Although not the capital, New York is the heart of America. Everyone, from people to companies, wants to be in New York. Hence, companies that started their journey in another city have expanded their branches in this ever-busy city. Among the competitive market of architectural firms in New York, some still stand out.
It is not exaggeration to say that New York houses some of the world’s best architectural firms. Over 1,000 architectural companies work in New York City (NYC), with an employee strength of more than 20,000 licensed architects. From freshers to experienced architects, from small-scale to large-scale projects, NYC is the perfect place to blend commercial designs with cultural touch. Did you know that NYC is responsible for 10% of the overall economic activity of the AEC market?
The existence of so many architectural companies does not make it easier for anyone willing to choose any one from them. Also, many of you may not even have the time to look for a reliable architectural design partner for your next project. Hence, here we are. We have created a list of 25 of the best architecture firms in New York. The list is not in any specific order as all of these companies are exceptionally good with adequate industry knowledge.
Uppteam
Uppteam is one of the most promising architectural design support companies and is on its way to becoming one of the best firms. Based in Florida, the company has expanded to NYC.
Uppteam has launched its business two decades ago. The company has an offshore team of 250+ designers working on architectural and engineering design projects, supporting small, medium, and large firms. The extensive capacity and capabilities of the designers at Uppteam help the company meet its goal while growing exponentially.
Founded by Mitesh Smart, a PE by profession, Uppteam has established itself as the go-to design support partner for architectural and interior design firms. The company also offers support to engineering design firms and general contractors.
CAZA
Based in Brooklyn, CAZA specializes in creating architectural designs using a bottom-up approach.’ The company considers recent data when designing for a specific project. Their designs are architecturally sound and have a philosophy that gives them a unique perspective.
The company has expanded its offices to Manila, Bogota, Peru, Colombia, and the Philippines. By taking on projects that require expertise beyond its capabilities, CAZA has grown while extending its capacity.
Gensler
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Gensler is a well-known name among the New York architecture firms. Although the company started its journey from San Francisco, California, it now has offices across the globe. Gensler operates from 17 countries and has offices in 53 major cities.
With its dedicated architects, Gensler has partnered with a wide clientele, including engineers, architects, and even small—to large-business owners. The founders, M. Arthur Gensler Jr., Drue Gensler, and James Follett, established the company with a vision to change the world through radical designs.
The company has built a legacy by providing unparalleled design support to over 100 global clients with its 6,000+ professionals. Launched in 1965, Gensler generates nearly $1.8 billion in revenue, one of the greatest in the US market.
Perkins & Will
Naming themselves as the global changemaker, Perkins & Wills has been changing the global architecture since 1935. Later, in 1986, the firm became a subsidiary of Dar Al-Handasah, a global architectural and engineering design consulting company that helps with planning.
Founded by Lawrence Perkins and Philip Will Jr., Perkins & Will is now one of the major architecture firms in NYC. It started in Chicago, Illinois. Driven by an inclusive culture of compassion and empathy, Perkins & Wills explores and implements new ideas that ensure human comfort while balancing its connection with nature.
Adjaye Associates
Established by the Ghanaian-British architect Sir David Adjaye OM OBE, in 2000, Adjaye Associates was integral in global architectural design. The company has offices in London and New York and houses some of the best London and NYC architects.
Adjaye Associates is a global architectural firm that shapes designs through community input and cultural engagement. The company has significantly impacted world architecture by working on some of the most notable projects in the US, Australia, and the UK. Adjaye’s work has earned prestigious recognition, including the 2021 RIBA Royal Gold Medal, for his contributions to architecture across cultures and disciplines.
Perkins Eastman
Perkins Eastman traces its origins back over a century, with co-founder Brad Perkins’ grandfather, Dwight Heald Perkins, establishing an architecture firm in 1897. The firm’s legacy includes contributions to global architecture, with Brad’s father later co-founding Perkins&Will.
