---
title: "SMS Architects — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz"
canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/sms-architects-pfvwus-pf~975105226
markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~975105226.md
entity_type: LocalBusiness
business_name: "SMS Architects"
category: ["Architects"]
image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/f5434d080756e35f_4369-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg
address: "5409 Patterson Ave., Suite 201, Richmond, Virginia 23226, United States"
latitude: 37.5825
longitude: -77.5197
phone: "(804) 212-9907"
website: http://www.smsarchitect.com
rating: 4.9
review_count: 16
best_of_houzz_awards: 7
followers: 69
last_updated: 2026-08-25
---

# SMS Architects

Original Houzz profile: [SMS Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/sms-architects-pfvwus-pf~975105226)

## Professional summary

- **Primary category:** Architects
- **Location:** Richmond, VA
- **Serves:** Virginia Beach, Richmond, Tuckahoe, Henrico, Alleghany County NC, Brunswick County, Chesterfield County, Dare County NC, Goochland County, Halifax County NC, Hanover County, Henrico County, Lake Anna, Lake Gaston, Mecklenberg County, Middle Neck, Northampton County NC, Northern Neck, Tidewater, University Of Richmond, Warren County NC
- **Houzz rating:** 4.9 out of 5 (16 reviews)
- **Best of Houzz:** 7 awards (2017–2026), for Design, Service.

## About

### Houzz Badges

- Star Houzzer
- Recommended on Houzz
- 1,000 Ideabook Saves
- Best of Houzz winner
- High-end
- Offers Custom Work

SMS Architects is a full service architectural firm predominately focused on residential design.  Listening carefully to our clients, we take a thoughtful and comprehensive approach to develop the opportunities presented to us by each project.

We believe every project has the potential to enhance your quality of life, and it is our mission to identify the best design solutions to achieve collaborative goals.  The diversity of our architectural backgrounds allows our team to deliver distinct designs in a variety of styles.  Our process always incorporates client budgets, local building codes, efficiency goals, and tasteful aesthetics.

Clients can expect us to value their input, clearly communicate our intentions, arrive at solutions together, and deliver a quality drawing package.  We are committed to successful projects.  We design meaningful spaces together.

Established in 2008, SMS Architects has been featured in architectural publications and has completed numerous projects in the Richmond region, Virginia’s Northern Neck, and the variety of other locations our client relationships have taken us to.

### Services Provided

- Architectural Design
- Building Design
- Home Remodeling
- Architectural Drawings
- Custom Homes
- House Plans
- New Home Construction
- Home Additions
- Home Extensions
- Sustainable Design
- Floor Plans
- Space Planning
- Guesthouse Design & Construction
- Pool House Design & Construction
- Home Restoration
- Historic Building Conservation
- Project Management
- Barn Design & Construction
- Garage Design
- Site Preparation
- Bidding & Negotiation
- Construction Administration
- Construction Drawings
- Cost Estimating
- Custom New Homes
- Due Diligence
- Feasibility Studies
- Master Planning
- Public Hearings
- Re-Zoning
- Remodeling
- Scheduling
- Zoning

### Areas Served

- Virginia Beach
- Richmond
- Tuckahoe
- Henrico
- Alleghany County NC
- Brunswick County
- Chesterfield County
- Dare County NC
- Goochland County
- Halifax County NC
- Hanover County
- Henrico County
- Lake Anna
- Lake Gaston
- Mecklenberg County
- Middle Neck
- Northampton County NC
- Northern Neck
- Tidewater
- University Of Richmond
- Warren County NC

### Typical Job Cost

$500,000 - 5 million

Project Construction Costs, Design Fee provided upon verbal request

## Business Details

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Business Name | SMS Architects |
| Address | 5409 Patterson Ave., Suite 201, Richmond, Virginia 23226, United States |
| Phone | (804) 212-9907 |
| Website | http://www.smsarchitect.com |
| Followers on Houzz | 69 |

## Contact

- **Houzz profile:** [SMS Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/sms-architects-pfvwus-pf~975105226)
- **Website:** http://www.smsarchitect.com
- **Phone:** (804) 212-9907

