Architects have a huge role in determining the final design and utility of a property. They work with other contractors, like engineers, builders, and interior designers, to meet your vision.
Are you searching for qualified and proven architects in Massachusetts? If so, then today’s list is for you!
We’re featuring the best ones mainly in terms of their expertise, devotion, and communication, among other good work qualities that can help you decide which to pick.
How much does hiring an architect cost?
According to Home Advisor, getting an architect will cost you $1,971 to $9,612. The key factors that can dictate the price are the scope of the work, labor, and price model.
Depending on your hired architect, you can be charged in three ways: per hour of work, per square foot of the build, or a percentage of the build price.
Getting a principal architect to work for you will cost a lot higher than hiring an intern or project manager.
Note that there are different levels of the profession with “Intern I” being the lowest in terms of experience and principal architect having the highest. Below are their usual prices:
| Architect Rank | Hourly Cost |
| Principal | $150 – $250 |
| Project Manager | $125 |
| Intern II | $90 |
| Intern I | $45 |
On the other hand, the architect cost per square foot of the house is typically $5 to $15. This can be the rate for planning and concept drafts, construction documents, or project management.
And as for the percentage cost, most architects charge 8% to 15% of the total build price. Also, consider, that a typical home costs between $150,000 and $500,000 to construct. To get the rate, simply multiply the build price by the percentage of the architect.
The Top Architects in Massachusetts
To find the best ones, we narrowed down our choices from many architectural companies in Massachusetts based on a set of criteria.
1) Colwell Group Architects
| SERVICES | https://colwellgroup.com/services/ |
| WEBSITE | https://colwellgroup.com/ |
| ADDRESS | Headquarters 132 Central Street Suite 203 Foxborough, MA 02035 Satellite Office: 8707 E Vista Bonita Dr. Ste 130 Scottsdale, Az 85255 |
| CONTACT DETAILS | Phone: 508-241-2122 |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Criteria | Score |
|---|---|
| Project Design | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Service Offerings | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Hassle-Free Service | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Prompt Response | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Good architects are hard to come by, but we found you a prospect in Colwell Group Architects.
From the client feedback mailed to us, we concluded that this company can be great to work with from design to completion of the build.
Their difference from other companies lies in their collaborative approach. They first ensure they completely understand the client’s needs and wants before forming a custom and thoughtful plan and blueprint.
In this industry, the client’s specified design matters most. That’s why their licensed and skilled architects create hand sketches, program documents, and even computerized 3D models for precise and efficient planning.
Also, they make wonderful designs for the residential and commercial sectors, including restaurants, fitness centers, and hospitals. Both exterior and interior spaces are handled by them.
Speaking of their services, one of the things they’re good at is alterations. Among the designs they can do for this are the living room, master bedroom, patio or deck, garage, and sunroom.
If you’re interested in hiring them, they can come to your house or meet you someplace on the same day as your call. Or you can just fill in their contact form online and their personable staff can answer your inquiries.
Pros
- Licensed architects
- Collaborative approach
- Wide range of services
- Can show 3D building models
- Fast turnaround
Cons
- Unavailable on the weekends
- Can be a bit hard to contact
Customer Reviews
Professional and easy to work with
“A major structural issue was discovered in our home that needed to be addressed immediately. Dennis understood our desperation and came the same day we called, delivering plans 2 days later. He is professional and easy to work with. We highly recommend him.” -Elizabeth Lint
Beautiful and carefully thought-out work
“I have had the opportunity to work with Dennis on a few different occasions over the past couple years and have been impressed with his expertise in architecture. His work is beautiful and carefully thought out to utilize the space in the best way possible. He is quick to respond to any issues that may arise, making it easier for everyone involved. I will always give Dennis a call as I found his professionalism and honest feedback extremely helpful.” -Kellie Michel
2) Flavin Architects
| SERVICES | Residential architecture |
| WEBSITE | https://www.flavinarchitects.com/ |
| ADDRESS | 175 Portland St #6, Boston, MA 02114 USA |
| CONTACT DETAILS | +1 617-227-6717 studio@flavinarchitects.com |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday and Sunday: Closed |
| Criteria | Score |
|---|---|
| Project Design | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Service Offerings | ★★★☆☆ (3/5) |
| Hassle-Free Service | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Prompt Response | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Do you want to build a modern and natural home? If so, Flavin Architects may be for you, as this is exactly their forte.
They rightly call their style “natural modernism.”
