Architecture Firms
Top 20 Architecture Firms on Cape Cod & the Islands
September 11, 2023
Cape Cod and the Islands, adorned with their timeless charm and stunning vistas, have long been a canvas for architectural excellence. In this article, we unveil the top 20 architecture firms that have left their indelible mark on this captivating coastal region.
From innovative designs that embrace coastal aesthetics to historic restorations that preserve the area’s heritage, these firms stand out as pillars of architectural creativity. Join us on a journey to discover the visionary firms shaping the architectural landscape of Cape Cod and the Islands.
“Architecture is basically a container of something. I hope they will enjoy not so much the teacup, but the tea.” – Yoshio Taniguchi
Best Architectural Firms on Cape Cod
1. Aline Architecture Inc
Address: 100 Rt 6A
City/State: Orleans
Aline Architecture Inc, located in Cape Cod, is a versatile architectural firm dedicated to design excellence and sustainable living. Their comprehensive approach encompasses architectural design, structural engineering, construction, custom interiors, landscape design, urban design, and building energy diagnostics. Aline Architecture prioritizes green design, continually staying at the forefront of eco-friendly technologies and practices to create energy-efficient, environmentally conscious buildings. Collaboration is at the core of their process, fostering rich dialogues with clients to translate their visions into inspirational and functional spaces. They excel at simplifying complex choices, making the entire project journey enjoyable, and offering their expertise at any project scale.
2. Polhemus Savery DaSilva
Address: 157 Rte. 137
City/State: East Harwich, Massachusetts
Polhemus Savery DaSilva is a renowned architectural design and construction firm based in Cape Cod, with over 25 years of experience. They specialize in crafting exceptional custom homes and select civic and resort buildings. Their projects are known for their creative design, quality craftsmanship, and deep respect for the natural environment. The firm’s integrated approach, combining architectural design and construction, fosters seamless communication and collaboration, ensuring projects are completed on time, within budget, and in alignment with their clients’ visions. Polhemus Savery DaSilva’s work sets the stage for enduring memories and lasting legacies for generations to come.
“A doctor can bury his mistakes, but an architect can only advise his clients to plant vines.” -Frank Lloyd Wright
3. ERT Architects Inc.
Address: 299 Whites Path
City/State: South Yarmouth, Massachusetts
ERT Architects Inc., located in Cape Cod, boasts a remarkable portfolio of over 700 successful architectural and interior design projects across Cape Cod and New England. With 20 years of experience in new home design and renovations, they are renowned for their commitment to excellence and exceptional customer service. ERT Architects embraces innovation, integrating high-tech project support tools to enhance communication and accessibility for clients. Principal architect Erik Tolley collaborates closely with clients during the design stage, utilizing online resources like HOUZZ for inspiration. A personalized web-based client portal keeps clients informed and engaged in the building process, offering a seamless experience from concept to completion.
“To create, one must first question everything.”
-Eileen Gray
4. Architectural Design Inc.
Address: 62 Rt 6A
City/State: Orleans, Massachusetts
Architectural Design Inc., a prominent architectural firm based in Cape Cod, boasts over 35 years of experience and an impressive portfolio of more than 400 projects. Their collaborative approach ensures a deep understanding of clients’ visions and lifestyles, allowing for high-quality designs and materials. They prioritize making the design process exciting and rewarding while exceeding expectations. Catalyst Architecture Interiors believes in the importance of creativity, teamwork, flexibility, and quality. They listen attentively to clients, considering them integral team members and tailoring projects to individual needs. With a commitment to transparency, they provide full attention to every detail, delivering timeless, top-quality craftsmanship.
5. Catalyst Architecture Interiors
Address: 203 Willow St Ste A
City/State: Yarmouth Port, Massachusetts
Catalyst Architects, Inc. is a well-established architectural firm based in Yarmouth Port, MA, with a history dating back to 1969. Led by partners Timothy Sawyer, Kurt Raber, and Todd Carson, who collectively bring over 50 years of architectural and construction expertise, Catalyst Architects boasts a resolute team of 17 professionals encompassing various fields. Their success is rooted in several key principles, including a commitment to quality, a collaborative approach with clients and construction teams, and a strong emphasis on client advocacy. They prioritize creating regionally appropriate architecture and fostering lasting client relationships, all while delivering top-notch design work across commercial, residential, and civic sectors.
