Our Expertise — Architecture, Planning & Community Design

Expertise

Lessard Design is an award-winning international architecture and planning firm, with 96 staff members, headquartered in the Washington, DC Metropolitan area.

Founded in 1986 by Chris Lessard, Lessard Design creates environments that inspire connection, collaboration, community and commerce. Lessard Design has projects in all types and scales of residential design: mixed-use, hotels, resorts, casinos and spas, office, retail/entertainment, student housing, green design, as well as urban and town planning.

Our driving focus is to ensure the quality, value, and delivery of practical and affordable design solutions. With projects located in all regions in North America as well as in over 20 countries around the world, we are well versed in developing market trends and construction technologies.

RESIDENTIAL

Lessard Design specializes in crafting residential environments that support better living and meaningful connection. By leveraging deep experience in market analysis, demographic research, and evolving trends in housing design, our team consistently develops high-performing, thoughtfully planned communities that have earned recognition across the country.

ARCHITECTURE

Lessard Design delivers architectural solutions that balance vision, function, and value. Our process integrates design innovation with technical precision to create spaces that are adaptable, sustainable, and meaningful. From residential and mixed-use developments to large-scale commercial and institutional projects, we design environments that enhance quality of life and reflect a deep understanding of context, culture, and client goals.

LAND PLANNING

We understand the economic constraints and opportunities that influence development, including land values, financing, and shifting market conditions. From the earliest planning and rezoning stages, we provide clients with land-use analyses and strategic insights that help maximize return on investment and ensure long-term project success.

INTERIOR DESIGN

Lessard Design works closely with clients to deliver integrated interior design, planning, and branding solutions. Our team focuses on creating spaces that foster community, collaboration, and commerce through thoughtful design strategy and functional innovation. By combining architectural insight with brand and user experience, we build environments that connect people and enhance long-term value.

RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

Lessard Design is a recognized leader in design innovation and market research. Our team analyzes emerging trends, technologies, and economic factors to guide development strategies that add measurable value. Through data-driven design and interdisciplinary collaboration, we help clients stay ahead of change and build communities that prosper over time.

INTERNATIONAL

The Lessard Design International team provides services across the United States as well as in the Middle East, China, and India regional markets.  Our understanding of global cultures is translated through design, and is sensitive to cultural geographies, communities, traditions, and values.  The firm and its leaders have experience working in nearly 20 countries.

Featured work

AWARD WINNER

The Glass House
Edgewater, NJ

AWARD WINNER

The Lowell
McLean, VA

AWARD WINNER

The Asher
Stamford, CT