For the past few years, Ocean Home magazine has asked that I help develop a list of architects who count homes on the water as one of their preferred specialties. This past year was no different, but with the addition of a number of newcomers, both large and small. They join the latest list of “Top Coastal Architects,” that’s now grown to well over its original 50. This “Who’s Who in Residential Coastal Design” includes ocean homes that reach from coast to coast, to Hawaii and the Caribbean – and it starts right here:

ALABAMA

Christopher Architecture and Interiors

Birmingham 

Known for: Blending responsive architecture and thoughtful interiors to create a cohesive and inspiring environment.
Highlight: New and talented staff looking forward to continued growth.
Highlight: Southeast Luxe Red Award for Exterior Architecture.
In the works: Projects in Alys Beach and 30A Area; Bay Area, Cal; Boulder, Col; Upstate New York; Lake Martin, Ala; Dallas, Texas. christopherai.com

Jeffrey Dungan Architects

Mountain Brook

Known for: A clean and modern approach to traditional vernaculars and classical architecture.
Highlight: New flooring collection with Texture Nashville.
Highlight: Completed projects across the US and the Caribbean.
Highlight: Work featured in Vogue Living, LUXE, Architectural Digest, and Veranda.
In the works: Projects across the US, including the Rockies, Upstate New York, the Southeast, and California, as well the UK, the Caribbean, and Central America. jeffreydungan.com

CALIFORNIA

Anacapa Architects

Santa Barbara

Known for: Committed to crafting spaces that inspire and enhance the well-being of clients and the community, while preserving a legacy for future generations.
Highlight: Recognition on Architizer’s A+ List: The 220 Best Architecture and Design Firms Worldwide in 2024.
Highlight: New LEED-certified office space in Santa Barbara.
In the works: Projects in Hawaii (Big Island and Maui); a home in Portland, Oregon; a cabin in Wyoming; and several homes along the central coast of California. anacapaarchitecture.com

For more, go here: