
From historic lakefront towns to thriving urban centers, Wisconsin's architectural designs are shaping the city's landscape. The state is home to a rich number of firms that specialize in everything from sustainable designs and residential homes to large-scale commercial and institutional projects.
Wisconsin’s architectural industry has been experiencing fast growth influenced by an increase in construction projects and a focus on sustainable designs. According to the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development, the construction sector in Milwaukee County added 1,687 jobs between 2018 and 2023, making a 15.2% increase in job opportunities, which surpasses the statewide growth of 11.3%. This expansion shows a growing demand for skilled architects who can lead innovative projects across the state.
Let’s explore the top 10 architecture firms in Wisconsin and how Novatr’s BIM courses are preparing the next generation of architects to thrive in these fast-paced architectural firms.
Top 10 Architecture Firms in Wisconsin
1. Flad Architects
This is a nationally celebrated architectural design firm with nearly a hundred years of experience. They are known for their expertise in designing science and technology facilities.
Notable projects: Exact Sciences Campus, University of Wisconsin
Specializations: Healthcare and science facilities, education
Contribution: Introduced global sustainability practices, emphasizing on wellness and advanced environmental standards
2. SmithGroup
Smithgroup brings an all-inclusive approach to architecture, combining planning, engineering, and design under one roof. Their Madison office plays an important role in the state's architectural design development, particularly in education and civic projects.
Notable projects: Lake Monona waterfront design, University of Wisconsin - La Crosse Prairie Springs Science Center, Urban waterfront revitalization
Specialization: Higher education, urban planning, landscape design, sustainability, and resilience
Contribution: SmithGroup has transformed urban spaces through climate-responsive design and sustainability in civic and educational projects
3. JLA architects
JLA Architects is a community-centered architecture firm with offices in Madison and Milwaukee. They focus on delivering thoughtful spaces that promote both functionality and aesthetics.
Notable projects: South Tower at UW Hospital, Black Business Hub, The Yards (mixed-use Development)
Specialization: Sports and recreation, Mixed-use and Multifamily housing, Civic architecture
Contributions: They deliver inclusive and sustainable architecture that enhances engagement and public access to learning and cultural institutions
4. Aro Eberle Architects
Aro Eberle Architects focuses on delivering high-quality designs for education and research-focused clients. Their functional client-based strategy makes them a go-to for complex spaces like labs and campuses.
Notable projects: Exact Sciences Clinical Lab, Madison College Health Education Building, UW-Madison Meat Science and Animal Biology Discovery Building
Specialization: Healthcare design, Educational and research facilities, Campus planning
Contributions: Known for advancing affordable housing and mixed-use urban planning
5. Sketchworks Architecture
Sketchworks Architecture Offers Innovative and cost-effective design solutions while focusing on functionality and user experience. Based in Middleton, they have worked on various residential and commercial architecture projects across the state.
Notable projects: Local restaurants and retail interiors, Middleton Center Apartments< Office remodels, and ground-up builds
Specialization: Retail and commercial spaces, residential architecture, and Affordable housing
Contributions: They have innovated civic and healthcare design, balancing user-centered functionality with sustainability, especially in educational and government spaces
6. Brummel Architectural Group
With over two decades of experience, Brummel Architectural Group has built a reputation for designing beautiful homes through its residential architectural wing, Out/Back Design Group.
Notable projects: Timber style cabins and lodges, Home remodels and additions, Custom Lakefront homes, and Custom Lakefront homes in Door County
Specializations: Landscape integration, Custom residential architecture, Sustainable design
Contributions: They have blended historic preservation with modern sustainable designs, redefining residential architecture through energy efficiency and situational awareness.
7. Live by Design Architects
Live by Design is an architectural design firm with a big impact across Wisconsin. They deliver personalized architectural designs for residential and small commercial clients across Wisconsin.
Notable Projects: Cabin-style vacation homes, boutique office spaces, custom family homes
Specializations: Personalized designs, Residential architecture, Client-focused planning
Contributions: They have achieved humane, sustainable living by integrating eco-conscious designs into every space of the design
8. JAKnetter Architects
Jaknetter Architects is one of the top commercial architecture firms that brings a client's vision to life through a process rooted in purpose, client collaboration, and technology.
Notable Projects: The renovation of Carroll University, mixed-use developments in Waukesha County
Specializations: religious facilities, Institutional Design, Modern mixed-use planning
Contributions: Renovated urban and suburban areas with breathtaking architecture, blending historical preservation with modern aesthetics
9. GRAEF
While they focus mainly on transport architecture and engineering, GRAEF is a full-service design, engineering, planning, and architectural firm with its headquarters in Wisconsin, which has led to numerous infrastructure projects across Wisconsin.
Notable projects: The enhancement of General Mitchell International Airport, Milwaukee Intermodal Station
Specializations: Bridge and road design, Urban Infrastructure
Contributions: Transformed civic infrastructure by combining architectural designs with engineering
10. Genesis Architecture
Genesis Architecture designs homes that blend perfectly with nature. Genesis stands out among Wisconsin’s popular architecture firms for homeowners who value the environment.
Notable Projects: Historic residences, custom design homes
Specializations: Nature-friendly residential design
Contribution: Advanced civic and cultural architecture by blending sustainable living with classic design
How Novatrs Courses Empower Architects to Work in Top Firms
The architecture industry is now more competitive than ever, and technical skills alone aren't enough. Top architecture firms in Wisconsin and beyond are seeking professionals who can easily combine digital processes, deliver high-performance designs, and collaborate easily across teams. That’s where Novatr’s BIM (Building Information Modeling) course for architects comes in. Novatr is improving architectural education by offering this specialized course that matches the industry demands. The key features include:
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Project-based learning: Novatrs BIM courses give you hands-on training using real-world projects to build your practical skills.
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Mentorship from experts: Learn from specialists and top global architects.
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Career support: Access to placement assistance through portfolio development and global job boards that are focused on architecture roles.
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Flexible learning hours: Choose online modules suited for working professionals depending on your availability.
Whether you are a student or an experienced professional, Novatr’s BIM experience will equip you for roles in some of the best architecture firms in Wisconsin and across the US. If you are targeting residential architecture firms, landscape architecture firms, or a commercial design studio, Novartr gives you the tools to succeed and lead.
Conclusion
Architecture firms in Wisconsin are shaping the future of the state's landscape without a doubt. From award-winning residential architecture to master planning or large-scale civic projects, each firm brings its unique skill to the table.
If you're an aspiring architect, learning skills like the BIM professional course for Architects by Novatr will help you plan your career goal strategically.
You can visit our resource page for more expert guidance, resources, and career tips.
FAQs
1. What type of projects do architecture firms in Wisconsin work on?
Ans: They work on various projects across multiple industries, from residential homes to schools, healthcare centers, commercial centers, and sustainable community designs.
2. Do I need BIM skills to work in top architecture firms?
Ans: Yes! BIM skills are more in demand in top firms since they focus on efficiency, innovative smart design, and collaboration. Learning BIM skills will boost your employment rate and make you stand out.
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