--- title: "Randall Mars Architects — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/randall-mars-architects-pfvwus-pf~1476412663 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1476412663.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Randall Mars Architects" category: ["Architects"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/55d3db600f4bdf43_3758-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "6708 Old McLean Village Drive, McLean, Virginia 22101, United States" latitude: 38.9358 longitude: -77.1621 phone: "(703) 454-8404" website: http://randallmarsarchitects.com rating: 5 review_count: 14 years_in_business: 35 best_of_houzz_awards: 10 followers: 567 last_updated: 2026-09-09 --- # Randall Mars Architects > Distinctive Custom Residential Architect Serving the D.C. Metro Area Original Houzz profile: [Randall Mars Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/randall-mars-architects-pfvwus-pf~1476412663) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Architects - **Location:** McLean, VA - **Serves:** Arlington, Alexandria, Centreville, Reston, McLean, Burke, Annandale, Oakton, Herndon, Baileys Crossroads, Fairfax, Tysons Corner, Idylwood, Vienna, Wolf Trap, Great Falls, Falls Church, Fairfax Station, Lake Barcroft, Bethesda, Chevy Chase, DC (Washington), Dewey Beach, North Bethesda, Potomac, Rehoboth Beach, Rockville, Silver Spring, Takoma Park, Travilah - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (14 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 10 awards (2013–2026), for Design, Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Houzz Pro Software User - Star Houzzer - 5 Star Houzzer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 100,000 Ideabook Saves - Offers Custom Work - 35 years in business - Verified Hires ### Business highlights - Offers Custom Work - 35 years in business - 3 Verified Hires Randall Mars Architects was started in June of 1989, pursuing excellence in the design of Residences, Commercial Buildings and Interior Architecture. Mr. Mars's desire was to create a practice in which he is intimately involved in all phases, from programming and concept development, detailing and documentation, and through Construction Administration. To achieve those ends, he has kept the firm small, and guaranteed clients his complete personal involvement and excellence in the work produced. Since that date, Randall Mars Architects has won many honors and awards for their designs ranging from Residential Additions and New Homes to Corporate Interiors, Retail Establishments and Corporate Headquarters / Office Buildings. Randall Mars Architects believes that modern architecture succeeds only when both the functional program and aesthetic composition are completely resolved. The firm focuses on the dynamics of light and space, as defined or created by the walls and masses. Architecture should not be static, as the compositions reflect. Architecture should be timeless. ### Services Provided - Building Design - Home Remodeling - Custom Homes - House Plans - New Home Construction - Home Additions - Home Extensions - Kitchen Design - Sustainable Design - Kitchen Remodeling - Energy-Efficient Homes - Floor Plans - 3D Rendering - Bathroom Design - Green Building - Space Planning - Universal Design - Structural Engineering - Basement Remodeling - Site Preparation ### Areas Served - Arlington - Alexandria - Centreville - Reston - McLean - Burke - Annandale - Oakton - Herndon - Baileys Crossroads - Fairfax - Tysons Corner - Idylwood - Vienna - Wolf Trap - Great Falls - Falls Church - Fairfax Station - Lake Barcroft - Bethesda - Chevy Chase - DC (Washington) - Dewey Beach - North Bethesda - Potomac - Rehoboth Beach - Rockville - Silver Spring - Takoma Park - Travilah ### Typical Job Cost $75,000 - 6 million ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Randall Mars Architects | | Address | 6708 Old McLean Village Drive, McLean, Virginia 22101, United States | | Phone | (703) 454-8404 | | Website | http://randallmarsarchitects.com | | Years in business | 35 | | Followers on Houzz | 567 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/RandallMarsArchitects/ ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Randall Mars Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/randall-mars-architects-pfvwus-pf~1476412663) - **Website:** http://randallmarsarchitects.com - **Phone:** (703) 454-8404 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - NCARB, Virginia Design Awards, Northern Virginia AIA Design Awards, Washington DC Design Awards, Washingtonian Awards - **Best of Houzz:** 10 awards (2013–2026), for Design, Service. **Affiliations** - [The American Institute of Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/the-american-institute-of-architects-pfvwus-pf~1350720471) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 14 reviews** ### Featured Review **★★★★★ — Jennifer Lukas-Jackson, July 2017** > Working with Randall Mars was truly a pleasure and - dare I say it for a major home remodel - even fun. Randy is responsive (phone, text, email), creative, offers helpful and practical solutions, and his architectural eye delivered us a beautiful, modern addition to our 1920s bungalow. Our project lasted almost 11 months of construction in 2016, plus several months