## Credentials

**Certifications & Awards**
- Work has been featured in:
- R-Home Magazine
- Richmond Magazine

- **Best of Houzz:** 7 awards (2017–2026), 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)
- [AIA Virginia](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/aia-virginia-pfvwus-pf~1956081853)
- [AIA Richmond](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/aia-richmond-pfvwus-pf~1763106347)
- [LEED AP](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/professionals/schools-and-organizations/leed-ap-pfvwus-pf~1386238498)

## Reviews

**Overall rating: 4.9 out of 5 — 16 reviews**

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

### Reviews

**★★★★★ — Bob Feeser, May 2021**

> Scott provides personalized, creative, and practical design solutions.  He and his team are extremely responsive and work hard to fully incorporate their client's input in the final design.  They also work collaboratively with your builder/contractor to answer questions and ensure that the final project is constructed as intended from the plan.  I would highly recommend Scott and his team.

**★★★★★ — George Parrish, April 2021**

> Scott did an addition and garage to our existing house. We already had a lot of roof lines to deal with and his creation perfectly blended the existing and the new. He is very laid back and easy to deal with and has good ideas and creativity. Would definitely recommend him.

**★★★★★ — mark Webb, April 2021**

> This was the third project SMS has designed for us.  Creative, responsive and timely.  SMS has provided tremendous added value to each project we have undertaken, coming up with great solutions that balanced practicality with great design.

**★★★★★ — cynthiaco, April 2021**

> Scott Stephens at SMS Architects was the perfect choice for me.  I have lived in this home for over 25 years and last year he helped me make decisions and finish plans for renovating the bedrooms, adding a beautiful new Main Bath with a large tub, separate shower huge double vanity and another area where I can store and apply my makeup and dry my hair without needing to leave my cozy bath with heated floor.   I also worked with Scott to turn our basement into a living space with a kitchen, laundry and bath for future live in help.
> I’m very slow to commit to a design and Scott was patient and always cheerful when I told him I want this changed or I wanted to check with a designer friend to make sure I would be satisfied with the end result.
> Scott just gave me the plans for my new kitchen and enlarged family room.  I am thrilled to finally update the kitchen since my husband and I have been cooking every day since COVID 19 and he seems to have found a new talent (which makes me very happy), cooking Italian food.
> If you are looking for a creative, knowledgeable, friendly architect I can recommend Scott Stephens at SMS architects without reservation.

**★★★★★ — Mary Poggi, Sept. 2017**

> Scott has designed two projects for us.  We love his ideas and his deep listening skill.  He takes what we tell him about our vision and designs something better than we envisioned.  We are currently working on a modern indoor/outdoor poolhouse with pool, patio, wall and outdoor space.  He's interested to try new ideas, styles and materials.  He is just a pleasure to work with.

**★★★★★ — Tom Osgood, Aug. 2017**

> We enjoyed working with Scott very much.  He took our concepts, helped us to refine them, and put them down on paper quickly to help us refine them further.  The process was efficient and enjoyable.  Besides his design ideas, Scott's other big strength is working hand in hand with contractors, getting out to the field to make sure that what was drawn is being constructed and/or helping to make any decisions in the field that invariably come along in the construction process.

**★★★★★ — Chandler Construction, Aug. 2017**

> I have worked with Scott on numerous projects ranging from large scale, whole home remodeling to ground up, new construction.  He and I have referred a number of clients to one another, and have found a working partnership that is enjoyable.  Scott has been well liked by my clients and I too have enjoyed his openness, thoughtful approach to design and easy going demeanor.  I would recommend Scott to anyone that would prefer a partnership in home design!

**★★★★★ — Perry Guy, Aug. 2017**

> Scott designed a fabulous river house for us and is he great to work with.  He is an excellent choice for an architect!

**★★★★★ — Kelly Stuart, Jan. 2017**

> Scott is highly professional, down-to-earth, and responsive to our needs. He understands that our house is a place where we actually live. He creates beautiful, livable plans. We have used him for multiple small projects and plan to use him for a two-story addition.

