--- title: "Dorman Associates, Inc. — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/dorman-associates-inc-pfvwus-pf~1132552974 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1132552974.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Dorman Associates, Inc." category: ["Architects"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/21b3fdc30ca61808_8056-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "229 Flamingo Road, Mill Valley, California 94941, United States" latitude: 37.8958 longitude: -122.5339 phone: "(415) 380-7914" website: http://www.dormanassociates.com rating: 5 review_count: 9 best_of_houzz_awards: 2 followers: 264 last_updated: 2026-08-27 --- # Dorman Associates, Inc. > San Francisco Bay Area Architect > Best of Houzz Original Houzz profile: [Dorman Associates, Inc.](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/dorman-associates-inc-pfvwus-pf~1132552974) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Architects - **Location:** Mill Valley, CA - **Serves:** San Rafael, Mill Valley, Larkspur, San Anselmo, Tamalpais-Homestead Valley, Corte Madera, Tiburon, Kentfield, Sausalito, Belvedere, Fairfax, Bolinas, Stinson Beach, Greenbrae - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (9 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 2 awards (2015–2025), for Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Houzz Pro Software User - Star Houzzer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 10,000 Ideabook Saves - Locally owned - Published locally - Offers Custom Work ### Business highlights - Published locally - Offers Custom Work - Locally owned As a Marin-based Architecture firm, we have worked throughout California to create unique and thoughtful designs. We have earned a hard won record of success in the design of single-family custom homes, entry-level home developments, and custom home communities in diverse environments ranging from the Bay Area, Santa Barbara, and Sacramento region to Baja, California and the Turks and Caicos. We aim to be clear and direct in our communication with clients, who tell us one of the things they appreciate most is the interaction they have with our design team and the knowledge which is encompassed by each member of our team. All concerned, clients & designers alike, are full partners in the creative process. We use every means we can at every step of the design process to help clients “see” how an idea will play out if actually built. For instance, we use three-dimensional computer renderings as early as the Schematic Design phase. Just as important, our clients speak highly of our ability to come up with designs that are aesthetically pleasing, invariably innovative, and consistently budget conscious. Finally, we are committed to the notion that the present and most certainly the future require no less than sustainable building practices and the use of Green materials whenever they make good design, economic and environmental sense. We work hard to be informed about all of the latest sustainable technologies and Green practices so that they may be incorporated seamlessly into all of our projects. Although we have a range of built designs, those shown here tend towards a contemporary interpretation of traditional design. Our firm has done numerous projects including many small remodels that draw on local traditions including classic Californian Bungalow design as well as Craftsman and Prairie style houses. Although we try not to simply emulate styles, we strive to be true to the traditional tenets of these styles to avoid the appearance of merely copying. We have chosen a select few projects for the site but we would be happy to forward additional information and photographs of other projects to those interested in a more traditional design appearance. ### Services Provided - Architectural Design - Building Design - Home Remodeling - Architectural Drawings - House Plans - New Home Construction - Home Additions - Kitchen Design - Kitchen Remodeling - Sustainable Design - Energy-Efficient Homes - Bathroom Design - Green Building - Space Planning - Universal Design - Basement Remodeling - Basement Design - Construction Drawings - Custom Homes ### Areas Served - San Rafael - Mill Valley - Larkspur - San Anselmo - Tamalpais-Homestead Valley - Corte Madera - Tiburon - Kentfield - Sausalito - Belvedere - Fairfax - Bolinas - Stinson Beach - Greenbrae ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Dorman Associates, Inc. | | Address | 229 Flamingo Road, Mill Valley, California 94941, United States | | Phone | (415) 380-7914 | | Website | http://www.dormanassociates.com | | Followers on Houzz | 264 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dorman-Associates-Inc/190993330927632?ref=ts&fref=ts - LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/company/dorman-associates-inc./ - Blog — https://www.instagram.com/dorman\_architects/ ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Dorman Associates, Inc.](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/dorman-associates-inc-pfvwus-pf~1132552974) - **Website:** http://www.dormanassociates.com - **Phone:** (415) 380-7914 ## Credentials - **Best of Houzz:** 2 awards (2015–2025), for Service. **Affiliations** - [American Institute of Architects, San Francisco](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/american-institute-of-architects-san-francisco-pfvwus-pf~788533068) - [The American Institute of Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/the-american-institute-of-architects-pfvwus-pf~1350720471) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 9 reviews** *Aspect averages:* - Work Quality: 50.0 - Communication: 50.0 - Value: 50.0 ### Featured Review **★★★★★ — Lisa, June 2014** > We hired Chris Dorman of Dorman and Associates after he was highly recommended for an extensive remodel of our 90 year old ranch house in West Marin California. The cost and scope of the project was of significant importance and initially we sought his opinion