of pre-construction planning/permitting in mid-late 2015. We started with an 1100 sq. ft and added another 1900 sq. ft. with almost every pre-existing room re-created. Architects aren't cheap, but Randy was worth every penny and more as he helped us navigate through a very difficult relationship with our general contractor (whom we ultimately fired). Randy's vast network in the construction trade led us to other highly qualified vendors who delivered. Now, eight months after moving in, we couldn't be happier with our fabulous new digs! ### All 14 reviews **★★★★★ — HP Metal Fabrication, May 2019** > We had the pleasure of working with Randall and his team. Everything was smooth and easy from the very beginning! **★★★★★ — Kendall Jackson, Jan. 2017** > We visited many homes designed by experienced residential architects and decided to hire Randall Mars to design our new home. We could not be happier! Randall has the unique gift of incorporating modern ideas about living spaces into old homes like ours, in ways that not only look natural with the old style, but also have the warmth that sometimes goes overlooked in contemporary design. From his ideas about finishes and fixtures to his clever uses of space, we were able to maximize utility and add tons of natural light without sacrificing the quaint bungalow style that defines our DC neighborhood. Yay Randy! We are so grateful to have benefited from his talents. **★★★★★ — Camilla David Textiles, Dec. 2016** > We worked with Randall Mars on our house renovation involving expanded kitchen and new family room. He prepared designs and supervised the construction phase . During the design phase he was cooperative and helpful in finding the best solutions. In the construction phase he was instrumental in solving issues with the contractor and was available for sometimes difficult negotiations. He was always professional and pleasant, available at short notice and easy to work with. **★★★★★ — diverbobby, Dec. 2016** > Helped us turn a traditional center hall colonial into a modern masterpiece that takes full advantage of its space and surroundings. The details are inspiring. We are nearing completion. Photos will follow later. **★★★★★ — Melainie Mansfield, Oct. 2016** > We received a referral to Randall Mars from a contractor we interviewed. They indicated that Randall was the best contemporary architect working in Northern Virginia. They were not wrong. Randall helped us extensively remodel a huge contemporary, extremely customized home into a truly magnificent, modern, light-filled space. And in spite of his relationship to the contractors, Randall always fought for us and made sure everything was done to his exacting standards. In addition, he's really a nice person and easy to work with. He has tons of great ideas, but is also curious to learn what yours might be as well. We have kept him on to help us with other projects. After working with a number of architects and contractors, Randall truly deserves his 5-star rating. **★★★★★ — Stephen Smith, Sept. 2015** > Hiring an architect for a major remodeling project is a huge decision since you'll be working closely with whomever you hire for 18-24 months. I did a lot of research, contacted four firms, interviewed two, and selected Randall Mars. I could not be happier with the result. > > Randy and I worked closely on the design of what became a whole-home remodel of a 1965 ranch. The original home had a unique footprint and aesthetic that I wanted to preserve, but it suffered from a previous poorly executed addition and was sorely in need of updating. > > Randy was personally involved in all aspects of the project. He spent countless hours at the site considering how his design would fit into the landscape and how the landscape would affect the home. He carefully reviewed my requirements and designed a floor plan that delivered in every way I had hoped -- great spaces for entertaining, a natural separation between public and private areas, outstanding exterior "rooms", and phenomenal use of glass to connect to the outdoors. With floor to ceiling glass in many rooms, the outdoor spaces are as important as the interior, and Randy recommended and worked closely with an outstanding landscape architect who made sure the whole project came together. > > Randy worked with me on literally every decision -- including finishes, fixtures, and furniture. He paid special attention to the lighting scheme turning what had been a dark and dreary house into a bright, inviting home. Randy brought a wealth of experience but also an open mind as we looked at hundreds of photos of other projects to highlight what I liked and didn't and to develop the project that fits my personal style. > > I get compliments on the result of Randy's work from everyone who visits the house -- from guests to the guy who delivers groceries. If I were ever to tackle a project like this one again in the future, I would hire Randy without hesitation. **★★★★★ — rlthorsen, Aug. 2015** > Randall Mars and his team have an incredible understanding of space that is both design-focused and client-driven. Randall's process, from design through construction, is effortless and his knowledge of finishes and attention to details was a perfect fit for us. **★★★★★ — dfkeene, July 2015** > We worked for 2 