfolio. Located in a shaded oasis in Naples, this home is reminiscent of the classic cabin in the woods that yearns for a time of tranquility, family, and simple pleasure. However, AJO’s re-think of this traditional design breathes modern life into the concept of living in the forest, showcasing excellent modern design and minimalist finishes. Photo: Joshua Colt Fisher. 

One D+B Miami

209 NE 82nd St., Miami, FL 33138

One D+B extends offers a complete and comprehensive range of architectural services. It is regarded for its innovative solutions and dynamic techniques, which it achieves through program-driven build solutions. The firm describes itself as a boutique multidisciplinary firm, which assures its clients that it designs no two homes alike. It is led by its principal, Hugo Mijares, who ensures that each of the firm’s projects benefits from his experience. His specialties include sustainable architecture, innovative techniques, and world-class designs.

One of the firm’s projects in North Miami Beach is showcased above. It features a sleek, contemporary feel, utilizing large paneled windows, open spaces, and a strategic floor plan.  

Nasrallah Architectural Group, Inc.

3920 Edgewater Dr. Ste. 101, Orlando, FL 32804

With over four decades of industry experience, the Nasrallah Architectural Group offers an award-winning range of design and architectural services. It utilizes a highly disciplined approach and oversees everything throughout the entire process. The firm’s services include bidding, interior architectural detailing, and project management. It also infuses various green design practices into its work, ensuring homeowners the sustainability and efficiency of its spaces. These spaces are LEED-certified. Nasrallah is also noted for its construction administration and master planning. It has also taken on various commercial projects. 

The firm is personally led by its principal and namesake, Mark Nasrallah. He is an active member of the AIA, and under his supervision, the firm has curated a stellar portfolio. This featured build is an example of its talent for modern architecture. 

Pacheco Architecture

4990 SW 72nd Ave. Ste. 101, Miami, FL 33155

Pacheco-Martinez & Associates specializes in luxury homes, commercial environments, and urban developments. It has had the opportunity to work on roughly 80 residences. These include over a dozen residences in Gables Estates, which won the firm several Platinum Awards. The firm is also regarded for its impressive multi-family homes, in addition to its urban planning and religious institution work. The firm operates out of its office in Miami and has been featured in various publications, including Luxe Interiors + Design Magazine and several editions of Florida Architecture. At the firm’s helm are Ramon Pacheco and Hector Martinez. Pacheco draws inspiration from over four decades of industry experience and is an award-winning member of the AIA. On the other hand, Martinez has over 15 years of experience and received his Bachelor of Architecture degree from the Pontificia Universidad Catolica Madre y Maestra in 2000.

The project above sits in the heart of Coral Gables and features a great transitional design. The firm credits its inspiration to the British West Indies and tropical elements for this home. It features wood brackets, siding, plantation-style louvers, and a white-washed front entry door. 

Michael Wenrich Architects

1800 N. Orange Ave. Ste. A, Orlando, FL 32804

With features in vital publications like Dwell, Michael Wenrich Architects specializes in commercial and residential projects. It is the brainchild of its founder and namesake, Michael Wenrich. He draws inspiration from over two decades of industry experience. He is also a LEED AP, which assures clients that the firm can infuse various green building and sustainability practices into its designs. Wenrich holds a Bachelor of Architecture Degree from Virginia Tech and a Master of Architecture from the University of Virginia. 

The photo above best embodies the firm’s talent and expertise. It features an excellent contemporary design coupled with an open-concept floor plan inside. This lakeside home is located in Central Florida and offers its residents excellent views of the area surrounding it. 

Forbes Architects

1500 South Douglas Rd. Ste. 200, Coral Gables, FL 33134

Forbes Architects utilizes a comprehensive design-build approach, which allows it to keep the entire process in-house and lessens the challenge for homeowners to look for additional subcontractors. This will enable it to offer a comprehensive range of general contracting services and can assist clients with everything, including new development or renovations of existing properties. Likewise, it oversees everything from start to finish and has had the opportunity to work on various award-winning spaces. 

Aside from its residential work, the firm’s portfolio also showcases hospitality, industrial, office, healthcare, government, and educational projects. John R. Forbes, a former design lecturer at the University of Miami, founded Forbes. 

Bender & Associates Architects PA

410 Angela St., Key West, FL 33040  

Bender & Associates is the product of the vision of its namesake, Bert Bender. He has since been recognized for his many architectural contributions and project awards. His work has been featured in the Preservation News. It has also received accolades such as the Legacy Award, Florida Trust for Historic Preservation, and the Sustainability Legend Award from the US Green Building Council (USGBC). Under his leadership, the firm itself has also been the winner of countless industry distinctions. 

