Muse Architects

Muse | Kirwan Architects, established in 1983 as Muse Architects, is a distinguished firm renowned for its extensive experience and expertise in a wide array of architectural disciplines. With a legacy spanning decades, the firm has consistently delivered innovative and impactful design solutions for residential, institutional, commercial, urban design, and interior design projects. Muse | Kirwan Architects distinguishes itself through its commitment to sustainable design principles, integrating environmental responsibility into every aspect of its work, regardless of project scale or typology. Foster a collaborative environment, the firm brings together diverse design professionals, fostering a synergistic exchange of ideas and expertise. The firm's success is further bolstered by its established relationships with a network of trusted engineering consultants, ensuring seamless collaboration and a holistic approach to project execution. Muse | Kirwan Architects provides comprehensive architectural services catering to a diverse range of project needs and scales, from intimate residential homes to large-scale urban developments.

A History of Excellence

The firm's dedication to architectural excellence has been consistently recognized through an impressive collection of accolades. Muse | Kirwan Architects has received over one hundred and seventy prestigious design awards, including honors from prominent organizations such as the National, Washington, Maryland, Baltimore, Potomac Valley, and Northern Virginia Chapters of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), as well as the National Trust for Historic Preservation and the Masonry Institute.

These awards stand as a testament to the firm's commitment to pushing creative boundaries while upholding the highest standards of design. In 2007, the firm received the esteemed Top Firm National Award from Residential Architect magazine, a recognition of its outstanding contribution to the field of residential architectural practice. The firm's influential work has also been featured in over two hundred and fifty architectural books and periodicals, gaining widespread recognition and inspiring design enthusiasts worldwide. Publications such as Architectural Record, Architectural Digest, and The American Home, Design for Living have showcased the firm's innovative designs, further solidifying its position as a leader in the architectural community.

Leadership and Expertise

Muse | Kirwan Architects is led by a team of accomplished architects and design professionals, each bringing their unique expertise and passion to the firm. The firm's founding principal, Stephen Muse, FAIA, and current principal, William Kirwan, AIA, LEED AP, provide invaluable guidance and leadership, shaping the firm's vision and ensuring the delivery of exceptional design solutions. The firm's depth of talent extends to its dedicated team of associates, who play a vital role in the design process. Kuk-Ja Kim, AIA, LEED AP, Senior Associate, Warren Short, AIA, LEED AP, Associate, and Scott Mooney, IIDA, ASID, Associate, bring diverse perspectives and skills to the table, contributing to the firm's creative and collaborative environment.

A Passion for Design

Beyond the technical expertise, Muse | Kirwan Architects is driven by a genuine passion for design. Each project is approached with careful consideration and a dedication to creating spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional, sustainable, and responsive to the needs of the occupants. The firm's portfolio showcases its versatility, encompassing a wide range of project types, each bearing the hallmarks of exceptional design craftsmanship and a commitment to exceeding client expectations. From design concept to final execution, Muse | Kirwan Architects strives to create lasting architectural legacies that enrich the lives of individuals and communities alike.