--- title: "Penza Bailey Architects — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/penza-bailey-architects-pfvwus-pf~2013392487 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~2013392487.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Penza Bailey Architects" category: ["Architects"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/3253518b0ef4ac9d_2364-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "5521 Research Park Drive, Suite 300, Baltimore, Maryland 21228, United States" latitude: 39.2782 longitude: -76.7401 phone: "(410) 618-1520" website: http://penzabailey.com/ rating: 4.8 review_count: 13 years_in_business: 39 best_of_houzz_awards: 7 followers: 390 last_updated: 2026-09-05 --- # Penza Bailey Architects > Baltimore Area's Full-Service Architecture Firm \| Best of Houzz Design Original Houzz profile: [Penza Bailey Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/penza-bailey-architects-pfvwus-pf~2013392487) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Architects - **Location:** Baltimore, MD - **Serves:** Baltimore, Columbia, Ellicott City, Dundalk, Towson, Catonsville, Essex, Randallstown, Owings Mills, Pikesville, Parkville, Milford Mill, Middle River, Carney, Perry Hall, Lochearn, Hunt Valley, Cockeysville, Rosedale, Arbutus, Rossville, Brooklyn Park, Overlea, Mays Chapel, Timonium, Garrison, White Marsh, Lansdowne, Edgemere, Baltimore Highlands, Lutherville, Hampton, Mount Vernon, Brooklandville, Brooklyn, Chase, Fork, Glen Arm, Gwynn Oak, Halethorpe, Hydes, Long Green, Lutherville Timonium, Nottingham, Phoenix, Riderwood, Sparrows Point, Stevenson, Windsor Mill, Woodstock - **Houzz rating:** 4.8 out of 5 (13 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 7 awards (2013–2025), for Design. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Houzz Pro Software User - Star Houzzer - 5 Star Houzzer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 100,000 Ideabook Saves - Best of Houzz winner - Locally owned - 39 years in business - Verified Hires ### Business highlights - Best of Houzz winner - 39 years in business - Locally owned - 2 Verified Hires An award-winning Baltimore area firm, Penza Bailey Architects, operating as a studio of PRIME AE, provides architecture design, interior architecture, and planning services for private and public clients of all sizes. Our firm's private expertise includes custom residential, featuring specialization in new design, additions/transformations, waterfront, and historic. Every residential project, renovation, addition, or new custom home, should begin by not only discussing your vision, but by talking about how much you think you want to invest in this endeavor. Together, we will evaluate what can be accomplished within your working budget. We look forward to working with you in not only creating the home of your dreams, but also making the process a fun and rewarding experience. ### 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 - Space Planning - Guesthouse Design & Construction - Multigenerational Homes - Pool House Design & Construction - Home Restoration - Historic Building Conservation - Handicap-Accessible Design - Outdoor Kitchen Design - Basement Remodeling - Mudroom Design - Basement Design - Deck Design - Garage Design - Passive Solar Heating & Cooling ### Areas Served - Baltimore - Columbia - Ellicott City - Dundalk - Towson - Catonsville - Essex - Randallstown - Owings Mills - Pikesville - Parkville - Milford Mill - Middle River - Carney - Perry Hall - Lochearn - Hunt Valley - Cockeysville - Rosedale - Arbutus - Rossville - Brooklyn Park - Overlea - Mays Chapel - Timonium - Garrison - White Marsh - Lansdowne - Edgemere - Baltimore Highlands - Lutherville - Hampton - Mount Vernon - Brooklandville - Brooklyn - Chase - Fork - Glen Arm - Gwynn Oak - Halethorpe - Hydes - Long Green - Lutherville Timonium - Nottingham - Phoenix - Riderwood - Sparrows Point - Stevenson - Windsor Mill - Woodstock ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Penza Bailey Architects | | Address | 5521 Research Park Drive, Suite 300, Baltimore, Maryland 21228, United States | | Phone | (410) 618-1520 | | Website | http://penzabailey.com/ | | License Number | MD 15053 | | Years in business | 39 | | Followers on Houzz | 390 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/penza.bailey.architects - LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/company/penza-bailey-architects - Blog — http://penzabailey.com/ ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Penza Bailey Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/penza-bailey-architects-pfvwus-pf~2013392487) - **Website:** http://penzabailey.com/ - **Phone:** (410) 618-1520 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - MBIA Award of Excellence 2020, 2015; ABC Award of Excellence 2019; NAIOP Best Overall Design Team award 2018; Professional Remodelers Gold Design Award 2015; Remodelers Council of the HBAM Remodeling Award of Excellence 1993 - 2012; and other awards. - **Best of Houzz:** 7 awards (2013–2025), for Design. **Affiliations** - [National Association of Home Builders](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/national-association-of-home-builders-pfvwus-pf~562065019) - [The American Institute of Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/the-american-institute-of-architects-pfvwus-pf~1350720471) - [Maryland Building Industry