Los Angeles is a global centre of design, blending Hollywood glamour, mid-century modern homes, and cutting-edge sustainable architecture. From luxury residences in the Hollywood Hills to major civic and cultural landmarks, LA’s architects are renowned for creativity and innovation. Here we feature five fantastic architecture firms in Los Angeles, each highly respected in shaping the city’s unique built environment.
Our Top Five Los Angeles Architecture Firms
Morphosis Architects
Headquarters: Culver City, Los Angeles, CA
Phone: +1 213-612-1700
Services: Cultural buildings, civic design, commercial, residential
Founded by Pritzker Prize-winner Thom Mayne, Morphosis is known for bold and experimental designs, including Emerson College Los Angeles and federal courthouses across the US.
Gehry Partners, LLP
Headquarters: Los Angeles, CA
Phone: +1 310-482-3000
Services: Cultural institutions, commercial design, residential
Led by world-famous architect Frank Gehry, the firm has delivered icons such as the Walt Disney Concert Hall and is renowned for sculptural, avant-garde architecture.
CO Architects
Headquarters: Los Angeles, CA
Phone: +1 323-463-9201
Services: Education, healthcare, science buildings, civic
CO Architects is an award-winning practice specialising in institutional and public projects, including university campuses, hospitals, and museums.
Johnston Marklee
Headquarters: Los Angeles, CA
Phone: +1 310-828-6722
Services: Residential, cultural, commercial, exhibition design
Johnston Marklee is a design-focused studio acclaimed for projects such as the Menil Drawing Institute in Houston and a portfolio of striking modern residences in California.
Brooks + Scarpa
Headquarters: Los Angeles, CA
Phone: +1 323-933-4455
Services: Housing, sustainable architecture, civic projects
Brooks + Scarpa is widely recognised for its leadership in affordable housing and sustainable design, delivering innovative, community-driven projects across Los Angeles.
Areas Covered in Los Angeles
- Central LA: Downtown, Hollywood, Mid-City
- Westside: Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, Westwood
- San Fernando Valley: Studio City, Sherman Oaks, Encino
- Eastside: Silver Lake, Echo Park, Highland Park
- South Bay: Long Beach, Torrance, Redondo Beach
Architectural Services in Los Angeles
- Luxury residential and hillside homes
- Cultural and civic architecture
- Commercial and office design
- Educational and healthcare projects
- Heritage and adaptive reuse
- Urban planning and regeneration
- Sustainable and eco-friendly design (LEED, WELL, Net Zero)
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to hire an architect in Los Angeles?
Architect fees in Los Angeles typically range from 7–15% of project cost, depending on scale and complexity.
Do LA architects provide free consultations?
Some firms offer a free initial consultation, while others may charge for feasibility studies or site assessments.
What qualifications do architects in Los Angeles hold?
Architects must be licensed by the California Architects Board and often hold membership with the AIA (American Institute of Architects).
Do LA architects work on hillside and custom homes?
Yes, many specialise in luxury hillside residences with bespoke designs for Los Angeles’ unique topography.
Do architects manage permits and approvals?
Yes, most firms handle city planning, zoning, and permit approvals with the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS).
What sustainability standards are used in Los Angeles?
LEED, WELL, and Net Zero Energy standards are common, with LA leading in green building initiatives.
How long does a project take in LA?
Small residential projects may take 6–12 months, while large commercial or civic schemes can take years.
Do Los Angeles architects work internationally?
Yes, leading LA firms like Morphosis and Gehry Partners manage projects worldwide.
What’s the difference between an architect and a designer?
An architect is licensed and regulated, while designers may provide layouts and interiors without architectural licensure.
How do I choose the best architect in Los Angeles?
Check California licensing, review portfolios, ask for references, and compare proposals before hiring.