An architecture firm website is more than just a digital brochure—it's your firm's primary client acquisition tool, portfolio showcase, and brand identity platform. The best architecture firm websites balance stunning visual storytelling with clear messaging about values, expertise, and impact.
Key Elements of a High-Performing Architecture Firm Website:
The stakes are high. When SOM was named the No. 1 firm in the United States, their website became a critical tool for maintaining that reputation. When BIG unveiled projects like CopenHill—a waste-to-energy plant with a ski slope that won multiple international awards—their website turned those achievements into client conversations. Your website needs to do the same.
The research is clear: firms like Gensler (with 56 global locations), Perkins&Will (recently doubling their NYC studio through strategic merger), and STUDIOS Architecture (honored in Interior Design's Top 100 Giants list) all invest heavily in their digital presence. Their websites don't just show buildings—they tell stories about innovation, sustainability, and community impact.
I'm Rebecca Falzano, Creative Director at Vernacular Agency, where I've spent nearly 15 years helping brands tell compelling visual stories. My experience as a shelter magazine editor in New York and Maine has taught me that architecture firm websites must balance technical sophistication with human connection—showing not just what you build, but why it matters. Let me walk you through what makes the best architecture firm websites work.
Before anyone walks through your office doors or sees your finished buildings, they'll visit your architecture firm website. That's where they'll form their first impression—not just of your design skills, but of who you are as a firm. What drives you? What do you stand for? Why should they trust you with their project?
The best architecture firms know that their website needs to do more than showcase beautiful spaces. It needs to tell a story about purpose, values, and the culture that shapes every project. This is where you separate yourself from the dozens of other talented firms competing for the same clients.
Studio Ma, based in Phoenix, offers a perfect example. Their entire practice centers on the Japanese concept of 'ma'—the space between things. It's not just a clever name. Their website clearly explains how this philosophy guides their mission to create places where people thrive in harmony with nature, with a strong focus on social equity and environmental well-being. When you visit their site, you immediately understand what makes them different.
Perkins&Will takes a similar approach, making their commitment to "harmony with nature" impossible to miss. They back up this value with real substance—publications like "The Switch List" for sustainable material selection and their "Embodied Carbon Benchmarking Report" show they're not just talking about sustainability, they're measuring it. When they recently doubled their NYC studio size through a strategic merger, their values-first approach helped integrate two teams seamlessly.
STUDIOS Architecture built their reputation on being "collectively driven." Their website doesn't just say this—it demonstrates it by highlighting the pillars of their culture: responsibility, engagement, entrepreneurship, collaboration, diversity, creative freedom, curiosity, and learning. These aren't empty corporate buzzwords. They're the actual principles that shape how the firm operates.
As Brian Holland explores in his book "Architecture and Social Change: Shaping an Impactful Practice," architects increasingly see their work as a tool for social change. Your website is where you communicate that impact. When we work on brand identity for architects, we help firms articulate these deeper values in ways that resonate with the right clients.
Every architecture firm has talent. But what's your distinct point of view? What makes you you? Your architecture firm website needs to answer this question clearly, because that's how the right clients find you.
Olson Kundig describes themselves as having an "outsider's perspective," founded on the "unstable edge of the Pacific Rim." Their website explains how they balance rational thinking with intuition, believing that "practicality and function create poetry and beauty." This clear philosophy attracts clients who want something different from conventional design.
Archaeo Architects, working in Santa Fe, New Mexico, grounds their practice in deep respect for landscape and historical vernacular. Their website describes how they draw inspiration from the "lean simple humility of early architecture" and pay careful attention to the "character of the light." They aim to create buildings that feel "one with the landscape" and "right" in their particular place. Every project reflects this reverence for context and tradition.
Studio Ma's commitment to creating joy and increasing social equity through design isn't just stated—it's woven through every page of their site. They position themselves as globally-recognized yet locally-oriented, which helps them stand out in both markets.
These firms understand something crucial: when you clearly define your design approach and philosophy, you naturally differentiate yourself from competitors. Clients who share your values will seek you out. The ones who don't will move on—and that's exactly what you want.
Architecture requires enormous trust. Clients are investing significant money and years of their lives into projects with you. Your architecture firm website builds that trust by showing who you are, how you work, and why you're qualified to handle their vision.
