Kate Cleveland Architect

19 Reviews

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About Us

High-end

Offers Custom Work

Philadelphia Architect Specializing in Renovations & New Home Design

Kate Cleveland opened her own firm in 1992 specializing in residential architecture. Drawing from her background and degree in psychology, she provides a personal approach, taking the time to listen and learn about how each client lives. For a renovation or a new construction project, the highest priority is given to client needs, intelligent planning, and thoughtful detailing. The resulting aesthetic is not only functional, but also pleasing, spacious and light filled. For her many renovation projects, the architecture does not mimic the existing building fabric, but looks like it seamlessly belongs. Project locations span from the greater Philadelphia area to London, England. Prior to opening her own firm, her institutional work at Susan Maxman and Partners and at Cecil Baker & Associates was recognized with numerous local and national design awards. She has taught at Temple University's Architecture Program for the last ten years.

21 Projects

Modern exterior home idea in Philadelphia

Business Details

Business Name

Kate Cleveland Architect

Phone Number

(215) 631-8757

Website

www.kateclevelandarchitect.com

Address

8011 Crefeld Street
Philadelphia, PA 19118

Typical Job Cost

$100,000 - 2 million

License Number

RA-010207-X

Followers

70 Followers

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Services Provided

Architectural Design

Building Design

Home Remodeling

Architectural Drawings

Custom Homes

House Plans

New Home Construction

Home Additions

Home Extensions

Kitchen Design

Kitchen Remodeling

Energy-Efficient Homes

Universal Design

Residential Architecture

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Areas Served

Philadelphia

Havertown

Warminster

Radnor

Drexel Hill

King of Prussia

West Norriton

Ardmore

Willow Grove

Broomall

Bala Cynwyd

Villanova

Glenside

Maple Glen

Ambler

Plymouth Meeting

Blue Bell

Fort Washington

Penn Wynne

Wyndmoor

Oxford

Bryn Mawr

Trooper

Jenkintown

Spring House

Flourtown

Narberth

Wyncote

North Wales

Rockledge

West Conshohocken

Springfield

Gladwyne

Greater Philadelphia Area

Gwynedd

Newtown Borough

Philadelphia City

West Philadelphia Borough

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Credentials

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Write a Review

19 Reviews for Kate Cleveland Architect

Newest first

5.0|19 reviews

Work Quality

5.0

Communication

5.0

Value

5.0

Allyson Schwartz

We worked with Kate on a previous home for new bathrooms and kitchen upgrades and then engaged her in a move to a mid-century home that needed a major renovation. She exceeded all expectations both as a designer and as a partner for us and the contractor over 2 years of planning and construction. Her design ideas created a warm and comfortable home that enhanced the original features to space that is really special. Unforeseen problems arose as we opened walls and floors to a what became a 90% rebuild. She was with us every step of the way from big ideas to fine tuning engineering issues that arose, to input on fixtures and paint colors. She was always responsive, created an easy relationship with all of the skilled contractors, and was our eyes and ears on the ground since we were living out-of-state for most of the construction. I highly recommend her for big or small projects. She is very talented and lovely to work with.

November 18, 2025

rmccourt40

Kate is an exceptionally creative designer, with a discerning eye for detail so that her good ideas take shape in the real world. She renovated our kitchen into a beautiful bright space that is a joy to work and live in.

October 29, 2019

Comment from Kate Cleveland Architect:

It was a joy collaborating with such thoughtful clients who treasure their historic house and are amazing cooks! We created a kitchen that fits the aesthetic of your existing home but meets the needs of 2 very busy professionals who find the time to entertain so elegantly!

Kate Williams

We engaged Kate for a kitchen relocation and addition onto our house. We wanted to open up the space of our 1930 stone home while preserving the charm of the original architecture and style. Kate understood our vision instantly and supported our project in more ways than the role of an traditional architect. She was an essential part of our team to the end, advocating for us and protecting our interests and design priorities every step of the way. She has a way about her that navigates potential conflict and project problems with ease and tact, helping us arrive at solutions with other advisors and contractors on numerous occasions. What started as an engagement to draw architectural plans quickly evolved and expanded into a role as a leader of our project and we wanted Kate at the table for all status meetings and decision points.

October 13, 2019

Comment from Kate Cleveland Architect:

It was great to collaborate with you on this project, Kate! You were clear with your goals and I was happy to be part of the team that realized your vision with a project that functions well for your family and enhances the aesthetic of your charming home!

Anny Mous

Kate made it possible for us to renovate our 1920s home with a new kitchen and two new baths while still keeping the essential character which drew us to the house. Our home had the design issues expected in an older home and needed two new baths and a new kitchen as well as new wiring and new heating and cooling systems. Kate had a clear vision from the beginning and help us make a far more livable and enjoyable home while maintaining the design aspects which we love. For example, the second bath had a built in cabinet which had been designed by the original owner and which we love. Kate helped us find a way to keep that cabinet while renovating the rest of the bath and creating a new bath in which the old and the new melded together perfectly. Throughout the project, she listened to us but did not hesitate to offer her own perspective. Kate urged us to consider a tile carpet in the master bath, a touch we would not have considered, which ultimately is one of the most striking aspects of our new master bath. She kept the project moving forward, on time and on budget. She was a real professional and a delight to work with.

