---
title: "reform, llc — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz"
canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/reform-llc-pfvwus-pf~755563953
markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~755563953.md
entity_type: LocalBusiness
business_name: "reform, llc"
category: ["Architects"]
image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/9623b00c024d7e30_0851-w400-h400-b1-p10--.jpg
address: "1200 G Street NW, Suite 800, Washington, D.C. 20005, United States"
latitude: 38.9067
longitude: -77.0312
phone: "(202) 831-7630"
website: http://www.reformarch.com
rating: 4.9
review_count: 8
license_verified: true
best_of_houzz_awards: 3
followers: 37
last_updated: 2026-08-24
---

# reform, llc

> Innovative, Client Centered Architectural Design Collaborative

Original Houzz profile: [reform, llc](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/reform-llc-pfvwus-pf~755563953)

## Professional summary

- **Primary category:** Architects
- **Location:** Washington, DC
- **Serves:** Washington, Alexandria, Annandale, Arlington, Baileys Crossroads, Bethesda, College Park, DC (Washington), North Bethesda, North Chevy Chase, Potomac, Silver Spring, Takoma Park, University Park, White Oak
- **Verified License:** Yes
- **Houzz rating:** 4.9 out of 5 (8 reviews)
- **Best of Houzz:** 3 awards (2017–2025), for Service.

## About

### Houzz Badges

- Houzz Pro Software User
- Recommended on Houzz
- 500 Ideabook Saves
- Award winning
- High-end
- Offers Custom Work
- Hired on Houzz

### Business highlights

- Award winning
- High-end
- Offers Custom Work
- 1 Hire on Houzz

reform, llc is an award winning architectural firm and research + design collaborative based in Washington, DC. Since the firm’s founding in 2006, we have provided a full range of architectural, interior, installation and furniture design services for a wide range of residential, commercial and civic clients in the DC metro area and beyond. Our portfolio of award-winning designs illustrates our dedicated approach to each project and our commitment to each client. 

We re\_engage our Clients and Consultants…

Whether creating a large new building or a renovating a small existing space, construction is a complex process which requires a large, diverse project team. Successful collaboration among the team members allows the integration of knowledge at pivotal moments and inevitably leads to a more successful project. At reform, llc we listen, absorb, discern and re-present information in unique ways to our clients and consultants.

We re\_consider how things are made…

Architecture is fundamentally about the act of making. reform, llc  relies on our knowledge of existing construction means and methods, but we also continually search for opportunities to innovate through new technologies in design and construction as a means of providing additional quality and value to our clients.

We re\_solve problems into opportunities…

Design is the process of framing (or re\_framing) a problem and developing a solution. All design problems begin with numerous criteria, parameters and constraints. We thrive on resolving these constraints into thoughtful and functional relationships – creating new, not previously considered opportunities. At reform, llc, we are always searching for ways to turn potentially negative constraints into positive attributes for our clients and their communities.

We re\_form space…

Architecture frames and makes physical the space in which we live our lives. It has the power to choreograph our movements and behaviors. reform, llc strives to create places and spaces that enhance our experiences and allow people to become more aware of and fully-present in their surroundings.

### 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
- Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
- Bathroom Design
- Space Planning
- Universal Design
- Pool House Design & Construction
- Project Management
- Handicap-Accessible Design
- Basement Remodeling
- Basement Design
- Tiny House Construction
- Staircase Design
- Deck Design
- Garage Design
- Rooftop Deck Installation

### Areas Served

- Washington
- Alexandria
- Annandale
- Arlington
- Baileys Crossroads
- Bethesda
- College Park
- DC (Washington)
- North Bethesda
- North Chevy Chase
- Potomac
- Silver Spring
- Takoma Park
- University Park
- White Oak

### Typical Job Cost

$50,000 - 2 million

## Business Details

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Business Name | reform, llc |
| Address | 1200 G Street NW, Suite 800, Washington, D.C. 20005, United States |
| Phone | (202) 831-7630 |
| Website | http://www.reformarch.com |
| License Number | Licensed in DC, MD, & VA |
| Followers on Houzz | 37 |

