Business Details
17 Years
experience
Your Trusted Architects in Kensington, MD
Drakakis Architecture was founded in December 2009 by Desire-Marie Escario Drakakis and Kosta J. Drakakis, both of whom bring decades of combined experience from prestigious architectural firms. Our team specializes in residential, commercial, and institutional projects, with expertise in contextual additions, renovations, and new construction spanning historic to modern styles. We approach each project with a fresh perspective, prioritizing client objectives, site specifics, and community impact. Our principals hold advanced degrees from the University of Maryland and University of Virginia, with additional international study in Italy. We integrate design excellence with practical solutions to create spaces that harmonize with their environments.Our work includes award-winning renovations, custom interiors, and new constructions that enhance functionality while preserving historical context. We maintain a commitment to transparency, ethical practices, and client collaboration throughout the design process. Our portfolio demonstrates mastery in transforming spaces through light-filled designs, seamless indoor-outdoor connections, and custom fabrication. We serve clients in the Washington DC metropolitan area, Maryland, and internationally. Our team's diverse background enables us to deliver innovative solutions tailored to each project's unique requirements.
Services
Residential Design
Commercial Renovations
New Construction
Interior Architecture
Historic Preservation
Custom Fabrication
Contextual Additions
Space Planning
Design Consultation
Project Management
Details
- Year established: 2009
Highlights and features
- Founded in 2009 by principals with decades of experience at top architectural firms
- Specialize in transforming both historic and modern structures with contextual sensitivity
- Offer full-service design from conceptualization through construction completion
- Maintain deep expertise in Washington DC, Maryland, and international markets
- Combine academic excellence with practical experience in diverse architectural styles
Services
Residential Design
We create custom residential designs that optimize space functionality while maintaining aesthetic harmony. Our approach integrates natural light, modern amenities, and contextual elements to enhance living experiences. Projects range from whole-house renovations to targeted kitchen and bathroom transformations.
Commercial Renovations
Specializing in commercial renovations that preserve historical character while meeting modern business needs. Our solutions enhance customer experiences through thoughtful layouts, updated infrastructure, and brand-appropriate design elements. We maintain community context in all commercial transformations.
New Construction
Offering comprehensive new construction services from conceptual design through completion. Our team creates structures that seamlessly integrate with their surroundings while meeting functional requirements. We specialize in both modern and traditional architectural styles for residential and commercial clients.
Interior Architecture
Designing light-filled interior spaces that maximize functionality and aesthetic appeal. Our work includes custom cabinetry, space planning, and material selection that creates cohesive environments. We focus on seamless transitions between different living or working areas.
Historic Preservation
Expertise in preserving historical structures while implementing modern updates. Our approach maintains original architectural integrity while improving functionality and safety. We work with local regulations to ensure proper preservation techniques in all heritage projects.
People
Desire-Marie Escario Drakakis
Principal
Licensed architect with 25+ years experience. Holds Master of Architecture from University of Maryland and Bachelor of Science in Architecture from University of Virginia. Specializes in contextual design and historic preservation.
Kosta J. Drakakis
Principal
Licensed architect with extensive experience in diverse architectural styles. Holds Master of Architecture from University of Maryland. Combines design expertise with product development background through artisan food ventures.
Sophia J. Mantzouranis
Staff
Experienced architectural professional with prior engineering firm experience. Provides technical expertise and project coordination for complex renovations and new construction projects.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer?
We provide full-service architectural design including residential and commercial projects, new construction, renovations, interior design, and historic preservation. Our services span from conceptual design through construction completion.
Do you work on historic buildings?
Yes, we specialize in historic preservation projects. Our team maintains original architectural integrity while implementing modern updates that meet current building codes and functional requirements.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia. Our experience also includes international projects in Greece and other locations through remote collaboration capabilities.
How long have you been in business?
Drakakis Architecture was founded in December 2009. Our principals bring decades of combined experience from previous positions at prominent architectural firms.
Can you handle both residential and commercial projects?
Yes, we have extensive experience with both residential and commercial projects. Our portfolio includes everything from single-family homes to commercial renovations and institutional buildings.
What makes your firm unique?
Our unique combination of academic excellence, international experience, and practical expertise allows us to approach each project with fresh perspective while maintaining deep understanding of local architectural contexts.
