The architecture industry is undergoing a period of rapid change, driven by the need for more sustainable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing spaces. In 2025, the firms that stand out are those that not only adapt to these challenges but also lead the way in shaping the future of design. This list of the top 50 architecture firms to follow showcases those who have mastered the delicate balance between form and function, creating innovative solutions that inspire and endure. Whether they’re designing energy-efficient office buildings, groundbreaking mixed-use spaces, or modern homes, these firms are setting new standards for excellence. For design professionals, this compilation is more than just a list - it’s a resource for understanding the key players and emerging trends that will define architecture in the years to come.
Top Ten Architecture Firms of 2025
1. Snøhetta
National September 11 Memorial Museum Pavilion in New York City - image credit: www.snohetta.com
Snøhetta stands out as a top architecture firm due to their innovative approach that seamlessly blends architecture, landscape, and interior design into cohesive and sustainable projects. Known for iconic structures like the Oslo Opera House and the National September 11 Memorial Museum Pavilion, Snøhetta consistently pushes the boundaries by integrating environmental responsibility and social inclusivity into their designs.
2. Gensler
Terminal One at JFK International Airport, New York City - image credit: www.gensler.com
With massive infrastructure projects on the go all over the world, including the new Terminal One at JFK International Airport, Gensler remains a powerhouse in the architecture world. Their commitment to sustainability and forward-thinking design keeps them at the forefront of the industry, continually shaping how people experience and interact with built environments.
3. MVRDV
The Valley in Amsterdam, The Netherlands - image credit: Ossip van Duivenbode
MVRDV excels at pushing boundaries with a focus on sustainability and community integration. The firm’s recent projects, like the Valley in Amsterdam, showcase its commitment to blending architecture with green spaces and eco-friendly materials, making MVRDV highly relevant as cities seek innovative urban solutions.
4. Foster + Partners
Apple Park in Cupertino, CA, USA - image credit: www.fosterandpartners.com
With a reputation for pioneering sustainable and high-tech designs, Foster + Partners consistently redefines urban landscapes through energy-efficient and resilient structures. Known for iconic projects like Apple’s headquarters, Foster + Partners continues to lead in smart city design, making them a major player in future-forward architecture.
5. Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM)
Cook County Hospital Adaptive Reuse in Chicago, IL, USA - image credit: Dave Bur
SOM has a rich legacy of iconic skyscrapers and master-planned cities, with a focus on innovative structural design and sustainable practices. As climate adaptation becomes essential, their expertise in large-scale, resilient urban infrastructure keeps them relevant in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
6. HOK
LG North American Headquarters in Englewood Cliffs, NJ, USA - image credit: www.hok.com
HOK is known for designs that emphasize functionality and well-being. The firm’s Living Design approach, which prioritizes health and sustainability, positions HOK as a leader in creating spaces that respond to human and environmental needs in 2025 and beyond.
7. CannonDesign
Resnick Sustainability Center in Pasadena, CA, USA - image credit: www.cannondesign.com
CannonDesign excels in healthcare and educational architecture, integrating wellness-focused and inclusive designs. Creating adaptable, health-driven spaces keeps this firm at the forefront of architecture that prioritizes human experience and resilience.
8. Perkins&Will
Shanghai Library Easy in Shanghai, China - image credit: https://perkinswill.com
A leader in sustainable design, Perkins&Will prioritizes environmentally responsible and socially inclusive projects. Their work focuses on net-zero carbon initiatives and resilient communities, aligning with global sustainability goals and ensuring continued relevance as environmental consciousness grows.
9. BIG - Bjarke Ingels Group
The Twist in Jevnaker, Norway - image credit: https://big.dk
BIG is celebrated for its innovative, often unconventional designs that blend functionality with playful aesthetics. Known for projects like CopenHill and the Google HQ, BIG has a strong commitment to sustainability and livable urbanism.
10. Zaha Hadid Architects
Infinitus Plaza in Guangzhou, China - image credit: Liang Xue
Renowned for their parametric and fluid designs, Zaha Hadid Architects continues to push the limits of architecture with dynamic, futuristic buildings. Known for redefining spaces with organic forms, the firm remains influential by integrating cutting-edge technology and sustainability in ways that captivate the imagination.