years from requirement to design, to choosing contractors and suppliers and finally to construction of a contemporary residence with Randall Mars. It was a rewarding and very satisfying experience to be able to combine our very specific requirements with Randall's creative and flexible approach to architecture. Randall's firm works in fine detail - has a great sense of aesthetic and quality - and ensures execution of the design through to completion of construction. We would wholeheartedly recommend Randall and his firm of professionals to anyone embarking on the construction of a new residential project - large or small. **★★★★★ — kmviola1, July 2013** > I interviewed three architects for my home renovation project and chose Randall Mars Architects. Randy was the one who saw my vision for the home and made it happen! > > His experience and professional, coordinated efforts made this large project move smoothly forward. The weekly organized meetings with the builder, interior designer and me made for a very clear framework for all to create a successful, award-winning end product! Take a look on the links below for a tour: > > http://www.ramars.com/viola.html > http://www.howarthdesigns.com/ > (bottom row, click on second photo from left icon) **★★★★★ — bfleischmann, July 2013** > Randy is great to work with and an enthusiastic collaborator on selections. I would highly recommend Randy to clients looking for a modern aesthetic with liveable interiors. **★★★★★ — 4pamdavis, June 2013** > It was a pleasure to work with Randall Mars on the complete transformation of my home from a colonial in two parts on a sloping hillside to a beautiful, cars stopping to look, contemporary. > > I especially appreciate Mr. Mars passion for excellence, sensitivity to budgets and outstanding construction management skills. He is so very talented. **★★★★★ — Lobkovich Kitchen Designs, Inc., June 2013** > We have had the pleasure of working with Randy on many projects over the past ten years, including one presently. Randy is very creative and, in particular, unique in his ability to integrate new and innovative building materials and design elements into each project. He has an excellent eye and is extremely disciplined in his approach to design, resulting in some of the very best modern projects in the Washington area. Additionally, his sharp wit and sense of humor make working with him fun. **★★★★★ — jlthorsen, June 2013** > As a high-end general contractor who focuses on architect-driven projects, I truly appreciate an architect whose plans are comprehensive, clear and precise. Additionally, I also appreciate an architect who has a hands-on approach, who communicates well and who is takes a tremendous amount of pride in what they do. All of these characteristics are evident at Randall Mars Architects. Randall's reputation and body of work has cemented him as being one of the best architects the Washington, D.C. area has to offer. ## Selected projects - [Black + White House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/black-white-house-pj-vj~7349540) - Location: Dewey Beach, DE - Photos: 26 - Description: 6000 square foot house on a narrow lot extending to the beach - shoreline. The client wished to disguise the required pitched roofs behind a more modern flat roof design. The house speaks to its new neighbor in overall form and materials, but not raw aesthetics. - [Grey Beach House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/grey-beach-house-pj-vj~7716840) - Location: Dewey Beach, DE - Photos: 12 - [Smith House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/smith-house-pj-vj~408483) - Location: Arlington, VA - Photos: 13 - Description: Originally built in the 70's, this single story house was designed around an entry court, and featured mid-century design with broad overhangs on hipped roofs and exposed wood ceilings. The house had only 1 bedroom with windows; all other bedrooms opened onto a glass hall. A late windowless addition was built into the hill. The new design added a second story over the central part of the house, accessing three bedrooms and a laundry facility through a new mahogany clad stair tower. The late wind… - [House at Little Falls](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/house-at-little-falls-pj-vj~35823) - Location: McLean, VA - Photos: 9 - Description: In response to the densely foliated site which falls steeply towards the Potomac River, the program was broken upto create smaller "pavilions" which could be set INTO the site, preserving the natural terrain and tree cover. The river and natural environment dominated the design. Boat-shaped balconies project from the building. Flat glass skylights are supported by stainless steel "masts and rigging." Handrail sections are based on the profile of a gingko leaf. Materials are simple, primarily whi… - [Midcentury Modern in Hollin Hills](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/midcentury-modern-in-hollin-hills-pj-vj~2147339) - Location: Hybla Valley, VA - Photos: 8 - [Dewey Beach House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/dewey-beach-house-pj-vj~2439450) - Location: Dewey Beach, DE - Photos: 12 - Description: Modern Beach House, 5 houses from the beach, Terraces provide great beach vistas and outdoor living. - [Mullet