Ever wondered who designs the homes that blur the lines between dreams and reality? From a house that breathes with the rhythm of the earth to an urban oasis redefining city living, today’s visionary architects are crafting spaces that go beyond functionality—they create experiences.
In this article, we unveil the “Top 10 Visionary Architects to Follow in 2024,” spotlighting the creative minds turning bold ideas into iconic structures. These architects reimagine how we live, work, and connect with the spaces around us, proving that architecture is as much about the soul as it is about structure.
Let’s explore more about these creative minds whose work is as groundbreaking as it is inspiring.
1. Magnus Ström
Magnus Ström, Founder and Creative Director of Ström Architects, is redefining contemporary design with a focus on bespoke modern homes and larger-scale developments. Growing up in Sweden surrounded by Modernist architecture, Magnus developed an early passion for creating spaces that inspire and elevate daily life. Since founding Ström Architects in 2010, he has guided the firm to international acclaim, with award-winning projects across the UK, Europe, the USA, and the Middle East. Known for his meticulous attention to detail and client-focused approach, Magnus ensures every design reflects a harmonious blend of beauty and functionality. Beyond architecture, his adventurous spirit shines in yacht racing, where he’s achieved remarkable feats like winning his class in the trans-Atlantic ARC race.
2. Greg Faulkner
Greg Faulkner, founder and principal of Faulkner Architects, established the firm in 1998 in Truckee, California, and has since earned recognition for his innovative designs. A Fellow of the American Institute of Architects, Faulkner has become renowned for creating architecture that responds thoughtfully to its environment. His notable projects include Red Rock in Las Vegas, CAMPout in Truckee, and Analog House in Truckee. Faulkner’s work emphasizes sustainability and craftsmanship, blending modern design with natural landscapes. With a career spanning over two decades, Faulkner continues to push the boundaries of residential and commercial architecture, influencing the future of design through his award-winning work.
3. Jonathan Feldman
Jonathan Feldman, FAIA, LEED AP, is the founding partner and CEO of Feldman Architecture, a firm known for its sustainable and thoughtfully designed residential and commercial spaces. Since establishing the firm in 2003, Jonathan has led projects that seamlessly blend modern aesthetics with sustainability, including the LEED Platinum Caterpillar House and the transformative Butterfly House. With a background in filmmaking, Jonathan brings a unique perspective to architecture, focusing on how movement through space shapes human experience. A passionate advocate for design excellence, he regularly contributes to panels and juries, sharing his expertise in sustainable design and climate action. Jonathan is a registered architect in multiple states and resides in San Francisco.
4. Kim Pariseau
Kim Pariseau, founder of APPAREIL Architecture, is a visionary shaping Canada’s design landscape with her Nordic-inspired aesthetic and commitment to sustainability. Since establishing her Montreal-based firm in 2010, Kim has championed timeless, functional, and beautiful architecture, blending modern design with natural harmony. Her projects emphasize craftsmanship, environmental consciousness, and a deep respect for heritage, from preserving vegetation during construction to integrating local materials. Influenced by her studies in Copenhagen, Kim brings Scandinavian precision and simplicity to every design, creating spaces that are inviting, personal, and enduring. With an impressive portfolio of homes, restaurants, and workplaces, she continues to innovate, inspiring with each project and leaving an indelible mark on contemporary architecture.
5. David Montalba
David Montalba, FAIA, SIA, LEED AP, is the founding principal of Montalba Architects, established in 2004 in Santa Monica, California. With a background shaped by his upbringing in Switzerland and California, Montalba’s design philosophy is informed by global influences and a deep commitment to innovative, sustainable architecture. His work has earned over 30 awards from the American Institute of Architects, including the prestigious National Young Architect Award and AIA Institute Honor Awards. Montalba’s projects blend creativity with functionality, and he is widely recognized as a leader in contemporary architecture. His contributions to the field are also reflected in his role as an adjunct professor and active involvement with the AIA.
6. Nicholas Paolucci
Nicholas Paolucci, AIA, founder of MASS Architect, has quickly become a leading name in Greater Boston’s design community. A Rhode Island native inspired by the historic charm of New England, Paolucci honed his craft at Auburn University and through hands-on experience at Massachusetts firms before launching his own practice. Known for blending old and new seamlessly, he specializes in thoughtful additions to New England homes that feel timeless. With a commitment to environmental responsibility, he incorporates modern green building standards into his designs while respecting clients’ budgets. Paolucci’s work has earned numerous accolades, including multiple BRAGB Gold Prism Awards and Boston Home’s Rising Star recognition. Current projects include a South End row house renovation and a net-zero custom home in East Greenwich. A champion of client-centered architecture, Paolucci draws inspiration from Boston’s historic landmarks and advocates for meaningful, sustainable design that enhances communities.
7. Jenni and John Vetter
Jenni and John Vetter, the dynamic husband-and-wife duo behind Vetter Architects, have spent 35 years crafting dream homes for their clients. Recently, they turned their expertise inward, designing a stunning kitchen for their own home—centered around their passion for cooking and the iconic BlueStar Range. This open-concept kitchen blends elegance and warmth, featuring rich mahogany cabinetry, deep green Heath tiles, and custom brass hardware that perfectly complements the range’s accents. A breathtaking 18-foot island, complete with a 60-inch workstation sink and leathered Mount Blanc quartzite, provides a centerpiece for both cooking and entertaining. With Vola faucets and thoughtful detailing throughout, this kitchen is a testament to the Vetters’ design philosophy: spaces that inspire connection and creativity.
8. Candace Miller
Candace Miller, Principal Designer of Miller Design Management Inc., has redefined design management with a client-first approach honed over two decades and 2,000+ projects. With a commitment to transparency, advocacy, and education, MDM empowers clients to navigate new builds and renovations with confidence, saving them time, money, and stress. Drawing on experience with top Canadian designers and celebrity projects, Candace leads a team that delivers personalized, affordable designs without compromising quality. Inspired by a need to put clients first in an industry often focused on mass production, MDM stands out by anticipating challenges and protecting clients from subpar practices, making every project an enjoyable, seamless experience. They work for their clients.
9. Scott Specht and Jakeb Novak
Scott Specht and Jakeb Novak, partners at Specht Novak, lead a forward-thinking architecture firm known for creating timeless, context-driven designs. With over 30 years of experience, the firm has built a reputation for excellence in craftsmanship, detailing, and client service. Their work, featured in over 250 global publications including The Wall Street Journal and Architectural Digest, has garnered numerous awards from the American Institute of Architects and Texas Society of Architects. Recognized by Architizer as one of the “100 Best Architecture and Design Firms in the United States,” Specht Novak continues to influence the future of residential design, with their Preston Hollow Residence honored as a “Record House” by Architectural Record.
10. Lorcan O’Herlihy
Lorcan O’Herlihy, FAIA, is the founding principal of Lorcan O’Herlihy Architects (LOHA) in Los Angeles. With a background shaped by his work at renowned firms such as Kevin Roche John Dinkeloo, Steven Holl Architects, and I.M. Pei, O’Herlihy has become a leading figure in contemporary architecture. LOHA’s innovative designs have earned over 100 national and international awards, including the prestigious AIA Los Angeles Firm of the Year. O’Herlihy’s work has been widely published and celebrated, and in 2021, he was honored as the AIA Los Angeles Gold Medalist. His contributions to architecture continue to inspire with a focus on amplified urbanism and sustainable design.