Association](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/maryland-building-industry-association-pfvwus-pf~1761779251) - [AIA Baltimore](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/aia-baltimore-pfvwus-pf~59797478) - [AIA Maryland](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/aia-maryland-pfvwus-pf~1008144465) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 4.8 out of 5 — 13 reviews** ### Featured Review **★★★★★ — Lilly Hunter, Aug. 2017** > We hired Jeff Penza as our architect who essentially transformed our 1935 Georgian home into a modern work of art. He was able to create an addition to our home that maintained the charm of an older home with the conveniences and style of more current trends, a kitchen that still inspires awe. He was available for every step of the process, answering our questions and providing expert opinion while maintaining exceptional professionalism. We will hire Penza and Bailey Architects for any projects going forward. **Comment from Penza Bailey Architects:** > Thank you for your review. It was a pleasure working with you! ### All 13 reviews **★★★★★ — Huber Company, May 2016** > We've been working with Penza Bailey Architects for many years and just recently on a whole house renovation project. From a builder's perspective, they provide very detailed drawings and communicate well. They have proven to be extremely dedicate to their work and have good relationships with their clients. The Penza Bailey Team includes talented architects who are very responsible and easy to work with when coming up against unexpected conditions often encountered in remodeling projects. We always look forward to working on projects designed by Penza Bailey. Their team is vested in working with Interior Designers and Builders to see that client's expectations are met and often surpassed. **★★★★ — cmklegg, Sept. 2015** > Jeff and Laura were responsible for the design of major renovations on our home. They worked as a team on renovations to the house and designed two new wings and a poolhouse. They were creative, professional and attentive to detail. They worked very well with our interior designer, the builder and with other consultants on the project. We have been very happy with the finished product and are grateful to the Penzas. **★★★★★ — Kimberly Wolff, Sept. 2015** > I have worked with Penza Bailey Architects on four residential remodeling projects over the years and the most recent one was a complete house renovation. I consistently recommend the firm and in particular Jeff Penza. From every step of the process there is a high level of detail and they really listened to what I wanted. I enjoyed meeting with them and then looked forward to the next meeting to see what the options might be based on what we discussed. I was always presented with multiple options some of which incorporated my ideas and some of which incorporated things I hadn't considered. The digital renderings they use helped me to visualize the designs. The only area of constructive criticism is that sometimes the design overcame the budget in mind but that's also how you find some really great ideas that you fall in love with and have to have. I have been completely satisfied with their work and client service and would use them again if the need arose. **★★★★★ — twinklesmgk, Aug. 2015** > We worked with the Penza Bailey group March 2011 on a remodel/addition to an historic home in Homeland. From the inital meeting we realized the knowledge of the team. Professional and approachable at all times. They took note of our thoughts, ideas...and then far exceeded or expectations! Always amazed at the attention to detail! They were highly regarded by the builder which made the whole project flow easily. It was about nine months time, and can honestly say each day was exciting and our stress was quiet low as we knew we were in good hands! When the project was complete, everyone continued to walk thru the door stunned at the transformation. There are not enough good things we could say about Penza Bailey! Unfortunately as life has it, we had to relocate, and believe me when I say we always talk about flying the architects to where we currently are now for plans! **★★★★★ — susanbank, Aug. 2015** > I have a worked with this firm on personal projects and also with my clients. They are my favorite firm, good communication, very talented designers, professional, great results. **★★★★★ — howzlawn, June 2014** > We have had an exceptional experience working with the Penza Bailey team. Our projects included a renovation and addition to a historic residence and the design of a new pool house. These projects had high complexity on multiple fronts. However, the process was actually enjoyable as they were perceptive listeners, exceedingly competent, and very straight forward. They deserve extra credit for several "design breakthroughs" that really made us realize the benefits of working with talented architects. **★★★★★ — woodsack, May 2014** > My husband and I found a beautiful property on the Chesapeake Bay. Unfortunately, the house on the property was an "ugly duckling." The Penza's turned the house into a beautiful "swan" that was even featured on HGTV!!!!!! We recommend Penza Bailey Architects wholeheartedly!!!!! **★★★★★ — gadams6410, Oct. 2013** > Penza Bailey Architects is a boutique architectural firm that continually exceeds the client's expectations. They are extremely easy to work with and very knowledgeable