The world wide web has come a very long way from the days of GeoCities (if you don't know what that is, it's okay). Web designers and developers can now build immersive, native web-based experiences that we could only dream of back in the day.
As I look back on building my first website in 1999, I can't help but be amazed at what creatives are capable of today. It's both humbling and inspirational. From time to time, I browse the web and look for websites that inspire my imagination.
Here are several architecture website examples that are worth sharing.
1. dB(A)))
Why we love it: Immersive story telling.
The Australian-based architecture firm does a fantastic job of weaving project stories with rich visuals, process transparency, and an amazing website experience. I've seen hundreds, nay, thousands of architect websites over the years, and very few have managed to craft stories about their work and process like dB(A))).
Visit their site: https://www.db-a.co/
2. Rietveld Projects
Why we love it: Fantastic landing page to showcase their work.
Rietveld Projects is a Belgium-based architectural firm that has effectively utilized its landing page with amazing work and site interaction. The visual movement is just the right amount of motion, so it's not jarring to the user and really allows you to appreciate the scope of many of their amazing projects.
Visit their site: https://www.rietveldprojects.be/
3. William Rawn Associates
Why we love it: Superb project / portfolio layout with relevant details.
What's striking to me is that not enough architecture firms provide relevant details about their projects. Rawn Arch does a great job of providing meaningful information, not only for their site visitors but also for search engines.
Visit their site: https://rawnarch.com/
4. Skidmore, Owings & Merrill
Why we love it: Subtle yet bold, perfect blend of typography, layout and experience.
I suppose no architecture list would be complete without mentioning SOM. What else is left to say that hasn't already been said about the company? The level of detail on the SOM website is nothing short of astonishing (it helps when you have a ton of cash to spend). It's one of the few websites that matches the firm's personality to the core.
Visit their website: https://www.som.com/
5. Tennent Brown
Why we love it: It's an extreme departure from your typical white background architect site.
It's a bold move to buck the trend. Tennet Brown's website is unapologetic about their style but also manages to convey what their practice stands for: people and the environment. Their humanistic approach to architecture is apparent on every page and project. Not to mention the great backstory from each of the five perspectives.
The website is definitely worth a bookmark.
Visit their website: https://tennentbrown.co.nz/
6. Intentional Spaces
Why we love it: Superb layout even with dense information that doesn't feel overwhelming.
While not technically an architecture firm, Intentional Spaces makes it onto the list since it's architecture-adjacent and, not to mention, a joy to navigate. Page movements, layout, and tons of micro-interactions make it interesting for both web designers and users.
Visit their website: https://intentionalspaces.org/
7. AnotherKind
Why we love it: Great micro-interactions, fantastic color contrast / layout, and a mission statement that conveys immediately.
AnotherKind is a UK-based architectural practice that embraced a fantastic retro look for their website, executed beautifully. Each page on their website offers a fun interaction with great imagery and movement, inspiring the senses. Although their website represents a significant departure from the traditional architect's website, I believe it perfectly suits their personality and company as 'another kind' of practice.
Visit their site: https://www.akind-a.com/
Final Thoughts
As I find more we websites, I'll add them to the list of architecture web design inspirations. If you're interested in what R&Co. can do for your company, send us a note and we can get something started.
