- © 2026 Annapolis Home Magazine
- All Rights Reserved
Jonathan Rivera Architecture | Photo: Peak Visuals
Each November, we present this section where we invite highly accomplished architects of the Chesapeake and Annapolis region to feature a home they have designed and a profile about their work and firm. Our purpose is to benefit those homeowners who are considering hiring an architect and want guidance in selecting the right architect for their project. Each architect sponsors their page in the magazine.
The principals of these firms are licensed architects and have won professional awards in juried competitions or have been featured in regional and national design magazines, including Annapolis Home Magazine, demonstrating the value of working with an experienced architect.
All these architects have many years of experience, and we are confident they are serious about giving you their best work and earning your trust as a dedicated architect. If you are considering hiring an architect to design or remodel your home in greater Annapolis, the Eastern Shore, or the metropolitan D.C. area, including the services of an Annapolis architect, you will find the following exceptional architects worthy of your consideration.
To help you in selecting an architect in greater Annapolis, the Eastern Shore and metropolitan D.C., we offer you our suggestions on how to hire an architect. Why you should hire an architect should be obvious—you will have a superior home!
How Do You Hire an Architect?
Over many years, architects, builders, designers—and most importantly, homeowners—have shared stories with use about building a custom-designed home. Most are positive, though some are not. These experiences have shaped the following tips for choosing the right architect.
1. The Size of the Firm Does Not Matter
– Interview your prospective architect in their office and meet the team if they are part of a large firm. Some architects are solo practitioners, while others have many architects on staff. What matters is your appreciation of the architects past designs, integrity, and the trust you feel with your architect.
2. Interview Several Architects
– Interview at least three architects. You will be investing significant time and money, so ensure your expectations—from design to budget—are aligned with your architect in Annapolis and beyond.
3. Be Clear About Budget
– Be prepared to discuss scope, budget, and fees with your architect. Does the architect charge a flat fee, bill hourly, or assess a percentage of construction costs? If the architect oversees construction, interacts with the builder, or revises plans, those are still architectural services.
4. Who Will Be Your Direct Contact?
– The principal architect may not be the primary designer, though they should oversee the process. Clarify who your main contact will be before you sign on.
5. Consult with a Custom Builder
– An experienced builder brings drawings to life. We recommend speaking with at least three reputable custom builders and asking architects and interior designers in Annapolis about builder reputations and collaboration styles.
6. More about Hiring a Builder: The Cost of Labor and Materials
– Competitive bidding does not always yield the best builder, as some top builders opt out. A negotiated bid can encourage early collaboration and reduce surprises. In any case, connect with a builder before committing to an architecture firm to ensure plans align with your budget.
7. Bring in an Interior Designer Early On
– Your home will benefit from engaging an interior designer early. Some architecture firms have designers on staff, but you should feel no obligation to use them. Be as diligent in hiring a designer as your architect and builder.
8. Designing a Home on the Chesapeake Bay is Unique and Requires Special Permits
– Regulations protect critical areas of the Bay. Even if your architect is less familiar with local rules, they likely have the contacts to obtain necessary permits.You are assembling a team to build a home, and each professional plays a vital role. This may be one of your most significant investments. Cost matters, but so does quality. This is your home—you should be thrilled with the result.
Becker Morgan Group is dedicated to building solutions at every scale. We thoughtfully interpret client needs to create elevated designs that deliver enduring value, meaningful returns, and lasting relationships. With networked offices throughout the Mid-Atlantic, we provide the reach and resources of a large firm while maintaining the personal attention of a boutique practice. Whatever challenges you face, we’ll be by your side, collaborating, problem-solving, and building solutions together.
Based in Annapolis, Maryland, Three B Architecture crafts homes of distinction throughout the Chesapeake region. Clients depend on Bob Berry’s meticulous attention to detail and ability to design homes with timeless aesthetic that are still uniquely each client’s own. | Photo: Geoffrey Hodgdon
This waterfront home in Hillsmere redefines what’s possible on the bay. Navigating complex waterfront setbacks, the design team transformed a traditional brick residence with a modern entry sequence, a striking rear façade, and a completely reimagined interior—crafted to embrace natural light and contemporary living.