Start with your people. Detailed team member bios that go beyond credentials—showing what drives each person, what they care about—humanize your firm. SOM positions itself as a "collective of architects, designers, engineers, and planners" working within a "culture of collaboration and ambition." That emphasis on collective expertise and shared purpose tells potential clients they're getting an entire team, not just a few star designers.
Leadership vision matters too. Gensler features insights from their Co-CEOs, Jordan Goldstein and Elizabeth Brink, discussing their approach to design and their co-leadership model. This transparency about who's steering the ship and where they're headed creates confidence.
Professional affiliations add another layer of credibility. The American Institute of Architects (AIA) represents over 100,000 members and sets the standard for professional excellence. When Carole Wedge, FAIA, NOMA, LEED AP, was selected as AIA Executive Vice President/Chief Executive Officer, it reinforced the organization's commitment to high standards. Displaying AIA membership or leadership roles on your site signals that you're part of this influential community. The AIA Community Hub connects professionals committed to advancing the profession.
Some firms build trust through their client-centric approach. Archaeo Architects emphasizes their dedication to a select number of projects, ensuring each one gets personalized, superior service. This commitment to quality over quantity resonates with clients who want to feel like a priority, not just another project number.
When you combine transparency about your team and culture with proof of professional expertise and a genuine commitment to clients, you create the foundation of trust that turns website visitors into long-term relationships.
Your portfolio is the beating heart of your architecture firm website. This is where your work stops being abstract and becomes real—where potential clients can see, feel, and understand what you create. But here's the thing: the best portfolios don't just show buildings. They tell stories that pull visitors into the experience of a space and reveal the thinking behind every design decision.
High-resolution imagery is non-negotiable. Project videos bring movement and life to static spaces. 3D renderings let people explore designs that haven't been built yet. Together, these elements create visual storytelling that does more than document—it captivates. When we work on an architecture portfolio website, we focus on making every project page feel like an immersive experience.
Take how BIG presents CopenHill on their website. They don't just show you a building—they explain that this waste-to-energy plant has a ski slope, a hiking trail, and a climbing wall on its roof, all while generating energy for 150,000 homes. That's not just architecture; that's reimagining what a power plant can be. SOM does something similar with their portfolio, showcasing everything from the Waldorf Astoria to the new N'Djili International Airport Terminal in Kinshasa. Each project page communicates not just what was built, but what problems were solved and what impact was created.
Your portfolio needs that same narrative depth. Every project should answer the questions running through a visitor's mind: What challenge did this solve? What makes this approach unique? How does this reflect your firm's values?
Sustainability isn't a checkbox anymore—it's a conversation. Your architecture firm website needs to show how your firm thinks about environmental responsibility, not just that you think about it. BIG calls their approach "hedonistic sustainability," proving that environmentally responsible design can also be joyful and desirable. CopenHill demonstrates this perfectly: a functional waste-to-energy plant becomes a beloved public space.
Their Google Bay View project takes this further, generating up to 40% of its yearly energy from photovoltaic panels while achieving LEED-NC v4 Platinum certification. This aligns with Google's broader carbon-free future commitment, and BIG's website makes these connections clear. Browse through BIG | Bjarke Ingels Group to see how they weave innovation into every project narrative.
Perkins&Will takes a different but equally compelling approach. Their Embodied Carbon Benchmarking Report studied 89 projects to understand and reduce construction's carbon footprint. Their "The Switch List" helps clients make better material choices. These aren't just nice-to-have documents—they're proof of leadership. When your website showcases this kind of concrete action, you're not just claiming expertise; you're demonstrating it.
Mass timber construction, LEED and BREEAM certifications, embodied carbon reduction—these details matter to today's clients. Gensler's San Diego International Airport Terminal 1 sets "a global benchmark for sustainable, experience-driven design," showing that even massive infrastructure projects can prioritize environmental responsibility. Your website should highlight these achievements with the same clarity and pride.
Awards and press coverage are powerful because they represent validation from respected third parties. When your firm wins an AIA award or gets featured in Interior Design Magazine, you're not just talking about how good you are—someone else is saying it for you. That's why the best architecture firm websites showcase these achievements prominently.
SOM maintains an "In the Press" section that highlights their ranking as the No. 1 firm in the United States, along with features in The New York Times and New York Magazine. This constant stream of recognition builds authority and keeps their reputation front and center. When potential clients see this level of media attention, it reinforces that they're considering a firm at the top of the industry.
