--- title: "Norman Sanchez Architecture — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/norman-sanchez-architecture-pfvwus-pf~1225289283 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1225289283.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Norman Sanchez Architecture" category: ["Architects"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/8a230f77022f77c9_2570-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "1151 Harbor Bay Parkway, Ste 206C, Alameda, California 94502, United States" latitude: 37.7351 longitude: -122.2431 phone: "(510) 522-1100" website: http://nsarchitecture.com rating: 5 review_count: 16 best_of_houzz_awards: 3 followers: 85 last_updated: 2026-08-13 --- # Norman Sanchez Architecture Original Houzz profile: [Norman Sanchez Architecture](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/norman-sanchez-architecture-pfvwus-pf~1225289283) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Architects - **Location:** Alameda, CA - **Serves:** San Francisco, Oakland, Berkeley, Mountain View, Alameda, South San Francisco, Castro Valley, San Carlos, Lafayette, Albany, Orinda, Moraga, Emeryville, Piedmont - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (16 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 3 awards (2015–2022), for Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Star Houzzer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 1,000 Ideabook Saves Best of Houzz 2022, 2017 & 2015: SF Greater Bay Area Architect. We are a full service architectural firm with a focus on custom homes and residential remodels & additions. Through close collaboration with our clients, we create design solutions reflective of the client vision and respectful of their budget. Our work is characterized by careful attention to proportion, flow, lighting and materials. We believe in a collaborative approach from design through construction administration and that strong relationships with our clients and professional peers result in elegant and graceful spaces in which to live and work. ### Services Provided - Architectural Design - Architectural Drawings - Home Additions - Kitchen Design - Kitchen Remodeling - Space Planning - Home Restoration - Basement Remodeling - Basement Design - Construction Documents - Custom Homes - Home Additions & Remodeling - Kitchen & Bath Designs ### Areas Served - San Francisco - Oakland - Berkeley - Mountain View - Alameda - South San Francisco - Castro Valley - San Carlos - Lafayette - Albany - Orinda - Moraga - Emeryville - Piedmont ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Norman Sanchez Architecture | | Address | 1151 Harbor Bay Parkway, Ste 206C, Alameda, California 94502, United States | | Phone | (510) 522-1100 | | Website | http://nsarchitecture.com | | License Number | C-29528 | | Followers on Houzz | 85 | ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Norman Sanchez Architecture](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/norman-sanchez-architecture-pfvwus-pf~1225289283) - **Website:** http://nsarchitecture.com - **Phone:** (510) 522-1100 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - State of California Licensed Architect LEED Accredited Professional - **Best of Houzz:** 3 awards (2015–2022), for Service. ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 16 reviews** *Aspect averages:* - Work Quality: 50.0 - Communication: 50.0 - Value: 50.0 ### Reviews **★★★★★ — Pkm M, Aug. 2023** > My husband and I highly recommend Norman Sanchez and Associates. We worked with them for 3 years on a down to the studs, total remodel of our home. Norman is a skilled architect and had great ideas that made our home beautiful and functional. He worked well with the City of Alameda and came up with cost effective ideas and solutions acceptable to all. He is very organized, accurate and fair. If we were going to attempt another project we would not hesitate to call him. **★★★★★ — Jennifer Butz, Aug. 2021** > We interviewed many architects before deciding to work with Norman Sanchez Architecture on a large extension and remodel of our home. From our very first discussion Norman showed a depth of knowledge that made him stand out from other Architects. Not only does Norman have great creative ideas, he deeply understands the whole construction process from permits all the way through different materials, finishes and construction processes. > > Norman developed a beautiful plan for our new home that felt incredibly natural. It respected the original style of our Craftsman home, while also achieving our vision of indoor/outdoor living through bifold doors leading from our family room to a large patio deck. Most importantly, his design seamlessly connected the old and new parts of the house which was a critical and challenging part of this remodel. > > Just as our project commenced, we unexpectedly moved to the east coast for a temporary job opportunity. We hired Norman to project manage the entire process from start to finish as we would not be on site to supervise. Covid hit soon after which might have been a perfect storm if not for Norman’s steady oversight, perseverance and excellent working relationship with our General Contractor. We had full confidence that he made good choices in our absence while including us in the bigger decisions. Norman and his team kept us informed every step