as to feasibility. As a Design - Build company Chris has an excellent working knowledge of costs and helped us determine we had the resources to proceed in 2 phases: > > Phase 1: New foundation, plumbing, heating, framing - Chris was involved substantially. > Phase 2: Interior remodel of our existing home - To save on costs we became owner builders > > In the design phase Chris worked with us to ensure that key features of the old architecture were preserved and that the upgrades would flow from old to new with a creative innovative twist. Because Chris understands our budget constraints he's continuing to work with us in Phase 2, providing advice as to work sequence and answering questions that arise. Additionally he has helped us with the process of selecting our subcontractors. We are very fortunate to have found Chris, are very happy with the work thus far and we look forward to completing our project with the design that Chris and his team were instrumental in helping us create. ### All 9 reviews **★★★★★ — H P, Sept. 2024** > We recently hired Chris Dorman and Associates as the architects for our house remodel, and the experience has been nothing short of exceptional. From the very first consultation, it was clear that Chris and his team possess an unmatched passion for their craft. They took the time to understand our vision and needs, transforming our ideas into a design that exceeded our expectations in every way. > Chris's attention to detail and his ability to seamlessly blend aesthetic beauty with functional practicality was remarkable. He and his team guided us through every phase of the project, from initial concepts to the final touches, always ensuring that we felt confident and informed at each step. Their expertise wasn’t just limited to design – they also helped us navigate complex structural decisions and made thoughtful suggestions that truly enhanced the overall outcome of the remodel. > > What sets Chris Dorman and Associates apart is their dedication to client satisfaction. They were incredibly responsive and flexible, always available to answer questions and adapt to any changes we requested. The quality of their work speaks for itself – the end result is a stunning, beautifully remodeled home that reflects our personal style and functional needs perfectly. > > We cannot recommend Chris Dorman and Associates highly enough. They have turned our house into a dream home, and we are beyond grateful for their creativity, professionalism, and attention to detail. If you're looking for a talented, reliable, and visionary architectural team, look no further. **★★★★★ — outwest100, June 2014** > Dorman Associates have been wonderful architects really helping visualize and move our project successfully through the design review process. Chris Dorman was able to help us think about all the possibilities that our space could employ. Mary his associate is one of the nicest people I have ever met and so willing to help. I am really glad we reached out to Chris! **★★★★★ — Yvonne Tarnas, June 2014** > Chris Dorman and associates is a wonderfully inventive architectural firm that helped me with the design for my home remodel last Fall. This was a small job of redoing the upstairs of my mid-century home. Chris and his team were sensitive to my budget and timing and were always available for the different little decisions that occurred throughout the building process. He helped reconfigure the upstairs to make better use of outdoor views and maximize the square footage without going beyond the existing exterior walls. It was a very busy time for Chris's firm yet he made time for my project, bringing to it creative flair and innovative problem solving that produced a beautiful high quality and comfortable improvement to my home. **★★★★★ — Integrated Design Studio, Inc., Dec. 2012** > I used Dorman Associates for a complete remodel of a house I bought in Mill Valley in 2008. I purchased a 1954 rundown, beat up house that needed serious renovation (or arguably should have been torn down). Chris was referred to me by a friend and I had seen several projects of his in the area. > > Regarding my project, the goal was 'simple'. I wanted open living, modern look all kept with in a budget I provided. While the challenge of blending a unique and creative design married with a tight budget was evident, Chris and his team provided me informative design choices that allowed me to create the house I desired and met my target budget. > > I believe that being a design-build company allows Chris to quickly evaluate the design to make sure it is in check with the budget. This streamlined process made me feel confident that we had met the target budget with a buffer from the conceptual design phase all the way through construction. > > The result was amazing and I could not have been happier. I completely gutted the house, refaced the house, landscaped and updated a garage. All this was within the budget and with his ongoing construction site visits kept us ahead of schedule and on budget!! > > Chris and his team took care of everything....it really was a one stop shop. I am now looking for a larger house, and Chris has been helping me evaluate houses for their potential. My recommendation is that you don't hesitate to bring him in the fold early in the selection process- he sees great opportunities where you may not... I am a professional designer as well (Landscape Architect) and I can say he is great to work with. **★★★★★ — aault12, Oct. 2012** > My experience with Dorman Associates was most favorable all the way through! Chris did a fabulous job drawing up our plans. He was knowledgeable, efficient, and very professional. We also used Form Design Build for the contract work. Mike, the contractor did a superb job as well. Together they make an amazing team, both bringing a lot of experience to the table. It made things a lot smoother! I can say we've used other companies in the past, and there was no comparison! I wish I knew about these guys