**★★★★★ — Boogs, Aug. 2016**

> We worked with Scott Stephens on an addition with two bedrooms, a playroom and the re-configuring of our kitchen and den. He was creative and collaborative and took into account both our needs and our budget.  His drawings were excellent and all the builders we spoke to were highly complimentary of his detail and design. He had great vision and was able to design a plan that maximized our space but maintained the character of an older home. He was responsive and always punctual - to our questions and those of our builder.  If we ever do another addition, Scott will be the first call.

**★★★★★ — JL Builders, LC, Aug. 2016**

> Great architect who is hands on in every aspect of new home and renovation designs.  Scott is very knowledgeable in all phases of construction and uses that knowledge in his designs to make a more cost effective project for the end user.  If/when questions arise, he is always their to take the time to thoroughly answer to everyones satisfaction.

**★★★★ — HU-887340, July 2016**

> SMS Artchitects did a great job planning our home renovation.  They listened to our requirements, provided several thoughtful options and were available throughout the project.  The process from start to finish was easy.

## Selected projects

- [Rio Vista](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/rio-vista-pj-vj~7573557)
  - Location: Richmond, VA
  - Photos: 14
  - Description: Addition & Renovation On a quiet lane near a bustling intersection, this French provincial style home has stood handsomely above its cobblestone driveway for nearly a century. Our charge was to seamlessly add more living space to the house and adapt the existing floorplan to a growing family’s lifestyle. While the stone arches are the showstoppers, architectural details and authentic materials abound, and the colorful interior was playfully decorated by the homeowner. The result is a comfortable…
- [River Road West](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/river-road-west-pj-vj~7083270)
  - Location: Richmond, VA
  - Photos: 8
  - Description: Porch & Pool Addition For many years, this transitional style home had entertained and hosted family and friends on a wooden deck. We were asked to design a modern outdoor living space to compliment the new pool. Our open plan is accented by lovely stonework, a handsome wood ceiling, custom railings, and comfortable furnishings. The radiant floor heat and large gas fireplace extends the use of this room by many nights each year. The party continues…
- [The Fan](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/the-fan-pj-vj~7573569)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 8
  - Description: The artist owner looked at every room as a blank canvas. Each material, finish, color, texture etc. was carefully selected to create a composition. The rear addition took precedents from English solariums – the goal being to bring in as much north facing light in as big an addition as the city would allow. The bay window has an integrated copper gutter and swooping roof over push out casement windows that sit handsomely on a brick wall meant to look as old as the 1905 home.
- [Westhampton Pool & Pavilion](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/westhampton-pool-and-pavilion-pj-vj~6707300)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 8
- [Rappahannock River West](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/rappahannock-river-west-pj-vj~2560737)
  - Location: Middlesex, VA
  - Photos: 12
  - Description: This is truly a modern farm house. Located on the edge of a 40 acre corn field and along the grassy banks of the river, this home feels as true as it looks. A floor plan of 2,700 square feet is enhanced by a 1,500 square foot wrap around screened porch. The swimming pool and pool house were already in place when this home was built.
- [Swift Creek](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/swift-creek-pj-vj~7573542)
  - Location: Midlothian, VA
  - Photos: 9
  - Description: In collaboration with our client, this home was designed in a courtyard style to capture the elevated lake view. Warm wood ceilings, expansive glass walls, and a modern aesthetic create a serene living experience on the inside. Interior spaces extend seamlessly onto the central pool terrace via large sliding doors, and a modern side porch connects the house to the outside in a way that provides a sense of quiet privacy with views throughout. The home was featured on Modern Richmond’s house tour…
- [Old Gun](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/old-gun-pj-vj~7573565)
  - Location: Richmond, VA
  - Photos: 8
  - Description: Nestled at the end of a wooded lane, this Williamsburg-reproduction guest cottage is a treasure box of delightful details. We were asked to take our design cues from Virginia’s prolific architectural history. As a result, the owners’ handsome collection of antique furnishings fit seamlessly within the authentic architecture and artistic flourishes. From monogrammed bricks to whimsical finials, a Rumford fireplace and even a hidden piano, the finished project has the eye wandering from every intr…
- [Dymer Creek Guest Cottage](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/dymer-creek-guest-cottage-pj-vj~6746603)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 9
- [Windy Point Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/windy-point-residence-pj-vj~7206869)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 17
- [Rappahannock River Pool House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/rappahannock-river-pool-house-pj-vj~1796398)
  - Location: Weems, VA
  - Photos: 7
  - Description: Located in Weems, VA, this pool house overlooks the Rappahannock River and features a functioning cupola
- [Mooreland Farms Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mooreland-farms-residence-pj-vj~1981389)
  - Location: Richmond, VA
  - Photos: 14
  - Description: An elegant master suite addition
- [Rothesay Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/rothesay-residence-pj-vj~7206862)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 8
  - Description: Addition, renovation and updates throughout this lovely Richmond home have created a stunning masterpiece overlooking the James river.
- [Virginia Beach Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/virginia-beach-residence-pj-vj~5870856)
  - Location: Virginia Beach, VA
  - Photos: 16
- [Corrotoman River Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/corrotoman-river-residence-pj-vj~2819621)
  - Location: Weems, VA
  - Photos: 10
  - Description: On a quiet peninsula of Virginia's Northern Neck, this river home keeps it easy. Built by Randolph Construction
- [Coventry Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/coventry-residence-pj-vj~6658118)
  - Location: Richmond, VA
  - Photos: 4
  - Description: A collection of smaller projects designed by SMS Architects and built in the Richmond, Virginia area.
- [Manakin Sabot Indoor Pool & Garage](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/manakin-sabot-indoor-pool-and-garage-pj-vj~5427521)
  - Location: Manakin-Sabot, VA
  - Photos: 10
- [Tonbridge Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/tonbridge-residence-pj-vj~1896292)
  - Location: Richmond, VA
  - Photos: 11
  - Description: A modern open floor plan addition to a classic Tudor Style home in Windsor Farms.
- [Glenburnie Porch](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/glenburnie-porch-pj-vj~7206875)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 13
- [Cary Street Road Garage](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/cary-street-road-garage-pj-vj~7207803)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 1
- [Mosquito Point Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mosquito-point-residence-pj-vj~7207800)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 5

