Things You Need to Know Before Applying for Architecture Internship in the USA
Starting your architecture internship journey can be both exciting and challenging. From preparing a portfolio to understanding different roles, it is essential to approach this opportunity with a clear plan. Here are some of the key points that you should know before applying for architecture summer internships.
1. Identify Your Career Focus
Architecture internships vary across specializations like urban planning, design, and engineering. Decide if you are more interested in creative design roles or technical fields like architectural engineering internships, as this clarity will help you target the right firms
2. Research Firms Thoroughly
Understand the firm's values, ongoing projects, and focus areas. Whether you are interested in landscape architecture internships or interior design-focused roles, demonstrating knowledge about their work in your application can give you an edge.
3. Create a Portfolio
Your portfolio is your most important tool. Highlight a mix of academic and personal projects, showcasing both creative and technical skills. Ensure it aligns with the focus of the firm or role you're applying for.
4. Network and Build Connections
Attend architecture expos, events, or webinars to connect with professionals. A recommendation or insight from someone in the industry can significantly improve your chances of landing a competitive internship.
5. Prepare for the Interview Process
Expect questions about your design process, problem-solving skills, and technical knowledge. Practice presenting your portfolio confidently and discussing how your skills can contribute to the firm's goals.
Top 15 Firms for Internships in the USA for Architecture Career
Finding the right internship for architecture can open doors to a promising career in the field. The USA is home to renowned firms offering opportunities to work on innovative projects and gain hands-on experience. Here is some curated list of firms to consider for internships, tailored to aspiring architects.
1. Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM)
Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States
Founders: Louis Skidmore, Nathaniel A. Owings
Notable projects
- Poly International Plaza, Beijing, China
- Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru –Terminal 2, Bengaluru, India
- JTI Headquarters, Geneva, Switzerland
- Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport Terminal 2, Mumbai, India
Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) is one of the leading architecture, engineering, and urban planning firms globally, with a reputation for delivering iconic designs. SOM offers exceptional architecture internships in Chicago that provide hands-on experience in cutting-edge projects, fostering innovation and collaboration. Their summer architecture internships are particularly sought after, giving students the opportunity to learn from industry experts and contribute to high-profile projects. This internship is ideal for gaining practical knowledge and enhancing professional portfolios while working with a world-class team.
2. Gensler
Headquarters: San Francisco, California
Founders: Arthur Gensler, James Follett, Drue Gensler
Notable projects
- Willis Tower, Chicago, Illinois
- 550 Madison Lobby, New York City, New York
- Fifth + Tillery, Austin, Texas
- San Francisco International Airport, Boarding Area E, San Francisco, California
Gensler, a globally renowned architecture and design firm, is celebrated for creating innovative, human-centered spaces. Offering top-tier internships for college students, Gensler provides hands-on opportunities to work on real-world projects, fostering both creativity and technical skills. Interns are immersed in a collaborative environment where they engage with design leaders and contribute to impactful architectural solutions. These internships are ideal for students looking to build a strong professional foundation and gain industry insights while working with a leading firm.
3. Olson Kundig
Headquarters: Seattle, Washington
Founder: Jim Olson
Notable projects
- ANOHA—The Children’s World of the Jewish Museum Berlin , Berlin, Germany
- 242 State Street, Los Altos, California
- Martin’s Lane Winery, Kelowna, Canada
- Shinsegae International, Seoul, South Korea
Olson Kundig is celebrated for its innovative designs and collaborative approach to architecture. The firm fosters a culture of learning and experimentation, making it a top choice for those seeking architecture internships in Seattle. Interns work closely with experienced professionals, gaining hands-on experience in unique projects that blend creativity and functionality. The firm encourages a multi-disciplinary environment, drawing inspiration from diverse design communities
4. Steven Holl Architects
Headquarters: New York City & and one in Beijing
Founder: Steven Holl
Notable projects
- Institute for Contemporary Art, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
- Sliced Porosity Block, Chengdu, China
- Daeyang Gallery and House, Seoul, South Korea
- Maggie’s Centre Barts, London, United Kingdom
Steven Holl Architects, based in New York, is renowned for its contemporary designs and experimental approach to architecture. Interns here engage in dynamic projects, exploring sustainable and innovative design techniques. For those pursuing an architecture internship in New York, this firm offers a rich learning experience through active involvement in landmark projects, allowing interns to enhance both technical and creative skills.
5. Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates
Headquarters: New York City
Founders: William Pedersen, A. Eugene Kohn, Sheldon Fox
Notable projects
- Huamu Lot 10, Shanghai, China
- Centra Metropark, Woodbridge Township, New Jersey
- 18 Robinson, Singapore
- Lotte Concert Hall, Seoul, South Korea
KPF is one of the world's leading architecture firms, specializing in large-scale, impactful urban projects. Itsinternships provide students with exposure to high-profile projects, cutting-edge technology, and collaborative design practices. Interns have the opportunity to work on diverse architectural challenges, honing their technical proficiency and gaining valuable industry insight.
Also Read: 15 Architecture Firms in India to Check out for
6. Perkins&Will
Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois
Founders: Lawrence Perkins, Philip Will Jr.
Notable projects
- MIT Site 4, Cambridge, Massachusetts
- Billerica Memorial High School, Billerica, Maine
- First Year student Village, Coral Gables, Florida
- The Exchange at 100 Federal, Boston, Massachusetts
Perkins&Will, with offices across the U.S., is especially notable for its work in sustainable and human-centric designs. Its architecture internships in Chicago are highly sought after for exposure to award-winning projects and collaborative environments. For students seeking architecture internships summer in 2024, Perkins&Will offers a structured program emphasizing innovation and real-world problem-solving skills
7. HDR
Headquarters: Omaha, Nebraska
Founder: HH Henningson
Notable projects
- Wollongong Central Development, Wollongong, Australia
- CNL New Builds | Ontario, Canada, Chalk River, Canada
- The Six Willows, Jinan, China
- Kolos Data Center, Ballengen, Norway
- DAYLO STEM Center and Breen Performing Arts Center, Princeton, New Jersey
HDR is renowned for creating designs that elevate the human spirit by integrating architecture, engineering, and innovative technologies. With a multidisciplinary approach, the firm focuses on sustainable and regenerative projects, making it an ideal choice for those seeking experience with architecture firms for internship opportunities. HDR emphasizes collaboration and innovation, providing interns with exposure to a diverse portfolio of transformative projects
8. Rockwell Group
Headquarters: New York
Founder: David Rockwell
Notable projects
- Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg Center, Washington, DC
- Moynihan Train Hall Ticketed Waiting Room, New York City, New York
- Edge, New York City, New York
- Bathhouse, New York City, New York
Rockwell Group blends architecture, design, and technology to craft memorable spaces and experiences. Known for its hospitality, cultural, and theatrical projects, the firm offers an exciting environment for those pursuing an architecture internship in NYC. Interns can explore creative storytelling through architecture and learn from projects that redefine spatial experience.
9. Bohlin Cywinski Jackson
Headquarters: San Francisco, California
Founders: Peter Bohlin and Richard Powell
Notable projects
- Jan Shrem and Maria Manetti Shrem Museum of Art, Davis, California
- Square, Inc., San Francisco, California
- High Meadow Dwellings at Fallingwater, Mill Run, Pennsylvania
- Blue Bottle South Park, San Francisco, California
Bohlin Cywinski Jackson is celebrated for its thoughtful and innovative designs, particularly its focus on harmonizing architecture with natural surroundings. Interns at this firm gain valuable experience working on award-winning residential, commercial, and public projects. Its emphasis on collaboration and mentorship makes it a fantastic option for an architecture student internship.