Through the synergy of SPIRE’s bespoke architectural design process, the owner’s keen eye for detail, and the construction excellence of Mininger Contracting, this renovation became a dynamic expression of form and function, celebrating the home’s sweeping southwestern views and the beauty of its natural setting.
At SPIRE Architecture, we are driven to create authentic living spaces through intentional design. Founded in 2013 by principals Kurt Shepard and Craig Martin, SPIRE believes that a home should not only be safe and beautiful, but also shaped around the way you live. By collaborating closely with our clients, we craft custom solutions that embody our philosophy of Authentic Living, through Design. | Photo: Brian Distad Photography
Donald Lococo initially focused his career in piano performance and views his transition to architecture (often described as “frozen music”) as a progression. Donald Lococo Architects has the distinction of being published with remarkable range; From historic and traditional to contemporary and modern. Informed by budget and client dreams, designs evolve in style and form amid continuous collaboration to create homes clients fall in love with. With over 100 awards regionally to globally, his homes have been showcased in over 110 magazines. The firm designed for a US President, interior designers, and lifestyle magazine editors’ own homes. | Photo: John Cole
The shores of the Chesapeake Bay have been the canvas for Hammond Wilson’s award-winning work for more than forty years. Approaching each unique site with sensitivity, creativity, and craftsmanship, Hammond Wilson Architects has built a portfolio of homes that are distinctive, functional, highly sustainable, and timeless. | Photo: Peak Visuals
C. Dayton Architect blends artful design with Chesapeake sophistication, creating spaces that honor the region’s heritage while embracing modern elegance. With a refined eye for detail and a deep appreciation for coastal living, each project reflects timeless craftsmanship and thoughtful innovation. From waterfront estates to historic renovations, Dayton’s work on the Eastern Shore harmonizes architecture with the natural surroundings, creating refined environments that are both inviting and inspiring.
Since 1989, BVA has created architecture of beauty and authenticity for clients who share the same aspiration for excellence. This new house is on a choice parcel of land between the Atlantic Ocean and a lake, allowing for water views in all directions. The transitional design takes advantage of this location with expansive glass walls, open porches, and decks, with sunrise views of the ocean and a plunge pool, while also embracing sunset lake views to the west. | Photo: Anice Hoachlander Photography
Wiedemann Architects has been designing award-winning homes throughout the Chesapeake Bay region for more than 30 years. Whether it is a new home or addition, single-family home or waterfront estate, modern or historic, Greg Wiedemann, FAIA leads a talented team that brings a breadth of experience and a standard of excellence to all their projects. Offices in Easton and Bethesda. | Photo: Anice Hoachlander Photography
Jonathan Rivera Architecture offers creative solutions for custom homes and additions from NY to DC. With more than twenty years of award-winning commercial and residential experience, Jonathan brings considerable insight to every project. His core belief is simply this: every detail matters. That means Jonathan wants to hear absolutely everything you have in mind for your home. His sketches will then bring those details and his ideas to life. You’ll see that every detail really does matter.
Neumann Lewis Buchanan Architects designs thoughtful and well-crafted homes for modern life. The firm’s work showcases architecture imbued with quiet permanence and gracious authenticity. | Photo: Gordon Beall
Fowlkes Studio is an Architecture and Interior Design firm committed to intelligent design that celebrates craft and strives to represent the personalities of our clients. We are based in Washington, DC but have completed projects in Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, North Carolina and New York. While our portfolio includes office interiors and retail spaces, our passion is for intimate, carefully considered residential projects. | Photo: Jenn Verrier Photography
By designing buildings that are beautiful as well as functional and energy-efficient, Fred Sieracki creates spaces that are both lasting and innovative, bringing ideas to life with clarity and purpose. Guided by respect for history, environmental awareness, and modern design, he approaches each project with a vision that connects past, present, and future. | Photo: Tony J Photography
Photo: Julia Heine
© Annapolis Home Magazine
Vol. 16, No. 6, 2025