Expertise.com
2024

Last updated:

Best Architects in San Francisco

Our Recommended Top 15

We did the research for you!

  • Licensing
  • User Reviews
  • Mystery Shopping Calls

Our goal is to connect people with the best local professionals. We scored San Francisco Architects on more than 25 variables across five categories, and analyzed the results to give you a hand-picked list of the best.

176

Reviewed

111

Curated

15

Top Picks

Learn about our selection process.

Providers

featured provider = Featured Provider

Website
San Francisco, CA 94110

Why choose this provider?

Klopf Architecture has been serving clients throughout San Francisco since 2001. The architects use natural materials, natural light, and green design practices to create mid-century, modern indoor/outdoor spaces. Recognition includes Best of Houzz for Design and Service, Houses Award by Fine Homebuilding, and Top Ten by Design Shuffle. Founding architect John Klopf has nearly 30 years of industry experience and is a member of the American Institute of Architects. The firm focuses on building green and net-zero energy homes.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Yelp
5.0 / 5 (18)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
San Francisco, CA 94110

Why choose this provider?

Architect Andrew Morrall has been serving the San Francisco community since 2003. Memberships include National Association Of The Remodeling Industry and Build it Green. Services include models and new construction for residential and commercial properties. Recognition includes Design Awards from National Association Of The Remodeling Industry and American Institute of Architects.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Yelp
5.0 / 5 (33)
BuildZoom
5.0 / 5 (4)
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (1)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
San Francisco, CA 94109

Why choose this provider?

Mosaic Architects & Interiors is an architecture and design firm that serves clients in San Francisco and throughout the country. Services include architecture, planning, interior design, green consultation, furniture design, color and art consultation, and more. The architects are members of American Institute of Architects and can customize homes to be traditional contemporary, formal, or casual. The building process involves schematic design and development, construction documentation, and construction administration.

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
San Francisco, CA 94109

Why choose this provider?

Interstice Architects is a commercial and residential architectural studio that serves clients throughout San Francisco. The staff is comprised of landscape architects, urban designers, and visual artists. The firm’s founding architects are LEED accredited and have nearly 50 years of combined experience. Awards include Kirby Ward Fitzpatrick Award by The Architectural Foundation of San Francisco, Excellence in Architectural Design by New Hampshire Magazine, Merit Award by American Institute of Architects, and Merit Award by American Society of Landscape Architects.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.0
Facebook
4.0 / 5 (1)

Website
San Francisco, CA 94111

Why choose this provider?

Feldman Architecture is a San Francisco design studio that has been serving commercial and residential clients in and around the community since 2003. The firm prides itself on creating beautiful, healthful, and soulful spaces that are ecologically and ethically built. Founding architect Jonathan Feldman is LEED accredited and is a member of the American Institute of Architects. Awards include Best of the Year by Interior Design, Citation Award by American Institute of Architects Monterey Bay, and Honor Award by International Interior Design Association.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (22)
Google
5.0 / 5 (2)
Yelp
5.0 / 5 (2)

Website
921 Larkin St, San Francisco, CA 94109

Why choose this provider?

Studio BBA is an architectural business serving commercial and residential clients throughout San Francisco, California. It uses innovation, materials, form, and energy-efficient building systems and prides itself on creating original and compelling spaces. Founded by Bonnie Bridges in 1992, the company’s projects include restaurants, community spaces, homes, and offices.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Google
5.0 / 5 (3)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
3.8
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail
––

Website
San Francisco, CA 94110

Why choose this provider?

Hart Wright Architects is a San Francisco architecture studio that serves homeowners throughout the community. Architect Eliza Hart is LEED certified, and she and architect Stuart Wright are members of American Institute of Architects. Services include feasibility studies, programming, schematic design, design development, construction contract negotiation, 3D computer visualization, green design, California coastal development analysis, and more. The firm incorporates water conservation measures, re-used materials, and solar energy into designs.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Google
5.0 / 5 (3)
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (1)
Yelp
5.0 / 5 (1)

Website
Berkeley, CA 94710

Why choose this provider?

WA Design Architects is a Berkeley architecture studio that has been serving clients throughout the San Francisco Bay Area since 1985. Primary services include new building construction and design, remodels and additions, interior design, color consultation, and lighting design. The firm prides itself on inspiration, sustainable, and lasting homes.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.7
Google
4.5 / 5 (2)
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (1)

Website
San Francisco, CA 94104

Why choose this provider?

Martinkovic Milford Architects is a residential, commercial, and medical architecture studio in San Francisco with 50 locations throughout the country. The firm prides itself on functional, personalized, artistic, practical, meaningful, and economical designs. Memberships include American Institute of Architects and National Council of Architectural Registration Boards. Projects include Tank18 Restaurant, Alchemy Bottle Shop, Red Dog Restaurant & Bar, and Golden Gate OBGYN.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Yelp
5.0 / 5 (24)
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (2)

Website
San Francisco, CA 94103

Why choose this provider?