of the way via Zoom, FaceTime and email. > > We absolutely adore our new home. The remodel satisfied all our initial aims with many additional touches that we love. We highly recommend Norman for any project and would happily work with him again. **★★★★★ — Ryan, Feb. 2021** > Norman helped us build out our basement space to add a bedroom, bathroom, laundry and family room in our 1910 bungalow. The original space was unfinished, with a low ceiling. The project included excavation, new foundation with drainage, framing, drywall, utilities and finishes. > > Norman was the most patient, knowledgeable, and even-keeled guide that we could have asked for in the project. Every decision that he advised us on throughout the project turned out superbly. From the floorplan design, to the arrangement of the HVAC, plumbing and electrical details, and especially the final finishes, we are thrilled with every piece of advice Norman offered us. > > We started the project with great plans, but Norman’s construction management was where our appreciation grew further. Norman's knowledge of the local requirements and his ability to work with the city saved us on a couple of major issues. His constant engagement with the contractors was a huge weight off of our shoulders and it ensured that the final product made us happy. We’re so thankful that he worked with us all the way until the last coat of paint was dry! > > We regularly recommend Norman to friends and neighbors. We went into our project afraid of the horror stories of other people’s renovations. With Norman’s help and guidance from beginning to end, we had a great experience, and we continue to enjoy our added space! **★★★★★ — Neelam and Richard Feachem, Aug. 2017** > Norman managed our project of renovating two bathrooms, which became a nine month renovation of many parts of our house. It has now morphed into managing our office renovation as well, because Norman is such an amazing architect and so easy to work with. > > Norman is extremely professional, responds quickly to all questions with concrete and well considered recommendations, was always available to sort out issues with the onsite project manager and has an outstanding sense of detail and design. His calm demeanor and ability to defuse any situation with aplomb (of which there are always many in a construction project) helped to create a smooth functioning and efficient environment for the entire team. > > We have now hired him to do more work for us and have recommended him to our friends. We are absolutely delighted with the our bathrooms- thank you Norman and Sara! **★★★★★ — hbouras, March 2017** > Norman did an outstanding job on our recent home remodel and addition. We are thrilled with the results. Norman's presence from initial consult to the final walk-through gave us the peace of mind that our project was proceeding as planned, on time, and on budget. Norman listened closely when we described our ideas for the space and translated that information into beautiful and functional design that captured every element of our vision. While we shopped for a lot of our own materials, Norman and Sara were always available to offer their opinion and expertise. Norman is an excellent communicator and it was no surprise that he established a great rapport with our contractor. Together they ensured that our project was everything we hoped it would be. We have already recommended Norman Sanchez Architecture Inc. to our close friends for their upcoming project. Norman and his staff are simply top notch. **★★★★★ — Raul G, March 2017** > First hired him for remodel and second story addition for our 1920's Spanish Style home in 2000. Result was fantastic. The second story addition was seamless, new neighbors did not know it was addition. Interior floor plan had a great layout. > > We loved the floor plan so much we hired again in 2003 to build a new home (only reason we moved was our 3 young kids needed a better school district). > > His knowledge and professionalism was great. The plan contained all the details needed by the tradesmen to build the home. **★★★★★ — Margaret Collins, March 2017** > Norman was the architect for our big house remodel, seen here on Houzz. We bought a 1864 Victorian which had a historic (dysfunctional) floor plan, and Norman helped us work it into an amazing modern home. We took it from a 5BR/1.5 bath to a more functional 4BR/2.5 BA. This involved major changes, like relocating stairways, moving exterior windows, etc, but he helped us design it with our budget in mind. Since we live in the small town of Alameda, he helped us every step of the way, which was KEY in getting through planning, getting permits, etc. He also worked with us on GC selection, looking at bids, and the whole 9. If you live in Alameda, I highly recommend Norman for your remodel -- he knows his stuff and will support you through the whole process -- and believe me, the process is not easy! Note that we also used an interior designer, Anne Norton Dingwall, who helped us with the specifics of kitchen layout and furnishings. The two of them worked together seamlessly and we were very happy. **★★★★★ — Mary McFarland, Oct. 2016** > Norman Sanchez helped us with the remodel of our large but unwieldy master bathroom (176 square feet), creating a wonderful, still large bath, a beautiful clothes closet, and a