In 1981, Brad Perkins and Mary-Jean Eastman formed Perkins Eastman, combining expertise in business growth, complex project management, and public-sector engagement. Their partnership fostered a people-centered approach to design, leading the firm to become one of the industry’s largest and most respected New York City architecture firms. Offering architecture, interior design, planning, and consulting services, Perkins Eastman has expanded to 24 studios with over 1,100 employees, working on large-scale projects in more than 60 countries.
HOLLANDER design Landscape Architects
Hollander Design Landscape Architects creates meticulously crafted landscapes for a wide range of clients, from private homeowners to developers and institutions. Their projects span from the Hamptons to Hong Kong.
Established over thirty years ago by Edmund Hollander and Maryanne Connelly, the firm collaborates with top architects and interior designers to create residential, urban, institutional, and commercial spaces. With offices in New York City, the Hamptons, and Chicago, Hollander leads the firm alongside partners Geoffrey Valentino, Melissa Reavis, and Stephen Eich.
FXCollaborative
FXCollaborative is one of the renowned New York architecture firms. The company is known for its commitment to sustainability and innovative design solutions. Bob Fox and Bruce Fowle started the company in 1978 to support architectural studios with interior design and planning.
The company has worked on many projects, including residential, commercial, cultural, and educational buildings. Their collaborative approach and dedication to creating environmentally responsible designs have earned them numerous awards and recognition in the industry.
Ingui Architects
The now Ingui Architects was first established in 1977 by Ben Baxt. Later, in 1994, Michael Ingui joined the firm. The company ran its business under the name Baxt Ingui Architects for several years, until recently, in 2023, it established itself as Ingui Architects with the same focus of providing architectural design services.
Ingui Architects is a New York-based architecture firm specializing in residential design. The firm is known for its attention to detail and commitment to creating beautiful, functional spaces.
Ingui Architects is known for working closely with clients to understand their needs and deliver customized design solutions. Their portfolio includes a variety of projects, from historic brownstone renovations to modern new constructions.
NELSON Worldwide
NELSON Worldwide is an architecture firm in NYC that offers its service globally and has a strong presence in the US. The firm offers various services, including architecture, interior design, branding, and workplace strategy.
NELSON Worldwide is known for its innovative design approach and ability to create spaces that enhance the user experience. Its diverse portfolio includes corporate, healthcare, retail, and hospitality projects.
Bermello Ajamil & Partners
Bermello Ajamil & Partners is an international architecture, engineering, and planning firm with offices in New York City. The firm is known for its expertise in large-scale, complex projects, including transportation, maritime, and mixed-use developments.
Bermello Ajamil & Partners has a reputation for delivering innovative design solutions that address each project’s unique challenges. Their commitment to excellence and client satisfaction has earned them numerous awards and accolades.
TPG Architecture
Starting its journey in 1979, TPG Architecture established itself as a leading New York City architecture firm that provides all types of designs for its clients. The firm specializes in creating innovative, functional, and aesthetically pleasing spaces for many clients.
TPG Architecture’s portfolio includes corporate, retail, hospitality, and healthcare projects. Its team of experienced professionals is dedicated to delivering high-quality design solutions that meet each client’s unique needs. The company focuses on growth and encourages its employees to do the same.
Taylor and Miller Architecture and Design
Alex Miller and Jeffrey Taylor partnered in 2002 to establish Taylor & Miller, an architectural design firm in NYC. Taylor and Miller Architecture and Design specializes in architecture, interior design, and custom fabrication.
The firm is known for its unique approach to design, which combines traditional craftsmanship with modern technology. Taylor and Miller’s portfolio includes various projects, from residential and commercial spaces to art installations and public works. Their commitment to innovation and quality has earned them a reputation as one of the top architecture firms in New York City.
Populous
While Populous started its journey from Kansas City, now it has become a global architecture and design firm with a strong presence in New York City, London, and Brisbane. The firm specializes in creating iconic, high-performance spaces for sports, entertainment, and cultural events.
