Business Details
39 Years
experience
Award-Winning Architecture & Urban Design Solutions
Johnson Fain is a fully integrated architecture, urban design, and interior design firm with over 35 years of experience creating innovative, sustainable spaces. Founded in 1987 by Scott Johnson and William Fain, our practice combines design excellence with technical expertise to transform ideas into award-winning environments. We specialize in repositioning existing structures, developing mixed-use urban master plans, and crafting interior spaces that reflect each project's unique context. Our team of LEED-accredited professionals prioritizes sustainability through material selection, energy-efficient systems, and resilient design strategies aligned with the AIA 2030 Commitment. With a global portfolio spanning five continents, we deliver solutions that balance private development with public benefit, from high-density urban centers to cultural landmarks.Our open studio environment fosters collaboration across disciplines, ensuring every project benefits from cross-functional expertise. Recognized with over 150 design awards, including the AIA California Council Firm of the Year, we maintain a commitment to advancing architectural practice through technology innovation and research. Our Los Angeles-based studio serves clients worldwide, offering services in architecture, urban design, interior design, and sustainability consulting. By integrating advanced digital tools with traditional craftsmanship, we create spaces that enhance communities while minimizing environmental impact. Our leadership team includes partners with decades of experience in complex projects ranging from transit-oriented developments to educational institutions, consistently delivering designs that achieve carbon neutrality goals.
Services
Architecture
Urban Design
Interior Design
Sustainability Consulting
Project Management
Details
- Year established: 1987
Highlights and features
- 35+ years of experience in architecture and urban design
- Fully integrated architecture, urban design, and interiors practice
- Award-winning sustainability strategies aligned with AIA 2030 Commitment
- LEED-accredited professionals on staff
- Proven track record with over 150 design awards
Associations and certifications
- American Institute of Architects (AIA)
- LEED Accredited Professionals
What people say
Award-winning designs
Sustainable expertise
Urban innovation
Design excellence
Creative solutions
Services
Architecture
Our architecture practice creates innovative, functional spaces that balance aesthetic excellence with environmental responsibility. We specialize in high-performance buildings that achieve carbon neutrality through passive design strategies and renewable energy integration. Our portfolio includes award-winning projects ranging from cultural institutions to mixed-use developments, all designed with a deep understanding of local context and client needs.
Urban Design
We develop comprehensive urban design solutions that create vibrant, sustainable communities. Our approach combines transit-oriented development, mixed-use programming, and public space activation to foster walkable, resilient environments. With expertise in large-scale master plans and urban infill projects, we transform underutilized areas into thriving districts that balance private investment with public benefit.
Interior Design
Our interior design team crafts functional, inspiring spaces that reflect each project's unique identity. We specialize in commercial, hospitality, and cultural interiors that integrate sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems. From office environments to restaurant concepts, our designs prioritize user experience while maintaining alignment with broader architectural goals.
Sustainability Consulting
We provide expert guidance on sustainable design strategies that meet LEED, WELL, and Living Future standards. Our consultants help clients achieve carbon neutrality through energy modeling, material selection, and passive design optimization. With a focus on resilience and resource conservation, we develop tailored solutions that reduce environmental impact while enhancing building performance.
Project Management
Our project management services ensure seamless execution from concept to completion. We coordinate multidisciplinary teams, manage timelines and budgets, and maintain quality control throughout the design and construction process. By integrating digital tools with traditional project delivery methods, we deliver complex projects efficiently while maintaining design integrity.
People
Scott Johnson
Founding Design Partner
Co-founder of Johnson Fain with over 35 years of experience in architecture and urban design. Educated at Harvard's Graduate School of Design, he directs all architectural projects and has authored multiple books on architecture. Recipient of the AIA Los Angeles Gold Medal.
William H. Fain, Jr.
Founding Managing Partner
Co-founder and Director of Urban Design + Planning Studio. With expertise in community planning and transit-oriented development, he has received numerous awards including the AIA Los Angeles Gold Medal. Holds fellowships from NEA and NEH.
Amber Langlois
Partner
10+ years leading complex architectural projects at Johnson Fain. Specializes in multifamily residential, mixed-use, and transportation projects. Key leader in delivering significant projects like Opus One Winery and Metro Bus Rapid Transit Stations.
James Donaldson
Partner
20+ years designing large-scale projects across multiple sectors including residential, office, and biotech. Focuses on sustainable design and advanced computer modeling. Former chair of AIA LA's Committee on the Environment and board president of Passive House California.
Suma Spina
Partner
Leads interior design team with 25+ years of experience creating award-winning commercial, hospitality, and cultural interiors. Notable projects include Knife Pleat restaurant and First Americans Museum. Chair of AIA/LA's Interior Architecture Committee.
Questions
What services does Johnson Fain offer?
We provide architecture, urban design, interior design, sustainability consulting, and project management services for both public and private sector clients.
How does Johnson Fain approach sustainability?
We integrate sustainable strategies throughout design using LEED standards, passive design techniques, renewable materials, and energy-efficient systems aligned with the AIA 2030 Commitment.
What is Johnson Fain's design process?
Our collaborative process begins with research-based analysis, followed by iterative design development in an open studio environment with continuous client engagement.
Does Johnson Fain work internationally?
Yes, we've completed projects in Asia, Europe, and Oceania, adapting our design approach to local contexts while maintaining global sustainability standards.
What awards has Johnson Fain won?
We've received over 150 design awards including AIA honors, Progressive Architecture awards, and the Urban Land Institute's Americas Award for Excellence.
How can I collaborate with Johnson Fain?
Contact us through our website or Los Angeles office to discuss your project needs and schedule an initial consultation with our design team.
