Business Details
Award-Winning Residential & Commercial Architects in Annapolis
Hansen Architects is a boutique architecture firm specializing in residential and commercial design along the Chesapeake Bay. With over 30 years of experience, we focus on creating artful, sustainable spaces that integrate seamlessly with waterfront and historic environments. Our team, led by Marta Hansen, AIA, combines artistic vision with technical expertise to maximize buildable potential on challenging sites. We prioritize quality over quantity, maintaining a small firm structure to deliver personalized service and award-winning results.Our portfolio includes 250+ residences and numerous accolades from the American Institute of Architects and national publications. We excel in navigating complex permitting processes and have deep expertise in LEED green architecture, modern farmhouse design, and historic renovation. Client satisfaction is central to our practice, reflected in our extensive list of testimonials and 30-year track record of published projects.
Services
Residential Design
Waterfront Homes
LEED Green Architecture
Historic Renovation
Modern Farmhouse Design
Highlights and features
- 30+ years of architectural expertise with 14 AIA design awards
- Specialized in challenging waterfront and historic site development
- Personalized service from principal Marta Hansen, AIA
- Proven success with complex permitting and zoning requirements
- Portfolio featured in national publications like Wall Street Journal
What people say
Award-winning designs
Excellent client communication
Creative solutions
Timely project delivery
Personalized service
Services
Residential Design
We create custom residential designs tailored to waterfront and historic sites. Our approach combines artistic vision with technical expertise to maximize buildable potential while maintaining aesthetic integrity. Clients benefit from 30+ years of experience in crafting functional, award-winning spaces that enhance daily living.
Waterfront Homes
Specializing in Chesapeake Bay waterfront properties, we design homes that harmonize with natural environments. Our expertise includes floodplain construction, erosion control, and maximizing scenic views while meeting strict regulatory requirements. Each project balances beauty with practical coastal living needs.
LEED Green Architecture
We integrate eco-friendly practices into every project phase. Our LEED-certified designs optimize energy efficiency, natural lighting, and material sustainability. Clients receive environmentally responsible buildings that reduce long-term operating costs without compromising aesthetic quality or functional performance.
Historic Renovation
Our team specializes in restoring historic properties while incorporating modern amenities. We navigate complex zoning regulations and maintain architectural integrity through meticulous research and material selection. This expertise ensures historically significant buildings remain functional for contemporary use.
Modern Farmhouse Design
We blend traditional farmhouse elements with modern design principles. These projects emphasize open spaces, natural materials, and energy-efficient systems while maintaining rustic charm. Our approach creates timeless homes that suit both aesthetic preferences and practical family needs.
People
Marta Hansen
Principal Architect
30-year architecture veteran with 14 AIA awards. Combines fine arts background with technical expertise from Rice University. Specializes in integrating natural elements with functional design for challenging waterfront and historic sites.
Questions
What architectural styles do you specialize in?
We specialize in waterfront homes, LEED green architecture, historic renovations, and modern farmhouse designs along the Chesapeake Bay region.
How do you handle complex building sites?
Our team has extensive experience with floodplains, steep slopes, and historic districts. We've successfully obtained permits for over 250 challenging projects in regulated environments.
Can you work with historic preservation guidelines?
Yes, we've completed numerous projects in the Annapolis Historic District and Sherwood Forest, maintaining architectural integrity while modernizing structures for contemporary use.
What sustainability practices do you incorporate?
We integrate LEED-certified materials, energy-efficient systems, and natural daylighting into all projects. Our designs reduce environmental impact while maintaining aesthetic quality.
How are design decisions handled?
Principal architect Marta Hansen personally oversees every project, ensuring consistent creative vision and technical expertise from concept through completion.
How can I view your past projects?
Our portfolio includes 250+ residences featured in publications like Better Homes and Gardens. A complete list with client testimonials is available on our Houzz profile.