Ike Kligerman Barkley is an architecture firm with offices in New York and San Francisco. The architects have received numerous awards from the AIA, DDB, and ICAA and are featured in Introspective Magazine, Architectural Digest, New York Spaces, Luxe People, San Francisco Cottages & Gardens, and more. Projects include Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research, beach homes, city lofts, and more.

Website
San Francisco, CA 94133

Why choose this provider?

Kuth Ranieri Architects has been providing architectural services to clients throughout San Francisco since 1990. Principal architects Byron Kuth and Elizabeth Ranieri are LEED accredited and are members of Fellow of the American Institute of Architects and U.S Green Building Council. Awards include Citation, Excellence in Unbuilt Design, and San Francisco Best of the Bay by AIA. Projects include Museum of the American Indian, GLBT History Museum, San Francisco Art Institute, Malama Learning Village, and more.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (1)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
San Francisco, CA 94109

Why choose this provider?

Butler Armsden Architects is a San Francisco architecture firm that has been serving the community for more than 30 years. The designers use space and light to create personalized and unique designs. Principal architect Lewis Butler is a member of American Institute of Architects and leads a staff of 26 associates. Projects include new constructions, renovations, sustainable homes, and interiors.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (5)
Google
5.0 / 5 (2)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
San Francisco, CA 94103

Why choose this provider?

WDA is an architecture firm in San Francisco that designs for commercial properties, residences, retail boutiques, and restaurants. Memberships include San Francisco Green Business, U.S. Green Building Council, and American Institute of Architects San Francisco Chapter. The studio has featured in Cultured Magazine, California Home + Design, and others. The founder and principal architect is certified by National Council of Architectural Registration Boards and LEED and is a member of American Institute of Architects, U.S. Green Building Council, and San Francisco Chamber of Commerce.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Google
5.0 / 5 (7)
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (7)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
San Francisco, CA 94110

Why choose this provider?

2M Architecture is a San Francisco studio that prides itself on intelligent and sustainable design. The firm holds both GreenPoint and LEED certification and has been serving the community since 1995. Principal architect Marc Lindsell is an award-winning member of National Association of the Remodeling Industry. The designers specialize in interior design, master planning, real estate development, and green building certification.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Google
5.0 / 5 (2)
Yelp
5.0 / 5 (2)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
San Francisco, CA 94103

Why choose this provider?

Gast Architects has been serving clients in and around San Francisco since 1980. Memberships include U.S. Green Building Council and San Francisco Green Business. Specializations include custom homes and renovations using sustainable design strategies. Design style ranges from warm and modern to traditional and adheres to a clients’ budget and schedule. The firm has featured in Before & After Bathroom, Shingle Style Houses, Houzz, and California Home & Design.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Google
5.0 / 5 (3)
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (1)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Introduction

    Architects are skilled professionals who create designs and plans for a variety of reasons. While the term architect traditionally refers to a professional who creates building plans, either for residential or commercial properties, the word can also refer to an architect who works with technology and digital infrastructure. Below are some of the most common titles an architect may have:
    • Landscape architect: Designs outdoor spaces, such as parks, gardens, and college campuses

    • Restoration architect: Preserves historic buildings and monuments
    • Lighting architect: Designs, installs, and operates lighting for theater and film productions
    • Extreme architect: Creates buildings that withstand major disasters or severe weather
    • Residential architect: Designs homes and multifamily properties
    • Sustainable/green design architect: Designs buildings that have a minimal environmental impact
    • Industrial architect: Develops plans for industrial buildings, such as factories and plants
    • Conservation architect: Preserves unprotected heritage sites
    • Interior architect: Designs interiors for commercial and residential buildings
  • How much does an architect cost?

    The cost of hiring an architect varies, depending on what type of work needs to be done. According to Home Guide, most traditional architects charge anywhere from $100 to $250 per hour to draw plans; however, this cost may vary depending on experience and project scope.

  • How much do residential architects charge?

    Residential architects typically charge anywhere from $2,000 to $8,500 for initial plans and small projects, according to Home Advisor. For large projects, revisions, and extra services, this cost can increase.

  • Do I need an architect to build a house?

    While it's not required to hire an architect before building a house, it's usually a good idea. An architect can ensure that all housing plans are done per local housing codes while ensuring the home is beautifully designed.

  • How can someone draw like an architect?

    It requires practice and knowledge of drawing different perspectives and dimensions. Tutorial videos can be found online that advise beginners; however, without proper instruction and technique, architectural drawings may not be in accordance with building laws.

  • Do you need an architect for a renovation?

    An architect isn't always required for a remodel or renovation; however, some municipalities may require professional architect drawings before construction permits are approved. In most cases, it's best to check with local laws before undergoing renovations.

  • How long is an architect liable for a building?

    Architects may be held liable for up to 15 years after the completion of a project. Until that time has passed, architects may face claims for defects in design.