Business Details
Award-Winning Residential & Commercial Architecture in Annapolis
Hansen Architects is a boutique architecture firm specializing in residential and commercial design, with a focus on waterfront homes and LEED-certified green architecture across Maryland. For over 25 years, we have delivered artful, award-winning projects ranging from cottages to estates along the Chesapeake Bay. Our approach prioritizes quality over quantity, ensuring each design integrates natural daylighting, interior spaces, and landscape for cohesive, timeless results. Led by Marta Hansen, AIA, with 30 years of experience and 14 AIA design awards, we combine technical expertise with creative vision to maximize buildable potential on challenging sites. Our team excels in navigating complex permitting processes, including historic districts and floodplain regulations, while maintaining a client-centric focus.With 250+ built projects and features in national publications like the Wall Street Journal and HGTV, we uphold a reputation for excellence. Our process emphasizes listening to client needs, budget, and site constraints to create functional, aesthetically enduring spaces. We believe good design enhances daily life without additional cost when executed thoughtfully. Our portfolio showcases 300+ residential and commercial projects, reflecting a deep understanding of architectural history, structural engineering, and sustainable practices. Clients benefit from our regional expertise in Annapolis, Sherwood Forest, and the Chesapeake Bay area, where weve earned trust through consistent, high-quality outcomes.
Services
Residential Design
Waterfront Home Design
LEED Green Architecture
Historic Renovation
Modern Farmhouse Design
Highlights and features
- We offer 30 years of experience in artful, award-winning architectural design.
- Our team holds 14 American Institute of Architects design awards.
- We specialize in maximizing buildable potential on complex waterfront sites.
- Our founder personally oversees every project's architectural decisions.
- We integrate sustainable practices with timeless aesthetic principles.
Associations and certifications
- American Institute of Architects
- LEED
What people say
Award-winning designs
Personalized service
Expertise in waterfront homes
Successful permits
Timely delivery
Services
Residential Design
We create custom residential designs tailored to site-specific challenges and client lifestyles. Our approach integrates architectural history, structural engineering, and sustainable materials for functional, aesthetically enduring homes. With 250+ built projects across the Chesapeake Bay region, we specialize in crafting spaces that enhance daily living through thoughtful spatial planning and natural light optimization.
Waterfront Home Design
Our waterfront expertise maximizes views while addressing floodplain regulations and environmental constraints. We design resilient structures that harmonize with coastal ecosystems using durable materials and elevated foundations. With decades of experience in Maryland's tidal zones, we secure necessary permits and variances while maintaining architectural integrity and client budget parameters.
LEED Green Architecture
We implement LEED-certified practices to create energy-efficient buildings with minimal environmental impact. Our green architecture incorporates passive solar design, rainwater management systems, and locally sourced materials. By prioritizing sustainability without compromising aesthetics, we deliver homes that reduce operating costs while maintaining timeless architectural value across Maryland's diverse landscapes.
Historic Renovation
We specialize in restoring historic properties while integrating modern amenities and code requirements. Our team navigates Annapolis Historic District guidelines and Sherwood Forest covenants to maintain architectural authenticity. Through meticulous research and craftsmanship, we preserve structural heritage while enhancing functionality for contemporary living standards and energy efficiency.
Modern Farmhouse Design
Our modern farmhouse designs blend traditional rural aesthetics with contemporary spatial concepts. We incorporate open floor plans, natural materials, and energy-efficient systems while maintaining classic exterior elements. These homes balance rustic charm with modern functionality, tailored to Maryland's coastal climate and zoning regulations for enduring, low-maintenance living spaces.
People
Marta Hansen
Founder & Lead Architect
30-year architecture veteran with 14 AIA awards, specializing in waterfront and historic projects. Combines fine arts background with technical expertise from Rice University's top-ranked program. Personally oversees all design decisions.
Questions
What architectural styles do you specialize in?
We focus on residential and commercial projects including modern farmhouse, waterfront homes, and historic renovations while incorporating sustainable LEED-certified practices.
How do you handle complex zoning regulations?
Our team has extensive experience securing permits for challenging sites including floodplains, historic districts, and steep slopes through proven strategies and local authority relationships.
Can you work with tight budgets?
We prioritize budget alignment from project inception, using cost-effective materials and design solutions that maintain quality without unnecessary expenses.
Do you handle both design and construction?
We provide full-service architectural design and collaborate with trusted contractors for construction oversight to ensure design integrity throughout the building process.
What areas do you serve?
Primarily the Chesapeake Bay region including Annapolis, Sherwood Forest, and surrounding Maryland coastal communities with expertise in local building requirements.
How are your sustainability practices implemented?
We integrate LEED-certified methods like passive solar design, rainwater management, and energy-efficient systems while maintaining aesthetic and functional priorities.