40 More Architecture Firms to Get Inspired by in 2025
Studio Gang
Known for its socially driven and sustainable designs, Studio Gang addresses urban challenges with innovative, community-focused structures. Their recent projects emphasize resilience and adaptive reuse, positioning them as leaders in the field.
Fogarty Finger
Fogarty Finger specializes in dynamic, mixed-use urban spaces that emphasize functionality and sophisticated design in urban environments. Their attention to seamless integration of residential and commercial elements fosters vibrant city life.
Safdie Architects
Famous for projects like Marina Bay Sands, Safdie Architects combines visionary design with a deep respect for cultural and environmental contexts. Their approach to biophilic design has redefined urban landscapes worldwide.
Kengo Kuma & Associates
Kengo Kuma & Associates creates structures that harmonize with their surroundings. The firm is renowned for blending traditional Japanese design with contemporary sustainability and their work embodies a profound respect for nature, evident in his use of natural materials.
Mecanoo
Known for its creative, inclusive architecture, Mecanoo emphasizes human-centric designs that prioritize environmental and social sustainability. Their diverse portfolio balances form, function, and community connection.
Kohn Pedersen Fox
Specializing in high-rise and urban design, KPF delivers iconic, energy-efficient buildings that define city skylines worldwide. The firm continuously incorporates innovative green technologies to reduce carbon footprints.
Rockwell Group
Rockwell Group merges architecture with entertainment, designing immersive environments and hospitality spaces that redefine experiential design. Their unique ability to blend storytelling with architecture makes each project distinctive.
Riken Yamamoto
Revered for his thoughtful, functional approach, Riken Yamamoto creates spaces that enhance urban living and foster community. His designs prioritize simplicity, flexibility, and adaptability to changing needs.
Herzog & de Meuron
Herzog & de Meuron continues to shape iconic structures globally, like the Tate Modern and Elbphilharmonie. The firm is recognized for innovative, context-driven architecture. They emphasize textures and materials that blend harmoniously with surroundings.
Aedas
Combining global expertise with local knowledge, Aedas is known for versatile, sustainable projects across Asia and beyond. They skillfully adapt to each location’s unique cultural and environmental needs.
ZGF Architects
ZGF focuses on health-centered, sustainable buildings, particularly in healthcare and education, prioritizing occupant well-being. Their designs create a positive environmental and emotional impact.
Adjaye Associates
Founded by Sir David Adjaye, the culturally rich designs of Adjaye Associates emphasize diversity and community. A perfect example of this is the Smithsonian NMAAHC. Adjaye’s works celebrate cultural narratives and inclusivity.
WilkinsonEyre
WilkinsonEyre creates award-winning, innovative designs like the Gardens by the Bay, merging engineering excellence with architectural beauty. They are renowned for balancing bold aesthetics with sustainability.
Lemay
Lemay integrates sustainability and urban ecology, creating spaces that promote environmental stewardship and community resilience. Their design approach includes revitalizing and transforming underused spaces.
Buro Ole Scheeren
Known for bold, sculptural buildings, Buro Ole Scheeren brings a cinematic quality to urban architecture, making it engaging and transformative. Their work explores dynamic forms that interact with the urban fabric.
Steven Holl Architects
Steven Holl Architects create sculptural, light-filled spaces. Their designs are known for their masterful integration with landscape and natural light. Their design philosophy promotes harmony between architecture and its environment.
UNStudio
With an emphasis on mobility and sustainability, UNStudio designs future-oriented urban spaces that prioritize people and connectivity. Their projects are adaptable to changing urban needs and foster social interaction.
NBBJ
NBBJ focuses on innovative healthcare, workplace, and civic projects that enhance wellness, community, and environmental responsibility. They strive to create buildings that enhance both productivity and well-being.
C.F. Møller Architects
Known for sustainable, user-centric designs, C.F. Møller Architects incorporates natural elements into urban and residential projects. Their work reflects a Scandinavian commitment to minimalism and ecology.
Woods Bagot
Woods Bagot specializes in human-centered design, creating adaptable spaces that respond to the needs of contemporary urban life. They are known for bridging cultural narratives within urban environments.
