Studio

A stack of papers with various designs on them

Form & function

Some say form should follow function, but true innovation occurs when form and function influence each other to produce something truly elegant. This is one of AGA’s guiding principles.

Although perfection is unattainable, every new project renews our passion to reach for it. Determining which designs, materials, and methods will best bring our clients’ dreams to fruition is our perpetual source of inspiration and is what drives us to constantly push the limitations of what architecture can be.

We work holistically, which means that when we design a space, we take into account the people, landscape, materials, light, and acoustics together. This philosophy is what enables us to create spaces that are not just good for the people that use them but for the surrounding environment as well.

Working with Alex Garland Architects was an absolute pleasure. They are a team of talented and dedicated architects who are committed to delivering exceptional results. I can't recommend Alex Garland Architects enough to anyone looking for a remarkable space.

- Michael Scott, Dunder Mifflin Paper

Turning dreams into reality

We make dreams a reality. We do this by understanding our client’s desires and then exceeding them. You don’t build a reputation like ours by winging it. No, you need a tried and true process that guarantees success. And we do.

First, our team works closely with you to gain an understanding of your vision, budget, and requirements. Next, we’ll conduct research to gain a deep understanding of the site, including its natural environment, topography, and climate.

Concept artwork and the actualized building

From there, initial concepts and sketches are made, which are refined through collaboration with the client and input from engineers, contractors, and other stakeholders. Once the design is finalized, our team will manage the construction process to ensure that the final product meets the highest standards of quality and sustainability.

Throughout the process, AGA emphasizes communication, collaboration, and attention to detail to ensure that every project is completed on time, on budget, and exceeds the client’s expectations.

Listen, create, improve, repeat

Sustainability

Sustainable architecture, aka green architecture, is the use of strategies that reduce a building’s negative impact on the environment during both its construction and long-term use. These strategies begin in the design phase and continue throughout the construction.

Sustainable architecture is becoming more of a necessity, and AGA prides itself in utilizing the latest strategies in its designs to ensure healthier inhabitants of our buildings and a healthier Earth.

Good sustainable design is holistic, meaning that the implementation should integrate into the project’s overall theme(s). When done correctly, this should not only improve the quality of life for those using the building but also reduce the cost of upkeep.

In order to achieve sustainability, AGA focuses on multiple strategies during the design and construction phases. The following are some of the primary ones.

Methods of sustainability

Vertical shading on a corporate building

Passive design

By placing windows and shading strategically and building with materials that retain the sun’s energy during the day and release it throughout the night, a building’s design can reduce its carbon footprint significantly.

Improved efficiency

By using high-efficiency electrical, HVAC, and plumbing systems, the building’s impact on the environment is reduced even further. In fact, by implementing renewable energy sources like solar, geothermal, or wind, a building can help supply a significant part of its own energy.

Green materials

Buildings can and should be constructed using recycled and/or renewable materials. And whenever possible, materials should be procured from companies that practice environmentally responsible methods.

Stormwater management

Preventing water runoff is essential for preserving the surrounding natural habitat. Instead of sending stormwater into storm drains, stormwater management systems such as retention ponds and pervious pavement can disperse life-giving water back into the ground where it’s most needed.

Alex Garland Architects designed my new restaurant, and they surpassed my wildest dreams. They listened to me and delivered everything I wanted, and then some. Thanks, Alex Garland Architects!

- Jessica Day, The Griffin Restaurant & Bar

Services we provide

Our services encompass a wide range of design and planning solutions for residential, commercial, and institutional projects. Creating custom-designed spaces that reflect the unique needs and desires of our clients is just the tip of the iceberg of what we offer.

We work closely with our clients throughout the life of their projects to ensure that both the finished project and the experience are always equally awe-inspiring. We're able to do this because we specialize in:

Sustainable & non-sustainable architectural design
Interior design
Project & construction administration
Structural engineering
Site & zoning analysis
Master planning
Landscape architecture
3D Photo-realistic renderings
Prototypes

If you would like to learn more about the ways we can help get your project over the finish line, please contact us.

A few awards we’ve won

2022

2022 AIA National Architecture Award

Wilder Dormitory • Coolidge College, Robbinsville, NJ

2022 National AIA Interior Architecture Honor Award

Seaglass Apartments • Long Branch, NJ

2021

2021 AIANY Architecture Merit Award

Library • Adams College, Bayonne, NJ

2021 20th in New Jersey’s Top Architectural Firms

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2020

2020 45th in Top 2020 Office Sector and AE Firms

2020 National AlA Interior Architecture Honor Award

Bella Vita • Asbury Park, NJ

2020 National AlA Architecture Honor Award

Sunnydale High School • Asbury Park, NJ

2019

2019 AIA National Architecture Award

Sunnydale High School • Asbury Park, NJ

2018

2018 National AlA Interior Architecture Honor Award

Bella Vita • Asbury Park, NJ

2018 National AlA Architecture Honor Award

Sunnydale High School • Asbury Park, NJ

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2017

2020 37th in Top 2020 Office Sector and AE Firms

2017 National AlA Interior Architecture Honor Award

Library • Adams College, Bayonne, NJ

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If you invest in beauty, it will remain with you all the days of your life.

- Frank Lloyd Wright