Business Details
Award-Winning Sustainable Architecture in Santa Monica
AI Architects is an award-winning, internationally recognized firm based in Santa Monica, California, known for elegant spatial planning, attention to detail, and commitment to sustainable contemporary design. Our work spans a broad range of scales and typologies, from meticulously detailed guesthouses and residences to large-scale urban projects integrating light rail and historic preservation. We specialize in adaptive reuse of landmark buildings, including the Biscuit Company Lofts in Los Angeles and the Karsiyaka Vertical Commercial Center in Izmir, Turkey. Our hands-on approach combines classic modernism with Southern California environmental sensibility, resulting in buildings that are inherently sustainable and emotionally evocative.We emphasize collaboration, research, and innovation, maintaining a vibrant studio culture through mentorship of younger architects and participation in design competitions. Our philosophy balances minimalist forms with tactile materials, creating spaces that engage inhabitants and respond to their context. We prioritize natural solutions in design, as seen in projects like the Cerritos Bath House renovation, which optimized daylight and airflow. Our urban projects focus on public realm integration, historic preservation, and sustainable systems-oriented design. We believe architecture should create living environments that harmonize private and public spaces while addressing societal needs through thoughtful, enduring design.
Services
Residential Architecture
Commercial Design
Urban Development
Historic Preservation
Sustainable Design
Adaptive Reuse
Interior Renovation
Public Infrastructure
Mixed-Use Projects
Lighting Design
Highlights and features
- We offer 25+ years of experience in sustainable architectural design
- Our team combines modernist principles with environmental sensitivity
- We specialize in adaptive reuse of historic buildings
- Our hands-on approach ensures personalized attention to every project
- We integrate natural solutions for energy-efficient designs
Services
Residential Architecture
We create custom residential spaces that balance modern aesthetics with functional living needs. Our designs emphasize natural light, sustainable materials, and seamless indoor-outdoor connections. Projects range from hillside homes in Los Angeles to urban infill developments, always respecting neighborhood character while introducing contemporary solutions.
Adaptive Reuse
Our firm specializes in transforming historic structures into modern functional spaces while preserving architectural heritage. Notable projects include converting the Biscuit Company Lofts and revitalizing the Armory Center for the Arts. We maintain historical integrity while integrating contemporary systems and sustainable technologies for long-term viability.
Urban Development
We design mixed-use developments that enhance urban environments through thoughtful integration of housing, retail, and public spaces. Projects like the Culver City Transit Park and Rondstadt Transit Center demonstrate our ability to create vibrant, pedestrian-friendly communities that address transportation, sustainability, and economic development needs.
Commercial Design
Our commercial projects create inspiring work environments that support productivity and brand identity. From the 8550 Santa Monica Blvd mixed-use building to the Karsiyaka Community Center in Turkey, we design spaces that balance aesthetic appeal with practical functionality while maintaining contextual sensitivity.
Sustainable Design
Sustainability is core to our design philosophy, incorporating energy-efficient systems and natural solutions. We prioritize passive design strategies, material reuse, and environmentally responsive approaches. Our work demonstrates that sustainable architecture can be both innovative and aesthetically compelling while meeting contemporary environmental challenges.
People
Aleks Istanbullu
Principal Architect
Aleks Istanbullu combines modernist training with environmental sensibility, leading projects that balance minimalism with warmth. His hands-on approach ensures each design becomes a functional whole, emphasizing sustainability and contextual harmony through material choices and spatial innovation.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer?
We provide residential, commercial, and urban design services including new construction, historic preservation, adaptive reuse, and sustainable design solutions.
Do you work on international projects?
Yes, we've completed projects in Turkey, including the Karsiyaka Vertical Commercial Center, and maintain expertise in cross-cultural design considerations.
How do you approach sustainable design?
We integrate passive design strategies, natural systems, and material efficiency to create buildings that minimize environmental impact while maintaining aesthetic quality.
Can you work with historic buildings?
Yes, we specialize in historic preservation and adaptive reuse, as demonstrated by our work on the Biscuit Company Lofts and Armory Center for the Arts.
What project scales do you handle?
We work across scales from small residential renovations to large urban developments, adapting our approach to each project's specific needs.
How do you ensure design quality?
Our hands-on approach and in-house research maintain design excellence, combining modernist principles with contemporary innovation and material experimentation.
