Stratton Andrews

Stratton Andrews is the owner and lead architect of Stratton Architects LLC. Originally from the East Coast, he brings a blend of regional perspective and innovative design to his practice. Stratton earned his architectural education at the University of Arizona, where he developed his passion for context-driven, landscape-centered design. Today, he leads his firm with a commitment to thoughtful craftsmanship, creative problem-solving, and enduring architectural vision.

1. How did your journey into architecture start? Did you always know you wanted to work as an architect?

The journey began early on as a child building 3D models, massive LEGO towers and drawing sports stadiums, and designing homes. From there, it evolved in grade school learning to love engineering, architecture, art, problem-solving, and more. In essence, I’ve always known and strived to be an architect.

2. What guides your very first steps in conceiving a building, and how do you translate a client’s vision into architectural form?

Our unique terrain, coupled with the client’s complex design criteria, is always the essence of our design. We let the land and the program morph and develop each project we take on.

Hillside Drive – Paradise Valley, Arizona

Amethyst Residence – Paradise Valley, Arizona

3. How would you describe your design style as an architect?

Our designs are all modern homes that seamlessly blend with their surroundings, giving them an organic, natural feel.

4. Could you tell us about one of your projects that you are most proud of, and share what it is about this project that is exciting?

Our Amethyst project is one of our favorite projects to date. This home is nestled between 2 protected ridgelines spanning the gap and creating a monolithic structure of concrete, glass, and steel. The wing-like project floats gracefully atop the massive concrete demising walls. The complexity, precision and team work through design and construction make this a once in a life time project.

5. It must be hard to choose from, but what are your favorite architectural works in the world, and could you tell us why?

Olson Kundig’s work is a beautiful example of other modern work that reflects and respects its landscapes that we admire.

6. What is the part of your work as an architect that you enjoy the least?

Being an architect and owner allows me to design, detail, and oversee construction, and all these phases are what make our profession unique and special. The only downside is the business end, where it’s handling contract negotiations or finances.

7. What are your inspirations? Is there a place, a figure, or an activity that always fuels your inspiration or always re-centers you?

Our design landscape in Arizona is always inspiring, something raw, durable, and beautiful at the same time. That, coupled with the brilliant sunsets, always provides the inspiration and backdrop for our projects.

8. Many of your projects sit within dramatic desert and hillside landscapes. How does the character of the site shape your architectural decisions from the very beginning?

This was touched on a bit above, but the terrain and the clients truly shape each piece of our projects. It’s our goal and passion to merge the two in a compelling and elegant way.

9. Your residential work balances sculptural form with livable warmth. How do you approach creating homes that feel both architecturally bold and deeply comfortable?

The bold forms reflect and react to the terrain around while also stemming from the long cantilevered patios to protect our homes from the harsh Arizona climate. The warmth comes from the materials, desert tones, and the client’s desire.

10. What do you think the new architectural projects of today need the most? Or asked differently, what is something that the buildings of today lack the most?

Connecting to our surroundings as well as more natural beauty.