--- title: "WM Design Studio, LLC. — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/wm-design-studio-llc-pfvwus-pf~1226917903 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1226917903.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "WM Design Studio, LLC." category: ["Architects"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/0c632a9d08c1a5f6_5944-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "9116 CRICKLEWOOD CT, Vienna, Virginia 22182, United States" latitude: 38.928 longitude: -77.2649 phone: "(703) 721-4807" website: https://wmdesignstudiollc.com rating: 5 review_count: 19 license_verified: true best_of_houzz_awards: 6 followers: 37 last_updated: 2026-08-24 --- # WM Design Studio, LLC. > Fairfax County's Skilled Residential Architect \| 4X Best of Houzz! Original Houzz profile: [WM Design Studio, LLC.](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/wm-design-studio-llc-pfvwus-pf~1226917903) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Architects - **Location:** Vienna, VA - **Serves:** Arlington, Alexandria, Centreville, Reston, McLean, Annandale, Oakton, Oak Hill, Springfield, Sterling, Herndon, Baileys Crossroads, Fairfax, Chantilly, Tysons Corner, Vienna, Wolf Trap, Great Falls, Falls Church, Sugarland Run, Dunn Loring, Seven Corners, Pimmit Hills, Dulles Town Center - **Verified License:** Yes - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (19 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 6 awards (2018–2026), for Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Houzz Pro Software User - Recommended on Houzz - 100 Ideabook Saves - Best of Houzz winner - Online consultation - Woman owned - Hired on Houzz - Responds Quickly - Provides 3D Visualization ### Business highlights - Best of Houzz winner - Woman owned - Online consultation - 14 Hires on Houzz - Provides 3D Visualization - Responds Quickly WM Design Studio, based in Fairfax County, VA, specializes in residential architectural renovations and home remodeling solutions. Led by Wendy, an experienced architect with over 25 years of expertise, the studio brings a wealth of knowledge from her education at Harvard University, where she earned a Master in Architecture. Wendy’s extensive career includes designing large-scale civic buildings such as opera houses, aquariums, and public libraries, but her passion now lies in transforming residential spaces. Focused on helping homeowners enhance their living environments, Wendy is dedicated to creating functional, stylish, and personalized home designs that significantly improve daily life. She is widely recognized for her exceptional customer service, meticulous attention to detail, and unwavering commitment to making decisions that align with the best interests of her clients. Whether you’re looking to renovate your home for personal enjoyment, make strategic updates before selling, or explore design modifications to better suit your family’s needs, WM Design Studio is here to offer expert guidance and creative solutions. Let us help you unlock your home’s full potential and create spaces that truly work for you. ### Services Provided - Architectural Design - Building Design - Architectural Drawings - House Plans - Home Additions - Home Extensions - Kitchen Design - Kitchen Remodeling - Floor Plans - Bathroom Design - Space Planning - Drafting - Project Management - Basement Remodeling - Mudroom Design - Attic Conversion - Basement Design - Laundry Room Design - Art Selection ### Areas Served - Arlington - Alexandria - Centreville - Reston - McLean - Annandale - Oakton - Oak Hill - Springfield - Sterling - Herndon - Baileys Crossroads - Fairfax - Chantilly - Tysons Corner - Vienna - Wolf Trap - Great Falls - Falls Church - Sugarland Run - Dunn Loring - Seven Corners - Pimmit Hills - Dulles Town Center ### Typical Job Cost $1,500 - 15,000 Most of our work is charged on an hourly basis. For larger projects we can determine a fixed rate. ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | WM Design Studio, LLC. | | Address | 9116 CRICKLEWOOD CT, Vienna, Virginia 22182, United States | | Phone | (703) 721-4807 | | Website | https://wmdesignstudiollc.com | | License Number | 0401014783 (Virginia) | | Followers on Houzz | 37 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/wmdesignstudios/ - LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/feed/ ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [WM Design Studio, LLC.](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/wm-design-studio-llc-pfvwus-pf~1226917903) - **Website:** https://wmdesignstudiollc.com - **Phone:** (703) 721-4807 ## Credentials **Verified License** - Number: 0401014783 - Type: Architect License - Issued by: Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation **Certifications & Awards** - AIA, NCARB - Best of Houzz 2018 & 2019 - **Best of Houzz:** 6 awards (2018–2026), for Service. **Affiliations** - [The American Institute of Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/the-american-institute-of-architects-pfvwus-pf~1350720471) - [NCARB](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/ncarb-pfvwus-pf~1477640315) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 19 reviews** *Aspect averages:* - Work Quality: 50.0 - Communication: 50.0 - Value: 50.0 ### Featured