Philadelphia is steeped in history and known for its architectural treasures. The city is a showcase of various architectural styles and influences, from the iconic Independence Hall to the majestic Philadelphia Museum of Art. Known as the nation’s birthplace, Philadelphia is a vibrant metropolis that blends old-world charm with modern innovation.
If you seek the best architectural firms in Philadelphia, look no further. The list below features the leading architectural firms working in the city—these firms have been carefully selected by our team. These are the firms that have consistently proven their expertise, as you’ll see in their impressive portfolios, innovative designs, and notable contributions to the city’s architectural landscape. From historic preservation to contemporary masterpieces, these firms possess the vision and skill to create awe-inspiring spaces that harmonize with their surroundings.
BLT Architects
1216 Arch Street, Suite 800, Philadelphia, PA 19107
BLT Architects is an integrated architecture and interior design firm known for its expertise in various projects, including mixed-use developments, multi-family residential buildings, hospitality establishments, offices, higher education facilities, and transit-based structures. Focusing on satisfying the diverse needs of clients and users, it strives to create functional, financially viable, aesthetically pleasing, and emotionally resonant environments.
BLT Architects has been recognized for its achievements, including the prestigious Preservation Alliance Achievement Award in 2021. As members of esteemed organizations such as the American Institute of Architects, the Center City Business Association, the U.S. Green Building Council, the General Building Contractors Association, and the Urban Land Institute, it stays at the forefront of industry advancements and best practices.
The firm’s work has been featured in notable publications like Building Design + Construction and Hospitality Design, further highlighting its dedication to excellence. The firm is led by its accomplished principals—-Michael Prifti, a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects with over 40 years of experience, Julie Moller, a certified NCIDQ professional, and Eric Rahe, an experienced architect, and LEED AP. The team brings a wealth of expertise to every project.
JKRP Architects
100 East Penn Square, Suite 1080, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Established in 1984, JKRP Architects is a Philadelphia-based architecture firm known for its strong focus on building relationships. Its commitment extends beyond the project as it immerses itself in the community, understanding the neighborhood and engaging with its neighbors. JKRP Architects has received plenty of recognition for its work, including the 2023 Preservation Alliance Special Recognition Award. It is also a member of the Architect Keystone Alliance, the Building Industry Association of Philadelphia, the Urban Land Institute, and the Chamber of Commerce Southern New Jersey. Its expertise has also been featured in publications such as West Philly Local and Philadelphia YIMBY.
Leading the team are principal architects Jerry Roller and Paul Georges. With over 35 years of industry experience, Jerry has earned a reputation for his involvement in high-profile retail and multi-family residential projects. Paul, who joined JKRP Architects in 1986, brings his design and management expertise in a number of project types, including the entertainment, residential, and retail sectors. As managing principal, Paul focuses on the firm’s overall management, nurturing professional development and long-term planning.
Re:Vision Architecture
33 Grape Street, Philadelphia, PA 19127
Re:Vision Architecture, founded in 2002, is a company that aims to make a positive difference through the work of design and building professionals who are passionate about the natural, built, and social environments. Comprised of two studios housed in a LEED-certified building, Re:Vision encompasses an Architecture studio and a Sustainability Consulting studio.
Sustainability is at the core of Re:Vision’s DNA, evident in its impressive projects, including many Zero Energy verified, Passive House certified, LEED Platinum, Living Building certified, and common sense green projects. With a strong commitment to minimizing its business’s impact, Re:Vision is proud to be a certified B-Corporation, emphasizing its social and environmental performance through the Just label.
The company has earned recognition for excellence, including 2014’s SARA National Award of Excellence. Re:Vision is affiliated with esteemed organizations such as the American Institute of Architects and the US Green Building Council, reflecting its commitment to industry standards and best practices.
Coscia Moos Architecture
123 South Broad Street, Suite 220, South Lobby, Philadelphia, PA 19109
CosciaMoos Architecture, founded by principals Sergio Coscia and David Moos, specializes in architectural design and planning for a variety of project types. With a diverse portfolio that includes mixed-use residential developments, commercial buildings, healthcare facilities, and higher education spaces, its extensive experience is adaptable to a variety of client needs. It believes in the importance of design excellence and providing exceptional client service.