**Social profiles:**
- Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/reformarchitecture/
- LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/company/reform-llc-

## Contact

- **Houzz profile:** [reform, llc](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/reform-llc-pfvwus-pf~755563953)
- **Website:** http://www.reformarch.com
- **Phone:** (202) 831-7630

## Credentials

**Verified License**
- Number: ARC102381
- Type: Architect
- Issued by: District of Columbia Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection

**Certifications & Awards**
- American Institute of Architects (AIA), National Council of Architecture Registration Boards (NCARB)

- **Best of Houzz:** 3 awards (2017–2025), for Service.

**Affiliations**
- [The American Institute of Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/the-american-institute-of-architects-pfvwus-pf~1350720471)
- [NCARB](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/ncarb-pfvwus-pf~1477640315)
- [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: 4.9 out of 5 — 8 reviews**

*Aspect averages:*
- Work Quality: 50.0
- Communication: 50.0
- Value: 50.0

### Featured Review

**★★★★★ — Craig Corl, Nov. 2018**

> Luis and Matt at Reform are amazing!  Our project was a small CO-OP space of 560 square feet that had not been touched since the mid 1960s.  We wanted to maintain a mid-century modern aesthetic while making the small space functional and unique.  They accomplished both and more.  From initial design options through to construction management, Reform exceeded our expectations.  If you expect attention to detail, solid recommendations throughout design and construction, and a professional relationship, Reform will make you smile.

**Comment from reform, llc:**

> Craig,
>
> Thank you so much for your kind words. You were fantastic clients to collaborate with on this project and we could not be more thrilled to hear how happy you are with your new space. Thanks once again, we will definitely be stopping by often to see you both.

### All 8 reviews

**★★★★★ — Alejandro Yepes, May 2024**

> We had the pleasure of working with Matthew Geiss from reform Architecture + Design on a residential renovation project. Matthew was able to reconcile our practical and aesthetic objectives into a modern midcentury-inspired design that transformed the house. The design combines clean lines, simplicity and functionality, with the use of wood  and enhanced hardscapes, and large windows to bring light and nature indoors. Throughout the project, Matthew was communicative and collaborative; he provided us options with rationales, and ensured that every aspect of the design met our needs and preferences.

**★★★★★ — P B, July 2018**

> I've been working with Reform for the past year on designs for remodeling my home and, more importantly, taking these through the not-so-straightforward process of approval for our city planning and regulatory authority, and engaging with contractors. Frankly, I can not praise them enough for their professionalism with what is a pretty complicated situation. I'm overseas, but have fully trusted Matthew to act on my behalf. Very happy to have come across them!

**Comment from reform, llc:**

> P,
>
> Thank you so much for taking the time to write this review. It has been our pleasure working with you and assisting you through the permitting and certificate of occupancy application process. We look forward to completing the project soon and hope to have the opportunity to work with you again in the future!

**★★★★★ — Margaret Ellett, Dec. 2016**

> reform helped us re-design a choppy 1955 rambler and successfully bring the layout into the 21st century. Matthew designed a plan to remove walls to enlarge the kitchen, master bedroom and family room, as well as to create an extra bedroom and full bath in the lower level. He was available for consultation before, during and after construction and helped us navigate the county permitting process. His design and construction knowledge, together with his easygoing personality made him the perfect architect to help us! We highly recommend him and his firm!

**Comment from reform, llc:**

> Peggy,
>
> Thank you so very much for your kind words. We greatly appreciate your taking the time to write a review. Congratulations on your fantastic project!

**★★★★ — Susanna Reck, Nov. 2016**

> Matt and Luis are very professional, creative, and responsive.   They really listened to what we were looking for in our remodel, which was reflected in their detailed drawings.   I would definitely work them again and would recommend them to anybody looking for an architectural firm that produces high quality and detailed project designs on time and within budget.

