Last updated on July 4th, 2024 at 07:05 am

Phoenix, Arizona, a city bathed in year-round sunshine, embraces a unique blend of Southwestern allure and modern urban living. As the state’s capital, Phoenix is a culture, business, and culinary hub. With a burgeoning restaurant scene that mirrors the city’s diverse landscape, finding the right architects to craft the perfect dining space is crucial.

This guide presents a curated selection of the best restaurant architects in Phoenix. Our recommendations stem from thoroughly having examined their portfolios, expertise, client feedback, and industry accolades. These architects are renowned for their ability to blend innovation with functionality, creating dining environments that not only reflect the culinary vision but also captivate patrons. Whether you envision a chic urban restaurant or a cozy Southwestern eatery, these professionals are poised to turn your restaurant dreams into architecturally stunning realities.


Nelsen Partners

15210 N. Scottsdale Rd #300, Scottsdale, AZ 85254

With a collaborative history spanning over 35 years, Nelsen Partners has left an indelible mark on diverse projects across the United States and globally. Specializing in architecture, interiors, planning, and urban design, it navigates a spectrum from mixed-use developments to residential towers. Rooted in Austin and Phoenix, the 13 partners and associates have spearheaded a journey encompassing retail developments, office spaces, hotels, and performing arts venues.

Nelsen Partners is committed to excellence, evident in its LEED Silver-certified projects and in its membership with the American Institute of Architects (AIA). The firm’s impact can also be seen in its media recognition, such as features in the Phoenix Business Journal, Austin Business Journal, and Multi-Housing News. At its helm is Brad Nelsen, an AIA member, the firm’s president, and an alumnus of Kansas State University. Under his guidance, Nelsen Partners crafts more than just structures, weaving narratives that endure.


Holly Street Studio

1319 E Van Buren St, Phoenix, AZ 85006

Holly Street Studio is a full-service architectural firm that passionately shapes public spaces through genuine engagement and discourse. At its core, the firm navigates the complexities of physical and cultural context, utilizing planning tools to elevate stakeholder involvement. This commitment extends across architectural endeavors and planning initiatives, grounded in a profound understanding of site history and client aspirations.

In recognition of its excellence, Holly Street Studio earned the esteemed 2017 American Institute of Architects Arizona Firm of the Year Award, and has been featured in publications such as Green Living Magazine and American Bungalow Magazine. Principals Diane R. Jacobs, affiliated with the National Organization of Minority Architects and the Urban Land Institute, and Michael Jacobs, a prominent figure in the Urban Land Institute, guide the studio towards innovative and inclusive design solutions.


Hayes Inc

3824 E Campbell Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85018

With a legacy of over two decades, Hayes Inc. has left an undeniable mark on residential and commercial architecture and interior design, fostering community and crafting enduring memories. This tight-knit group of licensed architects and interior designers, led by principal Catherine Hayes, brings a unique collaborative approach to every project. With a rich background as the commercial project director for Gosnell Development Company, Hayes infuses her expertise and passion into each endeavor. An alumna of the University of Illinois and L’Ecole des Beaux-Arts, she stands as a testament to the firm’s commitment, acknowledged as one of the most influential women in Arizona by AZBusiness Magazine in 2014.

Guided by the belief that great design should seamlessly translate dreams into reality, Hayes Inc. prioritizes an exceptional client experience, always mindful of the precious currencies of time and money. Affiliated with the American Institute of Architects, the firm’s dedication to excellence has earned recognition in esteemed publications like Forbes and Architect Magazine


PHX Architecture

15990 N. Greenway-Hayden Loop, Suite C-100, Scottsdale, AZ 85260

Based in Scottsdale and Los Angeles, HX Architecture specializes in the design of luxury residences, golf clubhouses, and hospitality structures. Committed to evolving and adapting design concepts to suit each project’s unique characteristics, it embraces the philosophy of “Living Architecture.” This approach integrates site, form, functionality, and the human scale, forging a harmonious connection between the surrounding environment and the clients’ goals and vision.