Their process involves carefully assessing whether the site is suitable for the home design, using pleasing edges and large window glass, and emphasizing natural features, like trees and water, while doing all they can to conserve them.
With their style, the interiors and exteriors of the house give the same tranquil feeling. And we’re not the only one who think so. Boston Home Magazine featured this firm back in 2020.
You can actually check out their creative designs on their online portfolio. With these designs, they have won awards in categories concerning aesthetics and function.
However, we must note that they’re not likely to cater to commercial establishments. If you’re a business owner, you might have to look for another architect for this.
As for their work ethic, their previous clients told us that Heather and Collin, the architect duo that runs the firm, were fully committed to the job. Aside from that, they were also patient, caring, and honest to deal with.
As such, whether you want to build or renovate a house, it might be smart to rely on this company. After all, they have had lots of repeat clients over the years, which is a very good sign.
Pros
- Award-winning architect
- Specializes in modern home designs
- Makes clear concepts through drawings, models, and digital renditions
- Excellent to work with
Cons
- Not likely to accept commercial clients
- Unavailable on weekends
Customer Reviews
Have been amazing throughout
“Flavin have been amazing throughout our home design process. Having worked with a number of architects in the past, I can say that Flavin is truly world class in their execution and thoughtfulness. We’ve spent many hours talking and meeting with Colin and appreciate his patience, honesty, and commitment to excellence. He strikes the perfect balance of creativity and professionalism that is critical for successful modern home design. The team he’s assembled all share Colin’s passion for creating family homes that are both beautiful and pragmatic. We can’t wait to come home to the house they designed for us!” -Matt Hodgson
Thrilled with our home renovation
“Loved working with Flavin Architects — Colin Flavin and Heather Souza. We are thrilled with our home renovation and if we had to do it again, we would not change a thing. They were committed to our project and really went above and beyond to make sure that we were happy. Not only I would recommend Flavin Architects, but I will work with them again for any new project. We were so lucky to have them.” -Johanna Levy
3) Cummings Architecture & Interiors
| SERVICES | Architecture Interior design Property assessment and master planning |
| WEBSITE | https://cummingsarchitectureinteriors.com/ |
| ADDRESS | 57 S Main St, Ipswich, MA 01938 USA |
| CONTACT DETAILS | 978-356-5026 info@cummingsarchitectureinteriors.com |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday – Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday and Sunday: Closed |
| Criteria | Score |
|---|---|
| Project Design | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Service Offerings | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Hassle-Free Service | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Prompt Response | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Cummings Architecture and Interior Design can help you have the perfect home by integrating building and interior design.
They can meet special build requests, like restoring a dilapidated period home, modernizing an antique home, and creating a gorgeous home by a lake.
They have garnered a great reputation for being nice, friendly, and compassionate. More importantly, they’re applauded for their impressive design skills and have a combined experience of over 120 years.
But they don’t just dive into their work. They follow standard procedures by performing site research and analysis. First, their team will find out the restrictions that your site has, be it related to zoning, historical building, or environmental regulations.
So, those living in Ipswich and the adjacent areas can draw in their award-winning expertise. Clients can attest that they’re with you from the first creative spark of idea you have until the build is completed.
It’s their credo to create an inviting and personal home that your family and pets will find comfortable. You can pitch to them your ideal living space and what functions and interior you want it to have.
More than that, what sets them apart from competitors are their friendly and competent team and great attention to detail and communication, evident in their beautiful finished projects. You can view them online if you’re interested.
Pros
- Award-winning firm
- Adept at historic architecture
- Integrates architecture with interior design
- Great attention to detail
- Performs property assessment
Cons
- Unavailable on the weekends
- Doesn’t seem to take on industrial projects
Customer Reviews
Truly a magnificent design
“…Truly a magnificent design, we could not be more please or inspired. Anyone that passes our road cannot resist a drive-by and are always quick to stop and share their awe. The entire Cummings team has worked tirelessly to incorporate our expansive wish list with timely creative solutions and support. We could not imagine working with anyone else, looking forward to the next project!” -Chrissy Mason
Addition flows so naturally
“My Cummings Architects designed addition flows so naturally from the main house that visitors often comment that it looks like it’s always been there. This is no happy accident but the result of an amazing attention to detail and some great communication skills by Mat and his competent and personable staff. I highly recommend.” -Linda Wright
4) Payette
| SERVICES | Architecture Planning Landscape Interiors Design |
| WEBSITE | https://www.payette.com/ |
| ADDRESS | 290 Congress Street, Fifth Floor, Boston, MA 02210-1005 USA |
| CONTACT DETAILS | 617-895-1000 info@payette.com |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday – Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday and Sunday: Closed |
| Criteria | Score |
|---|---|
| Project Design | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Service Offerings | ★★★☆☆ (3/5) |
| Hassle-Free Service | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Prompt Response | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Payette is a large architectural firm composed of more than 160 diverse individuals. They believe that the best ideas come from different people, and this belief fosters a unique and inclusive culture.
