Commercial spaces, be it an office, a retail store, a hotel, or a restaurant, require a design that is functional, economical and also delivers a memorable and exclusive experience. In addition, design trends and customer expectations are continually changing. Hiring an architect can help businesses update their interiors and keep up with the present needs and preferences of their employees, customers, and visitors.
To help you navigate the selection process, we have compiled a list of the top commercial architects in Denver, Colorado. Our list was curated based on the firms’ credentials, awards, and industry affiliations, as well as their experience and expertise in commercial design. We have provided a detailed overview of the range of services each firm offers, their specific areas of specialization, and their years of experience in the field.
Tomecek Studio Architecture
3222 Tejon St. Studio C, Denver, CO 80211
Tomecek Studio Architecture is a renowned architecture firm that offers a unique creative process for its clients. The firm believes in using collective creativity to design experiences, which has made it an award-winning firm. Its achievements include six awards in 2020 alone, including the Best Residential Award from Denver Architects and awards in the Young Firm of the Year and Cemetery Residence categories from the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Colorado chapter. Its exceptional work has also been featured in over 80 publications, highlighting its expertise in contemporary, modern, and sustainable architecture in residential projects.
One of its most notable projects is the Sign Shop in Highland, Denver. The design features two arcs that create a connection between the neighborhood and downtown Denver. The clerestory openings illuminate the interior spaces while the form of the roof plane animates the exterior form and contrasts with the existing brick structure. Tomecek Studio’s commitment to sustainability is evident in their designs, and it strives to incorporate it into every project.
Meridian 105 Architecture
6030 E. Smith Rd. Denver, CO 80216
Chad Mitchell founded Meridian 105 Architecture in 2010, drawing upon his 13 years of experience in the architecture industry. He previously worked as an Associate with OZ Architecture in Denver and as a designer and project manager at Murphy/Jahn in Chicago, where he collaborated with renowned architects and engineers on high-profile international projects. His portfolio includes buildings in Europe, Asia, and Chicago, all recognized for their innovative design and technology. Specifically, he contributed significantly to projects such as the Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok, Thailand, and the Shanghai New International Expo Center in Shanghai, China, which have had a significant impact on the field of architecture and design in recent years. Through his extensive experience, Mitchell has established himself as a distinguished architect committed to excellence and innovation.
Meridian 105 Architecture undertook the design of the Berkeley Hotel in Denver, a boutique accommodation made up of 17 luxury hotel suites, a 3,100 square foot bakery, and a parking structure. The building features modern multi-story porches inspired by New Orleans’ French Quarter buildings, while the façade incorporates a unique brick screening and a concrete exoskeleton for visual access to the streetscape. The natural building materials convey authenticity and blend well with the neighborhood. Multifunctional brick screens create circulation boundaries and shade from sunlight.
Venture Architecture
535 E Mexico Ave. Denver, CO 80210
Venture Architecture is a Denver-based design firm that offers full-service client-centric architecture, interiors, and master planning projects. Its design process focuses on discovery to create spaces that allow individuals to work, interact, explore, and perform to their fullest potential. The firm was founded in 2006 by Martin Goldstein and Melissa Shelton Goldstein with the goals of creating meaningful architecture and pushing their projects to be the best they can be. The firm’s team is made up of inquisitive and skilled design professionals who share a deep passion for design thinking and have highly honed design instincts. Venture Architecture is committed to building a connected and committed team of design professionals to fulfill its initial vision.
Venture Architecture carefully crafts every design, turning difficulties into possibilities and revealing the full potential and intrinsic beauty of each one-of-a-kind place. The Colliers International
Denver Technological Center’s location is reflective of the firm’s distinct take on commercial projects. To balance the need for entertaining guests and preserving clients’ privacy, a reception area was designed to serve as a large space for parties and gatherings, as well as a conference and boardroom. Switch glass walls and large glass barn doors were incorporated to provide flexibility and allow for transparency or opacity with a switch.
Path21 Architecture
2245 Curtis St. Suite #200, Denver, CO 80205
Path21 Architecture is a Denver-based architectural firm that specializes in innovative and high-value architecture. Its team consists of professionals who excel in architecture, construction, sales and marketing, and project development, and this team is committed to providing thoughtful, sustainable, and environmentally conscious design. The firm designs buildings that are responsive to its communities and occupants in all market sectors, and its portfolio includes a variety of projects ranging from residential, commercial, and industrial buildings to mixed-use developments and public spaces.
Path21 Architecture believes in the importance of collaboration between clients, consultants, and contractors to achieve the best results for each project. It works closely with clients to understand their goals and create unique solutions that meet their needs while delivering innovative and sustainable designs. Its dedication to environmentally conscious design has led to their recognition as a leader in sustainable architecture in the Denver area. This approach has led the firm to complete projects such as the Red Rocks Credit Union headquarters in Denver. At the heart of the structure is a “Great Room” with living areas and an outdoor patio. The expressive architecture reflects the nearby Red Rock formations, and copper is used as a primary material. The design allows for departmental security while encouraging staff engagement.
