Situated in southeastern Michigan, Ann Arbor is a prominent area that offers globally-inspired cultures. It is home to renowned museums, art galleries, and nonprofits, such as theaters and musical organizations. There are also abundant, diverse outdoor activities and top-rated schools. Ann Arbor is also considered one of the best places to start a business. There are plenty of vacant properties if you want to build a commercial building. However, choosing the best commercial contractor might be overwhelming. For these reasons, the below list includes ten of the best commercial contractors in the area, selected based on their experience, portfolios, and ability to exceed expectations.

Hobbs + Black Architects

100 N State St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104

Founded in 1965, Hobbs + Black Architects is an Ann Arbor-based architecture firm serving Arizona and Michigan. It specializes in commercial architecture, producing timeless structures that reflect its clients’ standing in their communities. Every project the firm delivers involves comprehensive research and innovation. It aims to consistently demonstrate the identity of its customers instead of its identity as a designer. Hobbs + Black Architects’ flexibility and diversity enable it to accomplish projects with minimal resources and strict timelines regardless of their complexity.

William Hobbs leads the firm. He has over fifty years of experience in practicing architecture and is the firm’s president. William oversees the firm’s operations and conducts final reviews for all projects. What is notable about Hobbs + Black Architects is its commitment to advocating inclusivity, diversity, and equity.

Quinn Evans

219 ½ N. Main St., Ann Arbor, MI 48104

Quinn Evans has crafted solutions that connect people to the community for thirty-eight years. It is headquartered in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and it extends its services to multiple states. The firm specializes in commercial architecture and believes that places have the power to impact future generations. It works by empowering people and identifying the goals of its clients and the people they serve. Quinn Evans also understands that the best results are achieved through collaboration, communication, and understanding different perspectives.

Since 1984, Quinn Evans has constantly unlocked the potential of existing buildings. It embraces innovation with the help of its multifaceted team. Today, it has six national offices, all sharing the dedication to helping people and places thrive. Larry Barr leads Quinn Evans. He has a master’s degree in architecture and is a member of the American Institute of Architects.

PLY+

219 N. Main St., Ann Arbor, MI 48104

Founded in 1999, PLY+ is an Ann Arbor-based collaborative architecture practice dedicated to designing creative and innovative solutions for a diverse set of clients. The firm provides commercial architecture services using rigorous research and ingenious inventions. For twenty-three years, PLY+ has achieved success across a wide range of projects because of its unique design philosophy and close attention to detail. 

Craig Borum leads the firm. Previously, Craig served as director of the Master of Architecture Program at the University of Michigan from 2010-2012. His projects have garnered several awards and distinctions, including the Michigan American Institute of Architects Design Award. He was the recipient of the prominent Young Architects Award from the Architectural League of New York. Several press publications featured the firm as well, such as ID Magazine, Wallpaper Magazine, Metal Magazine, Architect Magazine, and The Architect’s Newspaper.

Sink Combs Dethlefs Architecture + Design

255 E Liberty St., Ste 279, Ann Arbor, MI 48104

Established in 1962, Sink Combs Dethlefs Architecture + Design has dedicated itself to creating spaces that people enjoy. It is located in Ann Arbor and extends its services to Chicago, Denver, and Los Angeles. The firm offers a wide range of services, including architectural design, interior design, LEED / sustainable design, master planning, urban design, and feasibility studies. For six decades, the firm has developed solutions tailored to its location, context, program, and budget. In the process, the firm has established a reputation for exceptional quality craftsmanship and budget control.

As an architectural firm, the firm values the importance of collaboration. Its outstanding team always ensures clients are updated and involved in every step. Don Dethlefs leads the team with his diligence and expertise. He has contributed to the development of many high-profile projects, including the Chesapeake Energy Arena in Oklahoma City.

Synecdoche

1342 N Main St., Ste #11,  Ann Arbor, MI 48104

Synecdoche is an interdisciplinary creative studio located in Ann Arbor, Michigan. It was founded in 2009 and has provided architecture, interior design, space planning, adaptive reuse, feasibility studies, strategic master planning, and environmental experience services to Ann Arbor, Detroit, and surrounding areas. For thirteen years, Synecdoche has produced several award-winning projects that merge the built environment with craft and fabrication. The firm has managed more than one hundred projects nationally.

Additionally, Synecdoche is a woman-owned design studio. It is owned and led by Lisa Sauve, who is certified by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards. She is also a member of the American Institute of Architects. Through the years, the firm has received various accolades, such as the 2021 AIA Michigan Young Architect Award.

A3C Collaborative Architecture

115 1/2 E Liberty St., Ann Arbor, MI 48104

Founded in 1983, A3C Collaborative Architecture is located in Ann Arbor and extends its services to Ann Arbor and beyond. It is a multidisciplinary architecture and interior design focusing on sustainable design solutions. The firm provides architecture, engineering, interior design, and other sustainable services, such as LEED certifications, green roofs, energy audits, and facility assessments. Additionally, 3C Collaborative Architecture utilizes passive/active solar design and earth tempering design in its early practices. As time progressed, it incorporated new technologies and processes.

Don Barry, who practiced law before he became an architect, now leads A3C Collaborative Architecture. He brings his passion for construction and commitment to client satisfaction and firmly believes that success is achieved when like-minded individuals work together. He continues to be passionate about learning new things and is a member of The Jefferson Society. The firm has received many recognitions, including the 2021 AIA Huron Valley Honor Award and the 2020 Huron Valley Award of Excellence.

Cornerstone Design Inc.

210 Collingwood, Ste 106, Ann Arbor, MI 48103

Cornerstone Design Inc. is a creative and responsive architectural firm with over three decades of expertise in the business. It provides a full range of architectural services to diverse markets, including commercial, mixed-use, restaurants, nonprofit, multifamily, accessibility, residential, and institutional. The firm’s projects range from new construction to renovations, serving throughout southeast Michigan. Since it opened its doors in 1989, Cornerstone Design Inc. has developed designs tailored to its clients’ budgets and efficiently works with consultants to craft the best projects possible.

It is led by David Esau, a licensed architect in Michigan, a LEED accredited professional, and a member of the American Institute of Architects. He has previously worked with widely published design firms and has received two design awards.

The Collaborative

213 South Main St., Ste 200, Ann Arbor, MI 48104

Established in 1973, The Collaborative is an Ann Arbor-based architecture, design, and planning firm extending its services to the Toledo area. It specializes in architecture, landscape architecture, interior design, and planning. The firm values its clients’ ideas, believing that all stakeholders deserve a seat at the table. This enables it to build true partnerships, resulting in the project’s ultimate success. Its clients’ ideas are then deployed and tailored according to their distinct needs. The Collaborative’s experienced and talented professionals contribute their unique skill sets to excel in each project.

The Collaborative continues to expand the scale and impact of its works. Under the leadership of seven principals, the firm has developed an outstanding reputation and continues to thrive today. The Collaborative has designed over 3.5 million square feet of corporate spaces.

OX Studio

2373 Oak Valley Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48103

OX Studio has been specializing in architecture, interiors, and planning services since 2002. Since its founding, it has excelled at building innovative and creative solutions using practical and holistic designs. The firm approaches every project by understanding its clients’ needs and visions. OX Studio is not only an expert in its field, but it also willingly pushes itself to the limits to achieve its clients’ goals. Further, it fosters a hands-on and collaborative environment where clients and staff can align their passions.

As a fast-growing firm, it continues to integrate architecture, design, and cutting-edge technologies, delivering lasting value to contribute to its clients’ business growth. Robb Burroughs leads the firm. He is a licensed architect in Michigan and is certified by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards.