--- title: "Cathleen Curtin Architects LLC — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/cathleen-curtin-architects-llc-pfvwus-pf~1384449430 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1384449430.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Cathleen Curtin Architects LLC" category: ["Architects"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/1b83a17a00f70b36_9721-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "501 Princess Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22314, United States" latitude: 38.806 longitude: -77.0529 phone: "(703) 930-9322" website: http://www.cathleencurtinarchitects.com rating: 5 review_count: 21 best_of_houzz_awards: 4 followers: 137 last_updated: 2026-09-04 --- # Cathleen Curtin Architects LLC Original Houzz profile: [Cathleen Curtin Architects LLC](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/cathleen-curtin-architects-llc-pfvwus-pf~1384449430) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Architects - **Location:** Alexandria, VA - **Serves:** Arlington, Alexandria, McLean, Annandale, Springfield, Baileys Crossroads, Fairfax, West Springfield, Woodlawn, Lorton, Lincolnia, Tysons Corner, Hybla Valley, Franconia, Fort Hunt, Falls Church, Groveton, Huntington, Mount Vernon, Newington, Lake Barcroft, Dunn Loring, Seven Corners, Washington, Clinton, DC (Washington), Friendly, Mount Rainier, Takoma Park, Walker Mill - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (21 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 4 awards (2014–2025), for Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Star Houzzer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 1,000 Ideabook Saves - Locally owned - Offers Custom Work - 27 years in business Memorable, Creative, Sustainable Architecture Interiors & Construction in the DC Area for over 25 Years. The character of our buildings is as diverse as the individuals they house and the surroundings in which they are located. We are interested in suiting each design to the client, the geographical and community context. Our strong interest is to envision the best composition, the most simple and elegant solution for our client. We believe that people make natural associations with form, composition and light. Design is a very intuitive and metaphorical process, we work in close collaboration to understand how the space will be occupied and used. Design a space appropriate to the client’s needs, make it as beautiful as possible and practice economy and energy efficiency where needed as possible. Cathleen Curtin, RA, AIA received her Architecture Degree while studying in North Carolina under Michael Graves FAIA, Charles Gwathmey FAIA and Robert A. M. Stern FAIA. Ms. Curtin before beginning her own private residential practice in 1991 served in the U. S. Peace Corps , worked with Chris Lessard, The Martin Architectural Group and The Weihe Design Group with an exclusive focus on residential design. She has designed several homes for developers including Ryland Homes, the national home-building company. Along with numerous residences in the Washington Metro area, Philadelphia, New York, and California, she has renovated and designed condominiums and senior residences. She is a member and actively involved in the American Institute of Architects, The Construction Specifications Institute, the National CAD Standard Project Committee, the City of Alexandria Beautification Commission and various local community committees. ### Services Provided - Architectural Design - Building Design - Home Remodeling - Architectural Drawings - Custom Homes - House Plans - New Home Construction - Home Additions - Home Extensions - Kitchen Design - Sustainable Design - Kitchen Remodeling - Energy-Efficient Homes - Floor Plans - 3D Rendering - Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) - Bathroom Design - Green Building - Guesthouse Design & Construction - Universal Design - Multigenerational Homes - Pool House Design & Construction - Historic Building Conservation - Project Management - Handicap-Accessible Design - Mudroom Design - Basement Design - Attic Conversion - Site Preparation - Home Gym Design & Construction - Bedroom Design - Closet Design - Custom Bathroom Vanities - Custom Blinds & Shades - Custom Built-ins - Custom Cabinets - Custom Entertainment Centers - Custom Home Bars - Custom Kitchen Cabinets - Custom Pantries - Custom Shelving - Design Consultation - Dining Room Design - Furniture Selection - Home Office Design & Construction - Interior Design ### Areas Served - Arlington - Alexandria - McLean - Annandale - Springfield - Baileys Crossroads - Fairfax - West Springfield - Woodlawn - Lorton - Lincolnia - Tysons Corner - Hybla Valley - Franconia - Fort Hunt - Falls Church - Groveton - Huntington - Mount Vernon - Newington - Lake Barcroft - Dunn Loring - Seven Corners - Washington - Clinton - DC (Washington) - Friendly - Mount Rainier - Takoma Park - Walker Mill ### Typical Job Cost $175,000 - 5,000,000 Prices vary based on budget, detail and design program. ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Cathleen Curtin Architects LLC | | Address | 501 Princess Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22314, United States | | Phone | (703) 930-9322 | | Website | http://www.cathleencurtinarchitects.com | | License Number | DCARC5468, VA0401009753 | | Followers on Houzz | 137 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — www.facebook.com/pages/Cathleen-Curtin-Architects-PLC/520964184646843?fref=ts - LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=49500967&trk=hp-identity-name - Blog — http://www.cathleencurtinarchitects.com/ ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Cathleen Curtin Architects LLC](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/cathleen-curtin-architects-llc-pfvwus-pf~1384449430) - **Website:** http://www.cathleencurtinarchitects.com - **Phone:** (703) 930-9322 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - Skylight Industry, Atrium Design Masonry Institute of America, Design and Detailing National Home Builder's Association, Resort/Vacation Home National Home Builder's Association, Single Family Home National Home Builder's Association, Townhouse design - **Best of Houzz:** 4 awards (2014–2025), for Service. **Affiliations** - [The American Institute of Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/the-american-institute-of-architects-pfvwus-pf~1350720471) - [American Institute of Architects, Washington DC](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/american-institute-of-architects-washington-dc-pfvwus-pf~882126009) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 21 reviews** *Aspect averages:* - Work Quality: 50.0 - Communication: 50.0 - Value: 50.0 ### Reviews **★★★★★ — Jennifer Jones, Aug. 2024** > When we decided to embark on a home addition and renovation we were overwhelmed with where to begin. Cathleen was recommended to us and after our first meeting we knew she would be a fantastic fit. She spent time with us to talk through how we would use the space and made recommendations we had never considered - nor thought possible. She presented a variety of designs that kept with the feel of our house (midcentury modern) and enhanced our space in a way that felt it was always meant to be. To say the end result is beyond our wildest dreams is an understatement! > > But what truly sets her apart is her ability to not only be an outstanding architect but her ability to serve as project manager and liaison between us and the construction company. From walking through the first bids, to picking out tile, fireplaces, and flooring, Cathleen was phenomenal. She was always reliable and was there to walk us through every decision and construction hiccup. Whenever there was an issue - big or small - Cathleen called or texted us back within the hour. She kept us informed throughout the process - from submission of designs, to county permits, to deliveries, and walkthroughs. We stayed within budget (which is something with this kind of project!) and much of that was due to Cathleen negotiating with our contractor and ensuring we were receiving the best quality for our budget. > > We can't say enough good things about Cathleen. Her work ethic, creativity, and commitment to her clients is just amazing. And the work speaks for itself. Our neighbors and family are amazed by the transformation of our home. Just look at the pictures! :-) We can't recommend Cathleen Curtin Architects highly enough! **★★★★★ — C Conrath, July 2024** > Cathleen did a terrific job for us. We did a kitchen addition/renovation. Cathleen worked with us from conceptualization through design, construction, finishing, and follow-ups. > > She worked with us on our basic design plan, including solving some structural challenges inherent in our ideas. She suggested some elements that we had not thought of, which we now really like. She designed all of this to fit in with the existing midcentury modern style of our house. > > She supervised the construction and made sure that it was all done to a high standard. > > And, then, when we had some problems with a couple of the appliances we had selected, she followed up vigorously to see that the problems got resolved. > > The end result is a stunning new space in our house. Everyone who sees it is impressed. > > All in all, we were delighted at Cathleen's work. **★★★★★ — HU-104592465, July 2024** > Cathleen provided excellent direction and help throughout my project, from innovative design, to dealing with city committees, identifying a range of possible contractors, and working closely with them when I had made my choice. This ranged from designing a 2-bedroom addition to the house down to details such as checking the latches on the kitchen cabinets. Highly recommmended. **Comment from Cathleen Curtin Architects LLC:** > It was my pleasure to work with you on your antique home (formerly a church) in Alexandria's historic district. A detailed process for the team we were glad to assist in improving your beautiful home, thank you. **★★★★★ — HU-379911515, Feb. 2023** > Cathleen managed a long and challenging project for us, as well as creating a great design for our addition. Alongside this she worked well with the contractor and her communication with us was excellent. Thank you Cathleen **★★★★★ — Scott Huebel, Sept. 2017** > Again, I can’t thank you enough for the OUTSTANDING job you did on Dad’s house. Not only was the finished product fantastic but getting to work with you was a true highlight. Your attention to detail, your professionalism, your choices of materials and styles were all incredible. But most importantly, just having you as a trusted ally who I knew would make the right call every time was essential and invaluable. With everything I had going on, not having to worry about that project was worth twice what I paid you. THANK YOU!!! **★★★★★ — aswanson15, Aug. 2015** > We are so delighted with the end results of the renovation designed and managed by Cathleen Curtin. Expanding the kitchen and upstairs bath and adding a half bath to the first floor has totally rejuvenated our 1939 Cape Cod. The initial meetings with Cathleen paid off since she was able to internalize our vision and style, which was completely