September 26, 2019

Comment from Kate Cleveland Architect:

Thank you! It is always fun to renovate spaces in a way that keeps the essence of the original design period and intent, but creates a more open, refreshed and light filled space! And it was great fun to work with you, Anny!

Bethany Wiggin

We worked with Kate on a major renovation of our 1894 historic house. The four previous owners had done a beautiful job stewarding this special house, and we were concerned to maintain its beauty and integrity while wanting to add contemporary comforts and a little luxury. After interviewing many architects, we were delighted to meet Kate. She listened to us at very step of the way, and we really felt "heard." Shekept meticulous notes of conversations, providing us with them via email which kept our thoughts organized and communications smooth and seamless. Kate translated our conversations, ideas and concerns into drawings, and then worked hand in glove with the builder to make sure they were realized. She furthermore worked seamlessly with our decorator. Throughout, she was the brain and central nervous system of this major project. Two years after the huge house overhaul (a new kitchen, three new bathrooms, a complete re-wiring, new lighting, walls taken down for the creation of a huge family -play room on 3rd floor and a master suite on 2nd), we remain genuinely happy to return to our house each day. Kate helped us realize its potential, making it a beautiful place to relax, play and spend time with our kids, and host friends and family. We are so appreciative of her vision and her execution--so much so that we have just embarked on another separate project with her. We know we are in great hands.

September 26, 2019Last modified:September 26, 2019

Comment from Kate Cleveland Architect:

Thank you, Bethany! It gives me great joy to know that we were able to keep the amazing character and detail of your historic house and still create a welcoming, comfortable and up to date home that reflects your great design eye and the lifestyle of your busy family!

Jason Young Dimitri Papanagnou

Kate worked with us to renovate our 90 year old stone house in the Chestnut Hill neighborhood of Philadelphia. The house is large and originally had a very strange layout, which wasn’t suited for modern living. Kate was the perfect architect to help us achieve our vision! She was diligent and attentive, with a keen eye for design and a great attitude throughout the project. We are so glad that we found Kate and worked with her!

September 21, 2019

Comment from Kate Cleveland Architect:

Thank you, Jason and Dimitri! I was delighted to work with you both on a project that challenged us in the best way possible and that resulted in beautiful spaces achieving your vision! The attached photos were taken while the project was "in progress" but I couldn't resist sharing the transformation.

Susan Brown

I can’t say enough positive things about Kate Cleveland. She is a brilliant designer, an excellent communicator and a consummate professional. We hired Kate to create a plan for a family room addition and basement renovation which included the addition of a laundry room and bathroom. She also helped design new entry ways for the front and sides of our home as well. She took the time to understand our family’s needs and to design creative ways to make both rooms seamlessly connect to the other spaces In our home and even anticipated how we would use the space as our children grew. Her aesthetic is classic and he’s instincts are always on point. She always made us feel like our project was a top priority and she was accessible and engaged from the start date to completion. Her attention to detail was invaluable during the design phase as she attended weekly meetings with our contractor and helped us stay on schedule and anticipate and avoid set backs. Of all the choices we made during our project choosing to hire Kate and keep her on during the design phase was the best money we spent. We are thrilled with our finished product.

September 15, 2019

Comment from Kate Cleveland Architect:

Thank you, Susan! Good communication has to work both ways and it was a joy working with you and Kirk. Yours was a wonderful project, from start to finish!

Lauren Sullivan

Kate came highly recommended from past clients. I was nervous heading into the renovation process- Kate’s disposition calmed my nerves. We did a full house renovation. One of my biggest concerns was the flow with the renovation. I did not want my addition to look like an obvious add-on. My renovation looks beautiful and the flow is amazing. Kate’s attention to detail shows in every aspect of the renovation. Kate was mindful of my budget throughout the process. Kate was supportive beyond the contracted scope of work- I made a couple of “what should I do” calls that Kate helped me through :) Kate is talented, professional and lovely to work with. I highly recommend Kate and would welcome her into my home again.

September 15, 2019

Comment from Kate Cleveland Architect:

Thank you, Lauren! I so enjoyed working with you and helping to translate your wish list into a reality that is beautiful and works for your family.

Jamie Masterson

It was a pleasure working with Kate. Our project was a huge undertaking. We added a three story addition and renovated much of our existing 1920’s era house. Kate’s design transformed our home inside and out. She listened to all of our requests and incorporated them into her design. She created bright open spaces while maintaining the original character of our house. Her attention to detail is obvious everywhere you look. Kate had a great working relationship with our contractor. Together they came up with solutions to unexpected issues. We are so happy that we choose Kate to work on our project and we are thrilled with the results.

