Business Details
Modern Architecture & Urban Design in Los Angeles
Dutton Architects is a boutique design firm dedicated to creating inspiring places to live and work through modern architecture. We specialize in custom residential homes, commercial spaces, and urban design projects that integrate seamlessly with their environments. Our collaborative process prioritizes client needs while solving complex site challenges with sustainable solutions. With deep expertise in California modernism, we design spaces that connect indoor and outdoor living while maintaining contextual sensitivity. Our urban planning work focuses on pedestrian-oriented, mixed-use developments that counteract suburban sprawl.The firm's leadership brings decades of experience from world-renowned architectural practices and academic institutions. We maintain direct principal involvement in every project, ensuring personalized service from initial concept through construction completion. Our work has been internationally recognized through publications, awards, and exhibitions. Client relationships remain central to our practice, with many clients returning for multiple projects. We combine academic rigor with practical construction knowledge to deliver buildings that enhance daily life while maintaining environmental responsibility.
Services
Residential Architecture
Commercial Design
Urban Planning
Sustainable Design
Custom Homes
Highlights and features
- We maintain direct principal involvement in every project
- Our designs solve complex site challenges with sustainable solutions
- Combines academic expertise with practical construction knowledge
- Specializes in California modernism with environmental sensitivity
- Proven track record with internationally recognized projects
What people say
Creative and beautiful design solutions
Professional in every way
Rose to the occasion
Collaborative process
Smart design
Services
Residential Architecture
Custom residential architecture creating modern living spaces that integrate with California's climate and landscape. Our approach combines innovative design with practical functionality, addressing unique site challenges while maintaining environmental sustainability. Projects range from single-family homes to multi-family housing developments.
Commercial Design
Designing functional commercial spaces that reflect brand identity and enhance business operations. We create environments that support workplace efficiency while maintaining aesthetic excellence. Our expertise includes office spaces, retail environments, and institutional facilities with tailored spatial solutions.
Urban Planning
Creating sustainable urban environments through comprehensive planning and mixed-use development strategies. Our work focuses on pedestrian-oriented neighborhoods that combat suburban sprawl. We design streetscapes, public spaces, and master plans that enhance urban living while addressing environmental challenges.
Sustainable Design
Integrating environmentally responsible practices into all projects through energy-efficient systems and sustainable materials. We develop solutions that minimize environmental impact while maintaining design integrity. Our approach balances ecological responsibility with functional requirements and aesthetic quality.
Project Management
Comprehensive project management from initial concept through construction completion. We coordinate all aspects of design and construction while maintaining direct client communication. Our services include permitting assistance, contractor coordination, and quality control throughout the building process.
People
John Dutton
Principal Architect
Founder of Dutton Architects with decades of experience from renowned firms like Morphosis and Richard Meier. Adjunct professor at USC School of Architecture and former president of the Los Angeles Forum for Architecture. Specializes in merging academic rigor with practical design solutions.
David Milner
Director of Studio
Oversees studio operations with a builder's practical knowledge and educator's perspective. Manages project quality control and team development. Coordinates consultants and contractors while maintaining attention to material details and architectural form relationships.
Questions
What architectural styles does Dutton Architects specialize in?
We focus on modern architecture that maintains contextual sensitivity while incorporating sustainable materials and California indoor-outdoor living principles.
Do you work on both residential and commercial projects?
Yes, we handle custom residential homes, commercial spaces, and urban design projects with equal expertise and attention to detail.
How does the design process work?
Our collaborative process begins with programming and continues through design, permitting, and construction with direct principal involvement at every stage.
Are sustainable design practices incorporated?
Sustainability is integral to our approach, with energy-efficient solutions and environmentally responsible materials included in all our projects.
What geographic areas do you serve?
While based in Los Angeles, we work throughout California and on selected international projects requiring our specialized expertise.
Reviews (4)
Jennifer Johnson
Jul 03, 2021
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Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Responsiveness,Value
John Dutton and his excellent team designed our remodel inside and out and the result was extraordinary. He was a joy to work with and his creativity, vision and attention to detail transformed our home into a dream come true. I couldnt recommend him more confidently.
John Dutton and his excellent team designed our remodel inside and out and the result was extraordinary. He was a joy to work with and his creativity, vision and attention to detail transformed our home into a dream come true. I couldnt recommend him more confidently.
Danny Shader
Jun 30, 2021
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Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Responsiveness,Value
John Dutton directed the remodel of our home and designed the hardscape outside, transforming our living space both inside and out. He was easy to work with, responsive, and thought of things that never would have occurred to us on our own that ultimately proved to be incredibly important.
John Dutton directed the remodel of our home and designed the hardscape outside, transforming our living space both inside and out. He was easy to work with, responsive, and thought of things that never would have occurred to us on our own that ultimately proved to be incredibly important.
Rob Johnsen
Jun 26, 2021
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Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Responsiveness,Value
John is a great mentor, teacher and amazing architect!
John is a great mentor, teacher and amazing architect!
Caitlin Scanlon
Jun 18, 2021
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Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Responsiveness
I have had the pleasure of working with Dutton Architects multiple times and never cease to be amazed by the vision and professionalism they bring to each project.
I have had the pleasure of working with Dutton Architects multiple times and never cease to be amazed by the vision and professionalism they bring to each project.