**Comment from reform, llc:**

> Sue and Ken,
>
> Thank you very much for your recommendation! We have enjoyed working with you and are looking forward to seeing the project get underway soon!!

**★★★★★ — Andrew Silverberg, Nov. 2016**

> As a full-time real estate broker and investor, it is imperative to build a trusted team that can support and add value to your projects.  Reform has provided us that necessary support with their creative designs, flexibility and ease of execution.  Matthew has been exceptional in designing and guiding us from full gut rehabs to squeezing in top-quality bathrooms. We would strongly recommend their superior services.

**Comment from reform, llc:**

> Andrew,
>
> It is always a pleasure working with you on any of your projects! Thank you for taking the time to write this review. We look forward to the next opportunity we have to work with Structure Realty!

**★★★★★ — User, Nov. 2016**

> Reform worked with our firm on technical details and coordination.  They are experienced, thorough, and easy to work with - I highly recommend Reform to all future clients!

**Comment from reform, llc:**

> Janet,
>
> Thank you so very much for taking the time to write this recommendation! It truly means a great deal coming from such a fantastic designer and successful practitioner. Thanks again.

**★★★★★ — Relda Newlin, Nov. 2016**

> Matt Geist and reform,llc did an excellent job in designing our renovations. He had very creative solutions to the various problems that arose in the course of the construction. Matt presented unique design ideas that we would not have thought of on our own. He was very prompt on meeting deadlines and keeping the project moving forward. We are very happy with the renovation.

**Comment from reform, llc:**

> Relda,
>
> We are thrilled to hear how happy you are with your renovation. It was a pleasure working with you and Ned through the entire process and we could not be more pleased with the end result!