GAD Architecture
GAD Architecture is a Turkish firm recognized for its context-sensitive, innovative designs that blend modernity with cultural heritage. Their projects often evoke a strong sense of place and identity.
gmp Architects
With a portfolio of large-scale public projects, gmp focuses on sustainable, efficient structures that blend with their environments. Their methodical approach merges architecture with engineering precision.
SmithGroup Architects
Known for its expertise in healthcare, SmithGroup's designs resilient spaces that prioritize both sustainability and human wellness. They integrate cutting-edge technologies to enhance user experience.
3XN
3XN is a Danish firm with an emphasis on eco-friendly and human-focused design, particularly in commercial and cultural spaces. They are known for creating dynamic, interactive environments.
Grimshaw
Pioneers in sustainable urban infrastructure, Grimshaw creates energy-efficient, nature-integrated spaces like the Eden Project. Their designs balance functionality with environmental stewardship.
Mama Architects
Mama Architects is focused on affordable housing and sustainable design. The firm addresses social needs with innovative, community-centric spaces. Their approach also emphasizes accessibility and inclusivity.
Vermilion Zhou Design Group
Vermilion Zhou Design Group is known for vibrant interiors. The Shanghai-based firm combines Eastern and Western design elements to create engaging hospitality spaces. Their style is both eclectic and highly personalized.
Linehouse
Linehouse integrates local craftsmanship into modern designs, making it a standout in hospitality and retail architecture. They emphasize storytelling through spatial design.
COX Architecture
With a focus on public and cultural buildings, COX Architecture designs spaces that celebrate community and sustainability. They are known for projects that encourage social connectivity.
Space&Matter
Space&Matter specializes in collaborative urban projects. The Dutch firm uses architecture to foster community interaction and sustainable living. Their focus is on developing resilient, flexible urban spaces.
HMC Architects
HMC creates user-focused education and healthcare spaces that prioritize sustainability, accessibility, and community. They emphasize healing and educational spaces that inspire well-being.
Savage + Dodd Architects
Known for heritage and social housing projects, the South African firm Savage + Dodd Architects emphasizes inclusive and sustainable urban design. They honor and revive historical structures.
Studio Arthur Casas
Studio Arthur Casas merges modernism with tropical landscapes, creating structures that harmonize with nature. Their designs highlight warm, organic materials.
WOHA
Based in Singapore, WOHA pioneers green skyscrapers and sustainable urbanism, creating climate-adaptive designs like Parkroyal on Pickering. Their work reflects a deep commitment to biodiversity.
Pilbrow & Partners
Pilbrow & Partners emphasizes socially responsible and environmentally sustainable urban design, creating adaptable spaces for modern cities. Their design philosophy fosters urban resilience.
Warren and Mahoney
New Zealand-based Warren and Mahoney is known for its holistic approach and integrates local culture and sustainability into all its projects. Their work celebrates regional identity and ecological sensitivity.
Studio Lotus
With a focus on contextual and sustainable design, Studio Lotus integrates local materials and craftsmanship into thoughtful, site-specific projects. Their work emphasizes harmony with the surrounding landscape.
Bates Masi + Architects
Known for its use of natural materials, Bates Masi designs modern, context-sensitive residential spaces that reflect their surroundings. They create homes with a focus on texture and materiality.
The Ranch Mine
The Ranch Mine is a Phoenix-based firm which combines modern architecture with desert landscapes, designing sustainable homes that blend into arid environments. Their work reflects a deep connection to the natural environment.
Populous
Specializing in sports and entertainment venues, Populous designs dynamic, large-scale spaces that enhance public engagement and urban vibrancy. Their venues bring communities together on a global scale.
As architecture evolves to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world, the 50 firms highlighted here are leading the charge with vision and ingenuity. Their designs reflect a commitment to sustainability, inclusivity, and cultural relevance, helping shape cities and spaces that resonate with people on a deeper level. These firms remind us that great architecture goes beyond aesthetics—it has the power to transform lives and communities.
Swatchbox is a premier sample fulfillment service for building product manufacturers. With proprietary software designed by insiders of the design community, Swatchbox helps manufacturers improve product sales and brand affinity by delivering material samples to the design community with speed, intelligence, and style. Learn more and join Swatchbox at www.swatchbox.com.
