John Cotton Architects has been in practice since 1965. The firm's range of services include master planning, urban design, and full architectural services. Over the years the firm has been the recipient of nearly 50 design awards from such organizations as the Urban Land Institute, American Institute of Architects, National Association of Home Builders, and the Pacific Coast Builders Conference. During the past 25 years, John Cotton Architects has developed a widespread practice in market-rate, government-subsidized affordable family and senior housing, as well as condominium projects completing over 11,000 units. Currently the firm has an additional 1,000 units of multifamily housing in various stages of planning, design, and construction.

The firm is owned and managed by John Oliver Cotton, FAIA. Mr. Cotton has over 35 years of experience in a variety of project types and in 1985 was elevated to the Fellowship of the American Institute of Architects in recognition of his contributions to design excellence.

John Cotton Architects is committed to design excellence and provides a "hands-on" approach to architecture, developing long-standing relationships with clients and public agencies. Senior staff are directly involved with every project from inception to completion, working closely with client management teams and consultants to ensure continuity throughout the process. It is this philosophy that has resulted in a strong portfolio and has earned the firm a specific reputation for the design and implementation of both economically and aesthetically successful projects.