San Francisco is a city where architectural legacy and modern innovation collide. From iconic landmarks like the Transamerica Pyramid to cutting-edge LEED-certified buildings, the cityscape reflects both its rich history and forward-thinking mindset. As urban challenges such as climate change, seismic safety, and housing demand continue to shape the Bay Area, architecture firms in San Francisco are at the forefront of creative and sustainable solutions.
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Whether you’re a developer planning a high-rise, a homeowner looking for a custom design, or a business seeking innovative commercial interiors, these 20 top architecture firms in San Francisco represent the best in talent, vision, and execution.
1. Feldman Architecture
Founded in 2003, Feldman Architecture is known for designing modern, site-sensitive structures that emphasize sustainability and light. The firm has garnered a reputation for projects that blend elegance with eco-conscious materials and innovative forms. Feldman Architecture’s team collaborates closely with clients and artisans to deliver spaces that are deeply personal and contextually rooted.
Notable Projects: The Farm, House Ocho, Butterfly House
Awards: 2023 AIA California Design Award, 2022 Architizer A+ Award Winner
Website: feldmanarchitecture.com
2. Aidlin Darling Design
Established in 1998, Aidlin Darling Design creates immersive, sensory-rich environments across residential, commercial, and institutional typologies. Their work is grounded in craftsmanship and collaboration, drawing from their roots in furniture design. Their signature is designing spaces that are as emotionally resonant as they are functional.
Notable Projects: Windhover Contemplative Center, Bar Agricole
Awards: National Design Award by Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum, 2023 AIA Institute Honor Award, IIDA Northern California Honor Award
Website: aidlindarlingdesign.com
3. Gensler San Francisco
Founded in 1965 and headquartered in San Francisco, Gensler is one of the world’s largest architecture and design firms. Known for their broad project portfolio and human-centric design approach, Gensler leads major urban and workplace transformations, particularly in tech, civic, and hospitality sectors.
Notable Projects: Facebook HQ (Menlo Park), San Francisco International Airport Terminal 2
Awards: 2022 Fast Company Most Innovative Companies, 2021 AIA Firm Award Finalist, ULI Americas Awards for Excellence
Website: gensler.com
4. Studio O+A
Founded in 1991, Studio O+A specializes in interior environments that reflect and elevate company culture. With projects for global brands like Microsoft and Slack, they craft storytelling spaces that promote creativity and collaboration.
Notable Projects: Slack HQ, Microsoft Envisioning Center, Yelp Headquarters
Awards: 2016 Cooper Hewitt National Design Award for Interior Design, Frame Award for Best Co-Working Space
Website: o-plus-a.com
5. Blitz
Blitz is a multidisciplinary firm delivering agile, brand-integrated architecture for creative industries. Their work emphasizes human-centered design, sustainability, and workplace innovation. With projects throughout the U.S., Blitz bridges architectural excellence with operational insight.
Notable Projects: Google San Francisco, Yelp HQ, Airbnb Regional Offices
Awards: Interior Design Best of Year Award, Fast Company Innovation by Design Honoree, IIDA Northern California Honor Award
Website: studioblitz.com
6. Klopf Architecture
Klopf Architecture excels in modern and Mid-Century modern design, with an emphasis on open-plan spaces, natural light, and energy efficiency. Known for revitalizing Eichler homes, their work preserves character while introducing sustainable innovations.
Notable Projects: Net-Zero Energy Eichler Remodel, San Francisco Modern
Awards: Houzz Best of Design 2022, Green Building Award (California Energy Commission), AIA East Bay Residential Design Award
Website: klopfarchitecture.com
7. Fougeron Architecture
Founded by Anne Fougeron in 1985, this award-winning firm integrates modern aesthetics with structural clarity and thoughtful materials. Fougeron’s work is recognized for pushing boundaries in residential and institutional architecture.
Notable Projects: Tehama Grasshopper, Flip House, Ingleside Branch Library
Awards: AIA San Francisco Honor Award, 2023 Residential Architect Design Award, California Preservation Foundation Award
Website: fougeron.com
8. Handel Architects
With a global portfolio and a San Francisco presence, Handel Architects is known for projects that transform city skylines. Their work spans high-rise housing, civic centers, and mixed-use developments with a strong emphasis on environmental performance.
Notable Projects: NEMA San Francisco, Millennium Tower, 340 Fremont Street
Awards: Urban Land Institute Global Awards for Excellence, AIA New York Merit Award, National Housing & Rehabilitation Association Award
Website: handelarchitects.com
9. Walker Warner Architects
Walker Warner Architects creates enduring residential designs that respond to landscape, culture, and climate. Their portfolio includes modern coastal homes and rustic wine country estates known for their material richness and spatial elegance.
Notable Projects: Kahua Kuili House, Napa Residence, Big Island Retreat
Awards: Luxe RED Award, AIA SF Design Excellence Award, Residential Architect Magazine Design Award
Website: walkerwarner.com
IA Interior Architects is a global interior architecture firm reimagining workspaces for Fortune 500s and startups alike. Their San Francisco team leads in tech campus planning and branded environments that reflect each client’s identity.