DAVIS URBAN
3316 Tejon St. Suite #105, Denver, CO 80211
Denver’s DAVIS URBAN is a specialized design firm that focuses on modern urban architecture. Its work is characterized by smart design decisions that meet client requirements while reflecting the local environment. The firm’s portfolio includes many projects that were in disrepair before the team used its innovative approach to renew them. Matt Davis, the owner and principal of the firm, is experienced in infill projects, and his leadership has earned DAVIS URBAN recognition in publications such as Denver Business Journal, Colorado Homes & Lifestyles, Modern in Denver, and Denver Life Magazine.
One of the firm’s projects that stands out is the 5th & Larimer mixed-use development in Denver, Colorado. It is an 8,200-square-foot complex comprising businesses occupying Conex container spaces. The project includes Topo Designs, a popular outdoor apparel seller, office tenants, and two highly-rated restaurants. The use of shipping containers as building materials is one of the standout features of this development, providing a sustainable, modular, and cost-effective solution. The design is flexible and allows for easy modifications and expansion of the businesses. The project’s innovative design has earned recognition from the architectural community and beyond.
Zaga Design Group
3630 W 32nd Ave. Suite #2, Denver, CO 80211
Zaga Design Group, established in 2005 by Sandra Thompson, is a community-centered design firm based in Northwest Denver. As a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and certified member of NCARB, Thompson brings over 30 years of experience to the firm. Her and her team’s mission is to design and create beautiful and functional spaces that bring people together to connect. They specialize in commercial, mixed-use, multifamily and residential projects, and use a process based on developing a deep understanding of their clients’ lifestyles, budgets and personal preferences. By focusing on these aspects, the firm is able to balance beauty, efficiency, and functionality to create spaces that meet its clients’ needs and exceed their expectations.
With expertise in facilities management, Thompson has formed strong industry connections and coordinates full-range engineering services. Her competent leadership and the skilled team at Zaga Design Group have resulted in recognition from several publications, including the Denver Gazette, Grand Junction Daily Sentinel, and Lohi Lifestyle Magazine, and they hold two Best in American Living awards by the National Association of Home Builders. In addition to serving clients, she also leads Zaga Design Group in prioritizing giving back to the community. The firm has partnered with several local non-profit organizations, and Thompson serves on the Board for NIVAS, a non-profit helping unhoused women and mothers in Southeast Asia.
Koch Covotsos Architects
3457 Ringsby Ct. Unit 223, Denver, CO 80216
Koch Covotsos Architects was established in 2013, and it specializes in small commercial spaces, parking garages, residential design projects, historic residential remodels, commercial tenant finishes, parking structures, schools, and restaurants. The firm’s work has been acknowledged by AIA Colorado, 5280 Magazine, Business Den, and Eater Denver.
One of Koch Covotsos Architects’ exceptional projects is the Constellation Ice Cream shop, which features a glass kiosk under a replica wing and a 70-foot wing positioned on a tight site, drawing on the roadside architecture movement found in Las Vegas, Cadillac Ranch, and Coney Island. The firm has been recognized for its work on The Constellation with the Award of Distinction and Honorable Mention from AIA Colorado. Furthermore, it has been mentioned in various publications, indicating the firm’s competence and success. The Constellation Ice Cream shop project pushes the boundaries of what is feasible, resulting in an innovative and lasting impact on the Stapleton Community. By drawing on the roadside architecture movement, the project is not only creative but also connects with a broader architectural context.
Sexton Lawton Architecture
1627 Gilpin St. Denver, CO 80218
Sexton Lawton Architecture is a firm that specializes in mixed-use developments, commercial office renovations, and single-family homes and additions. It is run by Sarah Sexton and Matthew Lawton, both of whom have extensive experience in award-winning design and construction firms in different cities. Sexton is in charge of single-family residential projects, while Lawton focuses on multi-family and commercial projects. Together, they have built their firm a strong reputation for creating unique and functional designs that reflect its clients’ needs and lifestyles. With its expertise in residential and commercial architecture, the firm is able to bring a fresh perspective to each project it undertakes. The firm’s dedication to quality and attention to detail has earned it extensive recognition in the industry.
One of the firm’s notable projects is a 4,000-square-foot restaurant and market that incorporates elements of the tailoring trade. The design includes custom details inspired by folds, pleats, patterns, and textures, and repositionable walls create rooms for large parties. The transparent dining room partition allows views into the adjacent market, while exterior work includes dining terraces and oversize, double-hung windows.