laundry closet. Along the way, we decided to put a skylight in the hallway and he worked with us to design the perfect lay light that looks like it is original to our 1927 home. Throughout the project, Norman (and his wife Sara) were responsive, patient, and full of ideas, but never pushing their solutions on us. The project ultimately came in ahead of schedule (a first in our experience) and close to budget (ditto). We wholeheartedly recommend Norman for any homeowner who needs a skilled, kind, thoughtful architect. **★★★★★ — jakeolsen, Dec. 2015** > We worked with Norman to convert an existing attic space into a master suite. > > Norman's expert knowledge of similar homes as well as working with the local building department was invaluable. Norman helped us create the modern space we desired, but still retain the original charm of the nearly 100 year old house including matching trim and matchstick flooring. We couldn't be happier with the final result. > > We hired Norman for design development through permitting phases - but he was graciously helpful and available throughout the project. While we did most of the work ourselves, Norman had great recommendations on subcontractors - including Amber Flooring - who did an amazing job matching the original flooring in the house which was a critical aspect of the project. > > I would happily work with Norman again, and would highly recommend him for similar projects. I cannot imagine a better owner-architect relationship. **★★★★★ — footlestool, April 2015** > Norman helped us transform our outdated and not very functional house into a home we will treasure for a long time. The project consisted of a master suite addition and kitchen redesign. Although the new construction added only a few hundred square feet, it completely transformed the look and feel of the entire house. Guests who visit consistently comment on how beautiful and open it is. > > Norman is exceedingly good at his profession. He's great at presenting a multitude of options, evaluating the pros and cons, and being open about his opinions. He's a great listener and always took the time to make sure that he understood what we were saying and wanted. He has a talent for making complex issues comprehensible and we always felt like he supported us in making the hundreds of decisions that come up during a construction project. > > Norman drew up very detailed and careful plans at each stage of our project. He works quickly, as does his team. He was great as our interface with the city for all the permits and even with our contractor when more technical issues arose that needed his expertise. We were out-of-state for a sizable portion of our remodel, and Norman made sure to visit the project frequently to ensure that everything was on-track. During some of the more exciting phases (like framing up the walls), Norman videotaped a walk-through and emailed us clips so that we could see our house taking shape. This was such a delightful gift, and it reflects Norman's genuine care for his clients. > > The proof is in the pudding, as the expression goes. Norman helped us totally transform our home into a very beautiful and functional space. And while I imagine no construction project is stress-free, Norman's thoughtful project-management skills eased much of our anxiety. > > We highly recommend Norman Sanchez Architecture for any new construction or remodel. You'll be in the hands of a true professional during one of life's more challenging phases. **★★★★★ — bellasf, March 2015** > Norman is a LIFE-SAVER. We would have been lost without him during our home renovation project. He not only acted as our architect, patiently redesigning with every crazy idea we came up with, but as our counselor and project manager. I can't tell you how thankful we were to have Norman on our side. We love our house; it is everything we hoped it would be! **★★★★★ — sangitashah\_99, July 2014** > Norman Sanchez is a skillful and talented architect. He stands apart because he didn't stop at just drafting our construction plans to create our perfect space. He saw our project through to completion, managing every last detail with the engineer, contractor, and subcontractors, including their hiring. Throughout our second story addition and complete first story remodel, he was our architect, project manager, interior designer, negotiator, "translator" and last but not least important, friend and sometimes even therapist. Norman is creative with his ideas and solutions, extremely organized, and professional. > > Right from our first meeting, he wanted to understand our lifestyle and home vision. He drew up our plans, adjusting them as the project required, worked with the necessary officials in our city for permits, and navigated us through the stressful process of choosing a contractor and negotiating a bid. He "translated" dialogue with our contractor's men and helped us design and choose everything from the largest to the smallest of items (stair rail down to doorstops). He understood so perfectly the space, look, and feel of the home we were trying to create that we trusted his advice implicitly. > > His firm is busy, but we always felt like his only clients when we communicated with him which was most days, multiple times. No conversations were rushed, he was readily available, he reassured throughout many a stressful situation, and was our willing advocate when necessary. His amazing team at his office allowed him to give his full attention and dedication to us. It was because of his tireless efforts for the last 20 months that our home, which we moved into two months ago, is close to perfection. We highly recommend Norman Sanchez! ## Selected projects - [Grand Tudor](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/grand-tudor-pj-vj~1295207) - Location: Alameda, CA - Photos: 19 - Description: Located on a corner lot near a peaceful lagoon, this Tudor was completely remodeled and enlarged by Norman Sanchez Architecture and became quite simply, grand. By working closely with the owner and contractor, the firm expanded the L-shaped house at both ends and added new gabled dormers and custom windows, which honor the original architecture. The existing garage was expanded to accommmodate 3 modern sized cars as well as storage. French doors were installed throughout to allow ease of access… - [Oakland Mid-Century](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/oakland-mid-century-pj-vj~7719194) - Location: Oakland, CA - Photos: 12 - Description: When a previous client approached our firm it was with excitement at having found a mid-century home for sale in the Oakland hills abutting an expansive regional park on one side and with glimpses of the iconic bay and bridge views that define the East Bay on the other. The home was custom built in 1962, was designed by Jack Anderson and Lyman Jee, and had remained in the original client’s family until it was purchased by our client. While the home was in need of extensive restoration it retaine… - [Crestview Drive](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/crestview-drive-pj-vj~835027) - Location: San Carlos, CA - Photos: 16 - Description: A second story addition to this San Carlos, CA home provided a new master suite and a second bedroom with an ensuite bath. The home was updated throughout to create a more modern, smart home complete with solar panels, dusk to dawn exterior lighting and whole-home automation systems. The main floor was re-designed to create a more open floor plan and to invite the outdoors in by optimizing the use of existing windows and French doors. A workout room, spa bath and outdoor shower complete the tran… - [A Modern Take on Aging in Place](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/a-modern-take-on-aging-in-place-pj-vj~7721861) - Location: Alameda, CA - Photos: 14 - Description: Repeat clients approached our firm with two distinct but equally important goals for their two-story home. The first goal was to create a more direct connection from their kitchen to the majestic San Francisco Bay just beyond their property. Norman Sanchez Architecture Inc. gladly took on the challenge and eliminated a rarely used adjacent sunroom to enlarge the kitchen and invite the ever-changing bay view in. Ample cabinetry with below counter pullout drawers and a generous custom pantry were… - [A Coastal Retreat](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/a-coastal-retreat-pj-vj~2497949) - Location: Alameda, CA - Photos: 11 - Description: The master bathroom of this coastal shoreline home was remodeled to create an open light filled space. The window adjacent the whirlpool tub was enlarged to capture the view of the San Francisco Bay and large format porcelain tile evokes the feeling of being amongst the clouds. A large sliding glass door with modern stainless steel hardware and a mirrored door leading to a walk-in closet enhance the light and the feeling of expanse. In an accompanying bathroom, a single large format tile in the… - [Gold Coast Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/gold-coast-residence-pj-vj~2355890) - Location: Alameda, CA - Photos: 17 - Description: New owners of this majestic Queen Anne Victorian wanted to preserve its original wood detailing and expansive rooms while brightening the interior and re-designing the floor plan to create a welcoming entry, a more spacious and efficient kitchen, a master-suite, a children's bathroom and ample storage throughout the home. In the entry, the stair bench was reupholstered and the original embossed leather wall paneling and previously painted wood trim were given a fresh new look. In the kitchen, a… - [Gibbons Drive](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/gibbons-drive-pj-vj~2011444) - Location: Alameda, CA - Photos: 8 - Description: The master-suite in this stunning Spanish Revival home was re-designed to recapture the elegance of the original home. The master bath was completely renovated to create a more spacious and pleasing layout. A cramped shower stall that abutted the bathroom door was removed and relocated to provide a more generous shower with an integrated bench and niche, the washer and dryer units which were visible upon entry to the master suite were relocated next to the shower and placed behind wood doors wit… - [Central Avenue](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/central-avenue-pj-vj~403212) - Location: Alameda, CA - Photos: 10 - Description: New owners of a previously fire damaged home that had undergone a bare bones rebuild commissioned Norman Sanchez Architecture to do an extensive remodel. The home’s original grandeur was honored by use of period details such as custom milled columns, hardwood