in all aspects of custom construction projects. As custom and luxury builders, we rely on their working knowledge and trust their design expertise. When you engage the services of Penza Bailey, you are working with an extremely professional group of people who listen and provide functional solutions for the lifestyle that people lead today. **★★★★ — joyandterry, Sept. 2013** > My wife and I worked with Jeff Penza directly to design a complete remodel/renovation of my grandparents old house. We were pretty demanding clients, but Jeff was able to satisfy all of our requirements and come up with a "just fabulous" plan for the house. He also was able to connect us with a great contractor for the construction. We absolutely love living in our new house, and would certainly contact Penza-Bailey Architects for any architectural needs in the future. **★★★★★ — jlblum, Sept. 2013** > I found Penza Bailey to be extremely talented residential architects. Most importantly, they listened to what I wanted in the design of this home and translated my thoughts, desires and dreams into reality. They have incredible taste and a real desire to do outstanding work while keeping within the budget. **★★★★★ — paulbekman, Sept. 2013** > Jeff Penza did an excellent job in all phases of the work on our property. The property was a home built in the 1950's and re-done in the 1980's. We have totally redone the interior and added on a garage, studio and sun room as well as a large hallway and laundry room. I would highly recommend Penza Bailey to anyone who is interested in quality work. **★★★★★ — sadashek, June 2013** > The architects at Penza Bailey designed our dream house! They took the time to listen to how we lived and what we were looking for, were sensitive to the land, and stayed within budget. > > We recommend them most highly! ## Selected projects - [Pool Cabana](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/pool-cabana-pj-vj~7199902) - Location: Towson, MD - Photos: 10 - Description: This Cabana project was designed for a long-time client, and was completed just in time for pool season! It doubles as a colorful shaded eating space, with enclosed rooms for garden and pool storage behind. Featuring weatherproof cabinetry, a bright mosaic tiled wall with blue pearl granite, and shuttered doors on one side to block noisy pool equipment and a generator. - [Wine Cellar](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/wine-cellar-pj-vj~7199840) - Location: Clarksville, MD - Photos: 5 - Description: A luxurious wine cellar with stone piers, arched wood beams & ceiling, and brick walls. - [Historic HoCo Estate](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/historic-hoco-estate-pj-vj~7199405) - Location: Clarksville, MD - Photos: 22 - Description: PBA continues ongoing phases of design on a historic estate in Howard County. The recently completed initial phase included a comprehensive restoration and additions to the historic farmhouse and restoration, renovation, reconstruction and additions to several outbuildings. A second phase addition is currently under construction and includes a garage addition with an expansive master suite. The reconstruction of two additional outbuildings will round out the final phase of the project will comme… - [House on the Hillside](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/house-on-the-hillside-pj-vj~7199924) - Location: Darlington, MD - Photos: 10 - [Modern & Marvelous](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/modern-and-marvelous-pj-vj~6576134) - Location: Towson, MD - Photos: 30 - [Contemporary Transformation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/contemporary-transformation-pj-vj~6505996) - Location: Baltimore, MD - Photos: 15 - Description: An intimate understanding of the clients led to the immaculate renovation of this Baltimore County project by Penza Bailey Architects. After conducting a feasibility study to assist the clients in selecting the right home, the firm got to work, removing traditional trim and dated finishes to craft a contemporary retreat. In addition to cosmetic upgrades, the home received a four-foot addition to expand the living and dining rooms, now with expansive windows overlooking the new resort style pool,… - [CV 5](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/cv-5-pj-vj~5981945) - Location: Owings Mills, MD - Photos: 24 - Description: Penza Bailey Architects completed this custom home design in a golf club community in Owings Mills, MD. Clad in stone with brick accents, siding and slate roofs, this 7,000 SF residence boasts gracious 1st floor amenities including a 1st floor master suite and a 3-story elevator for an aging in place lifestyle. A dedicated 2nd floor 3-bedroom guest suite, with accompanying TV room, provides rest and relaxation for guests. Unique features include: 22’ high arched entry portico with a full height… - [Luxury Penthouse](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/luxury-penthouse-pj-vj~6512206) - Location: Baltimore, MD - Photos: 13 - Description: Penza Bailey Architects designed this extensive remake of a two-story penthouse in an iconic Beaux Arts condominium in Baltimore for clients we have been working with for over 3 decades. The project was highly complex as it not only involved complete demolition of the interior spaces, but also included the installation of a new private elevator linking the two levels, and demolition