Business Details
15 Years
experience
Human-Centric Architectural Design Solutions
Founded in 2011, Emotive Architecture has established itself as a solution-oriented design firm dedicated to creating value for clients and communities through innovative architectural practices. Our approach centers on human-centric design, emphasizing the relationship between users and their environments to enhance quality of life. We prioritize community architecture by integrating local knowledge and traditions, ensuring our projects foster authentic, meaningful spaces. With expertise in land-use entitlement and urban development, we deliver aesthetically functional structures across the Washington, DC region. Our team combines 20+ years of collective experience in multi-family residential, commercial, and institutional projects, specializing in schematic design, construction administration, and BIM.We uphold design integrity through meticulous attention to detail and transparent communication, maintaining a collaborative spirit with clients and partners. Recognized for navigating complex regulatory processes, we ensure projects meet both aesthetic and functional goals while adhering to timelines and budgets. Our commitment to growth and learning drives continuous innovation, reflected in over $107 million in completed projects spanning 1 million square feet. As active members of the DC Board of Architecture, we champion thoughtful urban development and architectural legacy. This combination of technical expertise, community focus, and ethical practice positions us as trusted leaders in the architectural field.
Services
Architectural Design
Interior Design
Construction Administration
BIM Modeling
Land-Use Entitlement
Space Planning
Site Design
Project Management
Details
- Year established: 2011
Highlights and features
- We have 13+ years of experience delivering $107M+ in architectural projects across 1M+ sq. ft.
- Our team includes DC Board of Architecture members with regulatory expertise
- We implement Building Information Modeling (BIM) for precision design execution
- We specialize in navigating Washington, DC's complex zoning and permitting processes
- Our principals maintain 20-35 years of individual experience in diverse project types
What people say
Exceptional communication
Expert in design
Navigated regulatory hurdles
Approachable work style
Creative problem-solving
Services
Architectural Design
Our architectural design service creates context-driven spaces that balance aesthetic vision with functional requirements. We specialize in multi-family residential, commercial, and institutional projects across Washington, DC. Through schematic design and detailed documentation, we transform concepts into buildable solutions that meet zoning regulations and client needs. Our approach integrates technical precision with creative problem-solving to deliver spaces that enhance community interactions.
Construction Administration
We provide comprehensive construction administration services ensuring project execution aligns with design intent and regulatory standards. Our team manages bidding processes, contract negotiations, and on-site implementation while maintaining quality control. With deep knowledge of DC's building codes and permitting requirements, we facilitate smooth project delivery from document preparation through final inspections and occupancy certification.
BIM Modeling
Our Building Information Modeling (BIM) service creates detailed 3D digital representations of architectural projects for improved visualization and coordination. This technology enhances design accuracy, identifies potential conflicts early, and streamlines construction processes. We use BIM throughout all project phases to optimize spatial relationships, material specifications, and systems integration while maintaining compliance with technical standards.
Land-Use Entitlement
We specialize in navigating Washington, DC's complex land-use regulations to secure project approvals. Our entitlement services include zoning analysis, feasibility studies, and permit processing assistance. With board-level expertise, we help clients understand regulatory requirements, prepare necessary documentation, and achieve successful outcomes for residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments across the region.
Interior Design
Our interior design service focuses on creating functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces that meet both client needs and regulatory requirements. We specialize in commercial fit-outs and multi-family residential interiors, balancing spatial efficiency with design integrity. Through detailed programming and material selection, we develop solutions that enhance user experience while maintaining compliance with building codes and accessibility standards.
People
Aubrey Jason Grant
Principal
Founded Emotive Architecture in 2011 with 26+ years of experience in large-scale projects. Serves on DC Board of Architecture and has delivered $107M+ in regional projects.
Ihab Sakla
Senior Project Manager
35-year architectural veteran with global experience in residential, commercial, and governmental facilities. Expert in site planning and construction technologies implementation across award-winning developments.
Tom Brokaw
Lead Business Development Architect
18+ years in design and real estate portfolio management with expertise in mixed-use and government projects. Former member of DC's Historic Preservation Review Board.
Jenny Matthews
Staff Architect
20+ years of experience across commercial, healthcare, and residential projects. Proficient in AutoCAD, Revit, and rendering software for high-quality design execution.
Jamal Williams
Director of Business Development
Strategic growth leader with expertise in expanding architectural practice regionally and nationally. Translates complex goals into impactful design solutions.
Questions
What architectural services does Emotive Architecture specialize in?
We specialize in multi-family residential, commercial, and institutional projects including schematic design, construction administration, BIM modeling, and land-use entitlement processes.
Do you work on historic preservation projects in Washington, DC?
Yes, our team has experience with historic preservation through participation on DC's Historic Preservation Review Board and related project work.
How does Emotive Architecture handle complex regulatory requirements?
Our principals have 20-35 years of experience navigating DC's zoning laws, permitting processes, and regulatory frameworks to ensure project compliance.
What makes your firm different from other Washington, DC architects?
We combine technical expertise with community-focused design, maintaining DC Board of Architecture membership and $107M+ in completed regional projects.
Can you handle both design and construction administration phases?
Yes, we provide full-service architecture from conceptual design through construction administration and project closeout.