Notable Projects: LinkedIn Offices, Cisco Campus Spaces, Dropbox SF HQ
Awards: CoreNet Global Award for Workplace Strategy, IIDA Best Interiors Award, AIA Interiors Award
Website: interiorarchitects.com
11. John Lum Architecture
Founded in 1994, John Lum Architecture is a boutique firm known for creative, livable design. Their work spans new residential builds, remodels, and small commercial projects, all driven by sustainability and innovation. They are especially respected for their contextual, modern designs.
Notable Projects: Canyon House, Castro Renovation, San Francisco Optometry
Awards: AIA San Francisco Design Citation, Remodeling Design Award Winner, Houzz Best of Service
Website: johnlumarchitecture.com
12. Craig Steely Architecture
Blending California modernism with Hawaiian influences, Craig Steely Architecture brings bold geometries and site-specific forms to life. The firm is known for merging nature with structure, especially in challenging terrains like Big Sur and San Francisco’s hills.
Notable Projects: Lavaflow House Series (Hawaii), Pam & Paul’s House, Glen Park House
Awards: AIA SF Design Award, Residential Architect Design Award, Wallpaper* Architects Directory Recognition
Website: craigsteely.com
13. SB Architects
With over 60 years in hospitality and residential design, SB Architects is recognized globally. Originally founded in San Francisco, their work now spans continents, with a focus on placemaking and sustainability. They are part of the Egis Group.
Notable Projects: Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Los Cabos, Calistoga Ranch Napa Valley
Awards: Gold Key Award for Excellence in Hospitality Design, AIA SF Firm of the Year
Website: 10sb.co
14. David Baker Architects (DBA)
DBA is a mission-driven firm emphasizing social impact, affordability, and sustainability in urban environments. Their vibrant mixed-use projects focus on livability, community, and resilience.
Notable Projects: Five88 Mission Bay, 888 San Mateo, Soma Studios
Awards: AIA California Firm Award, AIA COTE Top Ten, Just Label Certification, Certified B Corp
Website: dbarchitect.com
15. IwamotoScott Architecture
Founded by Lisa Iwamoto and Craig Scott, this innovative practice blends digital fabrication, experimental materials, and contextual design. IwamotoScott’s work includes installations, education centers, and complex urban projects.
Notable Projects: Float House, MoMA PS1 Installation, Bloom Pavilion
Awards: Architectural League Emerging Voices, AIA SF Design Awards, Wallpaper* Design Award
Website: iwamotoscott.com
16. Schwartz and Architecture
Schwartz and Architecture, or S^A, creates context-sensitive and emotionally resonant spaces. With deep roots in the Bay Area, the firm’s strength lies in residential and institutional projects that reflect both place and purpose.
Notable Projects: Noe Valley Residence, St. Hilda’s Hall, 18th Street Addition
Awards: AIA SF Merit Award, Residential Architect Merit Award
Website: schwartzandarchitecture.com
17. Turnbull Griffin Haesloop Architects
TGH specializes in site-responsive, sustainable homes and small institutional buildings. Their designs balance simplicity with craftsmanship and connect seamlessly to natural surroundings.
Notable Projects: Sea Ranch House, Healdsburg Residence, Valley of the Moon Retreat
Awards: AIA SF Citation Award, Green Building Award, AIA California Residential Honor Award
Website: tgharchitects.com
18. Garcia Tamjidi Architecture Design
Founded by Michael Garcia and Farid Tamjidi, the firm integrates architecture and interiors in sleek, contemporary designs. Their projects range from workplace and retail to residential, with a minimalist yet soulful aesthetic.
Notable Projects: Uber HQ Interiors, Adobe Workspace, Urban Flat
Awards: Interior Design Best of Year, CoreNet Global Award
Website: garciatamjidi.com
19. CCS Architecture
Established in 1992 by Cass Calder Smith, CCS Architecture delivers modern residential, hospitality, and commercial designs. The firm blends urban sophistication with material warmth across both coasts.
Notable Projects: La Mar SF, Hotel G, Golden Gate Townhouse
Awards: AIA San Francisco Honor Award, James Beard Foundation Award Finalist
Website: casscaldersmith.com
20. Michael Hennessey Architecture
MHA emphasizes refined simplicity, light, and sustainability. Their meticulous design process and thoughtful detailing result in serene, balanced spaces that respond to their climate and context.
Notable Projects: Townsend Street Residence, 16th Street Apartment, Bernal Heights Remodel
Awards: Wallpaper* Architects Directory Recognition, AIA San Francisco Citation Award
Website: mha-sf.com
Conclusion
San Francisco’s architectural scene is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself. From restoring historic homes to designing cutting-edge LEED Platinum skyscrapers, these 20 firms reflect the innovation, sustainability, and cultural depth that define the Bay Area’s built environment. Whether you’re a homeowner with a bold vision, a developer reshaping the skyline, or a business reimagining your space, these architects offer world-class talent rooted in local insight.
Each firm on this list brings a distinct approach to architecture—some are driven by minimalism and modernism, others by historic preservation or social equity. What unites them is a commitment to crafting spaces that not only look exceptional but also serve the people who live and work in them.
If you’re looking to collaborate with the best in San Francisco’s architectural world, this guide is your starting point. Let it connect you to the right visionaries to shape your next residential, commercial, or civic project.