and new construction on the exterior of the building. A two-story addition with the creation of four private terra… - [Majestic Row Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/majestic-row-home-pj-vj~5861460) - Location: Baltimore, MD - Photos: 18 - Description: This 6-bedroom Baltimore row home's grand exterior overlooks a tree lined street in the historic Bolton Hill neighborhood. The original large pocket doors in the first floor allows for uninterrupted views from the front parlor through the sitting room and into the rear dining room bay window. Penza Bailey Architects provided a complete transformation of the walk out garden level. The entire level was renovated to include a new kitchen, family room, mudroom, playroom, full bathroom and a gracious… - [Sophisticated Stately Transformation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/sophisticated-stately-transformation-pj-vj~4506233) - Location: Baltimore, MD - Photos: 26 - Description: Built in 1920, this Georgian stately house was transformed into the owner's dream home through a series of renovations designed by Penza Bailey Architects. Situated on a lush and very private .76 acres in a Baltimore university neighborhood, this 5,700 SF home features 6 bedrooms with multiple walk-out patios, contemporary kitchen with built-in shelving, formal dining and sitting rooms, grand staircase, sunroom with concealed shading, walk-out basement with original stone wall, mudroom with buil… - [Conservatory Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/conservatory-home-pj-vj~69201) - Location: Baltimore County, MD - Photos: 6 - Description: Avid gardeners, the clients wanted a conservatory addition to their home that would extend the landscape into the house, and provide more gracious space and better flow to the yard for indoor/outdoor gatherings. The addition also encompassed a new kitchen, a more functional rear entrance with mudroom, garden potting station and laundry. Rich detailing and the creation of a book nook in the “hyphen” between the house and the addition craft a seamless transition between the old and the new. - [Made for Entertaining](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/made-for-entertaining-pj-vj~348946) - Location: Baltimore, MD - Photos: 13 - Description: The owners of this home located in a historic Baltimore neighborhood wanted a much larger kitchen, and because they regularly entertained large numbers of guests, they wanted to improve flow throughout the house. The decision was made to create a gallery addition across the rear of the house, anchored at one end by a new kitchen addition. A dynamic 1-1/2 story breakfast room was created on axis with the entrance hall, and serves to bridge the kitchen and the gallery. A series of french doors all… - [Gym / Office / Guest Suites](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/gym-office-guest-suites-pj-vj~69170) - Location: Baltimore, MD - Photos: 13 - Description: The focus of this addition is a 1,600 SF gymnasium for a client who is passionate about fitness. The massing of the addition reflects the bucolic farm setting, and is organized in plan to create a courtyard embracing an existing pool. A cabana is situated on axis with the pool, and serves as a transition between the gymnasium and the pool. Other features of the addition include an indoor fitness pool, changing & shower rooms, a masculine office and lounge, and two complete guest suites. The proj… - [Multiple Family Suites](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/multiple-family-suites-pj-vj~27742) - Location: Towson, MD - Photos: 7 - Description: The client wanted us to design a new custom house on a tight suburban site that would emulate the style of homes found in their native Ireland. Although they were empty nesters, the home was designed with complete bedroom suites for all of their children’s growing families to come for extended visits. The centerpiece of the home is an open gathering space that links kitchen, family room, breakfast room, and sunroom. The lower level of the home boasts 10’ ceilings for the authentic Irish bar, gam… - [Greenspring Valley Makeover](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/greenspring-valley-makeover-pj-vj~919221) - Location: Baltimore, MD - Photos: 26 - Description: Former clients of Penza Bailey Architects purchased this property in Greenspring Valley because of the expansive views of the adjacent rolling hills, which were protected by an environmental trust. They asked PBA to design an attached garage with a studio above, a new entrance vestibule and entry foyer, and a new sunroom in the rear of the property to take advantage of the commanding views. The entire house was extensively renovated, and landscape improvements included a new front courtyard and… - [Stay-Cation Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/stay-cation-home-pj-vj~29298) - Location: Baltimore, MD - Photos: 8 - Description: Unable to get away? Destination home. Major changes were made to the landscape of this existing property including the creation of a destination pool house. The materials and building style used for the new structure complemented the architecture of the existing home. The approximately 1,000 SF building included a large outdoor kitchen and dining area, an indoor sitting room and kitchenette, laundry room, and changing areas. A small loft space was added as a playroom for the family’s three young… - [Historic Character / Modern Functionality](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/historic-character-modern-functionality-pj-vj~68944) - Location: Baltimore, MD - Photos: 28 - Description: Originally constructed in 1937 as the centerpiece of a country estate, the new owners elected to give their home a complete interior makeover before moving in. The kitchen was enlarged and modernized as was the master bedroom and bath on the floor above it. Three wings were added to the original home, one to house the garage, mud room, laundry and “Gentleman’s Retreat” on the lower level and a children’s/guest bedroom and bath on the upper level. The addition at the middle rear of the house hold… - [Historic Homeland](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/historic-homeland-pj-vj~68979) - Location: Baltimore, MD - Photos: 8 - Description: In order for an 80 year-old home in a beautiful historic neighborhood to become more livable for a growing family, all four sides of the home were modified and a new detached garage was constructed. A bay window added character to the front of the home. A sunny breakfast nook and a much needed mudroom was added to one side. A small addition in the rear was constructed to compensate for converting the original garage into a family room. To help orient the family room toward the garden and terrace… - [Strawberry Hill Historic restoration](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/strawberry-hill-historic-restoration-pj-vj~69231) - Location: Baltimore, MD - Photos: 27 - Description: Built around 1700, the house underwent additions in the 19th century and suffered from overgrown greenery, sagging structure and decades of deferred maintenance. The vision for the home’s next 100 years was crafted by a team of experts all working together. Curative measures included structural repairs, waterproofing, temperature control, and a complete new circulatory system of wiring and sprinklers. Equipped with “Smart House” intuitive technologies, the homeowner maintains full control over l… - [Old World, Shingle-Style](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/old-world-shingle-style-pj-vj~69163) - Location: Baltimore, MD - Photos: 8 - Description: This residence evokes the Shingle Style with an Old World feeling both inside and out. Sited proudly on a rise with views toward an expansive lawn, the home quietly commands the site. The approach to the house is by means of a driveway that follows the hillside border between the rolling lawn and a mature forest. Designed for gracious entertaining and with attention to detail, a central gallery links the major areas of the house. In contrast, the more private living spaces allow for a relaxed an… [See all 60 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/penza-bailey-architects-pfvwus-pf~2013392487) ## Video - [Company video](https://player.vimeo.com/external/840736989.m3u8?s=af2d9fff546d17d401de92f8c6590ab75da3f67a&oauth2_token_id=1384357804) ## Ideabooks - [Kitchen Designs](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/92823568/list/kitchen-designs) — 20 ideas - [Fireplace Designs](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/93857894/list/fireplace-designs) — 15 ideas - [Bay Drive](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/91073922/list/bay-drive) — 31 ideas [See all 3 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/kspilker) ## Community Q&A **Q: are these stairs painted black?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: As part of the extensive renovation, the existing oak stair treads and existing handrail were painted black and risers painted white, then finished with a carpet runner. The project involved replacement of the floors throughout the house, and this design decision proved to be dramatic and cost effective! **Q: What stone did you use for porch?** *(in Photo Questions)* What stone did you use for front porch and what stone did you use for walk way.? Thank you A: The stone for the front porch landing and stair treads is locally known as bluestone. **Q: Is the ceiling paint or wallpaper?** *(in Photo Questions)* Is the ceiling paint or wallpaper? A: It is painted plaster. It has a higher sheen making it look reflective. **Q: Like the paint color** *(in Photo Questions)* Can you share the paint color that was used on the walls? Love it! Thanks A: Although we no longer have the specifications on the exact paint color, I can suggest that the color is close to Duron 7051W Blue Bouquet. Depending on the type of light in the room, blues can be tricky. The light can dramatically change the color's appearance, so be sure to put several swatches on different walls to see what the color looks like throughout the day. **Q: what is on the floor?** *(in Photo Questions)* Is that tile on the floor? Where can I find? A: Hello. The tile in this photo is Carrara marble tile, with a semi-custom mosaic insert of glass and marble shapes. The tile was supplied by Chesapeake Tile & Marble. It's stunning in person! **Q: Weathervane!** *(in Photo Questions)* What size is this weathervane? Did you mount it directly to the roof? Is the finish raw copper that will patina or is the finish a dark bronze? Thank you! A: The weathervane is anchored into the roof structure, but then flashing and roofing membrane over that. Hope that helps. Have a great weekend! --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-09-05.*