Nantucket
“There are no straight lines or sharp corners in nature. Therefore, buildings must have no straight lines or sharp corners.” – Antonio Gaudi
1. Nantucket Architecture Group
Address: 1 W Creek Rd
City/State: Nantucket, Massachusetts
Nantucket Architecture Group is a prominent architectural firm located on Nantucket Island. With a focus on preserving the island’s unique character and history, they specialize in crafting timeless, custom designs that blend seamlessly with the island’s charming landscapes. Their team of skilled architects and designers collaborates closely with clients to bring their visions to life, whether for residential, commercial, or historic restoration projects. Nantucket Architecture Group is celebrated for their commitment to creating sustainable, regionally inspired architecture that enhances the island’s allure while respecting its rich heritage.
“98% of what gets built today is shit.” – Frank Gehry
2. J N Design Build
Address: 1 Perry Ln
City/State: Nantucket, Massachusetts
JN Design, founded by Nantucket native Josiah Newman, represents a lifelong commitment to woodworking, furniture design, and custom build projects. After earning a Bachelor of Architecture degree from Syracuse University, Josiah returned to his island roots, gaining invaluable experience in carpentry, woodworking, and architectural design at a design + build firm founded by his father. He further honed his skills in Charleston, SC, working for architectural and furniture design firms. JN Design, a family venture, brings together Josiah’s architectural expertise, his father’s design and building experience, and his sister Eliza Silva’s interior design talents, tackling diverse residential and commercial projects on Nantucket. Their passion and dedication culminated in a state-of-the-art design + build facility in July 2015, equipped with everything needed to craft exceptional spaces.
“The most innovative designers consciously reject the standard option box and cultivate an appetite for thinking wrong.”– Marty Neumeier
3. Topham Design
Address: 18 Hummock Pond Rd
City/State: Nantucket, Massachusetts
Topham Design, located in Nantucket, is led by Joseph Topham, whose professional journey began with an engineering background from the Franklin Institute of Boston and Boston University. Initially, he worked with Design Associates in Boston and Nantucket before expanding his expertise in the design-build process by joining Howard Jelleme Construction. There, he gained direct experience in wood frame construction, historic renovations, framing, cabinetry, and fine construction details. His qualifications led to passing the Massachusetts Construction Supervisor Licensing exam. Over time, Joseph evolved into a site supervisor, coordinating projects, collaborating with architects, and delivering custom finishes for discerning clients across various Nantucket locations, including the Old Historic District.
4. Chip Webster Architecture
Address: 11 S Shore Rd
City/State: Nantucket, Massachusetts
Chip Webster Architecture, situated in Nantucket, holds a unique perspective on architecture. They prioritize the human experience, recognizing that the built environment profoundly impacts our lives. Rather than adhering to a signature style, they approach each project as a fresh canvas, dedicated to realizing the desires and needs of their clients. Close collaboration is at the core of their design philosophy, with a strong emphasis on listening to clients’ goals and weaving them into the site’s context. Their work aims to satisfy practical, social, and budgetary requirements while instilling a sense of surprise, delight, and inspiration.
Architecture Firms on Martha’s Vineyard
“I like ruins because what remains is not the total design, but the clarity of thought, the naked structure, the spirit of the thing.” –Tadao Ando
1. Architecture Indigo LLC
Address: 182 Otis Bassett Rd
City/State/Zip Code: West Tisbury, MA 02575
Architecture Indigo, LLC, led by licensed Architect Debra Cedeno, embodies a distinct vision of Residential Architecture influenced by international and New England inspirations. The firm’s dedicated team is characterized by meticulous diligence and an unwavering passion for their craft. They provide comprehensive Architectural services with an emphasis on efficient communication and innovative design solutions. Debra’s firsthand approach, including sketching and rendering by hand, adds a unique touch to the firm’s projects. Moreover, their commitment to green and sustainable design, dating back to 1996, highlights their forward-thinking approach, which aligns with the latest technology for energy-efficient systems and sustainable materials. They are active members of the US Green Building Council and the Green Building Advisor.
