Saunders + Wiant Architects, Inc. was founded in 1995, moving to Newport Beach in 1996. The firm works throughout the Southwestern United States, with occasional overseas projects; recently in Mexico and the Middle East. A premier design firm, we enjoy the loyalty of many small and large organizations and individual property owners, having built a reputation over the years for quality and affordability.
We offer a complete design package including architectural, engineering and interior design. Close affiliations with our consultant engineers ensures seamless documentation. SWA handles a wide range of projects and project sizes, from very small on up. Our core expertise is in architecture for healthcare, general commercial architecture, and custom residential design.
A native Briton, Niall began his architectural career in the USA in 1986 and moved to solo practice in 1992. After founding Saunders + Wiant Architects in 1995, Niall began leading the practice focus into medical, commercial and residential architecture, which have become the core specialties of the firm. Niall received his Diploma in Architecture from the University of Westminster in London, and Bachelor of Arts Degree from the University of Kingston, London. He is an active member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). Licensed Architect in the States of California, Texas, and Arizona. Active architectural registration in the United Kingdom. NCARB certified. Niall is a founding board member and chair of the LA Chapter of RIBA-USA since 1996, also a board member on many local non-profit sports and charity organizations, including Youth Services USA and the Corona del Mar Water Polo Foundation.
Licensed in 1979, Ken brings extensive hands-on knowledge of the construction industry and regulatory processes in California. Ken’s focus produces highly inclusive teamwork approach to design and construction and to effective, practical solutions to our clients’ needs.
Ken amalgamated his own office with Niall Saunders in early 1996, blending the talents of the two organizations into a broad based professional practice.
Jared graduated from Cal Poly Pomona in 2000 with a degree in Architecture. Since joining the firm during school, Jared has risen to become the Senior Associate, actively involved in most projects in a design and management role. Jared developed a particular expertise in building codes and regulatory entitlements, overseeing the successful approval of many complex and difficult projects.