Since its establishment, the firm has been known for its historic projects and affinity for traditional designs. The Fleming Street residence is shown above, one of the firm’s projects. This project features a great paneled exterior, shuttered windows, a front porch, and custom finishes.

Stofft Cooney Architects

Delray Office: 42 North Swinton Ave., Delray Beach, FL 33444
Naples Office: 111 10th Street South Ste. 308, Naples, FL 34102

Stofft Cooney Architects operates out of three offices, providing its clients with a great range of architectural services. The firm is the product of the vision of its clients, Randall Stofft and John Cooney. Stofft was born in Chicago and drew inspiration from the classic work of renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright. On the other hand, Cooney is known for his sophisticated blend of form and style. He is a New York Native experienced in various architectural themes. In 2021, the firm was featured in a Naples Daily News article.

The firm’s portfolio depicts various residential, commercial, and resort projects. It has had the opportunity to complete work both across Florida and internationally. Our editorial team was highly impressed by its expertise in the most modern and cutting-edge designs. 

SDH Studio Architecture + Design

18200 NE 19th Ave. Ste. 100 North, Miami Beach, FL 33162

SDH Studio Architecture + Design is regarded all across Miami and offers its clients a comprehensive array of architecture and design services. Since its inception, the firm has been the recipient of a multitude of awards and has developed and designed luxury custom homes for both developers and homeowners. On top of its residential work, it has also taken on several commercial spaces, which include office buildings, restaurants, and retail projects. The firm uses only the best and latest innovative techniques and comprises a dynamic and experienced team of architects and interior designers. With strong leadership and dedicated team members, the firm has been lauded with distinctions and features in publications like Miami Architect and Ocean Home Magazine.

The project above is located in Biscayne Point and overlooks the water in Miami Beach. The site itself spans over 11,000 square feet, while the main home is 6,180 square feet. The home features elegant floor-to-ceiling glass paneled windows that take in the surrounding area’s breathtaking views and contemporary finishes. 

Guy Peterson Office For Architecture

1234 1st St., Sarasota, FL 34236

Guy Peterson Office for Architecture has committed itself to crafting the highest quality designs. Recognized for its efforts, Guy Peterson is the proud recipient of many awards, including the Award for Excellence in Architecture from the AIA. The firm has also been the subject of numerous magazine spreads and other media. Led by founder and namesake Guy Peterson, a fellow of the AIA and highly distinguished architect, the firm often bases its designs on the regional modernism of the “Sarasota School of Architecture.” Overall, it makes for easily recognizable work because it uses tropical and traditional South Florida themes and indigenous materials. 

One of the firm’s best builds is showcased above. Located on the southern end of Longboat Key, this house is on the waterway connecting the Gulf of Mexico to Sarasota Bay. The home is made of two shifted horizontal bars and two stories. It fosters great views of the surrounding areas and helps the homeowners relax with its custom swimming pool and entertainment spaces. 

NC-office

11 E Flagler St., Miami, FL 33131

NC-office is a Miami-based practice and has since become an award-winning firm based on the partnership of its founders, Peter Nedev, Elizabeth Cardona, Cristina Canton, and Nikolay Nedev. The firm has won distinctions like the 2015 Knight Foundation Knight Arts Challenge grant through its leadership. Most notably, many publications have also regarded it for its outstanding services. Architect Magazine named the firm one of the top 50 U.S. architecture firms in two categories: sustainability and design. Its other great features are in publications like The Miami Herald, Archdaily, and World Architecture News. 

Featured above is the firm’s work on the Longview residence. This project entailed an extensive renovation and home addition to a 1980s Florida modern house. The firm had to work on additional bedrooms, bathrooms, and a small courtyard garden.

Portuondo Perotti Architects, Inc.

5717 SW 8th St. #200, West Miami, FL 33144 

Portuondo Perotti Architects, Inc. showcases residential, commercial, and civic space talent. It is one of the leading architects in Florida and is led by founders Rafael Portuondo and Jose Luis Gonzales-Perotti. Portuondo is one of the country’s best and leading designers of classical architecture. He completed his undergraduate degree at the University of Miami and is particularly known for his skill in Old World European architecture. Conversely, Gonzales-Perotti oversees the company’s talented team of designers, draftsmen, and artists.  In terms of design, he specializes in European and Mediterranean classic design. 

The photo above depicts the firm’s St. Andrews project. It features a great Mediterranean theme, utilizing terracotta roofs and textured finishes. This home showcases the firm’s attention to detail and creativity.

STA Architectural Group

3526 N. Miami Ave., Miami, FL 33127

STA Architectural Group comprises a talented, experienced team of architects and interior designers offering innovative design solutions. Its founders, Todd and Isabel Tragash, are at its helm. Under their leadership, the company has become a leading expert in residential, commercial, and hospitality projects. Additionally, the firm uses a highly responsive approach that emphasizes the importance of infusing its clients’ visions into their projects, which better assures that their needs are met. 