Populous’s portfolio includes stadiums, arenas, convention centers, and performing arts venues. The company has been recognized as one of the 50 most innovative in architectural design globally. Its innovative approach to design and commitment to sustainability have earned it numerous awards and recognition in the industry.
LEONG LEONG
One of the top architecture firms in New York, LEONG LEONG is known for its forward-thinking approach to design and its commitment to social and environmental responsibility. The Leong brothers started the company in 2009 to change the architectural design approach, integrating strategic thoughts with material experimentation.
The firm works on various projects, including residential, commercial, cultural, and institutional spaces. LEONG LEONG’s work is characterized by its innovative use of materials, attention to detail, and focus on creating meaningful user experiences. Their projects have been recognized with numerous awards and featured in various publications and exhibitions.
Wilson & Associates
Maintaining its performance in the architectural design industry since 1987, Wilson & Associates has established itself as one of the globally renowned architecture firms in NYC. The Wilson family primarily runs the business with dedicated associates who put their efforts into building something interesting and innovative.
The architectural studio is famous for creating luxurious, high-end spaces within the hospitality industry. Their New York office has designed some of the most opulent hotels, resorts, and private residences. Their dedication to delivering exceptional, client-focused design solutions has earned them a place among the elite architecture firms in NYC.
Cooper Carry
With over 50 people in leadership positions and over 30 people working as senior associates, Cooper Carry takes a multidisciplinary approach to provide its creative design solutions. The firm offers various services, including architecture, interior design, urban planning, and landscape architecture.
Cooper Carry is known for its collaborative design approach and commitment to creating sustainable, innovative spaces. The company was founded by Jerry Cooper and Walter Carry in 1960 in Atlanta. Since then, the architectural design firm has been working on various projects, from commercial to residential. However, the firm specializes in designing the hospitality and education industries.
Sharon Davis Design
Sharon Davis Design is a New York architecture firm and design studio dedicated to creating socially impactful and sustainable architecture. Since its inception in 2007, the architectural firm has transformed communities through creative designs. Sharon Davis Design works with nonprofit organizations, blending natural and artificial elements to create unique designs.
Sharon Davis Design’s work is characterized by its innovative use of materials, attention to detail, and focus on creating meaningful experiences for the occupants. The company ensures that cost-effective designs are created that are also environmentally sustainable. Their projects have been recognized with numerous awards and have been featured in various publications and exhibitions.
Future Green Studio
Based out of Brooklyn, Future Green Studio is one of the best architecture firms in NYC. The landscape architecture and urban design company takes an innovative approach to design and is committed to sustainability.
The firm works on many projects, specializing in public space designs. Future Green Studio’s work is characterized by its attention to detail, innovative use of materials, and focus on creating meaningful user experiences. Its projects have been recognized with numerous awards and featured in various publications and exhibitions.
REX
Another well-known New York City architecture firm is REX, which is known for pushing architectural boundaries and creating designs that prioritize functionality and user empowerment. Led by Founding Principal Joshua Ramus and a team of Associate Principals, the firm is recognized for its inventive approach, which blends purpose-driven design with striking aesthetics.
The firm has worked on high-profile projects worldwide, including mixed-use skyscrapers in Australia, residential towers in Brooklyn, and cultural hubs for Kia Motors in South Korea. With historical landmark projects, REX has played a significant role in redefining architectural typologies. The firm’s bold and forward-thinking designs have earned widespread acclaim, cementing its reputation as a leader in innovative architecture.
Handel Architects
Handel Architects is a globally recognized architecture firm dedicated to improving urban living through thoughtful, impactful design. Founded in 1994, the firm believes in architecture’s power to drive positive social and urban change. With over 150 architects and designers across offices in New York, San Francisco, Boston, Denver, and Hong Kong, the firm has built a diverse portfolio that includes the National September 11 Memorial, large-scale mixed-use developments, multifamily housing, hotels, corporate headquarters, and institutional projects.
