10 Top Architecture Firms in United States; 2025 Review
According to the American Institute of Architects (AIA), the architecture profession contributes significantly to the U.S. economy, generating billions of dollars annually. In 2023, the architecture industry accounted for over $90 billion in revenue, with top firms like Gensler, Perkins & Will, and SOM leading the charge. These top architecture firms in United States employ thousands of architects, designers, and engineers, working collaboratively to tackle complex challenges in sectors ranging from healthcare and education to sports and urban planning.
This article explores the top architecture firms in United States, highlighting their groundbreaking projects, areas of expertise, and contributions to the field.
Top Architecture Firms in United States
Here’s a list of some of the top architecture firms in United States, recognized for their innovation, influence, and contributions to the built environment, including Gensler, Perkins and Will, ZGF Architects, HKS Inc, SOM, NBBJ, Corgan, HOK, Perkins Eastman and KPF.
1. Gensler
American architect Art Gensler established his namesake architecture firm in 1965 in San Francisco, alongside Drue Gensler and James Follett.
Under his leadership, the studio grew to become the largest architecture firm in the world, boasting 50 offices worldwide and an annual revenue of $1.5 billion.
Gensler’s portfolio spanned diverse projects, ranging from corporate interiors for some of America’s biggest companies to pioneering retail spaces for iconic contemporary brands like Apple and Gap.
Top Projects:
- San Francisco International Airport, USA, 2011
- Shanghai Tower, Shanghai, China, 2016
- New York Times Building, USA, 2007
2. Perkins + Will
Perkins and Will, a global interdisciplinary architecture firm, has been at the forefront of architecture since its founding in 1935. Established in Chicago by Lawrence B. Perkins and Philip Will, Jr., the architecture firm has become a North American leader in the field, celebrated for its outstanding design and deep expertise.
Driven by a commitment to design excellence, Perkins and Will prioritizes societal goals and a people-first approach across all its projects. This ethos of innovation and human-centered design continues to define its work.
The architecture firm’s legacy is further highlighted through a unique digital museum experience, where archived sketches, plans, and photographs offer an immersive journey into its rich design history.
Top Projects:
- Waldyr Beira Building, Brazil, 2023
- SoMa Site 3 – Lab Building, Massachusetts, 2021
- i3 Illumia Campus, California, 2017
3. ZGF Architects
ZGF Architects LLP is a prominent architecture firm renowned for its expertise in sustainable design and urban planning. Dedicated to creating environmentally conscious and context-sensitive buildings, ZGF delivers projects that balance functionality, innovation, and ecological responsibility.
With a diverse portfolio spanning healthcare, education, and commercial sectors, the architecture firm consistently integrates sustainability and forward-thinking solutions into every design.
Top Projects:
- Pdx Airport Main Terminal Expansion, USA, 2024
- Amazon HQ2 Metropolitan Park, USA, 2023
- PAE Living Building, USA, 2021
4. HKS Inc
Founded in 1939 by Harwood K. Smith, HKS is renowned for designing iconic stadiums, hotels, and healthcare facilities worldwide. Among its most celebrated works is AT&T Stadium, home to the Dallas Cowboys, recognized for its groundbreaking design and engineering. The architecture firm has also delivered other major sports venues, including Globe Life Field for the Texas Rangers and SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, home to both the Rams and Chargers.
HKS’s expertise extends beyond sports architecture, with significant contributions to healthcare design, such as the Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children in Dallas and the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Additionally, the architecture firm has made its mark in hospitality design, with standout projects like Atlantis Paradise Island in the Bahamas and the Venetian Macau.
Top Projects:
- Jinjiang International Exhibition Center, China, 2019
- Children’s Hospital of Richmond Pavilion at Virginia Commonwealth University, USA, 2017
- S. Bank Stadium, USA, 2016
5. SOM
With over eight decades of innovation, SOM has been a pioneer in interdisciplinary design, embracing a collaborative approach long before it became the norm. Founded by architects and an engineer, the architecture firm’s philosophy centers on integrating expertise across architecture, engineering, planning, and design. This synergy allows SOM’s diverse teams to combine artistic vision, technical precision, and an understanding of policy and economics to deliver groundbreaking solutions.
SOM is celebrated for its seamless integration of architecture and structural engineering in landmark projects such as Lever House and the Burj Khalifa. Beyond its architectural accomplishments, the architecture firm is deeply committed to sustainability, striving to achieve net-zero carbon emissions across its operations and designs by 2040.
