News Summary
LPA Design Studios has been recognized as the leading architectural firm in Orange County, reporting a remarkable 20% growth in local billings, reaching $156 million. The firm received the prestigious 2025 AIA Architecture Firm Award and has made significant strides in sustainable architecture. LPA’s innovative projects, including a wellness-focused expansion for Hoag Memorial Hospital, underscore its dedication to high-performance design and environmental responsibility.
Orange County Architectural Firm Achieves Top Ranking with 20% Growth
LPA Design Studios has been recognized as the largest architectural firm in Orange County (OC) as of this week, boasting a significant 20% growth in local billings. The firm’s total companywide billings reached $156 million for the 12 months ending June 30, establishing it as a leader in the architectural landscape of the region.
Prestigious Award Recognition
In addition to its high billing figures, LPA Design Studios has received the esteemed 2025 AIA Architecture Firm Award from the American Institute of Architects (AIA), which recognizes outstanding architectural practices. This award is considered one of the highest honors in the field, with past recipients including legendary firms such as I.M. Pei & Partners, César Pelli & Associates, and Gensler.
A Pioneering Firm
LPA has established itself as a pioneer in sustainable and high-performance architecture, making a concerted effort to combine mission-driven approaches with innovative, interdisciplinary design practices. Over the last five years, the firm has reported a remarkable 75% average reduction in predicted energy use for its diverse range of projects, including educational, civic, healthcare, and commercial buildings. This commitment to sustainability supports national efforts to create facilities that enhance efficiency and focus on energy, wellness, community involvement, and overall user experience.
Leadership Insights
The firm’s CEO emphasized that its ongoing success exemplifies the potential of architectural firms focusing on performance and design excellence. This approach has led to various notable projects, including the design of a 310,000-sq.-ft. headquarters for Ford’s Premier Automotive Group division in Irvine, which achieved the distinction of being the first LEED NC-certified building in the United States.
Current Projects and Future Endeavors
Currently, most of the former Ford office complex is occupied by Taco Bell, following Ford’s announced downsizing and relocation to Long Beach. LPA Design Studios is also undertaking a significant $1 billion expansion of the Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian’s Sun Family Campus. This expansion draws inspiration from the original Irvine master plan by William Pereira and aims to develop a wellness village that integrates nature with dedicated institutes catering to various health specialties.
Construction for this project commenced in July, with the first phase projected for completion by spring 2026. The design emphasizes outdoor spaces and natural light to enhance patient experiences and well-being, aligning with LPA’s commitment to achieving net zero emissions as part of the AIA’s 2030 Commitment. Their designs promote walkability by relocating parking structures and integrating underground tunnels for enhanced pedestrian access.
Expanding Partnerships and Local Impact
Aside from the Hoag Memorial Hospital project, LPA is involved in expansion efforts at Sage Hill High School and a $65 million facility for Pretend City located within the Great Park. The firm was awarded the hospital project following a competitive design selection process in 2019.
In their pursuit of sustainable architecture, LPA has implemented numerous green strategies in their projects, such as enhancing permeability and improving stormwater treatment on various campuses. Recent data indicates LPA’s rise to the top spot among OC architectural firms, overtaking last year’s leader, AO, which has now fallen to second place with reported billings of $74.6 million.
Conclusion
LPA Design Studios’ recent achievements and ongoing projects showcase its commitment to design excellence and sustainability, solidifying its reputation as a leader in the architectural field throughout Orange County.
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Additional Resources
- OC Business Journal: Sustainable Designs
- OC Business Journal: Architectural Firms Report 4.3% Increase in OC Billings
- The Architect’s Newspaper: LPA Design Studios 2025 AIA Architecture Firm Award
- OC Business Journal: LPA Designs Sustainable Health and Wellness Village
- Times of San Diego: Annual AIA Awards Honor Best San Diego Architecture
- Wikipedia: Architecture
- Google Search: Architectural Firms in Orange County
- Google Scholar: Sustainable Architecture
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Architecture
- Google News: Architecture Awards
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
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