In an era marked by escalating building-material costs and the uncertainty of global tariffs, evidence of a slowdown in the custom-home market is emerging. The National Association of Home Builders recently reported a 3.7% decline in single-family homes under construction compared to last year. Yet, the demand for skilled carpenters, stonemasons, plumbers, and electricians remains robust, and residential construction—including architectural services—is still operating at full tilt.
Recognizing this dynamic, Forbes conducted 10 months of rigorous research to produce its second national top-firms list: America’s Best-in-State Residential Architects. The list highlights 400 architecture practices across all 50 states and the District of Columbia, showcasing firms that set the benchmark for excellence in custom single-family home design.
Our methodology expanded upon the approach used for the Forbes Top Residential Architects 2025 list. Beyond evaluating design excellence, we analyzed state-specific market conditions, including cultural, social, economic, political, and lifestyle factors shaping the custom-home market. We also compared architect licensure totals across states to ensure proportional representation, offering a curated view of the architects shaping America’s residential landscape.
The result: a comprehensive guide to top-tier architects whose work exemplifies innovation, craftsmanship, and design integrity—professionals you can trust for your next residential project, no matter where you live.
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