Business Details
41 Years
experience
Custom Residential Architecture in Washington, DC
Hamilton Snowber is a Washington, DC-based architectural firm specializing in residential design since 1985. Founded by Cynthia Hamilton and Chris Snowber, our practice emphasizes collaborative relationships between clients, architects, and builders to create homes that balance aesthetic beauty, functional efficiency, and environmental responsibility. With expertise spanning traditional to contemporary styles, we serve clients across the Washington metropolitan area and nationwide, including New England, Chesapeake Bay, Coastal Virginia, and the Midwest. Our design philosophy integrates site-specific considerations, prioritizing how homes interact with landscapes through natural light, seasonal changes, and sustainable materials. We incorporate green building practices such as geothermal systems, high-efficiency insulation, and renewable energy sources to minimize environmental impact. Our team brings decades of combined experience in residential architecture, historic preservation, and community-focused design, including partnerships with organizations like Community Design Services and Integrated Living Opportunities.We guide clients through every project phasefrom initial programming and schematic design to construction administrationensuring seamless execution of custom solutions. Our work has been recognized for its ability to harmonize client needs with contextual and ecological sensitivity, as demonstrated in projects ranging from coastal retreats to urban renovations. We maintain affiliations with professional organizations including the American Institute of Architects and actively contribute to industry advancements through education and pro-bono initiatives. Our commitment to transparency, technical excellence, and client-centered service has established us as trusted partners in creating enduring residential environments.
Services
Residential Architecture
Historic Review
Contractor Selection
Home Purchase Review
Sustainable Design
Details
- Year established: 1985
Highlights and features
- We offer 35+ years of experience in residential architecture and historic preservation
- Our team includes AIA-certified architects with expertise in sustainable design
- We provide nationwide service with deep understanding of regional architectural contexts
- Our collaborative process ensures client needs drive every design decision
- We integrate geothermal systems, renewable energy, and green materials in projects
Associations and certifications
- American Institute of Architects (AIA)
Services
Residential Architecture
We create custom residential spaces that balance aesthetic appeal with functional efficiency. Our approach prioritizes site-specific design, ensuring homes harmonize with their natural surroundings while meeting clients' lifestyle needs. Services include space planning, material selection, and construction documentation for new homes and renovations.
Historic Review
Our team navigates historic district regulations and review boards to preserve architectural heritage. We specialize in maintaining structural integrity while incorporating modern amenities. Services include documentation, compliance strategy, and restoration planning for properties in protected areas like DC's Old Georgetown district.
Sustainable Design
We integrate environmentally responsible solutions throughout the design process. This includes energy-efficient systems, renewable materials, and passive solar strategies. Our expertise covers geothermal heating, photovoltaic installations, and LEED-compliant construction practices to minimize ecological footprints.
Contractor Selection
We assist in identifying qualified contractors through our established network. Services include bid evaluation, capability assessments, and contract negotiation to ensure project success. We maintain relationships with builders specializing in diverse construction types and budgets.
Home Purchase Review
We evaluate potential home purchases for renovation feasibility. Services include site assessments, cost projections, and design potential analysis. Our team provides recommendations for structural improvements and compliance with local building codes.
People
Cynthia N. Hamilton
Principal Architect
Cynthia Hamilton, AIA, founded the firm in 1985 after teaching architecture at Auburn University and Carnegie-Mellon. With expertise in residential design and historic preservation, she holds a Master of Architecture from Yale and focuses on creating contextually responsive spaces.
Christopher R. Snowber
Principal Architect
Chris Snowber, AIA, co-founded the firm in 1990. He specializes in sustainable design and community-focused architecture. A graduate of Carnegie-Mellon University's architecture program, he also serves on the Custom Residential Architects Network and non-profit housing boards.
John Clark
Registered Architect
John Clark, a Maryland-licensed architect, brings 15 years of residential design experience. He earned his Master of Architecture from Catholic University and focuses on translating client needs into functional, buildable designs while maintaining active involvement in construction processes.
Questions
What architectural styles do you specialize in?
We work across traditional, transitional, and contemporary styles, tailoring designs to client preferences and site context.
Do you handle both new construction and renovations?
Yes, we specialize in both custom home design and historic preservation projects.
What sustainable design practices do you employ?
We incorporate geothermal systems, solar energy, high-efficiency insulation, and eco-friendly materials in our projects.
Do you work outside the Washington DC area?
Yes, we've completed projects in New England, Chesapeake Bay, Coastal Virginia, and Midwest regions.
How do you select contractors for projects?
We recommend experienced contractors from our network or collaborate with client-preferred partners.
