Arizona is a haven of natural wonders that includes the stunning Grand Canyon and unique desert landscapes. Its vibrant culture blends Native American history with modern charm. With over 300 sunny days a year, diverse outdoor activities, and dynamic urban areas, living in Arizona offers a uniquely rich cultural tapestry. The list below contains eight of the best architectural firms in Arizona. They were chosen for their awards, experience, and portfolios.
180 Degrees Design + Build
4955 N 7th Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85013
Founded in 2001, 180 Degrees Design + Build has contributed to architectural excellence, focusing on a collaborative approach between designer and builder. Under the leadership of Principal James Trahan AIA, John Anderson AIA, and Troy Vincent AIA, the company consistently adheres to high design and construction standards. It has received multiple industry acknowledgments, including the coveted AIA Arizona Contractor of the Year award in 2008 and 2016 and the 2022 AIA Arizona Firm of the Year Award. The firm has also been featured in esteemed publications such as Architectural Digest, Dezeen, ArcDaily, and Modern Luxury Interiors Scottsdale.
180 Degrees Design + Build’s dedication to quality and credentials from AIA and NCARB underlines the firm’s commitment to creating exceptional built environments that reflect a confluence of creativity, craftsmanship, and client vision. With over two decades in the industry, the firm has etched its mark on the architectural landscape, continually elevating design and build practice standards.
Deutsch Architecture Group
4600 East Indian School Road, Phoenix, AZ, 85018
Established in 1981 by Bernie Deutsch, Deutsch Architecture Group is a Phoenix-based corporation grounded in principles of integrity, competency, and pride. For over four decades, these core principles have guided the firm as it provided exceptional service to clients. In 2007, David Calcaterra joined the firm as a new Principal and, together with Bernie, began to lead a team of educated, experienced, and driven professionals. Throughout its 42-year history, Deutsch Architecture Group has continually affirmed its commitment to architectural excellence and client service.
The group has gained plenty of industry recognition, winning awards from the First Place in Retail Category from Real Estate & Development (RED) Awards and the Distinguished Building Award and Synergy Award from the Society of American Registered Architects (SARA). Accredited by AIA, it has also garnered media attention, with features in CoStar, AZ Big Media, and The Business Journals.
Nelsen Partners
15210 N Scottsdale Road #300, Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Established in 1990, Nelsen Partners stands tall in the architectural landscape with over three decades of experience in the field. Having worked on diverse projects throughout the US and globally, it offers comprehensive services in architecture, interiors, planning, and urban design. Its project spectrum spans mixed-use developments, master-planned urban centers, retail developments, office buildings, residential towers, hotels, performing arts venues, and restaurants. Guided by a team led by thirteen partners and associates, it operates out of its offices in Austin and Phoenix.
The firm is spearheaded by Brad Nelsen, a Kansas State University alumnus—Brad is both President and Founder. The firm’s notable credentials include accreditation from the AIA and media features in publications like Engineering News-Record, AZ Big Media, YourValley.net, Scottsdale Progress, Gilbert Sun News, and The Business Journals. Thanks to its steadfast commitment to excellence, Nelsen Partners continues to shape new architectural narratives.
Soloway Designs
7230 N La Cañada Drive, Tucson, AZ 85704
Soloway Designs, a leader among Arizona architects, embodies a commitment to architecture tailored to the clients’ needs. With over 1100 projects worldwide, the firm has displayed its architectural prowess in both residential and commercial sectors. Under the leadership of Marc Soloway, a University of Arizona alumnus, it has undertaken projects ranging from small additions and remodels to $5 million luxury homes and commercial such as hotels, day spas, and car washes. Its architectural mastery extends to styles like Modern home design, Southwest contemporary homes, Mediterranean design, and sustainable architecture.
The firm’s work crosses state lines and international borders—the firm has completed projects across Arizona, California, and Illinois, as well as Trinidad, Croatia, Kuwait, and Egypt. Accolades like the 2022 NAHB Platinum Award and multiple Gold Nugget Awards adorn its trophy cabinet. Soloway Designs— accredited by AIA, NAHB, ASID, NKBA, and SAHBA—continues to create unique, client-centric designs, a journey it began in 1996.