2. Breese Architects
Address: 68 Lagon Pond Road
City/State: Vineyard Haven, Massachusetts
Founded in 1996 on the picturesque Martha’s Vineyard, Breese Architects thrives on the island’s breathtaking landscape. For a quarter of a century, they have embraced each project with enthusiasm, be it new construction or a meticulous renovation. With their small, resolute team, Breese Architects prioritizes collaboration, forging strong connections with clients and turning their ideas into stunning realities. From inception to completion, they are committed to creating homes that seamlessly blend with the island’s environment and reflect their clients’ unique lifestyles and aesthetics.
3. South Mountain Company
Address: 15 Red Arrow Road,
City/State: West Tisbury, MA
South Mountain Company, based on Martha’s Vineyard, is a multi-faceted firm that integrates architecture, engineering, construction, interiors, and renewable energy services. Their commitment extends beyond the bottom line, guided by a Triple Bottom Line approach, emphasizing environmental restoration, social justice, and community engagement alongside profitability. As a certified B Corporation and a worker-owned cooperative, they exemplify a dedication to impact-driven practices. Their mission is to uplift the community and environment through design and construction, emphasizing a just and sustainable future. These principles have remained steadfast since their inception in 1993, defining South Mountain Company’s enduring values.
Architecture Firms in Plymouth
“Design is where science and art break even.”
– Mieke Gerritzen
1. BF Architects
Phone: 34 Main St
City/State: Plymouth, Massachusetts
BF Architects, based in Plymouth, MA, is led by founder and owner Bill Fornaciari, an architect with experience in residential and commercial projects. Bill’s early exposure to construction as part of a family of framers informs his collaborative approach with builders to achieve optimal results for clients, builders, and contractors. With over 35 years of residential design experience, BF Architects, under Bill’s direction, excels in creating new homes, additions, and renovations that cater to each client’s unique needs, seamlessly blending their lifestyle with architectural excellence.
2. R2 Architects, Inc
Address: 91 Samoset St
City/State: Plymouth, Massachusetts
R² Architects, Inc. (formerly Lloyd Architects) is a prominent architectural firm in Plymouth, MA, specializing in commercial and multi-family residential projects across the New England region and beyond. They focus on diverse sectors such as retail, restaurants, banking, affordable housing, and high-tech industries. Their approach emphasizes high-service, high-responsibility, and initiative-taking engagement throughout the project lifecycle, from feasibility to occupancy. R² Architects is known for its comprehensive services, including design, management, specification, budgeting, and cost control, with a strong commitment to achieving budget goals through careful planning and coordination. Their success lies in fostering collaborative relationships with clients, contractors, and regulatory agencies, ensuring a smooth construction process and effective communication.
3. Archiplicity
Address: 15 Cordage Ter
City/State: Plymouth, Massachusetts
Established in 2001, Archiplicity is an architectural firm based in Plymouth, Massachusetts, with a portfolio encompassing historic and contemporary designs. Their projects span across various states, including Massachusetts, New Jersey, and California. Archiplicity is also recognized for its architectural illustrations, which serve as valuable tools for developers and media companies in visualizing conceptual ideas. The firm’s design philosophy revolves around simplicity and elegance, emphasizing good proportions, well-placed details, and a thoughtful integration with the existing surroundings, making their work a testament to thoughtful and harmonious architecture.
“Good architecture is like a good therapy session, a good marriage, a good poem – gently and almost invisibly allowing you to be you, as flawed and as beautiful as you are.”–Robert Sullivan
In the realm of Cape Cod and the Islands, where every structure tells a story, the top 20 architecture firms highlighted here exemplify the artistry and ingenuity that define this unique region. Their ability to blend modern innovation with coastal tradition and their dedication to preserving the area’s rich history set them apart.
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