a long time ago! I highly recommend them to anyone looking to remodel, renovate, or build a house! **★★★★★ — Mike Wood, Sept. 2012** > We hired Chris Dorman of Dorman Associates and Form Design + Build after seeing a nearby home built very nicely and in a short elapsed time. Thoroughly enjoyed working with Chris & the team and we were presented with some beautiful designs. He guided the design though our planning department with a level of professionalism and courtesy respected by all. > > Their estimates were remarkably close to final and communication regarding the budget and progress were great. We wanted to do some of the custom metalwork (floating stairs and railings) and they were happy to accommodate and help us. They were more than happy to explain things in detail regarding any choices. Chris works very closely with the builder and we were able to complete a build in a very short period of time. Neighbors were surprised at the rate the house was completed. Finishes and thoughtfulness of design are fantastic and we get such great comments from passers by. We are now proud to own an outstanding home that functions as good as it looks. We could not be happier! **★★★★★ — hydrengia, Sept. 2012** > We have worked with Dorman Associates on two different projects, a remodel and an addition. Both projects were approached and carried out with the utmost professionalism. Chris worked with us to create a style and form that works perfectly with our family. The whole team at Dorman Associates did a fantastic job from the beginning through till the end. **★★★★★ — Orrin, Jan. 2012** > Highly recommend! Very hardworking and professional staff are incredible at making remodels easy and manageable. ## Selected projects - [Mediterranean Modernized](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mediterranean-modernized-pj-vj~1834269) - Location: El Dorado Hills, CA - Photos: 8 - Description: Architect: Dorman Associates, Mill Valley Builder: Landmark Builders, Granite Bay Interior Design: Design Alchemy, Sacramento Photographer: Stephanie Rudy, Sacramento - [Squaw Valley Retreat](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/squaw-valley-retreat-pj-vj~6217732) - Location: Olympic Valley, CA - Photos: 14 - Description: The Squaw Valley Retreat is a rebuild of one of the original Olympic cabins from 1960. Our client is an incredibly fun person who enjoys the outdoors and wanted to take full advantage of the view and the indoor / outdoor possibilities of the property. As it happens, this property has one of the best views towards the Resort with the Master Suite taking full advantage with large picture windows in each space. The house is full of nooks to enjoy during the winter and broad vistas to enjoy while co… - [Mill Valley Modern Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mill-valley-modern-residence-pj-vj~6217761) - Location: Mill Valley, CA - Photos: 13 - Description: This small infill lot allowed for a home that builds on the traditions of Mill Valley hillside houses. Floating flat roofs that become roof decks and courtyards are carved out of the hillside. The project is a spacious 1,650 s.f. distributed on 4 levels each with Southern exposure, capturing light and warmth all year round. - [Haylofts at Flora Farms](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/haylofts-at-flora-farms-pj-vj~6217614) - Location: Las Animas, Baja California Sur - Photos: 10 - Description: Awarded Best Innovative Housing Design Gold Nugget Grand Award and Judges Special Award of Excellence Gold Nugget Award at Pacific Coast Builders Conference 2018 The Haylofts are the compilation of two quiet straw bale suites flanking a metal and glass great room. Because of the Northern orientation of the Haylofts, the windows can remain substantially uncovered, offering a wonderfully protected view over Flora Farms and out to San Jose beyond. To amplify the impact of the windows, the ceiling i… - [Flora Farms](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/flora-farms-pj-vj~47357) - Location: Las Animas, Baja California Sur - Photos: 31 - Description: Located on 7 acres in Las Animas, Baja California del Sur, the Culinary Cottages offer a unique opportunity to live on a working Organic Farm Community. There are 10 Cottages, each built with Straw Bale construction to create highly insulated comfortable farm cottages. Where possible, the Cottages are sited to optimize passive cooling techniques and bring indirect light into every room of the cottage. Dorman Associates worked closely from its inception with Patrick & Gloria Greene, the visionary… - [Riviera Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/riviera-residence-pj-vj~1839048) - Location: Larkspur, CA - Photos: 11 - Description: With sweeping views to the West of Mt. Tamalpais, this house sits on a deep water lagoon that demands an indoor / outdoor extension of the living areas. To accomplish a complete connection the Fleetwood sliding doors are pocketed into the deep walls to provide a seamless connection when the weather permits. A floating stair and glass railing are the perfect compliment to the walnut entry door and from the morning courtyard. The Client and interior designer Marty Osborne created a beautifully com… - [Mill Valley - Loft Meets Ranch](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mill-valley-loft-meets-ranch-pj-vj~220895) - Location: Mill Valley, CA - Photos: 16 - Description: Complete rehab with the introduction of the new Great Room and expanded footprint to create a new master suite. Collaboration with Chris Dorman, Dorman Associates Architecture. Collaboration with IDS - Integrated Design Studio - [Tiburon Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/tiburon-residence-pj-vj~102206) - Location: Tiburon, CA - Photos: 6 - [Tam Valley Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/tam-valley-residence-pj-vj~10099) - Location: Mill Valley, CA - Photos: 8 - [Prince Royal Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/prince-royal-residence-pj-vj~73880) - Location: Corte Madera, CA - Photos: 19 - Description: The Prince Royal remodel began as a practical desire to create a new family room and bedroom over an enlarged garage. Located in Corte Madera, California, this residence was one of many built in the 1960’s and in need of updating. From the start, the collaboration with the client resulted in a complete team effort as we worked to incorporate some of the materials that the client had envisioned, such as corten steel siding and stainless steel railings. The broad windows and indoor / outdoor desig… - [Capetanios Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/capetanios-residence-pj-vj~10097) - Location: El Dorado Hills, CA - Photos: 28 - [Oak Tree Hill Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/oak-tree-hill-residence-pj-vj~7528422) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 9 - Description: Tucked in the rolling hills above Sacramento, we collaborated with Design Alchemy to create a house for a large family with spaces for the family to join together, and spaces for children to spread out. The interiors meld a modern aesthetic with scandinavian influences. - [Wine Country Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/wine-country-residence-pj-vj~7528416) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 10 - Description: Greeted by the warm embrace of the Californian sun, this wine country Residence boasts an open concept that effortlessly merges the interior and exterior spaces. The design ethos of this residence revolves around the concept of blurring the lines between the indoors and the outdoors, inviting the surrounding natural beauty inside. The expansive living areas extend graciously, offering panoramic views of the rolling hills and vineyards that characterize the region. [See all 13 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/dorman-associates-inc-pfvwus-pf~1132552974) ## Video - [Company video](https://player.vimeo.com/external/840717575.m3u8?s=e446c8257dd1e45ca9f6f3e7f79cf621170e04c6&oauth2_token_id=1384357804) ## Frequently Asked Questions **What types of projects do you specialize in (custom homes, remodels, additions)?** We specialize in a broad range of projects, including single-family custom homes, entry-level home developments, and custom home communities. Our services also encompass home additions, remodels, basement and kitchen design, and new home construction. Beyond residential, we have extensive experience in commercial, hospitality, and educational architecture, particularly children's centers. **How do you help clients design within their construction budget?** Designing within budget is a core principle for us. We believe delightful architecture doesn't have to be unreasonably costly. We integrate construction experience and structural knowledge, tailoring designs to meet industry standards and remain consistently budget conscious. Our goal is to achieve high design objectives and create high-value results through genuine collaboration. **Do you provide full-service architectural services through construction?** Yes, we operate as a full-service architectural firm. We pride ourselves on collaborating closely with both our clients and contractors throughout the entire process. Our aim is to avoid intractable issues by working as a cohesive team, ensuring a smooth transition from design concept through to construction completion. **Do you design fully custom homes?** Absolutely, designing fully custom homes is a significant part of our expertise. We have a proven track record in creating unique single-family custom homes and custom home communities across diverse environments, from the Bay Area to Baja California and the Turks and Caicos. Your vision drives our collaborative design process. **Can you work with the builder I select, or do you recommend specific builders?** We are very flexible and pride ourselves on working collaboratively with the client and contractor as a team. While we don't explicitly recommend specific builders, we are certainly open to working with the builder you select to ensure a seamless and successful project. *FAQ content may be generated based on the Pro's Houzz profile and website.* ## Community Q&A **Q: What is the material used for shower floor?** *(in Photo Questions)* Gorgeous! What is the name of the product used for shower floor please? A: Hi there, thanks for your inquiry. We no longer have the actual spec on file, but it was a type of small polished pebble stones on a mat. These types of finishes are available at tile and stone stores. Hope that helps! **Q: hi there - can you tell me what windows those are?** *(in Photo Questions)* Thanks! A: Dan, these are Kolbe VistaLuxe windows wood clad. Thanks! **Q: What metal did you use in facade? did you use insulating?** *(in Photo Questions)* I think this kind of facade look amazing, but, it doesn't have you troubles with the temperature inside the home? A: Hello, thank you for your inquiry! The metal used is 1/8” thick sheets of Corn-Ten steel which is made to rust over time. These were not insulated panels, but were installed over a rain screen with 3/8” plastic spacers over a rain screen building paper. It doesn’t affect the temperature on the inside, but the panels can have some minor ‘oil canning’ due to expansion and contraction of the panels themselves. **Q: what is that lovely backsplash?!** *(in Photo Questions)* Looking for something similar for our kitchen remodel! A: Hello! This splash is by Akdo, and is a stone mosaic. I believe this exact one may be discontinued, but they have a lot of great options! **Q: Where is the firepit from?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: It's a custom fire pit the contractor built. **Q: Is this a custom made faucet? I love the see-saw tilt...** *(in Photo Questions)* Is this a custom made faucet for the dual-sink vanity? A: Yes, this was constructed on site by the contractor. --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-27.*