Review **★★★★★ — Rouben Der Minassian, Feb. 2020** > Wendy is an excellent professional. As part of my home remodeling she designed my entire kitchen, including cabinetry, back splash, appliances, sink and faucets, gorgons island and counter-tops. She met the deadline within budget. She promptly responded to the contractor's questions. There were no change orders. My family thinks the kitchen is drop dead gorgeous! ### All 19 reviews **★★★★★ — HU-55379028, April 2025** > We had the pleasure of working with Wendy on a two story condo renovation design project. Wendy expertly guided us through each phase of the process, from schematic designs to materials choices to permit-ready construction designs. > > She turned everything around quickly and always provided different options for us to consider throughout the process. Since we are in a condo and can’t expand our square footage, we were continually impressed by the efficient use of space in her designs. She also saved us an interminable number of hours by guiding us through all the materials choices. > > Her professionalism, vision, and kindness made what could have been a stressful experience enjoyable. I strongly recommend working with Wendy on any architectural design project you are embarking on. **★★★★★ — Beth Bruinsma Chang, Feb. 2025** > We had the pleasure of working with Wendy Mellinger on our second-floor remodel, and we couldn’t be more thrilled with the results. From the start, Wendy proved to be an exceptional architect and a true advocate for her clients. > Several local builders told us that our vision—a new laundry room, an enlarged primary bath with a soaking tub and a WC—would require an addition to our home. But Wendy had many other layouts for us. With her expertise, she designed a thoughtful solution that incorporated all our needs within the existing footprint, eliminating the need for an addition. > Beyond her design talent, Wendy was a strong advocate throughout the entire process. She worked closely with the builder to ensure our vision was fully realized and helped us stand firm on what we wanted—making sure we didn’t have to compromise. Her attention to detail and client-focused approach made the entire experience seamless and rewarding. > We couldn’t be happier with the outcome and highly recommend Wendy Mellinger to anyone looking for a talented, creative, and client-focused architect. **★★★★★ — HU-943529598, March 2023** > Wendy provided a spectacular service. She exceeded our expectations and we were thrilled with the end product. We really cannot say enough good things about her. Wendy was responsive, efficient, and transparent. It truly was a collaborative experience and she always placed our interests first. We highly recommend Wendy’s services **★★★★★ — Arthur Mann, March 2023** > Just call her. My wife and I were on a short timeline (self-imposed) and Wendy was able to help streamline the process. We were able to get our alteration application approved in 2 days using the permit set that Wendy provided! Wendy listened to what we wanted and created pretty and functional designs. The subcontractors all thought her designs and schematics were wonderful. We will definitely be using her again for future projects. > > Backstory: My wife and I just bought a house and wanted to remodel the master bathroom. We had no idea what we were doing or where to start. The permit office suggested that some people use architects to draft plans for their permits. We called Wendy on a Thursday and she was out at the house on the following Monday. When she walked in, she knew the house better than us, she showed us her draft too. She was ready to go and we felt like she could complete the job we needed in the timeframe we wanted. She had a structural engineer come out that Friday and she returned the following Monday to do final measurements and review the engineers notes. Two days later she sent us designs. She made our life hard because all of the designs were so great. You know how sometimes you wish there was only one obvious choice, this was not the case. Her advice was to imagine living in the space however, we could imagine ourselves in each design! Do you remember that feeling you got the first time you saw the twist in a M Night Shyamalan movie? You think "how did I not see that it's so clear and obvious!". That's how we felt when we saw her designs, they were so natural and perfect for the space and our needs. After we agreed on a design she had our permit set ready to go a day later. > > Thank you so much Wendy! **★★★★★ — Justin Sims, Sept. 2022** > What are you looking for in an architect? > > We were looking for someone that would get us to a decision point on a ground floor remodel that we'd long discussed but couldn't quite agree upon. Someone that would listen to our ideas, challenge them, offer alternatives, be creative and then get us to consensus. That's who we found with Wendy. > > She was a delight to work with. Met with us at out home three times. Always came prepared and walked away with a clear plan of action. The end result was detailed plans for our kitchen and living room remodel that we are now in the process of implementing. > > I'd highly recommend Wendy. **★★★★★ — HU-921982539, Sept. 2022** > Wendy created the overall design and accompanying