House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mullet-house-pj-vj~882135) - Location: Alexandria, VA - Photos: 17 - Description: The existing house was a center hall colonial with a spectacular view of the Potomac River. The desire was to keep it "business in the front and a party in the back". Glass and entertainment terraces and decks were added. Broad windows opened the view of the river. - [McLean Pool House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mclean-pool-house-pj-vj~35838) - Location: McLean, VA - Photos: 6 - Description: The poolhouse becomes a bridge, between a conservative neighborhood and a more modern aesthetic and approach to entertaining. There is a private side which is protected by masonry walls, housing the changing room and shower facilities, as well as the sleeping loft. The public side, however, is open to the landscape, enclosed with very light metal framed glass doors. More importantly, the entertaining is separated from the pool by ONLY a glass garage door, which is easily retracted to allow guest… - [Viola House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/viola-house-pj-vj~35830) - Location: McLean, VA - Photos: 8 - Description: The bones looked good; the house was "modern," however born from a questionable period in the 60's with small windows and missing many opportunities. The real force of the design was to create a better view, both of the house from the street and from the house of the wonderful natural environment. The roof and windows were replaced, opening up the inside, expanding the views. Stone was added to create a base and better proportions. Materials and textures were introduced to create the necessary d… - [Potomac Farm House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/potomac-farm-house-pj-vj~5585549) - Location: Potomac, MD - Photos: 6 - Description: 4 white stucco pavilions set into the hills outside Potomac, this house nestles into the countryside. 3 main pavilions define a cobblestone courtyard at the house entry. - [Slowdog Run](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/slowdog-run-pj-vj~35844) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 6 - Description: The first house of what the Owners hope is a small community of friends draws much of its form from a new Rural Vernacular. There is the low living space, with a simple shed roof, contrasting the tall bedroom "silo." The house shapes are simple; very cost effective. The materials are consistent with the rural vernacular of clapboard siding and tin roofs, updated to cementitious siding and a standing seam metal roof. Vertical tongue and groove mahogany siding and large panes of vision glass provi… - [Keene House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/keene-house-pj-vj~35894) - Location: Vienna, VA - Photos: 7 - Description: The house, nestling around an old weeping oak, was reduced to familiar "house" forms. A simple brick wall addresses the street with a familiar voice. As the design pulls away from the street, the materials evolve from conventional brick and siding to crisp glass and concrete panels. The interior is open and bright. The Living Room and Kitchen are separated by a low partition. The space flows around and above; morning and afternoon light penetrates both spaces. - [K+R Pool House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/k-r-pool-house-pj-vj~35852) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 5 - Description: In contrasting the existing, a very straight-forward builder-designed house, the new architecture introduces a sweeping curve as a powerful design stroke, breaking from the mundane "box with a brick front." The Poolhouse is topped with a great vaulted roof - an umbrella for all of the outdoor activities. This powerful shape reappears in the Dining Pavilion Roof, as well as in plan, of the new connecting Breezeway. The new work consists of four primary structures - a three car garage, a connectin… - [scouting shots](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/scouting-shots-pj-vj~128839) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 7 - [Stairs](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/stairs-pj-vj~897509) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 4 - [Vienna House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/vienna-house-pj-vj~2204700) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 7 - [Nifontoff House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/nifontoff-house-pj-vj~35896) - Location: Arlington, VA - Photos: 5 - [McLean Pool and Outdoor Dining](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mclean-pool-and-outdoor-dining-pj-vj~2147324) - Location: McLean, VA - Photos: 5 - [McLean Modern](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mclean-modern-pj-vj~1194596) - Location: McLean, VA - Photos: 4 - [Short House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/short-house-pj-vj~35907) - Location: Fairfax, VA - Photos: 2 - Description: Modern renovation in Fairfax, Virginia. We painted the existing T111 siding dark grey and added Mahogany and Concrete Block accents. [See all 24 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/randall-mars-architects-pfvwus-pf~1476412663) ## Video - [Company video](https://player.vimeo.com/external/840719464.m3u8?s=844f827d1b3d035c390fa8f95f6573247f93ba5b&oauth2_token_id=1384357804) ## Frequently Asked Questions **Do you handle permitting, zoning, and regulatory approvals?