Business Details
29 Years
experience
Award-Winning Sustainable Architecture in the American West
Established in 1997, Sparano + Mooney Architecture has cultivated a reputation as a leader in sustainable, contemporary architectural design across the American West. Our practice, rooted in a research-based conceptual approach, merges aesthetic innovation with technical precision to create spaces that harmonize with their cultural, environmental, and community contexts. With offices in Salt Lake City and Los Angeles, we serve civic, institutional, and private clients, delivering projects ranging from landmark cultural facilities to custom mountain modern homes. Our team of LEED-accredited architects and designers prioritizes energy efficiency and environmental responsibility, ensuring each project reflects both timeless modern traditions and cutting-edge sustainability practices.Over 25 years, we have earned more than 50 design awards, including recognition as the AIA Western Mountain Region Firm of the Year, and our work has been featured in prestigious publications such as the New York Times and Architectural Digest. We remain committed to advancing architectural excellence through public engagement, stakeholder collaboration, and a dedication to shaping spaces that endure for generations.
Services
Architectural Design
Sustainable Architecture
Mountain Modern Homes
Cultural Facilities
Civic Projects
Residential Planning
Urban Design
Historic Preservation
Master Planning
LEED Certification
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- We have over 25 years of experience in sustainable architectural design across complex western landscapes.
- Our LEED-accredited team integrates energy-efficient practices into every project.
- We employ a collaborative, research-driven design process refined over decades.
- Recognized as Top 10 Architects in Mountain Settings by Dwell magazine.
- Awarded 50+ design honors, including AIA Firm of the Year distinctions.
Associations and certifications
- LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)
- American Institute of Architects (AIA)
What people say
Award-winning designs
Exceptional sustainability focus
Collaborative process
Decades of expertise
Stunning mountain homes
Services
Sustainable Architecture
Our sustainable architecture integrates energy-efficient systems and eco-friendly materials to minimize environmental impact while maximizing functionality. We specialize in LEED-certified projects, from off-grid retreats to institutional buildings, ensuring each design aligns with ecological principles. Clients benefit from reduced operational costs and spaces that harmonize with natural landscapes.
Mountain Modern Homes
We craft bespoke mountain modern homes that blend contemporary aesthetics with rugged Western landscapes. Our designs prioritize passive solar strategies, durable materials, and seamless indoor-outdoor integration. Clients receive timeless, site-specific residences that enhance their connection to Utah's iconic terrain while maintaining long-term value.
Cultural Facilities
Our cultural facility designs create dynamic environments for arts institutions, museums, and performance venues. We balance artistic expression with practical functionality, incorporating flexible layouts and community engagement features. Projects like the Utah Museum of Contemporary Art demonstrate our ability to shape spaces that elevate cultural experiences.
Civic Architecture
We deliver innovative civic buildings that serve community needs while setting architectural precedents. From libraries to public safety facilities, our work combines durability with aesthetic appeal, ensuring taxpayer investments yield lasting public value through thoughtful design.
Master Planning
Our master planning services create cohesive, future-ready communities through comprehensive land-use strategies. We integrate transportation, green spaces, and mixed-use developments to foster walkability and sustainability. Clients receive visionary yet implementable plans that adapt to evolving urban challenges.
People
John Sparano
Co-Founder
FAIA, co-founder with 25+ years of experience in sustainable architecture. Served as AIA chapter president and received regional Silver/Gold medals for architectural excellence.
Anne Mooney
Co-Founder
FAIA, NCARB, LEED AP, co-founder and University of Utah professor. Recognized as Top Woman in Architecture and recipient of AIA Western Mountain Region Silver Medal.
Ludwig Juarez
Principal
Licensed architect and LEED-certified leader with expertise in complex institutional projects. Plays key role in advancing the firm's sustainable design initiatives.
Nate King
Principal
Senior designer specializing in mountain modern residential architecture. Focuses on integrating passive design strategies with Utah's unique landscapes.
Seth Striefel
Principal
Project leader with extensive experience in civic and cultural facility design. Ensures technical precision and client satisfaction across large-scale developments.
Questions
What architectural styles do you specialize in?
We focus on contemporary, sustainable design with expertise in mountain modern architecture and adaptive reuse of historic structures.
Do you work outside the American West?
While our primary focus is the Western U.S., we've completed projects in international locations featured in publications like World Architecture.
How do you incorporate sustainability into projects?
We use LEED standards, passive solar design, local materials, and energy-efficient systems tailored to each site's environmental conditions.
Can you handle both residential and commercial projects?
Yes, we design custom homes, cultural institutions, civic buildings, and mixed-use developments with equal expertise.
What awards have you received?
We've earned over 50 design awards, including AIA Firm of the Year honors and recognition from Dwell magazine as top mountain architects.
How long does the design process take?
Timelines vary by project scale but typically range from 12-24 months, including collaborative client reviews and regulatory approvals.