CosciaMoos won the Honorable Mention Award for Commercial Office under 20,000 square feet by the American Society of Interior Designers in 2023. The firm is also affiliated with esteemed organizations such as the American Institute of Architects, the Urban Land Institute, and CREW Greater Philadelphia. The firm’s functional, beautiful work has also been featured in Philadelphia YIMBY, Hidden City Philadelphia, and PhillyVoice.
Led by principals Sergio Coscia and David Moos,, the team brings experience and expertise to every project. With his global perspective and sensitivity to the local context, Sergio Coscia guides the firm’s creative direction. David Moos works closely with clients, ensuring that the firm’s work aligns with their vision, values, and budgets.
Bright Common Architecture & Design
1425 N 2nd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19122
Bright Common Architecture & Design offers a comprehensive range of architectural services, covering everything from initial planning and visualization to interior design and construction support. With a strong emphasis on research, location, and ongoing collaboration, the team is committed to creating spaces that will benefit clients, communities, and the environment.
As experts in passive house design, the firm’s team members specialize in finding sustainable solutions that align with its client’s needs. Over the past eight years, Bright Common has successfully executed building biology-based projects, including deep-energy retrofits, new-construction passive houses, and environmentally conscious work in diverse urban and rural settings. The firm is a proud recipient of the 2022 AIA Pennsylvania Architectural Excellence Honor Award and maintains affiliations with esteemed organizations like the American Institute of Architects and the New Kensington Community Development Corporation.
Moto Designshop, Inc.
228 Vine Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
Moto Designshop is an award-winning contemporary architecture and design practice with an impressive range of interests and experience. This broad platform allows Moto to deliver unique projects across various scales and disciplines. With exceptional visualization skills, a deep understanding of construction methodologies, and a keen interest in the culture and context of each project, Moto consistently creates well-crafted, timeless work.
Moto has garnered critical recognition for its outstanding work, including the 2021 Honor Award for Single Family Residence from the American Institute of Architects. The firm is affiliated with esteemed organizations such as the American Institute of Architects, the US Green Building Council, the International Masonry Institute, the Brick Industry Association, and the Asian American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Philadelphia.
Led by Roman Torres, founding partner and creative director, Moto brings a visionary approach to select projects’ conceptual and formative stages. Torres’s design thinking and creative problem-solving abilities continually push the boundaries of new technologies and methodologies. His expertise has brought him numerous accolades, and he was recently recognized as a Philadelphia Minority Business Leader by the Philadelphia Business Journal. Torres holds a master’s degree in architecture from The University of Pennsylvania.
Stanev Potts Architects
1103 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Established in 2007 by collaborators Stephan and Petra, Stanev Potts Architects is a compact, hands-on, nationally-certified woman-owned studio. With these experienced principles at the helm, it is deeply involved in all aspects of its projects. The firm’s design vision is backed by a highly collaborative process that allows the team to approach both large and small-scale program and design decisions creatively, thoughtfully, and confidently. Its work has garnered multiple design awards, including the prestigious Pennsylvania Architectural Excellence Honor Award from the American Institute of Architects in 2018.
Stanev Potts Architects is a proud member of esteemed organizations such as the American Institute of Architects, the U.S. Green Building Council, the International Code Council, and the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia. As a certified Women’s Business Enterprise, they are committed to diversity and inclusion in the industry. Its projects have also caught the attention of well-known publications, including Curbed Philly and the Philadelphia Inquirer.
Terra Studio Architecture
1420 Walnut Street, Suite 1400, Philadelphia, PA 19102
Terra Studio Architects is a firm dedicated to providing uniquely crafted architectural solutions that cater to its client’s specific needs and aspirations. Its comprehensive range of services guides projects from preliminary planning to construction completion. The firm specializes in residences, communities, and schools. The firm’s portfolio showcases diverse projects, from intricate additions in historic districts to remote mountain dwellings constructed entirely from local materials.
Led by principal Timothy A. Kerner, an esteemed professional with over 30 years of industry experience, it employs a talented team committed to excellence. Its affiliations include memberships in industry organizations such as the American Institute of Architects and the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Additionally, its principal architects, including Gabriela K. Cesarino, bring expertise and a passion for sustainable design.
