Business Details
29 Years
experience
Sustainable Contemporary Architecture for the American West
Sparano + Mooney Architecture is a collective of designers and craftspeople dedicated to creating sustainable, contemporary architecture that connects people with their communities and landscapes. Founded in 1997 by John Sparano and Anne Mooney, our practice has evolved over 25 years into a respected firm with offices in Salt Lake City and Los Angeles. We specialize in delivering thoughtfully-considered designs for cultural institutions, private residences, and civic projects across the American West. Our team combines research-based conceptual approaches with a deep understanding of site-specific contexts, ensuring each project reflects both the client's vision and the unique cultural and environmental characteristics of its location. Recognized with over 50 design awards, including the AIA Western Mountain Region Firm of the Year, we maintain a commitment to excellence through collaborative processes and innovative solutions.Our work spans from micro off-grid projects to large-scale urban designs, always prioritizing sustainability and timeless aesthetics. As LEED-accredited professionals, we integrate energy-efficient practices into every project while maintaining a strong focus on craftsmanship and material integrity. Our architects have earned individual accolades, including AIA Fellowships and regional medals, and we actively contribute to architectural education and community development initiatives. With a portfolio featured in international publications and exhibitions, we continue to shape the architectural landscape of the American West through a balance of tradition and cutting-edge innovation.
Services
Sustainable Architecture
Cultural Facilities
Mountain Modern Homes
Urban Design
Historic Preservation
Resort Architecture
Civic Projects
Mixed-Use Development
Master Planning
Green Building Certification
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- We offer 25 years of specialized expertise in Western mountain region architecture
- Our firm has received over 50 prestigious design awards for architectural excellence
- We implement a research-based design process tailored to each project's unique context
- Our LEED-accredited team prioritizes sustainable and energy-efficient building practices
- Founding partners maintain active leadership roles with AIA and architectural education
Associations and certifications
- LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)
What people say
Design excellence
Sustainable solutions
Award-winning work
Site-specific expertise
Community engagement
Services
Sustainable Architecture
Our sustainable architecture practice integrates energy-efficient systems and environmentally responsible materials while maintaining aesthetic integrity. We develop custom solutions for passive solar design, LEED certification, and net-zero energy goals. Our team applies cutting-edge technology to create buildings that minimize environmental impact while maximizing long-term value for clients across residential, cultural, and civic sectors.
Mountain Modern Homes
Specializing in mountain modern architecture, we design custom homes that harmonize with rugged Western landscapes. Our approach combines contemporary aesthetics with functional mountain living requirements, featuring innovative solutions for snow loads, thermal performance, and seamless indoor-outdoor integration. Each project emphasizes site-specific design while maintaining timeless architectural quality across Utah's Wasatch Range and similar environments.
Cultural Facilities
We create landmark cultural facilities that enhance community engagement through innovative spatial design. Our portfolio includes museums, performing arts centers, and exhibition spaces that balance artistic expression with practical functionality. The design process emphasizes public outreach and stakeholder collaboration to ensure each facility becomes a meaningful civic asset that reflects local identity and cultural heritage.
Urban Design
Our urban design practice focuses on creating cohesive, sustainable environments through master planning and mixed-use developments. We address complex site conditions and community needs while maintaining architectural integrity at multiple scales. Services include transit-oriented development, public space design, and adaptive reuse strategies that promote walkability and environmental stewardship in growing Western cities.
Historic Preservation
We specialize in preserving architectural heritage through adaptive reuse and sensitive restoration projects. Our approach combines modern functionality with historical accuracy, employing advanced materials and construction techniques to extend building lifespans. This service supports clients seeking to maintain cultural continuity while meeting contemporary performance standards for institutional, commercial, and residential properties.
People
John Sparano
Co-Founder
FAIA Fellow with 25+ years experience, specializing in Western mountain architecture. Former AIA chapter president and recipient of regional Bronze and Silver medals for architectural excellence. Educated at the Architectural Association in London.
Anne Mooney
Co-Founder
FAIA Fellow, LEED AP, and NCARB-certified architect. Recognized as Top Woman in Architecture by Mountain Living magazine. Served on AIA national board and chaired the Committee on the Environment. Professor at University of Utah since 2015.
Ludwing Juarez
Principal
Experienced architect with expertise in complex civic projects and sustainable design implementation. Plays key leadership role in advancing the firm's research-based design methodology while maintaining technical excellence across all project phases.
Nate King
Principal
Specializes in mountain modern residential architecture with focus on passive solar design and material innovation. Leads design teams for high-end custom homes throughout the Western United States while maintaining strict sustainability standards.
Seth Striefel
Principal
Expert in cultural facility design with extensive experience managing large-scale institutional projects. Focuses on community engagement processes and adaptive reuse strategies that balance historical preservation with modern functionality requirements.
Questions
What geographic regions do you serve?
We primarily work throughout the American West including California, Utah, Colorado, and Wyoming, with specialized expertise in mountainous regions.
Do you handle both residential and commercial projects?
Yes, our portfolio includes custom mountain homes, cultural institutions, civic buildings, and mixed-use developments across private and public sectors.
How do you incorporate sustainability into designs?
We integrate LEED-certified practices, passive solar strategies, and locally-sourced materials while prioritizing energy efficiency and environmental responsibility in every project phase.
What is your design process like?
Our research-based approach combines site analysis, client vision workshops, and community engagement to create tailored solutions that balance aesthetics with technical precision.
How experienced is your team with complex sites?
With 25+ years of experience in challenging mountain environments, we've developed specialized expertise in addressing difficult terrain, climate conditions, and regulatory requirements.
Can you work with historic buildings?
Yes, we specialize in adaptive reuse and historic preservation projects that maintain architectural integrity while implementing modern functionality and sustainability standards.