Top Projects:
- The Massachusetts Institute of Technology Stephen A. , Massachusetts, 2024
- Angelus Novus Vault, Venice, 2023
- Schwarzman College of Computing, USA, 2021
6. NBBJ
Founded in 1943, NBBJ is a top architecture firms in United States celebrated for its groundbreaking projects across diverse industries. Renowned for its leadership in design thinking, the firm seamlessly integrates advanced technologies to craft functional, human-centered environments. With a strong focus on healthcare and workplace design, NBBJ prioritizes user experience and well-being in every project.
The architecture firm’s urban development initiatives highlight sustainability and community engagement, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing the quality of life. Employing data-driven methodologies, NBBJ creates designs that balance aesthetic appeal with practical functionality. With a global reach and an impressive portfolio of award-winning projects, NBBJ continues to shape communities around the world. Through its dedication to innovation, human-centric design, and sustainability, NBBJ remains at the forefront of architectural excellence, paving the way for a better-built environment.
Top Projects:
- Google Campus Kirkland Urban, USA, 2020
- Amazon Spheres, USA, 2018
- Samsung Electronics Headquarters, USA, 2015
7. Corgan
Founded in 1938, Corgan is renowned for its expertise in creating high-tech, modern workplaces and human-centered spaces, as well as its innovative approach to aviation design.
A key milestone in Corgan’s journey was their collaboration with HKS to expand Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport Terminal D, cementing their reputation as a global leader in airport terminal design. Building on this success, they have contributed to notable projects such as Sky Harbor International Airport in Phoenix and the new O’Hare Global Terminal in Chicago.
Beyond aviation, Corgan has left its mark on educational institutions, designing cutting-edge facilities for the University of Texas and Texas A&M University. Their portfolio also includes corporate projects for prominent clients like Wells Fargo and Bustle, showcasing their versatility and commitment to excellence across diverse sectors.
Top Projects:
- Toyota North American headquarters, USA, 2017
- Lady Bird Johnson Middle School, USA, 2011
- Cyrusone, USA, 2000
8. HOK
HOK is a global leader in design, architecture, engineering, and planning, with a team of 1,600 professionals working across 26 offices on three continents. Dedicated to addressing global challenges, HOK brings together visionary thinkers and creative innovators to improve lives, support clients, and restore the environment.
The architecture firm’s culture thrives at the intersection of artistic creativity and scientific precision, driven by a shared sense of purpose and a commitment to shaping a better world.
Top Projects:
- Penn Medicine – Princeton Medical Center, USA, 2005
- University at Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, USA, 2000
- University of Chicago William Eckhardt Research Center, USA, 2005
9. Perkins Eastman
Perkins Eastman is driven by a mission to design for people, enhancing human experiences and making a meaningful impact on lives and the world. Guided by its philosophy, HUMAN BY DESIGN, the firm blends art and science, combining analytical precision with creative innovation to challenge conventions and explore groundbreaking solutions.
With a global presence and a commitment to local impact, Perkins Eastman’s diverse and collaborative team transcends boundaries, uniting people and ideas across disciplines and cultures. As a dynamic community of visionaries, creators, and innovators, the architecture firm fosters a spirit of collective ownership, constantly evolving and building a shared legacy together.
Top Projects:
- Whittle School and Studios Suzhou, China, 2022
- Providence College: Ruane Friar Development Center, USA, 2018
- Chongqing Library, China, 2007
10. KPF
Sustainability is at the core of Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF), where adaptive reuse, conversion, and densification shape their daily practices. With a team of over 700 professionals and leadership by 34 principals, KPF operates from offices in major global cities, including New York, London, San Francisco, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Seoul, Berlin, and Singapore.
KPF focuses on creating healthy environments—both indoors and outdoors—that promote physical, cognitive, and social well-being. Their diverse portfolio includes adaptive reuse, hospitality, civic and cultural projects, healthcare, and education. Notably, their Lenovo Houhai Center office towers achieved LEED Platinum and Gold certifications, placing them among the top 3% of LEED-certified Platinum buildings in Shenzhen.
Top Projects:
- Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, 2022
- K11 MUSEA, Hong Kong, 2019
- 18 Robinson, Singapore, 2018
Resources: aaup | Gensler | Perkins + Will | ZGF Architects | HKS Inc | SOM | NBBJ | Corgan | HOK | Perkins Eastman | KPF | archisoup | archdaily | rethinking the future