10. ZGF Architects
Headquarters: Portland, Oregon
Founder: Ted Hyman (Managing Partner)
Notable projects
- The Assembly, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Amazon HQ2 at Metropolitan Park, Arlington, Virginia
- Mercat del Peix Research Center, Barcelona, Spain
- J. Craig Venter Institute La Jolla, San Diego, California
ZGF Architects is a multidisciplinary firm that delivers human-centered and sustainable designs across various sectors. As one of the leading architecture firms for internship programs, ZGF provides hands-on experience in creating innovative designs that balance aesthetics with environmental stewardship. Interns are mentored by seasoned professionals, gaining insights into cutting-edge architectural solutions.
11. Sasaki
Headquarters: Boston
Founder: Hideo Sasaki
Notable projects
- Chicago Riverwalk, Chicago, Illinois
- John A. Paulson Center, New York City, New York
- Bonnet Springs Park, Lakeland, Florida
- Rebuild by Design, New York City, New York
Sasaki is a leading design firm based in Boston, known for its holistic and interdisciplinary approach. With a strong focus on sustainability and community engagement, the firm provides exceptional architecture internships in Boston to the students seeking practical knowledge. Interns here work on projects ranging from urban planning to landscape architecture, gaining exposure to collaborative and impactful design practices. Besides, if you are interested in mural designs, it offers one of the best landscape architecture internships in Boston.
12. Feldman Architecture
Headquarters: San Francisco, California
Founder: Jonathan Feldman
Notable projects
- Curveball, Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
- Mill Valley Cabins, Mill Valley, California
- Slot House, Los Altos, California
- The Sanctuary, Palo Alto, California
Feldman Architecture, based in San Francisco, is renowned for its sustainable and innovative designs. Specializing in residential and commercial projects, the firm creates light-filled, environmentally responsible spaces that blend modern aesthetics with functionality. With a focus on regenerative design and community engagement, Feldman Architecture provides a supportive environment for interns passionate about sustainability and creativity, making it an ideal choice for those seeking opportunities at architecture firms for internship.
13. IwamotoScott Architecture
Headquarters: San Francisco, California
Founders: San Francisco, California
Notable projects
- Pinterest HQ, San Francisco, California
- Heavybit Industries, San Francisco, California
- City View Garage, Miami Design District, Miami, Florida
- Pinterest NY – Scissor Stair, New York City, New York
IwamotoScott Architecture focuses on dynamic and experimental design solutions across various scales and typologies. Known for integrating technology and materials creatively, the firm’s collaborative atmosphere offers architecture students a platform to explore innovative approaches to design and construction. The aspiring architects can gain exposure to cutting-edge architectural practices and project development.
14. Lorcan O’Herlihy Architects [LOHA]
Headquarters: Los Angeles & Detroit
Founder: Lorcan O'Herlihy
Notable projects
- Granville1500, Los Angeles, California
- Jeanette301, Santa Ana, California
- MLK1101 Supportive Housing, Los Angeles, California
- Cloverdale749, Los Angeles, California
Based in Los Angeles, LOHA is celebrated for its context-sensitive, modernist designs that emphasize social impact and sustainability. The firm works on diverse projects, including housing, commercial spaces, and urban design. Interns at LOHA can expect hands-on experience in crafting designs that merge environmental stewardship with community-focused architecture.
15. Ennead Architects
- Headquarters: New York City
- Founder: James Polshek
Ennead Architect is acclaimed for its large-scale civic, cultural, and educational projects. Known for innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration, the firm offers architecture students a chance to work on impactful designs that prioritize sustainability and community. Their internship program provides meaningful exposure to both creative and technical aspects of architecture, making it ideal for anyone seeking an architecture student internship
Notable projects
- Fostering Resilient Ecological Development, New York City, New York
- Rethinking Refugee Communities
- Lingang Science & Technology City, China
- Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg Center, Washington, DC
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