Glendale, CA (September 17, 2025) – The Armenian American Museum and Cultural Center of California to honor Alajajian Marcoosi Architects at the Armenian American Museum Heritage Gala on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at the InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown. The recognition will celebrate the firm’s four decades of visionary leadership and contributions to the architectural landscape of Glendale and beyond.
“Alajajian Marcoosi Architects have shaped the landscape of Glendale with projects that touch every aspect of community life, from sacred churches to cultural landmarks,” stated Executive Chairman Berdj Karapetian. “We are proud to honor their legacy of passionate commitment, vision, and creativity at the Heritage Gala.”
Founded in 1985, Alajajian Marcoosi Architects has become a trusted name in institutional, commercial, cultural, and religious architecture. The firm, led by principals Aram Alajajian and Sako Marcoosi, is renowned for blending artistry with functionality, bringing to life spaces that serve both community needs and aesthetic aspirations.
The firm was spotlighted in its first ever publication in Nor Or, an Armenian newspaper, in 1987, which highlighted their early impact and future potential. The firm has since built a distinguished portfolio, shaping the city skyline with innovative and enduring projects.
Alajajian Marcoosi Architects has grown into a cornerstone of the city’s architectural identity. Their portfolio includes signature projects such as LOOK Dine-In Cinema, Hyatt Place Glendale, Metropol Hall, The Glenmark By Marriott, Holiday Inn & Suites, and St. Mary’s Medical Center, each leaving a lasting imprint on the community.
Beyond their commercial achievements, Alajajian Marcoosi Architects have been deeply involved in designing and building numerous churches and private schools, helping shape sacred spaces that serve as pillars of faith and heritage for the community. Their dedication to church design has strengthened the spiritual and cultural fabric of the city, complementing their broader body of work in cultural and civic projects.
The firm also serves as the creative force behind the design of the Armenian American Museum, a landmark cultural center under construction in Glendale. Their vision for the museum reflects a deep commitment to honoring Armenian heritage while creating a vibrant, forward-looking space for education, engagement, and exchange.
“From the very beginning, our goal was to design spaces that uplift people and bring communities together,” said Aram Alajajian. “Being recognized by the museum is deeply meaningful because it connects our work to the very heart of our heritage.”
“Architecture has the power to inspire, and we are grateful to play a role in shaping places where memories are made and traditions are carried forward,” added Sako Marcoosi.
Alajajian Marcoosi Architects has been recognized with numerous honors, including the Glendale Beautiful Award in 1995, the Glendale Urban Design Award in 2005, the Pasadena Urban Design Recognition for the Garden City Projects, the “2000 Years of Christianity” Medal from Pope John Paul II for Saint Gregory Armenian Catholic Church, and the San Fernando Valley Business Journal Silver Award for Best Renovation Project.
The Armenian American Museum Heritage Gala will bring together supporters, community leaders, and dignitaries to celebrate the firm’s achievements and honor outstanding contributions to the Armenian American story.
The Armenian American Museum and Cultural Center of California is a world-class educational and cultural institution currently under construction in the heart of Glendale’s Arts and Entertainment District. The museum will feature Permanent and Temporary Exhibitions, an Auditorium, Learning Center, Demonstration Kitchen, Archives Center, and more. Its mission is to promote understanding and appreciation of America’s ethnic and cultural diversity by sharing the Armenian American experience.
Learn more and RSVP for the Heritage Gala at ArmenianAmericanMuseum.org/Gala.
