Business Details
Award-Winning Santa Monica Architects
At Michael Folonis Architect, we approach every project with a deep commitment to integrating culture, technology, history, sustainability, and social relevance into our designs. Our team prioritizes organic solutions that respond to each project's unique constraints, including scale, zoning codes, and environmental context. With decades of collective experience, we specialize in creating signature buildings that harmonize with Southern California's landscape while maintaining efficiency and elegance. Our principal, Michael W. Folonis, FAIA, personally oversees all project phases, ensuring direct client engagement and adherence to the highest design standards. Recognized nationally and internationally through awards and publications, our firm has established a reputation for delivering architecturally significant structures grounded in regional modernism.We emphasize long-term value over transient trends, focusing on designs that enhance community fabric and withstand the test of time. Our portfolio spans diverse sectors including healthcare, affordable housing, and mixed-use developments, reflecting our adaptability to varied client needs. Through meticulous attention to detail and a collaborative process, we transform complex challenges into innovative architectural solutions. Our certifications as a Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business and other diversity designations underscore our commitment to excellence and inclusion in the architectural field.
Services
Affordable Housing
Commercial Architecture
Healthcare Facilities
Mixed-Use Development
Multi-Family Residences
Restoration Projects
Single-Family Homes
Medical Office Buildings
Urban Planning
Sustainable Design
Highlights and features
- We have received numerous regional and national design awards.
- Our principal personally oversees all project phases from design to completion.
- We specialize in regional modernist design tailored to Southern California's landscape.
- Our approach integrates sustainability with functional efficiency in every project.
- We maintain direct client engagement throughout the architectural process.
Associations and certifications
- Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB)
- Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE)
- Local Small Business Enterprise (LSBE)
- Small Business and Disabled Veteran Business (SB/DVBE)
Services
Affordable Housing
We design sustainable, code-compliant affordable housing solutions that address community needs while maintaining architectural integrity. Our approach balances budget constraints with durable materials and energy-efficient systems. Projects include multi-family complexes and mixed-use developments that integrate seamlessly with neighborhood character.
Commercial Architecture
Our commercial projects create functional, visually striking spaces that enhance business operations and customer experience. We specialize in retail environments, office buildings, and mixed-use developments that comply with zoning regulations while maximizing usability. Each design incorporates sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems.
Healthcare Facilities
We develop healthcare environments that prioritize patient comfort, operational efficiency, and regulatory compliance. Our portfolio includes outpatient surgery centers, medical office buildings, and specialized clinics. Designs emphasize natural light, intuitive wayfinding, and adaptable spaces that support evolving medical technologies.
Mixed-Use Development
Our mixed-use projects combine residential, commercial, and public spaces to create vibrant urban environments. We address zoning challenges and infrastructure requirements while designing cohesive architectural identities. These developments often include sustainable features like green roofs and energy recovery systems.
Restoration Projects
We specialize in restoring architecturally significant buildings while incorporating modern functionality. Our approach maintains historical integrity through material analysis and traditional construction techniques. Recent projects include post-fire rebuilds and adaptive reuse of mid-century structures.
People
Michael W. Folonis
Founding Principal and Design Director
FAIA award-winning architect known for regional modernist designs that balance sustainability with Southern California's environmental context. Directly oversees all projects from concept to completion.
Rudy Gonzalez
Project Architect
Specializes in large-scale mixed-use developments, handling entitlement analysis through construction administration. Brings technical precision and creative problem-solving to complex urban projects.
Anahit Asatryan
Project Architect
Focuses on conceptual design and construction documentation for residential and commercial projects. Expertise in programming and regulatory compliance for diverse building typologies.
Questions
What architectural styles do you specialize in?
We focus on regional modernism that responds to Southern California's climate and landscape while incorporating sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems.
Do you handle both residential and commercial projects?
Yes, our portfolio includes single-family homes, multi-family housing, healthcare facilities, and mixed-use commercial developments across Southern California.
How does the design process work?
We begin with site analysis and client goals, then develop schematic designs followed by detailed planning. Principal Michael Folonis maintains direct involvement throughout all phases.
Are you certified as a minority-owned business?
Yes, we hold multiple certifications including Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE).
What areas do you serve?
While based in Santa Monica, we work throughout Southern California including Los Angeles, Ventura, and Orange counties.