With an interdisciplinary team, they’ve expanded their services from only architecture and landscape design. Now they also offer interior design, engineering, design visualization, and research.
The company has received multiple back-to-back AIA awards for its stunning commercial build achievements. They can very easily work with you throughout the long-term design and development process.
They tirelessly practice sustainability in their research and healthcare builds. For example, they use energy-efficient strategies and have reduced their paper use.
Another thing that makes Payette a trustworthy firm is that they do pro bono design work.
In relation to this, they attend public events sponsored by the Boston Society of Architects, like CANstruction and KidsBuild. As a result, kids can learn about the trade and possibly build on it as they grow.
And so, if you need a commercial architect, Payette is an excellent choice. However, for smaller renovations and builds, other options might be better in terms of skills, specialties, and costs.
Pros
- Commercial build specialist
- Award-winning firm
- Multi-cultural experience
- Practices sustainability
- Does pro bono work
Cons
- Unavailable on the weekends
- Seems to be more interested in doing large-scale projects
5) Paul Lukez Architecture
| SERVICES | Dwellings Innovation Urban design Civic Commerce |
| WEBSITE | https://www.lukez.com/ |
| ADDRESS | 1310 Broadway, Suite 104, Somerville, MA 02144 USA |
| CONTACT DETAILS | 617-628-9160 info@lukez.com |
| OPERATING HOURS | Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday and Sunday: Closed |
| Criteria | Score |
|---|---|
| Project Design | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Service Offerings | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Hassle-Free Service | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Prompt Response | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Formed in 1992, Paul Lukez Architecture (PLA) takes on commercial and home design projects.
It’s led by Paul Lukez, a licensed architect known for his creative ideas, diligence, and commitment. And it’s amazing that he can practice his craft in nine states in America.
He strives to listen to his client’s wants and needs all through the way. He collaborates with them and suggests a feasible and economical idea.
At PLA, you can choose from two simple packages: basic and full. The basic package is more affordable and seeks to give you a fast and quality design solution, whereas the full package is higher-cost but is more tailored to your preferences.
His skill encompasses different aspects of architecture, namely, dwellings, innovation, civic, commerce, and urban design. Therefore, chances are he can help you with what you need.
Moreover, Paul will also strive to incorporate sustainability into your property design. So you can get peace of mind and feel cozy at home knowing that you’re paying fewer expenses every month.
An architectural job is generally costly. And it’s really generous of companies like PLA to do pro bono jobs at least twice a year for communities in need. They say that this is their way of giving back.
Their portfolio shows more than 50 successful completed works, including houses, offices, pavilions, health centers, and industrial buildings.
They’re the recipient of many local and international awards coming from The World Architectural Festival, the Chicago Athenaeum, Curbed, and the Boston Society of Architects, among others.
All in all, we think they’re fit to be added to our list of the very best architects in Massachusetts! If you have inquiries, you can use their form online.
Pros
- Award-winning firm
- Creates functional and elegant spaces
- Licensed to work in nine US states
- Practices sustainability
- Does pro bono work
Cons
- Unavailable on the weekend
- Designs can look too simple
Customer Reviews
Our beautiful, award-winning house
“Despite the very odd review of PLA by “Jack Slinger”(?) and his vodka, we’d like you to know that we had a very positive experience with Paul Lukez and his colleagues in the design and building of our beautiful, award-winning, house. Paul and his talented team worked with us from the selection of our building site, through our choice of engineers, materials, and contractor, to move in. Check out our house at Paul’s website. We recommend PLA very highly.” -Richard Jenson
Create elegant and holistic solutions
“The PLA team has a combination of commitment, enthusiasm, talent, and diligence which is rare and wonderful. They create elegant solutions based on a holistic understanding of how architecture integrates with culture and program. It is always our sincere pleasure at Acentech to work with the PLA team!” -Andrew Carballeira
FAQs about the Best Architects in Massachusetts
And that’s all for our list of the best architects in Massachusetts. We hope that this article has helped you somehow.
Do you have any questions or comments? Please let us know by messaging us, and we’ll get right back to you promptly.