[See all 22 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/sms-architects-pfvwus-pf~975105226)

## Ideabooks

- [Wish List](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/68257913/list/wish-list) — 3 ideas
- [SMS ideabook for Daniel](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/121780728/list/sms-ideabook-for-daniel) — 7 ideas

[See all 2 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/smsarchitects)

## Community Q&A

**Q: pool color /finish** *(in Photo Questions)*

Beautiful yard! Is the pool pebble tech or plaster and do you know the color

A: I am not sure of the pool color.

**Q: ceiling height in kitchen? white color used on cabinets?** *(in Photo Questions)*

I have 10 ft ceilings and was told “it would not look right” taking cabinets to ceiling.
Also looking for a soft white for kitchen.
This kitchen is beautiful.

A: This is a nine foot ceiling in this kitchen.

**Q: white walls in foyer** *(in Photo Questions)*

Can you please share what shade(s) of white is used in the foyer?

A: I have no idea.  The owner selected it.

**Q: Countertops** *(in Photo Questions)*

What are the countertops made of?

A: These countertops are Super White Extra Marble.  Some may call it a Quartzite or Granite, but this will age more like marble.

**Q: Who is the manufacturer and style of this wall &bfloor tile?** *(in Photo Questions)*

This bathroom is just beautiful! Could you please provide the manufacturer, style, and color of the wall and floor tile? In addition, can you please tell me the manufacturer, material, and color of the vanity counter? Beautiful!!!

A: The wall tile is Cosa's Thassos 3x6 Polished Glass Stone with a matching 3/4" Pencil cap.  The floor tile is Raffi's Water Jet Arabesque "Marble O & X."  The O is Thassos Chrystal White and the X is Carrara White Polished.  All grout is Permacolor \#88 Silver Shadow.  The vanity was provided by others.

---

*Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-25.*