Three Minnesota firms, Alchemy Architects, PKA Architecture, and PLAAD, have made the list of America’s Top 200 Residential Architects for 2026.
Candidates and Selection Process
The list aims to spotlight architects’ influence on home design. While Forbes notes that fewer than 2% of the nearly 1 million U.S. homes built annually are architect-designed, these custom residences often showcase advancements in aesthetics, technology, and sustainability compared to mass-produced homes.
Forbes evaluated over 18,000 candidates for this list, inviting more than 750 to submit projects for further review. Both returning firms from the 2025 list and new applicants were considered, with previous honorees asked to present one standout project completed since 2021.
Criteria for Selection
This list focuses only on quality, unlike Forbes’ companion list of America’s Best-In-State Residential Architects, which emphasizes geography. For 2026, this means that a large chunk of the honored firms are located in California, New York, and Texas, with an additional 38 states and the District of Columbia represented as well, including Minnesota.
The evaluation focused on seven specific categories. Siting and local context were examined for the home’s relationship with the natural environment, solar orientation, and adaptation to sea level rise or flood risk. Architectural form and detailing were assessed to see how well the structure honors its cultural and environmental context and expresses structural principals. Building materials and craft were reviewed for material selections, consistent detailing, and the use of locally sourced or repurposed materials alongside local artisans.
Spatial configuration was analyzed to determine the home’s layout, circulation, and indoor-outdoor relationship. HVAC and tech were evaluated for passive solar, natural ventilation, smart home systems, and whether the home relies on electric-dominant systems. Physical and psychology effects considered sound reduction strategies and how the design harnesses natural light. Finally, environmental considerations assessed green infrastructure and the home’s ability to withstand extreme climate conditions.
Firm Reactions
PKA Architecture’s design principal and partner, Kristine Anderson, stated that the recognition reflects the thoughtful work, dedication, and collaboration the team brings to each project. She noted that the firm is grateful to clients, collaborators, builders, and partners who place trust in their creative work.