The Best Residential Architects in Northern Virginia
Discover the best residential architects and residential architecture firms in Northern Virginia, including Alexandria, Virginia, Arlington, Virginia, and McLean, Virginia.
RESIDENTIAL ARCHITECTURE
What is a Residential Architect?
An Architect helps design the built environment of a new home or home renovation. Certified by the American Institute of Architects (AIA), Architects work collaboratively with the project principal and in concert with various stakeholders such as Custom Home Builders and Interior Designers. From Schematic Design and Design Development to Construction Documentation, Bidding, and Construction Administration, the Architect offers a framework and blueprint for ensuring your vision becomes a reality.
RESIDENTIAL ARCHITECTURE
Featured Northern Virginia Architects
Explore a curated selection of residential architects and residential architecture firms in Northern Virginia, including members of our Partner Network
Saddleback Farm of Afton, Virginia. Image courtesy of Greg Goodson.
MIDDLEBURG, VIRGINIA
Jacobsen Architecture
Jacobsen Architecture is a Residential Architecture Firm in Middleburg, Virginia
Refined Farmhouse of McLean, Virginia. Image courtesy of Anice Hoachlander and Greg Powers.
GREAT FALLS, VIRGINIA
James McDonald Associate Architects
James McDonald Associate Architects is a Residential Architecture Firm in Great Falls, Virginia
Mid-Century Redux of Alexandria, Virginia. Image courtesy of Tod Connell.
MCLEAN, VIRGINIA
Randall Mars Architects
Randall Mars Architects is a Residential Architecture Firm in McLean, Virginia

THE HOMES COLLECTION
The Homes of Northern Virginia
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RESIDENTIAL ARCHITECTURE
Power Rankings
Explore the most popular Residential Architects and Residential Architecture Firms in Northern Virginia
6). ACG Architects
9). Moore Architects
10). Studio 360
THE RAPPAHANNOCK RIVER COMPANY
Find a Residential Architect in Richmond, Virginia
Whether a new build or home renovation, The Rappahannock River Company can help you find the best residential architect for the job.
Rappahannock River Retreat of White Stone, Virginia. Image courtesy of Gordon Gregory.
RESIDENTIAL ARCHITECTURE
Arlington, Virginia
Discover the very best residential architects and residential architecture firms in Arlington, Virginia
River View of Alexandria, Virginia. Image courtesy of Allen Russ.
RESIDENTIAL ARCHITECTURE
Alexandria, Virginia
Discover the very best residential architects and residential architecture firms in Alexandria, Virginia
Greenbrier Retreat of White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia. Image courtesy of Jacob McCutcheon.
RESIDENTIAL ARCHITECTURE
McLean, Virginia
Discover the very best residential architects and residential architecture firms in McLean, Virginia
RESIDENTIAL ARCHITECTURE
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore common questions and best practices about residential architects and architecture firms in Northern Virginia, including common services, fee structures, and more.
WHAT IS THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS (AIA)?
Established in 1857, The American Institute of Architects (AIA) is the premier trade association for Architects throughout the United States.
WHAT ARE COMMON SERVICES OFFERED BY RESIDENTIAL ARCHITECTS?
Residential architects have a relatively broad scope of practice, ranging from a more conceptual design engagement to a hands on engagement involving construction administration, sub-contracting, and more. Common services rendered by residential architects include: Schematic Design; Construction Documentation and Permit Approval Coordination; and Construction Administration, and Owner Representation.
HOW DO I FIND A GOOD RESIDENTIAL ARCHITECT IN NORTHERN VIRGINIA?
The best way to find a good Residential Architect in Northern Virginia is to ask friends who have recently worked with a Residential Architect on a custom home or home renovation. Once you have a list of recommended Residential Architects, conduct interviews with each candidate and ask to review examples of recently completed projects of similar scope listed by address. Finally, see if your Residential Architect is registered with the Board for Architects, Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, Certified Interior Designers and Landscape Architects, which is supervised by the Department of Regulatory and Occupational Regulation (DPOR). If they are not, ask them to confirm their ability to serve your specific needs and what additional resources they may require to complete the job.
DOES A RESIDENTIAL ARCHITECT IN VIRGINIA HAVE TO BE LICENSED?
No. While Virginia does offer licensure through the Department of Regulatory and Occupational Regulation (DPOR), licensing is not required for architects who design residential homes such as single family homes and townhomes.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AN ARCHITECT AND AN ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER?
An Architect is a professional designation offered by the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and holds an active license with the Department of Regulatory and Occupational Regulation (DPOR). An Architectural Designer, on the other hand, is someone who prepare plans, specifications, documents and designs but may not hold a license to practice or formal trade designation.

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