Business Details
29 Years
experience
Trusted Residential Architects in Bala Cynwyd, PA
Founded in 1997 by Cheryl A. O'Brien, C O'Brien Architects specializes in residential architecture, blending creativity, efficiency, and meticulous attention to detail. With over 25 years of experience in both homebuilding and architectural design, the firm caters to private clients and homebuilders, offering personalized service that prioritizes client self-expression and market-driven solutions. Cheryl's background as a former Director of Architectural Services for Ryland Homes and Realen Homes informs her ability to create award-winning, cost-effective designs that consistently exceed client expectations.The firm's portfolio spans first-time buyer homes to luxury estates across the Mid-Atlantic, Midwest, and Germany, with work featured in prominent industry publications and recognized through numerous design awards. C O'Brien Architects emphasizes a collaborative process, guiding clients through every stage of design and construction while maintaining a commitment to innovation, transparency, and enduring client relationships.
Services
Custom Home Architecture
House Plans & Blueprints
Home Renovation & Remodeling
Sustainable Home Design
Luxury Home Architecture
Historic Home Restoration
Energy-Efficient Design
Architectural Consulting
Home Site Planning
Interior Architecture
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- We offer 25+ years of experience in residential architecture and homebuilding.
- Our team combines architectural creativity with practical construction expertise.
- We provide personalized service with a focus on client self-expression.
- Our designs have won multiple regional and national industry awards.
- We serve clients across eight states with market-specific knowledge.
What people say
Responsive and fun to work with
Energy-efficient and beautiful designs
Understands market needs perfectly
Timely communication
Award-winning creative vision
Services
Custom Home Architecture
Creating tailored residential designs that balance aesthetic creativity with functional efficiency. Our process begins with understanding client lifestyle needs and budget constraints, followed by developing architectural plans that maximize space utilization and market appeal. We incorporate sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems while maintaining compliance with local building codes and zoning requirements.
Home Renovation & Remodeling
Transforming existing spaces to enhance functionality and value. Our team assesses structural integrity, identifies improvement opportunities, and designs solutions that align with current design trends and building standards. We manage projects from concept through construction, ensuring minimal disruption while delivering modernized living environments that meet evolving homeowner needs.
Sustainable Home Design
Integrating eco-friendly practices into residential projects through energy-efficient systems and sustainable materials. Our approach includes passive solar design, water conservation strategies, and LEED-compliant construction methods. We help clients achieve environmental goals while maintaining aesthetic appeal and long-term cost savings through reduced utility consumption.
Architectural Consulting
Providing expert guidance on residential development projects. Services include feasibility studies, zoning analysis, and construction cost evaluations. We assist clients in navigating regulatory requirements while optimizing design solutions for market success, ensuring alignment between architectural vision and practical implementation.
Historic Home Restoration
Preserving architectural character while modernizing historic properties. Our specialists conduct detailed condition assessments, source period-appropriate materials, and implement restoration techniques that maintain historical integrity. We balance preservation requirements with contemporary living standards, ensuring compliance with heritage conservation guidelines while enhancing structural longevity.
People
Cheryl A. O'Brien
President, Lead Designer
Architect and founder with 25+ years of experience in residential design and homebuilding. Graduated from University of Notre Dame with honors, former Director of Architectural Services for Ryland Homes, and recipient of multiple industry awards for innovative home design.
Questions
What makes C. O'Brien Architects unique?
Our combination of architectural creativity and homebuilding expertise ensures designs that balance aesthetic appeal with construction efficiency and market demands.
Which states do you serve?
We operate in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Ohio, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Michigan, and Kansas.
How do you handle client communication?
We maintain regular contact through phone, email, and site visits, ensuring timely responses and transparent project updates throughout the design process.
What project types do you specialize in?
We focus on custom homes, renovations, sustainable designs, luxury estates, and historic restorations for both private clients and homebuilders.
Can you assist with production home designs?
Yes, we create cost-effective, market-driven designs for homebuilders, including floor plans that optimize construction efficiency while maintaining aesthetic appeal.