Affiliated with the American Institute of Architects and the National Council of Architectural Registration Board (NCARB), HX Architecture holds a distinguished position in the industry. The firm is led by Principal Erik B. Peterson, an Iowa State University and Arizona State University graduate. Under his leadership, the firm’s excellence is highlighted in its licenses in multiple states, its status as NCARB certified, and its features in publications like Phoenix Home & Garden. Clearly, HX Architecture stands at the forefront of innovative and client-centric architectural solutions.


Deutsch Architecture Group

4600 East Indian School Rd, Phoenix, AZ, 85018

Founded in 1981 by Bernie Deutsch, Phoenix-based Deutsch Architecture Group operates on the core principles of integrity, competency, and pride. As President, Deutsch offers over 40 years of expertise to the Phoenix architectural landscape, and his leadership extends to the Arizona Manufacturers Council Board of Directors. In 2007, the firm welcomed David Calcaterra as a new principal, who joined forces with Bernie Deutsch to lead the team of educated, experienced, driven, and talented professionals. 

With over 30 years of service, the firm is renowned for providing excellent service to clients. This has earned the firm recognition, including First Place in the Retail category at the Real Estate & Development (RED) Awards. The firm has also been acknowledged by AZ Big Media, ENR, and Phoenix Business Journal, highlighting its status as a reputable player in the architectural and engineering industry.


Merge Architectural Group

600 N 4th Street, Suite 112, Phoenix AZ 85004

Based in Phoenix, Arizona, Merge Architectural Group has been an acclaimed architectural firm since it was established in 2012 by Co-founders Carlos Murrieta and Clarisa del Castillo. As the firm’s Principal Architects, both Murrieta and del Castillo are esteemed professionals in their field who continue to shape environments that inspire and endure. With them at the helm, the firm’s noteworthy achievements include securing Second Place at ASID Arizona North’s 2022 Design Excellence Awards in the Commercial Building Office category (over 10,000 square feet). 

With a diverse portfolio spanning the community, education, government, higher education, hospitality, and multifamily sectors, Merge Architectural Group delivers comprehensive architectural, planning, and interior design services. The firm’s commitment to designing excellence is evident in its client-centric collaborative approach. It ensures each client receives a tailored solution that exceeds expectations by prioritizing responsiveness, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness. Merge Architectural Group holds affiliations with the American Institute of Architects, further attesting to its dedication to professional standards.


3rd Story

20789 N. Pima Rd., Suite 220, Scottsdale, AZ 85255

3rd Story is a passionate and tenacious team of professionals from the fields of architecture, interior design, and land planning. With a laser focus on luxury residential and commercial projects spanning the mixed-use, hospitality, healthcare, and wellness sectors, it brings diverse skills to the architectural field. Regardless of the project type, 3rd Story infuses thoughtfulness, intelligence, and a holistic approach into its designs, shaping spaces that are not just functional but truly exciting and memorable. As a united force, it honors its role of helping individuals enhance their lives through the transformative power of architecture, interior design, and land planning.

Led by Rick Daugherty, who graduated from Miami University with a degree in environmental design, the team thrives on creativity and a shared commitment to crafting remarkable environments. The company’s work has garnered recognition in notable publications like Desert Living and Luxury Homes, reflecting its dedication to excellence.

Author

  • Alex Mericle

    Alex Mericle is the Chief Editor at General Contractors Magazine with five years of experience in the construction space. Alex has always had a strong interest in residential and commercial construction and architecture, and he has built up technical experience with building permit data, subcontractor operations, and materials procurement over the years. On top of his experience at General Contractors Magazine, he has prior experience at BuildZoom. His analytical skillset, honed through a degree in Business Analytics from Creighton University and from his work experience, allows him to transform complex construction data into actionable insights and useful, captivating content. Expertise: Residential and Commercial Construction, Building Permit Data, Home Design and Build, Architecture, Subcontractor Operations, Material Procurement Key Highlights: Over 5 years of experience writing and editing in the construction space, Chief Editor at General Contractors Magazine, Previous experience at BuildZoom Education: Creighton University, Degree in Business Analytics