** We are intimately involved in all phases of a project, including documentation and construction administration. This often includes assisting clients with permitting, zoning, and navigating regulatory approvals to ensure a smooth process for your project from concept to completion. **What types of projects do you specialize in (custom homes, remodels, additions)?** We specialize in a wide range of residential projects, including custom homes, new home construction, home additions, and comprehensive home remodeling. Our expertise also extends to commercial buildings and interior architecture, ensuring excellence in every design we undertake. **Do you provide full-service architectural services through construction?** Yes, we provide full-service architectural services. Our firm is intimately involved in all project phases, from initial programming and concept development, through detailing and documentation, and continuing all the way through Construction Administration to ensure the highest quality outcome. **Do you design fully custom homes?** Absolutely, we specialize in designing fully custom homes. Our approach ensures that every aspect of your new residence is tailored precisely to your vision, lifestyle, and the unique characteristics of your site, creating a truly personalized and timeless architectural statement. **Do you specialize in specific architectural styles?** We believe modern architecture succeeds when both functional program and aesthetic composition are resolved. Our focus is on the dynamics of light and space, creating timeless compositions. While not limited to one style, our work often reflects a modern sensibility, emphasizing clarity and thoughtful design. *FAQ content may be generated based on the Pro's Houzz profile and website.* ## Ideabooks - [Exteriors](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/115805889/list/exteriors) — 1 idea - [studios](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/115805780/list/studios) — 1 idea - [House details](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/95686004/list/house-details) — 1 idea - [details](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/72609020/list/details) — 8 ideas - [Strong horizontals](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/49631042/list/strong-horizontals) — 1 idea - [Great lights](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/49630850/list/great-lights) — 4 ideas - [Fireplaces](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/44706967/list/fireplaces) — 11 ideas - [Millwork](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/44706762/list/millwork) — 9 ideas - [stairs](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/43573850/list/stairs) — 21 ideas - [What NOT To Do](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/23569770/list/what-not-to-do) — 12 ideas - [randallmars's ideas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/1616324/list/randallmars-s-ideas) — 60 ideas - [landscape architecture](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/23723520/list/landscape-architecture) — 10 ideas - [kitchens](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/23633394/list/kitchens) — 15 ideas - [bathrooms](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/23682731/list/bathrooms) — 15 ideas [See all 14 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/randallmars) ## Community Q&A **Q: Are operable windows pocket replacements?** *(in Photo Questions)* Can you please tell me if the casement windows were full frame replacements or a “pocket” installation? I like that the renovation is true to the original architecture, and wondered how you decided to go on the glass. Thank you. A: The majority of the windows are built by the contractor and glazed with insulated glass. There are some awning windows on the lower units, for operable use. **Q: randy, who makes your cabinets and what wood are these? thx bob e** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Plain and Fancy - we use them on most of our kitchens. email me for the rep -Andrea Finn **Q: Slate Floors** *(in Photo Questions)* The slate floor is just right- do you know the source and color? Thanks! A: we originally specified Brazilian Black from Waterworks, but wound up sourcing the slate from Marblex. I believe the slate was 12 x 24,,set in a herringbone or basket weave. **Q: great project! is this a wood burning fireplace? love the look.** *(in Photo Questions)* A: its gas, with direct vent. Thanks so much. **Q: Sharing Install Images** *(in Photo Questions)* Thank you for sharing your WETSTYLE install images! Would it be possible for us to share the high-res images on our official Instagram and Facebook, with proper credit to you and your photographer? If so, we request that you send an email with the images and any further information to our PR team at ada@upspringpr.com. Many thanks, WETSTYLE A: I would be happy to- I have several **Q: Where can I find light fixture** *(in Photo Questions)* Looking for dining room light fixture....thanks A: Its made by Louis Poulsen, called "PH-4" I believe --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-09-09.*