Recognizing the essential role of architects in the field of hospitality, Forbes has released its inaugural list of “America’s Top Hospitality Architects & Designers,” and named SOM the best in the U.S. More than 850 firms were evaluated through eight months of research, from the beauty and functionality of the architecture to building performance, material selection, and industry recognition.

Citing the “importance [in] how these architects and designers, and their choreographed environments, dare us to not lose touch with the joys of community and the gravity of sense of place,” the magazine selected 100 firms for the list.