## Selected projects

- [SW Waterfront 02](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/sw-waterfront-02-pj-vj~7812915)
  - Location: Washington, DC
  - Photos: 9
  - Description: Several years removed from our initial project in the Harbour Square Co-op in the now popular Southwest Waterfront area of Washington, DC, a couple who had seen our first renovation approached us with the exciting prospect of completely renovating their 4th floor unit in the same building. Unlike our original project, which was a ground level, studio apartment, this unit was a large, two-bedroom home with exposures on two sides of the building. While the existing apartment had a tremendous amoun…
- [Petworth Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/petworth-residence-pj-vj~6962447)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 18
- [Cleveland Park Office Loft](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/cleveland-park-office-loft-pj-vj~6962436)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 33
  - Description: At the heart of our practice, we are architects who are passionate about the act of making. We love using familiar materials in new and unexpected ways. We love investigating new ways for the ceiling to connect to the wall and for the wall to connect to the floor. It was ultimately the possibility of this type of intimacy that led us to accept a commission to design a tiny loft office and guest bedroom in the attic of a Cleveland Park duplex. We were asked to renovate a cramped, under-insulated…
- [Danville Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/danville-residence-pj-vj~6959396)
  - Location: Rockville, Maryland
  - Photos: 21
  - Description: Garage, mudroom and primary bedroom additions that seamlessly blend into the mid-century modern aesthetic of this single family home on a large lot in North Bethesda.
- [H Street Corridor](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/h-street-corridor-pj-vj~7812943)
  - Location: Washington, DC
  - Photos: 13
  - Description: In our many years of helping clients to convert the basements of their DC rowhomes into separate, accessory dwelling units, this was the first time that the homeowner clients had proposed creating the primary residence in the lower level so that they could rent out the upper floors of the house. Given that these foreign service officers spend much of their time abroad, it made sense for them to have a welcoming, multi-functional space for them to use while they are home in the US and would provi…
- [DC Southwest Waterfront Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/dc-southwest-waterfront-residence-pj-vj~2637463)
  - Location: Washington, DC
  - Photos: 26
  - Description: reform identified a tremendous opportunity in accepting the challenge of remodeling this tiny, 500 square foot, studio apartment along the burgeoning waterfront of Washington, DC. The recent completion of the Wharf in Southwest in addition to new development pushing West from Nationals Park and the Yards have dramatically transformed this once sleepy neighborhood previously occupied by congressional staffers into one of the most popular residential areas of the city. When the couple initially pu…
- [Dupont Circle](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/dupont-circle-pj-vj~7813249)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 11
  - Description: When we first walked through the lower level of a historic rowhome in the upscale Dupont Circle neighborhood of Washington, DC, it was difficult (even for us) to see the potential of this dimly lit and chopped up basement apartment. There was a bathroom and a small kitchen at the front of the unit which cut off the central living area from any natural light or air while the back of the apartment lead to closed off and dingy storage and utility spaces. Our approach to the renovation was to flip t…
- [Del Ray](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/del-ray-pj-vj~7813258)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 7
- [Carmichael Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/carmichael-residence-pj-vj~340557)
  - Location: Bethesda, MD
  - Photos: 48
  - Description: Whereas general consensus in the neighborhood assumed that this worn-down mid-century modern residence would be razed in favor of a developer funded spec-home, reform saw otherwise. We recognized that the house, though requiring substantial alterations, held tremendous promise for the clients growing family. While remaining sensitive to the modernist aesthetic of the home and the surrounding neighborhood, reform envisioned the renovations to be a curatorial process of simplification and editing;…
- [Reservoir 1 (On the Boards)](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/reservoir-1-on-the-boards-pj-vj~6962455)
  - Location: Washington, DC
  - Photos: 4
- [Stair Screen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/stair-screen-pj-vj~3138272)
  - Location: Arlington, VA
  - Photos: 7
  - Description: Our firm was commissioned to design and fabricate a new stair guardrail for a single-family residence in Arlington, VA. Rather that defaulting to the typical 3’-0” rail, we sought to provide an intervention that would utilize low cost, off-the-shelf products, transform them from ordinary, ignored materials into extraordinary, sculpted forms, reinforce existing spaces while resolving spatial disconnects and ultimately enhance the owner’s experience of moving vertically throughout the house. The d…
- [Newlin Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/newlin-residence-pj-vj~2149883)
  - Location: Tyrone, PA
  - Photos: 9
  - Description: Situated on large farm in historic Franklin Township in Central Pennsylvania, this house was originally built in the mid 1800’s as an iron store and showroom. The farm is a part of Huntingdon Furnace and the original furnace (which began operations in the late 1700’s) is located adjacent to the existing house. The client requested the addition of a master bedroom suite on the main level of the house and a separate addition with a larger, renovated kitchen and a new mud/laundry room. The program…
- [Reck Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/reck-residence-pj-vj~2150181)
  - Location: Arlington, VA
  - Photos: 13
  - Description: reform, llc was hired by a couple in South Arlington who were considering purchasing a larger new house in a different area, but they loved their home and its location that they decided to completely transform their traditional, post-war Cape Cod house instead. After several initial design iterations, reform proposed an addition as well as interior and exterior renovations as a means of creating a more open, spacious and functional home. reform was able to achieve this transformation by complete…
- [Quebec Street Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/quebec-street-residence-pj-vj~1383313)
  - Location: Washington D.C., DC
  - Photos: 7
  - Description: This project involved the design and renovation of an existing, center hall, colonial residence in Washington D.C. built in 1923. The client requested that we retain the character and charm of the existing structure while introducing a more contemporary language, palette of materials and detailing. In doing so, the renovation modernized the infrastructural and service spaces of the home while maintaining the original detailing in the served spaces. The kitchen renovation reconfigured the origina…
- [Palisades Guest House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/palisades-guest-house-pj-vj~2847295)
  - Location: Washington, DC
  - Photos: 12
  - Description: With the rising cost of real estate, particularly in some of the more sought-after Washington, DC neighborhoods, it is no surprise that the city is seeing a rise in the development of Auxiliary Dwelling Units (ADUs). This guest house, constructed along an alley in the Palisades neighborhood was designed as a space of quiet retreat for the client’s mother. Zoning regulations and an awkwardly shaped site provided both a challenge and an opportunity for this small yet extremely efficient structure.…
- [Hollin Hills Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/hollin-hills-residence-pj-vj~5466598)
  - Location: Alexandria, VA
  - Photos: 11
  - Description: Hollin Hills is a planned neighborhood which was developed by Robert Davenport and designed by renowned DC architect Charles Goodman in the 1940s. Each house was carefully placed on its lot so as to maximize views of nature and connection with the landscape but still maintain a sense of enclosure and privacy for the occupants. The community is considered by many as the epicenter of mid-century modern design in Washington DC. Although the houses in the Hollin Hills neighborhood were innovative an…
- [Robertson Residence (On the Boards)](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/robertson-residence-on-the-boards-pj-vj~2150203)
  - Location: Accokeek, MD
  - Photos: 8
  - Description: This project was designed as a gallery / living room addition to a couple's home on a beautiful lot across the Potomac River from Mt. Vernon. The addition was intended to sit apart from the existing Acorn house and to extend out into the beautiful tree canopy of the site. The folding roof-line lifts up and away from the space and becomes the primary focal point from both inside and outside. A large exterior deck reinforces the connection between interior and exterior space.
- [Ordway Residence 2 (On The Boards)](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/ordway-residence-2-on-the-boards-pj-vj~2637467)
  - Location: Washington, DC
  - Photos: 5
- [Ordway Residence 1](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/ordway-residence-1-pj-vj~2637451)
  - Location: Washington, DC
  - Photos: 22
  - Description: Originally design by local DC architect Dickson Carroll, this modern Cleveland Park residence had fallen into disrepair and required substantial upgrades and modernization. A growing family with two small children commissioned reform, llc to make the outdated spaces more functional and efficient. The architects reestablished the three level house as a vertically organized series of spaces. The entry, located at the mid-level of the home, became a formal living room which served as a distribution…

