Business Details
Award-Winning Architectural Design in Santa Monica
AI Architects is an award-winning, internationally recognized firm based in Santa Monica, California, known for elegant spatial planning, attention to detail, and commitment to sustainable contemporary design. Our work spans a broad range of scales and typologies, from meticulously detailed residences on secluded Beverly Hills hilltops to large-scale urban projects like the integration of light rail infrastructure in Tucson's Historic Core. We specialize in adaptive reuse of landmark buildings, including the Biscuit Company Lofts in Los Angeles and the Armory Center for the Arts in Pasadena.Our hands-on approach combines classic modernist training with respect for history and a Southern California environmental sensibility, resulting in buildings that are inherently sustainable and emotionally evocative. We maintain a vibrant studio culture through collaboration with younger architects, ongoing research, and participation in design competitions, ensuring our work remains innovative and contemporary while maintaining resonant identity and lasting meaning.
Services
Residential Architecture
Commercial Architecture
Adaptive Reuse
Urban Planning
Historic Preservation
Interior Design
Highlights and features
- We offer 20+ years of international architectural experience with award-winning designs
- Our hands-on approach combines modernist principles with environmental sensitivity
- Specialists in adaptive reuse of historic buildings while preserving cultural context
- Proven expertise in transforming complex urban sites into functional spaces
- Committed to sustainable design through material innovation and natural solutions
Services
Residential Architecture
We create contemporary residential spaces that balance minimalist aesthetics with warm, tactile materials. Our designs emphasize natural light integration, sustainable construction methods, and seamless indoor-outdoor connections. Each project responds to the unique topography and environmental conditions of its site while maintaining functional elegance.
Adaptive Reuse
Our firm specializes in transforming historic structures into modern functional spaces while preserving cultural heritage. We implement innovative solutions that maintain architectural integrity while incorporating contemporary systems and sustainability features. Projects include industrial conversions and landmark building rehabilitations across multiple cities.
Urban Planning
We develop comprehensive urban solutions that integrate transportation infrastructure, mixed-use developments, and public spaces. Our approach prioritizes pedestrian-friendly environments, sustainable connectivity, and community-oriented design. Projects range from transit-oriented developments to complete neighborhood revitalizations across diverse geographic contexts.
Commercial Architecture
Our commercial projects combine functional efficiency with striking architectural forms. We design spaces that enhance user experience through thoughtful spatial planning, innovative material applications, and integration of natural elements. Solutions address both aesthetic requirements and practical business needs across retail, office, and institutional settings.
Historic Preservation
We specialize in maintaining architectural heritage through careful restoration and adaptive reuse strategies. Our work ensures historical buildings meet modern functionality requirements while preserving their cultural significance. This includes structural stabilization, material conservation, and integration of contemporary systems without compromising original design intent.
People
Aleks Istanbullu
Principal Architect
Aleks Istanbullu leads the firm with a hands-on approach combining modernist principles and environmental sensitivity. With international recognition for innovative spatial planning, he emphasizes sustainable materials and contextual design. His work spans residential, commercial, and cultural projects, maintaining a balance between minimalist aesthetics and functional elegance.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialize in?
We specialize in residential architecture, commercial buildings, adaptive reuse projects, urban planning, and historic preservation with a focus on sustainable design.
How do you approach sustainable design?
Our sustainable approach combines natural solutions, material innovation, and energy-efficient systems while maintaining aesthetic integrity and functional performance.
Can you work on historic building renovations?
Yes, we have extensive experience with historic preservation and adaptive reuse projects, including the Biscuit Company Lofts and Armory Center for the Arts.
Do you handle international projects?
Yes, we've completed projects internationally, including the Karsiyaka Vertical Commercial Center in Izmir, Turkey.
What makes your firm unique?
Our hands-on approach blends modernist principles with environmental sensitivity, creating emotionally evocative spaces that respond to both client needs and cultural context.
How do you handle complex urban sites?
We transform challenging urban sites through innovative design solutions that integrate with existing infrastructure while creating functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces.
