The Largest Architecture Firms In Southern California: Insights And Rankings For 2023

In 2023, the landscape of architecture in Southern California is as dynamic as ever, showcasing a blend of innovation, creativity, and robust financial performance. The L.A. Times B2B Publishing has unveiled a comprehensive list revealing the top 40 architecture firms in the region, ranked by their architectural fee income. This ranking not only highlights the firms' economic contributions but also reflects their influence on the architectural scene across Southern California.

Leading the pack is Gensler, a global powerhouse with a staggering fee income of $238.5 million in Southern California alone. With offices in downtown Los Angeles and Newport Beach, Gensler employs 136 licensed architects and a total of 600 staff members. Their portfolio is diverse, including noteworthy projects like the Ranch Lot Studios in Burbank and the Los Angeles Chargers’ Headquarters and Training Facility in El Segundo. This impressive financial standing underscores Gensler's pivotal role in shaping the architectural landscape in the region.

Following closely is AO, based in Orange, which reported $102 million in fee income last year. AO is known for its significant projects, including The Row at Redhill, a mixed-use development that boasts 80,000 square feet of retail space. Additionally, firms like AECOM and Arcadis, while primarily focused on engineering services, have also contributed to the architectural landscape. The combined efforts of these top firms resulted in an impressive $1.33 billion in total fee income, employing over 1,200 licensed architects across 64 local offices.