reflected in the final product. Cathleen was very mindful of cost and always presented us with choices of finishes and accessories from a range of price points. Her design sense is absolutely exquisite and she suggested things that we never would have thought of. This was our first renovation and it included more construction than we had imagined, so Cathleen was very good at explaining to us where we were in the process and what to expect. It was not an easy undertaking, but Cathleen was patient throughout and helped us through the rough patches. We would definitely work with her again. **★★★★★ — Creative Designs by Judy, LLC, Jan. 2015** > I have been a Kitchen and Bath designer for over 30 years. It has been a pleasure working with Cathleen and her team for several years providing cabinetry and design collaboration on numerous projects. I have found Cathleen to be highly talented, creative and detail oriented. She is committed to listening to the client and providing solutions to make their dream project come together. Timely communications with her clients are very important to her also. Cathleen is very professional and develops a trusting and comfortable relationship with her clients. **★★★★ — hangoswango, Dec. 2014** > We are still working on our project with Cathleen Curtin, thus, this is not a complete evaluation. > > Our project requires her to be considerate of the style of the existing home (1939 Cape Cod) while adding all the modern conveniences and efficiencies of a renovated kitchen and bath (adding on a 1/2 bath). She has had a lot of great ideas in addition to being attentive to our own thoughts as to what we like. One extremely positive element of her work is that when we talk about the selection of something in principle she goes out and finds several examples of our options, this frees us from searching through 1000's of choices that are inappropriate and a waste of our time for what we were envisioning. > > Her diagrams have been well done and very clear. She has been quick to get the general contractor any changes based upon what was discovered after removing the floors and dry wall. The general contractor and her seem to be forging a good relationship (this is her first time working with this company since all her other previous general contractors were busy doing other jobs); we found this one on houzz.com). > > We will provide a more detailed evaluation after the work is completed in April. **★★★★★ — smidon08, Dec. 2014** > This was our second time working with Cathleen Curtin as she did a beautiful job on our addition of a master bedroom suite, game room, deck and patio. When it was time to remodel our kitchen there was no doubt we wanted Cathleen to be our architect. She is professional, cost conscious and always responsive. She also provides options relative to design and contractors. She is thorough from start to finish and my husband and I highly recommend her services. Our new kitchen is beautiful and we are also still enjoying our home addition! **★★★★★ — somethingorother, Oct. 2013** > Cathleen Curtin designed and managed our kitchen / dining room renovation. This is the first time that we ever used a designer in the capacity of managing a project. We were very happy with the results. Not only did Cathleen provide us with a superior designed project, including a lot of guidance on material recommendations, color and fabric coordination and insights on design optimizations and current design trends, but she also managed the job cost effectively (we believe well under competitors prices) and she was a stickler for details. As we were around for the last half of the project when the finishing details were being done, we would sometimes have questions regarding the way something was done or the "quality" of the work. In our regular meeting with Cathleen, when we brought these issues up, we were delighted to see that Cathleen had already addressed them and had them put on the "to be remedied" list. During the entire construction process, she seemed to be that "one step ahead of us". We never had to discuss a concern with the construction workers. Cathleen was a delight to work with and we have strongly recommended her to many of our neighbors who have subsequently utilized her services as well. **★★★★★ — jwhb, Oct. 2013** > Cathleen helped us designed and built a walk-in closet in our master bedroom and other miscellaneous projects. Cathleen was a delight to work with and very professional. She is a great listener and has great ideas. She also finds great contractors and follows through on the details. **★★★★★ — Jan Gaudaen, Sept. 2013** > Cathleen has now led my husband and I through two major renovations on our Arlington ranch style home built in 1952. Her architectural vision and her attention to detail produced a beautiful, “cottage-style” home with a wonderful front porch that we are very proud to live in. Not having a clue what we were doing the first time, Cathleen truly led us through the process of design, contractor selection and construction phases with the patience of a saint. She gained our confidence quickly and we trusted we were in good hands. Cathleen is a real pleasure to work with and I would highly recommend Cathleen as an architect to design and renovate your home. ## Selected projects - [Villa May Interior Redesign, Kitchen Remodel + Great Room with Deck Addition](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/villa-may-interior-redesign-kitchen-remodel-great-room-with-deck-addition-pj-vj~150782) - Location: Alexandria, VA - Photos: 12 - Description: Reorganize the rear floor plan of a 50 year old house featuring a