Business Details
Award-Winning Architecture Rooted in Place and Purpose
GriD Architects is a design-focused architecture firm based in Washington, D.C. and Baltimore, Maryland. Founded by Alick Dearie and Brian Grieb, both graduates of the University of Maryland, our studio is built on the belief that great architecture is rooted in place, shaped by people, and enriched by process. Our portfolio spans cultural, institutional, commercial, and residential work, with each project type informing our thinking across scales. We thrive in the complexities of urban infill, adaptive reuse, and highly tailored residential architecture, delivering built work that is both technically precise and emotionally resonant. Recognized with multiple AIA awards, including the Chesapeake Bay AIA Honor Award, we approach every challenge with rigorous attention to detail and a commitment to timeless design.Our teams architectural training emphasizes solving complex problems beautifully, whether crafting a multi-million-dollar waterfront home or designing public space for a university campus. We prioritize understanding the unique context of each project, including topography, climate, client needs, and cultural aspirations. Our work has been honored in publications such as Forbes, ArchDaily, and Dwell, reflecting our dedication to design excellence. Through deliberate exploration of regional and local conditions, we create buildings that are resilient, inevitable, and deeply connected to their environment. This philosophy has earned us recognition as one of the 2025 Forbes Top Residential Architects in America.
Services
Residential Architecture
Commercial Architecture
Adaptive Reuse
Urban Infill Projects
Institutional Design
Public Space Planning
Architectural Detailing
Design Consultation
Highlights and features
- We offer award-winning design expertise across residential, commercial, and institutional projects.
- Our team combines academic rigor with hands-on experience in urban infill and adaptive reuse.
- We prioritize context-driven solutions tailored to topography, climate, and client aspirations.
- Our work has earned recognition in Forbes, ArchDaily, and multiple AIA award programs.
- We deliver technically precise and emotionally resonant architecture at every scale.
What people say
Award-winning designs
Context-driven solutions
Technical precision
Creative problem-solving
Timeless aesthetics
Services
Residential Architecture
We create custom residential spaces that harmonize with their environment and client lifestyles. Our approach integrates site-specific conditions, material innovation, and functional elegance. Projects range from waterfront estates to urban renovations, emphasizing timeless aesthetics and technical precision.
Adaptive Reuse
Our adaptive reuse expertise transforms existing structures into modern, functional spaces while preserving historical integrity. We specialize in repurposing industrial buildings and underutilized sites for contemporary use. This approach reduces environmental impact and revitalizes urban contexts through creative problem-solving.
Urban Infill Projects
We design urban infill solutions that address density challenges while enhancing neighborhood character. Our work focuses on sustainable materials, pedestrian connectivity, and mixed-use functionality. Projects aim to create vibrant, context-sensitive spaces within existing urban fabrics.
Institutional Design
We craft institutional buildings that serve community needs through thoughtful spatial planning and durable materials. Our portfolio includes university facilities and cultural centers designed for accessibility and long-term adaptability. Each project balances aesthetic innovation with practical operational requirements.
Architectural Detailing
Our team develops precise architectural details that ensure construction quality and design intent. From handrail systems to complex building envelopes, we focus on craftsmanship and technical excellence. This attention to detail guarantees seamless translation of concepts into built form.
People
Alick Dearie
Co-founder, Principal in Charge
Alick Dearie co-founded GriD Architects after graduating from the University of Maryland. His leadership emphasizes design rigor and contextual sensitivity across project scales.
Brian Grieb
Co-founder, Design Principal
Brian Grieb co-founded GriD Architects with a focus on creative problem-solving and material innovation. His design expertise drives the firm's award-winning residential and commercial projects.
Questions
What architectural styles does GriD Architects specialize in?
We prioritize context-driven design over specific styles, creating buildings that respond to site conditions, climate, and client needs while maintaining timeless architectural quality.
Do you work on both residential and commercial projects?
Yes, our portfolio deliberately includes residential, commercial, institutional, and public space projects to inform cross-disciplinary innovation across scales.
What awards has GriD Architects received?
We've earned multiple AIA awards, including Chesapeake Bay Honor Awards, and were named to Forbes' 2025 Top Residential Architects in America list.
Can you handle historic building renovations?
Our adaptive reuse expertise includes transforming historic structures while preserving architectural integrity through modern interventions and material innovation.
What geographic areas do you serve?
While based in Washington, D.C. and Baltimore, we take on projects regionally and nationally that align with our design philosophy and expertise.