plans for an upcoming kitchen and bathroom renovation. She came to take measurements in person and listened to our thoughts and priorities and then presented us with different options for making everything work in our space. She helped us to understand the advantages of each design and suggested additional ideas we hadn’t considered. She was communicative, creative, very fun to work with, and met all established deadlines. We hope to work with her again in the future! **★★★★★ — paul cress, July 2022** > Ms Mellinger was very responsive. We were shopping for a new home and needed to know if a specific property could be modified to meet our needs. This was a combination of a permitting question, a cost question, and a practical modification question. We needed these answers right away as we were in competition to purchase the property and could not afford to buy a property that we could not ultimately live in. Ms Mellinger accepted the challenge and with a wave of her magic wand was able to secure a copy of the planning plat in two hours, where the county had told me it would take 10 days. She met us at the property on short notice, bringing sketches of possible and illegal extensions of the structure so we could understand the limitations. She provided realistic time and cost guidance that enabled us to make the right decision. She was very personable and was able to provide builder recommendations as well as architectural guidance. > > I could not be more pleased with Ms Mellinger's professionalism, responsiveness, and the concern she evinced for my family. **★★★★★ — Keith Reeve, Feb. 2020** > As a contractor, we pride ourselves in completing a task to the best of our ability. Having an Architect/Company that will pick up the phone when the need arises is imperative. Working With WM design has given us the ability to move through this project with direction as detailed plans were laid out for us with clear and concise direction. While most contractors may not like the details, the job sure does deserve every detail. Without WM Design, we couldn't have come close to this getting this project done. **★★★★★ — Stephanie H, Jan. 2020** > I recently bought a house and was looking to undertake serious renovations in the master suite. I also thought I wanted to change flooring, put in additional lighting, install built in cabinetry and possibly gut and redo the basement. It all needed to flow and I knew I’d need to tackle it strategically. I am a project manager by training, and knew if I had to I could manage a construction site with 42 elements. However, I also know I’m strapped for time, and I did not want to program manage my personal life. I wanted someone I could trust their judgement and control of the project. > > I interviewed several interior designers, but in the end chose Wendy because instead of a phone interview, she showed up with architectural drawings made from the real estate listing. She was ready to listen to what I wanted, and gently corrected my ideas into better decisions. This go getter style impressed me and I knew she was right for me from the start. After a walk through with her recommended general contractor, I felt comfortable in her advocacy, schedule, cost control, and efficiency. > > Since then she has exceeded my expectations in availability, ability to track and manage my 423,000 questions and requests, remain professional, and communicate my wishes logically and timely to the contractor. She has earned my trust with patience and direct honesty. So far we have tackled electrical (which was no small undertaking-2 floors of recessed lighting and 6 light fixtures ) and are headed into the master suite renovations. I have no doubt that I can cede decision making to Wendy, when I’m not available and she that will make the right decision that is code compliant and aesthetically pleasing. She can handle a variety of design projects with logic and purpose. > > I’ve asked her to complete things as easy as picking out a mailbox slot; medium tasks such as spacial recognition with furniture lay out and design elevations; to the full master suite bathroom renovations, which required plumbing, electrical, flooring, and finishes be designed. She has done all of it simultaneously, without missing a beat. She is administratively organized and timely in responses. I never thought I would feel as calm and stress free with this much renovation and chaos around me. Wendy has been worth her weight in gold. > > I can’t wait for the next phase of my renovation work with Wendy and would recommend her for any job that you want done well! **★★★★★ — jcmoors9, May 2018** > We needed our house staged with very short notice. Wendy picked up our call and immediately began working to make our deadline. Her professionalism, eye for design, and hard work produced four beautifully staged areas in our house by our deadline. And we received a full price offer after being on the market for only one day. We would highly recommend Wendy for any of your staging projects. She is such a pleasure to work with and her work definitely gets results! **★★★★★ — eric wolin, Jan. 2018** > I recently bought a house and moved very little furniture from my former home. I sought out Wendy's advice in order to validate some preliminary decorating ideas and