[See all 19 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/reform-llc-pfvwus-pf~755563953)

## Video

- [Company video](https://player.vimeo.com/external/1172137242.m3u8?s=8f62819dc579ea7bd480ee318dd3fb2e527d1fa2&oauth2_token_id=1384357804)

## Frequently Asked Questions

**Do you handle permitting, zoning, and regulatory approvals?**
As an award-winning architectural firm, we understand the complexities of the design and construction process. We regularly assist our clients with navigating permitting, zoning, and regulatory approvals as part of our comprehensive architectural and project management services, ensuring a smooth path from concept to completion for your project in the DC metro area and beyond.

**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, and tiny houses. We also excel in remodels and additions, such as basement, bathroom, and kitchen remodels, as well as home additions and extensions. Our expertise extends to ADUs and universal design, serving residential, commercial, and civic clients.

**How do you help clients design within their construction budget?**
At reform, llc, we view budget as a key parameter in every design problem. We work closely with our clients to understand their financial goals from the outset. Our process involves resolving these constraints into thoughtful, functional relationships, aiming to provide quality and value while creating innovative solutions that align with your construction budget.

**Do you provide full-service architectural services through construction?**
Yes, we provide a full range of architectural services, from initial concept and design through to construction. Our 'Project Management' service, combined with our collaborative approach, ensures we integrate knowledge at pivotal moments throughout the entire process. We work with you and your project team to ensure a successful outcome for your residential, commercial, or civic project.

**Do you design fully custom homes?**
Absolutely! Designing fully custom homes is one of our core specialties. We pride ourselves on our dedicated approach to each project, working closely with you to translate your vision into a unique, award-winning design. Our goal is to create spaces that enhance your experiences and are perfectly tailored to your lifestyle.

*FAQ content may be generated based on the Pro's Houzz profile and website.*

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*Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-24.*