floors, period base board and picture rails. In addition, the kitchen area was completely remodeled and the adjacent spaces were altered to create an expansive line of sight from the living room through the entry, dining room and kitchen to… - [Lavender Lane](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lavender-lane-pj-vj~369253) - Location: La Canada-Flintridge, CA - Photos: 18 - Description: Past clients requested Norman Sanchez Architecture to design a new custom home for them. Some key design elements were: a stately entrance, strategically placed skylights in the kitchen to provide natural day lighting while minimizing undesirable heat gain and a ceiling of continuous skylights above the stair for abundant natural lighting and a mesmerizing view of the night sky. A detached two-car garage, storage room, and pool house were designed around an existing pool. - [Versailles Avenue](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/versailles-avenue-pj-vj~368021) - Location: Alameda, CA - Photos: 11 - Description: This stately home in Alameda, CA had seen several prior remodels and additions that had resulted in a disjointed floor plan as well as some structural deficiencies. A thoughtful redesign of the overall floor plan as well as a new kitchen for a serious cook and a true master suite brought spatial order to the home and an elegance befitting its original design. - [Tahos Road](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/tahos-road-pj-vj~367285) - Location: Orinda, CA - Photos: 25 - Description: This home in Orinda, CA underwent a whole house remodel. The central design objective was to create an elegant and sophisticated interior/exterior while maintaining the relaxed and peaceful mood inspired by the woodsy landscape and expansive vistas. The objective was successfully and artistically achieved by the utilization of skylights, interior windows and French doors leading onto generous balconies. The gourmet kitchen and spacious rear deck lend themselves to both casual and formal entertai… - [East End Victorian](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/east-end-victorian-pj-vj~2563686) - Location: Alameda, CA - Photos: 15 - Description: This 1870’s Stick Victorian was given new life with a sizable rear addition and a kitchen remodel. On the lower floor, the finished project resulted in a French inspired gourmet kitchen, an adjoining family room leading to a rear deck, and an au-pair suite. On the upper floor, the existing bathroom was relocated to better serve the existing two bedrooms and an expansive master suite with an office nook was created as part of the rear addition. The bathrooms throughout the home were appointed wit… - [Brookfield Drive](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/brookfield-drive-pj-vj~765589) - Location: Moraga, CA - Photos: 6 - Description: The main floor of this Moraga, CA home was completely re-designed to create a more open and connected space throughout. One of the main design objectives was for an existing family room – which had originally been a garage – to become a seamless and integral part of the home. In addition, a custom entry door, stair and kitchen cabinetry were designed in Craftsman style to bring a feeling of elegance to the home. - [Santa Clara Avenue](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/santa-clara-avenue-pj-vj~427929) - Location: Alameda, CA - Photos: 4 - Description: A young active couple wished to create a new 2nd-story retreat-like master suite with a contemporary aesthetic. Norman Sanchez Architecture designed the space to include an in-wall double-sided fireplace, walk-in closet, laundry, bath and deck. The bedroom has an abundance of natural lighting while allowing for undisturbed sleep during the day with the use of blackout curtains. A walk-in closet/laundry room provides lots of storage for both professional clothing and athletic gear while providing… [See all 14 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/norman-sanchez-architecture-pfvwus-pf~1225289283) ## Community Q&A **Q: where was the clear shower seat purchased?** *(in Photo Questions)* I like the clear shower seat A: The seat is by Rubinet. **Q: Fold down clear shower bench manufacturer?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: The seat is by Rubinet. **Q: what is the large format / thin slab tile called? where from? Thanks** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Thank you for your interest. The large format tile is called Porcelanosa. It was purchased from Geologica Store in SF, CA & installed by Marble & Bath Solutions. **Q: Entry** *(in Photo Questions)* Lovely entryway. The staircase and chandelier are gorgeous together. A: Thank you! Our clients will be excellent stewards of this home. **Q: What color yellow did you use? It's very soft, I really like it :)** *(in Photo Questions)* A: kdswenson15 -- So glad to know you liked the soft yellow used in the bathroom. Unfortunately, we don't have the color information on hand. **Q: Exterior paints** *(in Photo Questions)* Can you provide the specifics for the paints/colors used for exterior? A: We do not have the client's final selections in our project file. However, one of the stock light grays from Dryvit (dryvit.com) was used for the integral stucco color. --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-13.*