
North Carolina is home to a growing blend of culture, community, and cutting-edge design, making it a great place for architects to build their future. With cities like Charlotte, Raleigh, and Durham evolving rapidly, the state offers strong career opportunities in the top architectural design firms. According to Talent.com, the Architects here earn an average annual salary of $140,029 per year.
From thriving firms to large-scale projects, these top ten architecture firms in North Carolina open the door to rewarding and creative paths.
Top 10 Architecture Firms in North Carolina
Explore the leading architecture firms in North Carolina driving innovation across cities and communities. These firms are redefining design through purpose, creativity, and impact.
1. CI Design
Types of Projects: Institutional, Residential, Healthcare, Commercial
Famous Projects: The Atwater - Bogota, Hologic Inc. - Newark, 800 Carlyle - Alexandria
Blending creativity with urban needs, CI Design has contributed to shaping public and private spaces across North Carolina. With a broad portfolio and collaborative approach, it holds a strong reputation among landscape architecture firms in North Carolina. Their projects reflect both function and aesthetic appeal, making them a trusted name in the region’s design evolution.
2. Cline Design
Types of Projects: Residential, Institutional, Healthcare, Commercial
Famous Projects: Golf Pride Corporate Headquarters, Peace Raleigh Apartments + Publix, Willard Street Apartments
Cline Design is committed to creating spaces that are environmentally conscious and community-focused. Recognized among sustainable architecture firms, their projects integrate smart planning with energy-efficient solutions. Their work is a balance of practical innovation and responsible design, reflecting their long-term commitment to a greener built environment.
3. AECOM
Types of Projects: Residential, Institutional, Commercial, Healthcare
Famous Projects: Shell Stornes Tank Depot, Louisville Autograph Moxy Hotel, George Washington University Museum and Textile Museum
AECOM offers a multidisciplinary edge, delivering architectural solutions that align with business goals and modern demands. As one of the top commercial architecture firms, they focus on high-performance environments across industries. Their global expertise and local presence create impactful results tailored to evolving urban landscapes.
4. Andron
Types of Projects: Science & Technology, Interiors, Healthcare, Senior Living, Education, Interiors, LEED
Famous Projects: Chelsea District Health Center, Guilford Public School District, The Club at Briarcliff Manor
Known for a bold design perspective, Andron stands out among popular architecture firms through its diverse project range and fresh design language. Their team values originality and client collaboration, ensuring every project delivers something distinct yet functional. It’s a firm known for redefining space while keeping people at the center.
5. HH Architecture
Types of Projects: Institutional, Residential, Commercial, Healthcare
Famous Projects: Smart Global Holdings - Durham, NC Department of Natural & Cultural Resource - Raleigh, Johnston Community College - Smithfield
Based in Raleigh, HH Architecture takes a people-first approach to designing modern living environments. As one of the leading residential architecture firms, they are recognized for their thoughtful use of space and materials. Their work promotes both comfort and community through structures that feel welcoming and timeless.
6. Burns & McDonnell
Types of Projects: Institutional, Residential, Healthcare, Commercial
Famous Projects: MRO Hangar Complex, Route 86 Bridge Over Table Rock Lake, Mission Road - 133rd to 143rd Street
Innovation and technical precision make Burns & McDonnell a standout in the architectural space. Known for combining engineering excellence with creative design, it holds a strong place among widely recognized architecture firm names. Their diverse team works across sectors, delivering results that are efficient, future-ready, and driven by deep industry knowledge.
7. 2Sl Design-Build
Types of Projects: Commercial, Healthcare, Institutional, Residential
Famous Projects: Caledonia, Gailor, Mordecai
Function meets artistry at 2SL Design-Build, a firm known for seamless integration between design and construction. It is regarded as one of the top American architecture firms for its ability to deliver cohesive, detail-oriented spaces. Their unique design-build approach ensures control, creativity, and consistency from concept to completion.
8. Clark Nexsen
Types of Projects: Commercial, Institutional, Healthcare, Residential
Famous Projects: Edneyville Elementary School, Ferguson Headquarters 3 - Newport News, Hunt Library NC State University - Raleigh
With a forward-thinking approach, Clark Nexsen creates environments that serve both people and progress. Recognized as one of the best architecture firms, it delivers impactful designs for education, defense, commercial, and civic clients. Their collaborative culture encourages smart, sustainable solutions that meet real-world demands.
9. Sophie Piesse Architect
Types of Projects: Residential
Famous Projects: K: Modern Home in Chapel Hill, P: Transitional Home in Chapel Hill, W: Contemporary Kitchen Renovation in Chapel Hill
Personalized service and thoughtful design define Sophie Piesse Architect’s work. As one of the trusted architecture firms in North Carolina, the firm specializes in homes and community spaces that reflect personality and place. Their attention to detail and local sensibility result in buildings that truly feel like home.
10. Vellum Architecture and Design
Types of Projects: Residential, Commercial, Hospitality
Famous Projects: Campo AL Doccio, Castello Di Casole, Sherbino Theatre
Offering services across home, hospitality, and mixed-use spaces, Vellum Architecture and Design creates functional beauty through modern forms. It stands out among residential architecture firms for blending elegance with usability. Their approach emphasizes timeless design, carefully adapted to the unique needs of each client and site. The firm values close collaboration, ensuring every project reflects both vision and functionality.
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Conclusion
Known for its growing cities and design-forward communities, North Carolina is a great place for creative professionals to thrive. From commercial giants to boutique studios, the state offers diverse opportunities to work with the top architectural firms shaping the built environment.
For those wanting to stand out in this competitive field, the BIM Professional Course for Architects by Novatr gives you the edge. Learn real tools, gain expert feedback, and earn certifications that matter.
Explore Novatr’s Resource Page for career tips, design insights, and trends tailored to your professional growth
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