no.  mention the projects you like and why you like them theoretically.  working with people is much different then liking someone's work, unless of course you know the principles of the firm already....which of course the school will wonder why you are going to school the, if- say you're buddies with Rem Koolhaas already.
 

Well, some firms do post their principles and characteristics on their website, however broad they may be.

So I can say something like, "I have had in mind a career goal of working at a research-oriented design studio like ________, to be part of a project that....."

academics don't really like to be reminded that they are just means to an end for most students...

agree with midlander.  another way to put what you're really saying....you are essentially suggesting you would like to do this type of work and you hope the school does that type of work or can help you do that type of work.  mentioning an actual person or firm you only know by reading what they put on a website says a lot more negative things than positive. just because I read the wikipedia page on Bill Clinton, does not mean I know him or could even successfully work for him.