The company’s strong focus on sustainability sets Handel Architects apart, with groundbreaking work in Passive House design and LEED-certified buildings, including the first LEED Gold condominium in New York and the first LEED Gold office building in Chile. The firm’s dedication to client success has led to an exceptionally high rate of repeat business, reinforcing its reputation for delivering high-quality, socially responsible projects worldwide.
Archi-Tectonics
One of the best architecture firms in NYC, Archi-Tectonics is an innovative, multidisciplinary design studio that integrates advanced digital design, rigorous research, and new fabrication methods to create intelligent, sustainable, and high-performing architecture. The firm prioritizes function over form and design intelligence over style, producing concept-driven buildings and urban systems that promote equitable and healthier ways of living.
Founded in 1994 by Winka Dubbeldam, Archi-Tectonics has offices in New York City, Amsterdam, and Hangzhou. The firm’s innovative approach—combining prefabrication, optimization, and extensive prototyping—results in efficient and imaginative solutions for contemporary urban challenges.
Archi-Tectonics is also known for creating high-value designs. Clients often resell properties at double or triple their original value, demonstrating the firm’s ability to merge architectural excellence with economic success.
SHoP Architects
With a few of the greatest architects in New York, SHoP Architects was established in 1996 to provide design support to commercial, residential, and industrial clients worldwide. The company focuses on creating diversity through its designs. Hence, the firm encourages designers from diverse backgrounds to contribute their expertise to building sustainable and modern designs.
Rockwell Group
Rockwell Group is an interdisciplinary architecture and design firm known for blending innovation, storytelling, and performance to create immersive built environments. Founded in 1984 by David Rockwell, FAIA, and led alongside partners Shawn Sullivan and Greg Keffer, the firm is based in New York with offices in Los Angeles and Madrid.
Rockwell Group’s approach is fueled by curiosity and a passion for design. They integrate theater, performance, and architecture to craft unique narratives for each project. Their diverse portfolio spans hotels, restaurants, theaters, cultural and educational institutions, set designs, products, and exhibitions, demonstrating a commitment to creating extraordinary, experiential spaces worldwide.
Allied Works
Allied Works is an acclaimed architecture company in New York, providing architectural designs through a deeply collaborative and exploratory approach. The firm is founded in 1994 by Brad Cloepfil and is based in Portland, Oregon, and New York City. Allied Works believes architecture is a collective effort enriched by diverse perspectives and a shared pursuit of new experiences.
Guided by curiosity, craftsmanship, and a commitment to meaningful design, the firm creates powerful, emotionally resonant spaces that engage their surroundings and inhabitants. Their portfolio includes cultural institutions, museums, educational buildings, commercial spaces, and private residences.
With a design philosophy rooted in material exploration, form, and spatial storytelling, Allied Works continues to push architectural boundaries, crafting functional and transformative buildings.
How National MEP Engineers Can Help
New York City is home to some of the world’s most prestigious and forward-thinking architectural firms. While the skyline is evolving and a demand for innovative, sustainable, and culturally significant designs, the competition among firms remains fierce. Whether they are shaping the city’s future with high-profile commercial developments, pioneering sustainability efforts, or creating transformative cultural spaces, these firms define the architectural landscape of NYC.
However, behind every successful architectural vision is a network of engineering expertise that ensures these designs are aesthetically striking, functionally sound and efficient.
As an MEP engineering design partner, National MEP Engineers supports these architectural firms in New York and other states by providing mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineering solutions that bring their projects to life. From optimizing building performance and ensuring sustainability compliance to designing seamless HVAC, lighting, and plumbing systems, we work alongside architects, engineers, and contractors to create efficient, high-performing buildings.
In an industry with tight deadlines and high expectations, collaboration between architects and MEP engineers is essential to achieving excellence. National MEP Engineers is committed to bridging the gap between design and engineering, offering reliable expertise to ensure that the architectural visions shaping New York’s skyline are beautiful and intelligent, sustainable, and built to last.