Drewett Works
7144 E. Stetson Drive, Suite 204, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Drewett Works—led by founder and architect C.P. Drewett—is an architecture firm dedicated to the guiding principle of stewardship. This approach is deeply ingrained in its project management and spans the initial conversations, the design, the details, and the final construction plans. Drewett Works is committed to its clients’ lives, sites and architecture. A graduate of LSU’s School of Art + Design’s architecture program, Drewett utilizes his vision and leadership to anchor the firm’s work. Since its establishment in 2001, the company has garnered significant recognition, including numerous Best in American Living Awards (BALA) and Gold Nugget Awards. It was named to the prestigious 2023 Gold List by Luxe Interiors + Design magazine and earned the #3 spot for Architecture in Ranking Arizona 2023.
Drewett Works’ excellence has also been acknowledged with a national ICF Award and several RED Awards for Residential Excellence in Design. The firm is accredited by AIA and NCARB, and its work has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Robb Report, ICONIC LIFE, Luxe Interiors + Design, Southwest Style, Phoenix Home & Garden, and Modern Luxury.
Candelaria Design Associates
6900 East Camelback Road #400, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Founded by Mark Candelaria, named Master of the Southwest in 2005, Candelaria Design Associates crafts architectural masterpieces that enhance the quality of living, entertainment, and work environments. Since opening its doors in 1999, it has remained dedicated to designing high-end custom homes throughout Arizona and the Southwest. Its legacy of over 30 years of experience in the Valley reverberates in the timeless structures that gracefully age with their inhabitants. Staffed by a talented team of architects and designers handpicked for their dedication to quality design, it continues to push the boundaries of luxury living.
Its commitment to design excellence was recognized by the 2019 Sub-Zero Southwest Kitchen Design Contest Award. As an AIA-accredited firm, it has been featured in Luxe Magazine, Modern Luxury Magazine, and Arizona Foothills Magazine. Candelaria Design Associates is building the future of refined living.
SWABACK Architects + Planners, PLLC
7550 E McDonald Drive, Scottsdale, AZ 85250
For over four decades, SWABACK Architects + Planners has remained at the forefront of innovative design solutions, driven by an inspired, multi-talented team. They want to create better communities and built environments. Founded by Vernon D. Swaback, FAIA, FAICP, who was Frank Lloyd Wright’s youngest apprentice, the firm now is led by John E. Sather AIA, AICP who together with his partners and associates has created a competitive portfolio of award-winning projects, reflective of its commitment to pursuing challenging assignments across the globe. The firm clinched the 2020 Best Custom Home for Sedona Moongate Residence, among other accolades.
With work featured in esteemed publications such as Luxe Interiors + Design, Phoenix Home & Garden, and Arizona Foothills, the firm continues to profoundly influence the architectural landscape. Not limited by borders, SWABACK continues to weave its story of design excellence in the fabric of global architecture, one innovative project at a time.
Integrated Design, LLC
377 E Doubletree Ranch Road, A-220, Scottsdale, AZ 85258
Integrated Design, LLC, located in Scottsdale, AZ, serves as a stalwart in the architectural realm, bringing forth unique design solutions for residential and commercial projects. This architectural practice is defined by its meticulous process. The firm marries the client’s needs, architectural design, and the site’s unique constraints. The result is a holistic vision that extends from the initial concept to the project’s final construction phase. Maintaining a dedication to transcending mere aesthetics, it delivers a well-recognized combination of efficiency, value, and technical resolution, as seen by its features in esteemed publications such as Phoenix Home & Garden, Modern Luxury Interiors, and Luxe Interiors + Design.
Over the past twelve years, Integrated Design, LLC has brought architecture to life, orchestrating spaces that inspire and facilitate a better way to live and work. At the helm is Milos Minic, a Syracuse University alumnus with NCARB and LEED AP credentials.