STUDIOS Architecture proudly displays their three projects honored at the 2024 Interior Design Best of Year Awards and their inclusion in Interior Design Magazine's 2024 Top 100 Giants of Design List. Olson Kundig showcases their spot on the 2025 AD100 List. Archaeo Architects highlights their collection of over 25 design awards. These aren't just trophies—they're trust signals.
Even project-specific press matters. When Gensler-designed Delta lounges at JFK and LAX airports were featured in The Wall Street Journal's piece on how airport lounges are transforming travel, it validated their expertise in hospitality design. This kind of recognition belongs on your website where clients can see it.
The key is making this information accessible without being boastful. Create a dedicated news or awards section. Include press logos and publication names. Link to the actual articles when possible. Let the achievements speak for themselves, and your website will build credibility naturally.
Think about the last time you visited a website that frustrated you. Maybe it loaded slowly, or you couldn't find what you were looking for, or it looked terrible on your phone. You probably left within seconds. That's exactly what happens when architects neglect user experience on their websites.
Your architecture firm website can showcase the most breathtaking projects in the world, but if visitors can't steer it easily, they'll never see them. The truth is simple: intuitive navigation, fast load times, and mobile-first design aren't optional anymore. They're the foundation of a website that actually works.
Olson Kundig understands this beautifully. Their website features a clean "Practice, People, Play" menu that immediately orients visitors and invites exploration. You know exactly where to go whether you're interested in their design philosophy, their team, or their latest projects. This kind of thoughtful structure respects your visitors' time and intelligence.
A well-designed user journey means someone can filter your projects by type, location, or scale without hunting through endless pages. They can move from your homepage to a specific project to your contact form in seconds, not minutes. This seamless experience reflects the same attention to detail you bring to your architectural work. For more guidance on creating this kind of experience, our article on website design for architects walks through the essential elements.
A great architecture firm website doesn't just sit there looking pretty. It actively invites visitors to take the next step, whatever that might be for them.
Newsletter sign-ups are one of the simplest yet most effective engagement tools. SOM asks visitors directly: "Want to keep up with the latest?" before offering their newsletter subscription. Gensler takes a similar approach with their Dialogue newsletter, which you can SUBSCRIBE to here. These aren't pushy sales tactics. They're genuine invitations to stay connected with firms whose work resonates with people.
Contact forms and career inquiry pages provide clear pathways for potential clients and talented designers to reach out. Make these easy to find and simple to use. Interactive project data—like detailed statistics, collaborator lists, or embedded videos—lets engaged visitors dive deeper into projects that capture their interest.
The key is giving people multiple ways to engage based on where they are in their journey with your firm. Some want to subscribe and follow along. Others are ready to start a conversation about their own project. Your website should accommodate both.
Here's something many architects miss: your website's user experience is itself a portfolio piece. A seamless, thoughtfully designed digital experience demonstrates the same qualities you bring to physical spaces—attention to detail, client-focused thinking, and creative problem-solving.
MVRDV takes this concept to another level with their provocative question-based menu. Instead of standard navigation labels, they ask things like "Is 572.780m2 of shopping space big enough for you?" or "Could a visit to this museum storage make you rethink how you see art?" This immediately signals a firm that thinks differently and isn't afraid to challenge conventional approaches.
Your website's digital experience sets you apart in a crowded market. As we discuss in our piece on digital marketing for architecture firms, standing out digitally is just as important as standing out architecturally. When your website embodies your firm's unique approach—whether that's minimalist elegance, bold innovation, or thoughtful sustainability—you reinforce your brand with every click.
The best architecture firm website feels like an extension of your firm's personality. It makes visitors want to explore, learn more, and ultimately reach out. That's when user experience transforms from a technical requirement into a genuine competitive advantage.
Building a strong online presence for your architecture firm can feel overwhelming. Over the years, I've worked with countless firms navigating these same questions. Let me share what I've learned from helping architects translate their vision into effective digital experiences.
Think of your architecture firm website as a carefully designed building—each space serves a purpose, and the flow between them matters. The homepage is your grand entrance, offering visitors an immediate sense of who you are and what you create. This is where first impressions happen, so it needs to showcase your best work while guiding people deeper into your site.
Your portfolio or projects section is the heart of everything. This is where potential clients spend the most time, exploring your completed work through high-quality visuals and compelling project narratives. They're not just looking at buildings—they're imagining what you could create for them.
