Business Details
26 Years
experience
Award-Winning Residential Architects in New Jersey, NY & PA
Clawson Architects is an award-winning, nationally recognized architecture and interior design firm with over 600 built projects and a reputation for client satisfaction. Founded in 2000, we specialize in transformational renovations, additions, custom home design, and historic preservation. Our team of licensed professionals includes architects, interior designers, engineers, and preservationists who collaborate to create timeless, seamless solutions that respect neighborhoods and the environment. With expertise in period home detailing and modern design, we have earned 13 AIA Design Awards and a stellar record for variance approvals in challenging jurisdictions.Our hands-on approach includes real-time hand-sketching to visualize solutions, ensuring alignment with client goals. We serve clients across New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Vermont, Florida, and Rhode Island, prioritizing sustainability through preservation and innovative green architecture. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our NCARB-certified team, LEED and Passive Building certifications, and a focus on long-term client relationships.
Services
Residential Architecture
Historic Preservation
Custom Home Design
Interior Design
Zoning Variances
3D Renderings
Restoration Services
Institutional Projects
Kitchen & Bath Design
Construction Administration
Details
- Year established: 2000
Highlights and features
- 25-year success record with challenging zoning variances and permits
- 13 AIA Design Awards for residential and institutional projects
- LEED-certified team members and sustainable design expertise
- Real-time hand-sketching for collaborative client visualization
- NCARB-certified architects with reciprocity in all U.S. jurisdictions
Associations and certifications
- AIA (American Institute of Architects)
- LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)
What people say
Exceeded expectations
Design excellence
Client testimonials
Award-winning aesthetics
Seamless renovations
Services
Residential Architecture
Clawson Architects creates custom residential designs that blend period authenticity with modern functionality. Our services include ground-up construction, renovations, and additions tailored to client needs. We prioritize sustainable practices through preservation and adaptive reuse while incorporating contemporary amenities. Our team ensures seamless integration with existing neighborhoods and environments.
Historic Preservation
Specializing in historic home preservation, we handle landmark submittals, restoration projects, and period-accurate renovations. Our expertise includes navigating historical board approvals and maintaining architectural integrity while modernizing spaces. We've completed over 600 projects with a focus on contextual design solutions.
Interior Design
Our interior design services focus on functional layouts, kitchen and bath design, and period-specific detailing. We offer material selection, custom cabinetry, and integration of modern technology within historic frameworks. The team specializes in creating cohesive spaces that reflect client lifestyles and property heritage.
Zoning Variances
We prepare comprehensive variance applications for challenging jurisdictions, leveraging our 25-year success record. Our approach combines thoughtful design with organized documentation to secure approvals from zoning boards and historical committees across multiple states.
3D Renderings
We provide photorealistic 3D renderings and hand-drawn perspectives to help clients visualize projects. This service supports decision-making during design phases and aids in community organization presentations for project approvals.
People
Marvin E. Clawson
Principal Architect and Partner
Marvin Clawson listens closely to client needs and sketches real-time solutions. With AIA, NCARB, and ASID certifications, he combines technical expertise with creative problem-solving. His focus on period architecture and collaborative approach has earned industry recognition.
Mary Ren Clawson
Founding Partner
Ren Clawson co-founded the firm in 2000, bringing artistic vision and leadership to residential and institutional projects. A LEED AP and AIA member, she specializes in color theory, interior design, and client relationship management.
Leaha Bovino
Associate Architect
Leaha specializes in historic preservation with a focus on contextual design. Her background includes architectural tours and historical research, contributing to award-winning preservation projects.
Colleen Kirk
Engineer
Colleen provides structural engineering expertise with a focus on green building practices. Her experience includes playground structures and timber detailing, enhancing both residential and institutional projects.
Layla Danelle Neira
Architectural Designer
Layla holds a classical architecture certificate and has received AIA design awards. Her work focuses on blending traditional architectural principles with modern functionality in residential projects.
Questions
What architectural services does Clawson Architects specialize in?
We specialize in residential architecture, historic preservation, custom home design, renovations, additions, and institutional projects.
Do you work on historic home preservation projects?
Yes, we have extensive experience in historic preservation with specialized submittals and approvals for landmark properties.
Can you assist with zoning variances and permits?
Yes, we have a 25-year track record of successfully securing variances and permits in challenging jurisdictions.
What areas do you serve?
We operate in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Vermont, Florida, and Rhode Island.
How does your design process work?
We use real-time hand-sketching and collaborative consultations to develop tailored solutions aligned with client goals.
