Los Angeles is more than just the land of Hollywood dreams and endless sunshine—it’s a city where architecture sets the stage for how people live, work, and interact with their spaces. From sleek modernist homes tucked into the Hollywood Hills to eco-conscious downtown lofts and coastal luxury estates, LA’s architectural scene is as diverse as its population. A City Where Architecture Meets Lifestyle In recent years, modern living has taken center stage—with clean lines, sustainable designs, and lifestyle-focused layouts dominating the cityscape. But with hundreds of firms competing to make their mark, which ones truly define the future of modern living in LA? To help you navigate, we’ve curated a list of the 7 best architecture firms in Los Angeles that are shaping the way Angelenos experience modern life. 1. Morphosis Architects When it comes to pushing the boundaries of modern design, Morphosis is a name that instantly resonates. Founded by Thom Mayne, this firm blends innovation, sustainability, and futuristic aesthetics in its projects. If you’re looking for visionary modern living, Morphosis leads the way. 2. Marmol Radziner Few firms in Los Angeles embody the essence of modern living as well as Marmol Radziner. Renowned for their expertise in mid-century modern restoration, they have also carved a niche in creating contemporary residences that feel both timeless and elegant. For homeowners seeking elegance and authenticity, Marmol Radziner is a go-to choice. 3. ShubinDonaldson ShubinDonaldson (SD) is all about creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation. Established in 1990, the firm has become a leader …
7 Best Architecture Firms in Los Angeles for Modern Living
Los Angeles is more than just the land of Hollywood dreams and endless sunshine—it’s a city where architecture sets the stage for how people live, work, and interact with their spaces. From sleek modernist homes tucked into the Hollywood Hills to eco-conscious downtown lofts and coastal luxury estates, LA’s architectural scene is as diverse as its population.
A City Where Architecture Meets Lifestyle
In recent years, modern living has taken center stage—with clean lines, sustainable designs, and lifestyle-focused layouts dominating the cityscape. But with hundreds of firms competing to make their mark, which ones truly define the future of modern living in LA?
To help you navigate, we’ve curated a list of the 7 best architecture firms in Los Angeles that are shaping the way Angelenos experience modern life.
1. Morphosis Architects
When it comes to pushing the boundaries of modern design, Morphosis is a name that instantly resonates. Founded by Thom Mayne, this firm blends innovation, sustainability, and futuristic aesthetics in its projects.
- Known for bold, avant-garde structures like the Emerson College Los Angeles Center, Morphosis thrives on creating buildings that are both visually stunning and highly functional.
- Their portfolio includes cultural institutions, urban master plans, corporate headquarters, and residential marvels that redefine modern architecture.
- With a focus on sustainable design and urban integration, Morphosis sets the standard for progressive architecture in LA.
If you’re looking for visionary modern living, Morphosis leads the way.
2. Marmol Radziner
Few firms in Los Angeles embody the essence of modern living as well as Marmol Radziner. Renowned for their expertise in mid-century modern restoration, they have also carved a niche in creating contemporary residences that feel both timeless and elegant.
- Their work spans luxury homes, commercial spaces, and furniture design—offering a complete architectural lifestyle package.
- The firm’s approach emphasizes indoor-outdoor living, a hallmark of LA’s architectural charm.
- With projects like the restoration of Richard Neutra’s iconic homes, Marmol Radziner bridges the past and present of modern design beautifully.
For homeowners seeking elegance and authenticity, Marmol Radziner is a go-to choice.
3. ShubinDonaldson
ShubinDonaldson (SD) is all about creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation. Established in 1990, the firm has become a leader in modern residential and commercial architecture across LA.
- Their style reflects sophisticated minimalism, with an emphasis on clean lines, bold geometry, and open spaces.
- ShubinDonaldson specializes in custom homes that embrace natural light and maximize spatial flow.
- Their portfolio includes modern estates in Beverly Hills, Malibu, and Santa Barbara that seamlessly combine luxury with comfort.
With a reputation for blending design and lifestyle, SD captures the very spirit of LA modernism.
4. Brooks + Scarpa
If sustainability defines modern living, then Brooks + Scarpa deserves a spotlight. The award-winning firm is known for eco-conscious architecture, urban innovation, and community-driven design.
- Recognized with AIA National Firm of the Year, they are pioneers in integrating green building practices.
- Their work includes residential complexes, cultural buildings, and urban planning projects that prioritize sustainability and social responsibility.
- Designs are bold, experimental, and centered on energy efficiency and environmental harmony.
Brooks + Scarpa isn’t just creating homes—they’re shaping a sustainable future for Los Angeles.
5. Clive Wilkinson Architects
Modern living isn’t just about homes—it’s about how we work, connect, and thrive. Enter Clive Wilkinson Architects, a firm famous for designing innovative workspaces and cultural hubs that redefine modern lifestyles.
- Their projects include iconic spaces like the Googleplex offices in California and headquarters for Microsoft and Intuit.
- While primarily known for commercial design, their influence on co-living and work-live environments has impacted how Angelenos approach modern urban living.
- Their designs prioritize collaboration, creativity, and fluidity—principles that are increasingly part of modern home design too.
Clive Wilkinson Architects proves that the future of modern living is a fusion of work, life, and community.
6. Belzberg Architects
Located in Santa Monica, Belzberg Architects is a boutique firm that specializes in luxury residences and cultural spaces. Their style is sleek, modern, and highly personalized.
- They design high-end homes for elite clients, with a strong emphasis on craftsmanship and innovative materials.
- Their work balances minimalism with warmth, creating spaces that are both modern and livable.
- Recent projects include custom estates in the Hollywood Hills that redefine modern luxury living.
Belzberg Architects is perfect for those who see architecture as both an art and a lifestyle statement.
7. Koning Eizenberg Architecture (KEA)
Rounding out our list is Koning Eizenberg Architecture (KEA), a firm that combines community-focused projects with modern aesthetics.
- KEA is known for affordable housing, civic spaces, and educational projects—proving that modern architecture can be both socially conscious and beautiful.
- Their designs emphasize functionality, sustainability, and human-centered spaces.
- They’ve won multiple design awards for transforming underutilized urban spaces into vibrant, modern environments.
KEA represents the future of inclusive modern living—designing for everyone while maintaining high design standards.
Final Thoughts: LA’s Architectural Identity
Los Angeles is a canvas where modern architecture flourishes—balancing luxury with sustainability, individuality with community, and innovation with heritage.
These 7 architecture firms in Los Angeles aren’t just designing buildings; they are shaping lifestyles. Whether it’s the futuristic boldness of Morphosis, the timeless elegance of Marmol Radziner, or the eco-forward ethos of Brooks + Scarpa, each firm brings a unique perspective to modern living in LA.
For homeowners, developers, and design enthusiasts alike, these firms are a glimpse into the future of urban living—where style meets substance, and architecture becomes a way of life.
Kunal Shetty
