The 5 Best Architectural Firms in Edmonton Shaping the City’s Urbanscape
I’m proud to say I’ve seen the works of a handful of top architectural firms in Edmonton, from those shaping net-zero homes to teams behind major civic landmarks. Each one left a clear mark on how I now view design and function.
Some excelled in sustainability, others in scale, and a few managed to balance both with surprising ease! Here’s how the best stood out when put to the test.
How much do architectural firms charge in Edmonton?
Hiring an architecture firm in Edmonton usually costs 8% to 15% of the total project budget. For smaller jobs or consultations, architects may instead charge a flat fee.
Hourly rates typically range from $150 to $300, depending on the architect’s experience and specialization. The final cost also depends on factors like project complexity, scale, and the reputation of the firm you will hire.
1. SAS Architecture
Address: 11307 99 Avenue
Contact: +17806600456
Business hours: Monday to Thursday, 9 AM–5 PM
My sister hired SAS Architecture when she felt ready for a modern but sustainable home, and the firm delivered beyond her expectations. With over 20 years in practice, they know how to balance style with practicality.
Their specialties cover residential and commercial builds, but what impressed my sister most was their focus on energy efficiency. It showed in every small detail how they designed with future-proofing in mind.
I did take a look at their portfolio of net-zero homes in Edmonton as proof of the firm’s expertise. I liked how their projects not only look sleek, but also cut long-term utility costs.
They listened closely to my sister’s vision and translated it into something livable and timeless. The result is a blend of modern design and sustainability without looking and feeling forced.
The downside is that their services aren’t cheap, and the process can take longer due to their detailed planning. Still, if you value sustainability and design quality, the trade-off is worth it.
Customer Review
Professional architectural services
Great and professional architectural services. Highly recommended!
- Miguel Queponds, Google Review
2. Draw Designs Ltd
Address: 9426 51 Ave NW #201, Elm Business Park
Contact: +17804900234
Business hours: Monday to Friday, 8.30 AM–4.30 PM
I went with Draw Designs Ltd when planning my home because they felt approachable yet professional. Also, with over 15 years in practice, they’ve built a name for turning complex ideas into practical designs.
Their specialties cover residential, commercial, and interior design, and they have a knack for layouts that maximize space. I like that they’re especially strong in custom homes, where every detail is carefully tailored.
Their portfolio includes award-winning residential builds around Edmonton; I was particularly drawn to the firm’s 28,000 sq ft rebuild in Fort McMurray after the 2016 wildfire.
They also exhibited a client-focused approach during our project. They were patient, explained options clearly, and made me feel I was part of the design process.
The only issue I see is that the firm’s popularity means longer wait times, and its fees lean toward the higher end.
Customer Review
I could not be happier with the service
I have worked with Dan and Draw Designs on a number of occasions and could not be happier with the service. Dan is always there to answer questions and revise drawings as needed to keep clients and development officers happy. Always willing to put in an extra hour to get drawings out and make sure we meet deadlines. Thank you for the great service.
- Tasso Chantzis, Google Review
3. Reimagine Architects
Address: 10225 100 Ave NW, Origami Accounting
Contact: +17804293977
Business hours: Monday to Friday, 8 AM–5 PM
My parents brought in Reimagine Architects because they wanted a contemporary home that was also deeply sustainable (Mom fancies herself quite the eco-warrior!). They turned to this firm because of their decades of practice in Edmonton.
Fortunately, they place strong emphasis on sustainable and community-focused design in their residential, commercial, and public space projects. Their work also blends efficiency and warmth, something my parents really valued.
Reimagine was involved in HomeEd Parkside North Griesbach, a net-zero neighbourhood development that pushes the boundaries of energy-efficient living. Seeing a firm translate that kind of innovation into our family home gave us confidence.
I’ve come to admire their visionary yet practical approach during my observation. They managed to balance my parents’ design aspirations with long-term sustainability, such as passive solar design, water efficiency features, and flexible layouts.
The trade-off is that such forward-thinking design can come with higher costs and longer planning stages. It shouldn’t be an issue among those who want a home that’s both beautiful and energy-conscious, though.
Customer Review
Innovative project management approach
Great team to work with. Their project management approach is innovative.
- Gavin C, Google Review
4. Dualita Architecture
Address: 8414 109 St NW #200, Alberta Block
Contact: +17806808535
Business hours: Monday to Friday, 9 AM–6 PM
Because she wanted something bold and deeply functional without being disappointed on the design front, my work colleague chose Dualita Architecture for her new home.
The firm, founded in 2019 by Jorge Amando Hernandez, has over two decades of combined experience in architectural design, project management, commercial, mixed-use, and residential work.
Their specialty leans toward clean, modern design with strong attention to how people live in a space. The team does this by doing more with less overhead, using responsive layouts, efficient use of materials, and thoughtful interior and exterior integration.
My colleague loved their construction work on the Garneau Multifamily Building, which aimed to raise the bar on urban living in a dense neighbourhood. She believes this makes them different from cookie-cutter home builders, as they deliver real design statements.
However, as a firm with high design ambition, the build cost and design tweaks might take longer than initially estimated. It’s a good thing my work colleague didn’t mind this, though other, more budget and time-conscious clients might.
Customer Review
Professional in his trade
I like working with Armando. He is a very good person in nature and professional in his trade.
- Yi Han, Google Review
5. ACI Architecture Inc.
Address: 17225 102 Ave NW
Contact: +17804866400
Business hours: Monday to Friday, 8 AM–4.30 PM
Our workplace chose ACI Architecture Inc. because we needed more than just a sleek design; we needed reliability and full project oversight, given the nature of our work.
Good thing the firm had the scale and experience to match our needs, since it goes back to 1991. They also specialize in civic, institutional, and multifamily projects, so they understand the demands of high-traffic, public-facing spaces right away.
For us, that meant every compliance detail was accounted for without cutting corners. Their principals also hold LEED and WELL accreditations, reassuring us that sustainability and wellness are built into the project from the start.
Their portfolio impressed my bosses and me, especially with their winning the 2024 Alberta Masonry Design Awards (Platinum excellence awardee) for an educational project. The firm also worked on the Edmonton EXPO Centre rehab, so we knew we were in good hands.
The only issue I see is that they focus more on public and institutional work, so clients seeking residential expertise may not find much to reference.
Customer Review
Exciting project
What an exciting project that has kicked off construction!
- Alica Hobbs, Instagram