The company has a long history of working in and around Miami, making it experienced in some of its most popular up-and-coming home styles. It is also known for its great historic preservations and has received various industry awards, such as distinctions from the International Interior Design Association (IIDA). 

CMSA Scholz, Oswald & Shaffer

2724 Fruitville Rd, Ste. 102, Sarasota, FL 34237

CMSA Scholz, Oswald & Shaffer is the firm behind some of Florida’s premier communities. Its portfolio depicts a great gallery of custom-designed luxury homes and elegant renovations, in addition to golf course developments and commercial spaces. The firm is composed of only the most qualified architects and designers. The firm begins its process with hand-drawn sketches before using the best and latest CAD technology. This assures clients of its attention to detail and allows for little to almost no revisions throughout the entire process. 

The photo above depicts its Little Sarasota Bay project. Located on a nearly private island, this dream home is an oasis for both anglers and ecological enthusiasts. Its technology is impressive, and its design is exquisite, exuding only the best of island living. 

[STRANG] Design

330 N Andrews Ave. Ste. 102, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301

With over two decades of experience, [STRANG] Design comprises a team of nearly 40 professionals who have brought home almost the same number of industry distinctions for the firm. The firm primarily works on regional modernist designs. It also had the privilege of working on various noteworthy homes. In 2023, this Florida architect received the Honor Award from the AIA.

One of the firm’s most stunning projects is showcased above. For this home, the firm employed a blend of popular architectural vernaculars. It also worked on immense stone walls, pitched metal roofs, wood porches, a vast kitchen, and lounge areas.

Choeff Levy Fischman 

8425 Biscayne Blvd. Ste. 201, Miami, FL 33138

Choeff Levy Fischman is an award-winning firm that offers a full range of design and architectural services. The firm specializes in high-end custom Tropical Modern single-family homes. At its helm are principals Ralph Choeff, Raphael Levy, and Paul Fischman, three experienced and seasoned architects. Under their leadership, the firm has expanded its clientele to include numerous noteworthy clients. These prestigious homeowners include global C-suite executives, professional athletes, and celebrities. The leadership team has inspired the firm to become a trailblazer in modern and tropical architecture: its designs are a fusion of indoor and outdoor spaces. As a testament to being one of the best architects in Florida, it was the Regional Winner for Exterior Architecture in the 2022 Luxe RED Awards.

Choeff Levy Fischman has built a solid reputation for itself. The firm has also had the privilege of working on several interesting and complex projects. It is no surprise that the firm has been featured in publications such as Architectural Digest, Dwell, Interior Design, The Wall Street Journal, and Forbes. The firm’s affinity for modern and contemporary spaces, open-concept floor plans, unique fixtures, and clean finishes allows it to create elegant spaces such as these. 

Ranking Methodology

To evaluate the performance of contractors, our methodology employs a systematic approach that considers various factors contributing to customer experience and satisfaction. We focused on assessing the residential architects in the Florida area. The methodology involves assigning weightings to specific categories based on their significance in determining customer service quality. Here’s the breakdown of the categories and their respective weightings:

• Average Customer Satisfaction (35%): This metric represents the average rating given by customers across the same review platforms as the Average Customer Satisfaction Score. A higher average rating indicates greater overall satisfaction with the service provided.
• Service Rating Score (25%): We analyze the ratio of high (4-5 stars) to low (1-2 stars) ratings for each business across multiple review platforms: Google, Houzz, and Yelp. A higher percentage of positive reviews contributes to a higher score, reflecting better customer satisfaction.
• Complaint Percentage (25%): We analyze the ratio of complaints to total reviews for each business. A lower complaints ratio indicates better service quality and results in a higher score.
• Business Hours and Availability (10%): The operating hours of each business are assessed to gauge accessibility. Companies with extended operating hours are awarded a higher score, as they offer greater convenience to customers.
• License Status (5%): We verify the licensing status of each contractor with their local licensing board to ensure legal compliance. Companies with valid licenses receive a higher score, reflecting professionalism and adherence to regulations.
• Total Score: We determined the overall rating for every contractor by calculating a weighted average, with the category weight determining the amount the subscore contributed to the total score 

Additional Note: Service Rating Score, Average Customer Satisfaction, and Complaint Percentage are calculated with a Bayesian estimate to account for if the contractor has a low number of total reviews. A Bayesian average is a statistical method used to calculate the average of a set of data points while taking into account prior information or beliefs about the distribution of the data. It combines the observed data with a prior distribution to generate a more accurate estimate of the true average.