new kitchen and great room addition for a large active 3 generation family. Features included designing cooking areas for numerous cooks in the house, the husbands passion for salt water fish aquariums and a great room that connects the house to the new deck and their large garden with swimming pool. - [Chase Residence Kitchen + Great Room Remodel](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/chase-residence-kitchen-great-room-remodel-pj-vj~443263) - Location: Alexandria, VA - Photos: 3 - Description: Renovation of this 1960's townhome included a significant upgrade to the existing kitchen. - [Condo Renovation with Interior Furnishings Selections](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/condo-renovation-with-interior-furnishings-selections-pj-vj~3973693) - Location: Alexandria, VA - Photos: 6 - Description: Added coffered ceilings to the open plan adding sophistication to the stark space. Redesigned the kitchen and dining space to a work space. Custom built library and media cabinet, custom design furnishings, new lighting and paint throughout. - [Wilton Woods Gourmet Kitchen + Great Room Addition](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/wilton-woods-gourmet-kitchen-great-room-addition-pj-vj~1185316) - Location: Rose Hill, VA - Photos: 20 - [Vienna Full House Remodel + Kitchen Redesign](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/vienna-full-house-remodel-kitchen-redesign-pj-vj~326948) - Location: Vienna, VA - Photos: 12 - Description: 1967 Center Hall Colonial modernized + opened up for transitional contemporary living. - [Foxhall Crescent Full House Redesign + Remodel](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/foxhall-crescent-full-house-redesign-remodel-pj-vj~196990) - Location: Washington, DC - Photos: 13 - Description: The upgrade of a builder spec house to a custom, stately home with federal details, coffered ceilings, expanded spaces, and new blue stone patio. Please read the Washington Post article covering this renovation at www.CathleenCurtinArchitects.com/Press/ - [Old Town Alexandria Full House Redesign + Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/old-town-alexandria-full-house-redesign-renovation-pj-vj~2745770) - Location: Alexandria, VA - Photos: 8 - [A Florist's Retreat Complete Renovation + Redesign with Custom Furnishings](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/a-florist-s-retreat-complete-renovation-redesign-with-custom-furnishings-pj-vj~146239) - Location: Alexandria, VA - Photos: 21 - Description: Antique 2 story apartment takes on a fresh new life with updated living spaces, finishes, fixtures and fittings. Moldings and mill work were added to suit the period style of the home with all the contemporary features of quality residential living. - [Worthington Street NW DC](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/worthington-street-nw-dc-pj-vj~6732671) - Location: Washington, DC - Photos: 2 - [Ft Hunt area, Hollindale, Alexandria VA](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/ft-hunt-area-hollindale-alexandria-va-pj-vj~7543552) - Location: Alexandria, VA - Photos: 8 - Description: Existing midcentury was lovely but had a closet for a kitchen. The client enjoyed cooking and entertaining so a new expansive kitchen with bar + entertainment area was needed. We worked with the scale of the home and added the space needed minding the midcentury style they loved. [See all 10 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/cathleen-curtin-architects-llc-pfvwus-pf~1384449430) ## Ideabooks - [Wish List](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/112430836/list/wish-list) — 25 ideas - [LANDSCAPE](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/180173094/list/landscape) — 13 ideas - [Davis bath](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/121101608/list/davis-bath) — 4 ideas - [cathleencurtinarchitects's ideas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/25061269/list/cathleencurtinarchitects-s-ideas) — 9 ideas - [western shore](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/94639335/list/western-shore) — 13 ideas - [cementitious siding](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/84449150/list/cementitious-siding) — 8 ideas [See all 6 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/cathleencurtinarchitects) ## Community Q&A **Q: elevator?** *(in Photo Questions)* Please,Who makes and installs this elevator? A: It looks like a Daytona Elevator. **Q: Light** *(in Photo Questions)* Can you share where the restroom light is from in the master and the name of it ? Thank you A: Love the doors and windows. Are they insulated? Who was the manufacturer? **Q: looking to redo our home that is this style..what was ballpark cost?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Hi, thank you for your interest! The ball park for this project with new windows , doors, interior and exterior lighting, remodeled front entry hall, stair, family room, kitchen, powder room and portico was in the upper $100K. **Q: where can i find these doors? they are amazing!!!!!** *(in Photo Questions)* A: antique mirror panels provided By Sterling Mirror Co., Lanham, MD **Q: this molding-do you work or have a referral in boca raton, fl.** *(in Photo Questions)* A: I love the chaises, where are they from? **Q: What is the color of the wall? Love it** *(in Photo Questions)* Wall paint A: Erin does not have access to it since she did not design it. Cathleen Curtin Architects PLC was the design architect. The wall color is either Benjamin Moore's Semolina or Soft Pumpkin. --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-09-04.*