The about or practice page tells your story. This is where your mission, values, and design philosophy come alive. It's the difference between being just another firm and being the firm someone wants to work with. Your team page humanizes your practice, introducing the talented people behind the designs. Including detailed bios helps build trust and shows the depth of expertise you bring to every project.
Don't overlook your services page—clearly outlining what you offer, from conceptual design through construction administration, helps potential clients understand if you're the right fit. A news or journal section keeps your site fresh while showcasing awards, press mentions, and thought leadership. And of course, your contact page needs to make reaching out effortless, whether someone wants to discuss a project or explore career opportunities.
Search Engine Optimization might sound technical, but it's really about making sure the right people find your architecture firm website when they're searching for exactly what you offer. I've seen firms transform their client pipeline by getting this right.
Start with project-specific keywords. When someone searches for "sustainable office building design" or "historic renovation architect," you want your relevant projects to appear. Each project page should be optimized with natural, descriptive language that matches how people actually search.
Location-based optimization is crucial for architecture firms. If you're like Archaeo Architects, serving Santa Fe and the Southwest, your site needs to clearly communicate your geographic expertise. Local search terms connect you with clients in your area who are ready to hire.
Creating thought leadership content positions your firm as the expert in the room. Gensler publishes design insights, while Perkins&Will shares research like their Embodied Carbon Benchmarking Report. These aren't just nice-to-haves—they're powerful tools that attract clients looking for firms at the forefront of the industry.
The technical foundation matters too. Fast loading speeds, mobile responsiveness, and clean code aren't just nice features—search engines prioritize sites that offer excellent user experiences. And when respected publications feature your work, those backlinks significantly boost your visibility in search results.
For firms serious about growth, working with an SEO agency for architects can make all the difference. We develop strategies custom to how people search for architectural services.
This question always reminds me of asking an architect "how much does a building cost?"—it depends entirely on what you're creating. I've seen template-based websites start in the low thousands, offering basic functionality but limited customization. These can work for very small firms just starting out, but they rarely do justice to sophisticated architectural work.
A fully custom architecture firm website with extensive portfolio features, advanced project filtering, and comprehensive SEO optimization typically ranges from $15,000 to $50,000 or more. Larger firms with complex needs might invest even more. The difference between template and custom design is like the difference between prefab and bespoke architecture—one fits your exact specifications and brand, the other requires you to adapt to its limitations.
The scope of features significantly impacts cost. Do you need interactive project maps? Client portals? A sophisticated careers section? Each addition requires thoughtful design and development. Content creation also factors in—professional photography, videography, and compelling copywriting are essential investments if you don't already have them.
Don't forget ongoing maintenance. Annual hosting, security updates, and content management keep your site performing at its best. Think of this as the operational budget for a building you've already constructed.
The truth is, a professional website is one of the most important investments in your firm's future. It works around the clock, attracting high-value clients and communicating your unique value proposition far more efficiently than traditional marketing methods. When you consider the potential return—even one significant project can more than cover the investment—the value becomes clear.
We've explored what makes an architecture firm website truly effective—from the visual storytelling that brings your projects to life, to the clear communication of values that sets you apart, to the intuitive design that keeps visitors engaged. The best firms understand that their website isn't just a marketing tool; it's the digital embodiment of everything they stand for.
Think about how BIG transforms sustainability into something joyful and desirable, or how Studio Ma weaves the concept of "ma" into every aspect of their online presence. Consider how SOM's website reinforces their position as the top firm in the United States, or how Gensler uses their digital platform to share design insights with thousands of subscribers. These firms have invested in websites that do more than showcase buildings—they tell stories, build relationships, and attract the right clients.
Your architecture firm website should reflect the same thoughtful design and meticulous attention to detail that you bring to every project. It's where your awards and press coverage become proof of your excellence. It's where potential clients find not just what you build, but why it matters. And it's where your firm's personality—whether that's innovative, sustainable, community-focused, or all of the above—comes through in every click and scroll.
At Vernacular Agency, we've spent years helping brands tell their stories in compelling, authentic ways. We understand that architects need more than just a pretty website—you need a digital foundation that works as hard as you do. A site that blends stunning visuals with clear messaging. One that's built for both search engines and the humans who use them.
Ready to create a digital presence that truly represents your firm? We'd love to help you get a professional web presence for your firm that attracts the clients you want and showcases the work you're proud of. Your next great project might just start with someone finding your website.