Lorcan O'Herlihy

Lorcan O'Herlihy, FAIA, is an Irish-American architect and founder of Lorcan O'Herlihy Architects (LOHA), established in 1994. Based in Los Angeles with an additional office in Detroit, O'Herlihy leads a firm of twenty-five talented designers that has become one of the most recognized architecture practices on the West Coast. Under his leadership, LOHA has built over 100 projects across three continents and has been published in over 20 countries, establishing O'Herlihy as a significant voice in contemporary American architecture.

O'Herlihy's architectural philosophy centers on 'architecture as a catalyst for change' and what he terms 'Amplified Urbanism.' He approaches design with a conscious understanding that architecture operates within layered contexts of political, developmental, environmental, and social structures. His firm seeks to elevate the human condition via the built environment, working with diverse stakeholders to create projects that respond to contemporary urban challenges. O'Herlihy is particularly focused on addressing housing density issues in Los Angeles, embracing modular construction methods and innovative approaches to multi-family housing. His recent work demonstrates a commitment to fire-resilient design and sustainable building practices.

AWARDS

Fast Company #1 Most Innovative in Architecture (2025)

AIA California Awards, 2023 Maybeck Award by AIA California (2025)

Architect Magazine's #1 Design Firm in the US (2018)

AIA California Distinguished Practice Award

AIA LA Firm of the Year Award

AIA LA Gold Meda

Multiple AIA LA Design Awards (2017, 2018, 2020, 2022, 2024)

AIA LA Residential Architecture Awards (multiple years)

AIA Housing Awards (2018, 2019, 2023)

Wood Design Awards, AIA California Design Awards (2022, 2023, 2025)

Granville1500 (UCLA student housing) - MCHAP nominated

Sandi Simon School for Dance, Chapman University - MCHAP nominated

buildings by Lorcan O'Herlihy