May 25, 2017

Mandana Shahvari

We finished a kitchen renovation with Kate in our 1930s home. She was a pleasure to work with from beginning to end – creative, competent, patient, professional, flexible, and supportive. We could not have been happier with the end product. She understood our needs and style preferences and translated them into a beautiful and highly functional space that blends seamlessly with the rest of our home. Kate was upfront about cost and worked within our budget. She also frequently consulted with our contractor and kitchen designer to troubleshoot issues. She made the project stress free. I would highly recommend Kate for any small or large project.

May 19, 2017

Meredith McCormick

We have used Kate twice and would definitely use her again. She planned a family room, mud room and kitchen addition for us and the second time a master bedroom, office and laundry room. Both times we gave Kate a list of what we wanted and she talked us thru the most important aspects and came up with great plans. We knew what we wanted but did not have the vision of how everything would work. Kate had the vision and was also able to anticipate future needs. She insured our addition looked great inside and out, worked with the rest of the house and functioned properly for our family.

May 11, 2017

Kristin Bair

Kate designed our addition, and we consider ourselves so fortunate to have worked with her! From the very beginning, it was clear that Kate was an excellent listener, and had a great facility with translating our needs and desires into plans for a space that would fulfill everything that we thought we wanted and more! She is an excellent communicator as well - not only with us, but also with our general contractor and the various other people involved in the project. Importantly, she also served as our advocate as the project proceeded in order to ensure that the project was moving forward and that the work was being performed per the plans. We found her fees to be quite reasonable, with the intangibles that she brings to the process to be priceless. Our renovation was a huge investment of money, but also affected our lives for months as we were going through it. It made all the difference in the world to have the confidence in knowing that we were in good hands with Kate. We recommend her highly and without any hesitation! (The photos of the project were taken by us, and do not even come close to showing how awesome everything looks!)

May 5, 2017

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Frequently Asked Questions

As a licensed architect specializing in residential projects, I routinely assist clients with navigating permitting, zoning, and regulatory approvals. My firm handles the necessary architectural drawings and documentation to ensure your project complies with local requirements in the greater Philadelphia area and beyond, making the process as smooth as possible for you.

I specialize exclusively in residential architecture, focusing on custom homes, new construction, and significant renovations. This includes home additions, extensions, and comprehensive remodeling projects like kitchen design. My approach ensures intelligent planning and thoughtful detailing for every unique home, whether in the greater Philadelphia area or London.

Yes, I provide comprehensive architectural services from initial concept through construction. My firm handles architectural design, detailed drawings, and building design, ensuring a seamless process. I work closely with clients and builders to translate intelligent planning and thoughtful detailing into a functional, pleasing, and light-filled space, overseeing the project's architectural integrity.

Absolutely, designing fully custom homes is a core service of my practice. I specialize in new home construction, taking a personal approach to listen and learn about how each client lives. This allows me to create unique, intelligent designs with thoughtful detailing that are functional, pleasing, spacious, and light-filled, tailored precisely to your vision.

Yes, my practice frequently undertakes projects for luxury and high-end homes. My firm, established in 1992, specializes in custom residential architecture where intelligent planning and thoughtful detailing are paramount. I focus on creating functional, pleasing, spacious, and light-filled designs that meet the highest standards of quality and client needs, serving clients from the greater Philadelphia area to London.

FAQ content may be generated based on the Pro's Houzz profile and website.

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27 Ideabooks

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9 Comments

Commented: Warm, rich looking bathroom vanity!This cabinet was selected and sourced by the client directly. Unfortunately, I do not have information regarding the manufacturer for the cabinet.

November 15, 2021

Commented: gorgeous! what gray paint did you use?Thank you! The exterior siding is painted Benjamin Moore 1547 Dragons Breath.

September 18, 2020

Commented: Can you please respond with the wall color?The wall color was chosen by the interior designer and I do not have the color on file. The cabinets are Benjamin Moore HC 141 Hollingsworth Green. 2 wall colors that I have used that are similar to...

July 14, 2019

Commented: What color are the cabinets?Benjamin Moore HC 141 Hollingsworth Green. These cabinets were factory painted so the final color may have varied a bit from the Benjamin Moore color painted in the field.

April 10, 2018

Commented: Bathroom WallpaperThe wallpaper is from Galbraith and Paul. http://galbraithandpaul.com/

October 28, 2016

Commented: LedecorateThe manufacturer is Rais and the model is Gabo. However, I think the design of the Gabo stove has recently changed. The Gabo now pictured on the Rais website does not have the "shelf" over...

August 29, 2016

Kate Cleveland Architect

About Us

Category

21 Projects

A House for Gathering

Malvern Renovation and Addition

Contemporary and Traditional Balance

Residence in Chestnut Hill

Sophisticated Cottage

New Home in Maine