find perspective/inspiration for a formal living room and casual family room. Given only a basic floorplan and asking only one or two simple questions, Wendy developed and delivered a design in one day. Despite the speed, it was thoughtful, taking into consideration function, flow, light and other information I never shared. I'm so happy I sought out Wendy's input - she is a pro's pro! **★★★★★ — Dima Pechenik, Jan. 2018** > Wendy’s eye for design and approach to every project is one of the best. It’s a thoughtful and long-term approach that is suited for the need of the client and the space. We really enjoyed working with Wendy. **★★★★★ — Bonnie Gardner, Dec. 2017** > We hired Wendy to help us with our kitchen remodel. We were doing most of the work ourselves and using Ikea design services, but we really needed a professional to ensure we were making the best use of the space. She created several floor plans and helped us bring a professional, polished look to our project. She made many important recommendations about the flow of the room, lighting placement, and location of appliances. We're thrilled with the design and with our (almost complete) renovation. **★★★★★ — David Engel, June 2017** > I contacted Wendy for design advice on a home that I had listed for sale in DC. Wendy was very prompt in responding to my request. She provided a quick summary of the service she would provide at various price levels. Once engaged, Wendy proceeded by delivering a thorough report with her proposed strategy. Immediately upon diving in, Wendy truly seemed invested in my success and provided the valuable advice needed for this project. **★★★★★ — Leslie Speidel, May 2017** > Wendy is the ultimate professional and will work with you to design the perfect space - one that reflects your personal taste and is practical given your lifestyle. I admire her keen eye and professional approach to her work. **★★★★★ — Doug Francis, May 2017** > I have hired Wendy this year to help give professional guidance staging two homes that I was preparing to list (I'm a Realtor). Working with the sellers to highlight their fine and fun furniture and artwork, her trained eye helped pull together areas and make terrific first impressions. The results were so positive and helped big and small spaces show their form and function. > > Wendy also helped a client move into their custom home after a long distance relocation to Vienna VA. Her analysis and careful inventory of their artwork and furniture, allowed her to direct movers and set up rooms within days of arrival at the new house. This was a tremendous time saver and allowed the client to place valuable artwork immediately in predetermined rooms. Overall a great experience that was personalized and unique in Northern Virginia. **★★★★★ — Ruth D'Eredita, May 2017** > Wendy Mellinger organized and oversaw the move of our 8000 sq ft residence in Brentwood, TN, to our 6500 sq ft residence in Vienna, VA. I will never move again without first engaging her services, and when we move our professional offices in the coming year, I will engage her to oversee that move as well. > > Wendy inventoried our furniture, carpeting, and wall and tabletop accessories and created the visual plan for where each of those items would be placed in our new home. > > She recommended which items we could do without, and she recommended, and sourced--at a steep discount--the items we required in the new house, such as a suite of dining room chairs and a teen boy's new bedroom set, bookcases, and desk. > > She reviewed the color scheme in the new home and advised us on palette. She visited the new home prior to our arrival to be fully familiar with all measurements and conditions in the house prior to our moving van arriving and offloading. > > She oversaw the offloading and unpacking of the moving van. She then directed the moving team as to where each piece of furniture and each accessory to be unpacked immediately--for example, large hall mirrors and large rolled oriental carpets--should be placed, and ensured that the plan she developed on her design software worked IRL in the house. > > She spent three full days at the new house assisting me with unpacking and placement of smaller items and the hanging of art and pictures and mirrors and wall lighting once the movers departed. > > She is unflappable and cannot be flustered. Our movers were hours late and worked until after midnight. She puts her foot down when she has to, and manages the movers efficiently. She is an excellent communicator. She cheerfully hung in with us until the van was empty and pulled away. Then she was back the next morning, and the next, to work side by side with us as we got settled. > > I have moved our household of five from Vermont to Syracuse to Tampa to Nashville to Virginia, and this was by far the smoothest, most enjoyable move, and the quickest to complete, because of Wendy's skills. > > I interviewed four home moving experts in Wendy's category. Only she was a professional architect and designer. She was the most responsive and the most knowledgable of all I interviewed. She provided me with detailed lists of questions to consider as we planned our move into the new house, and her observation of various features of the house and how to best manage them for our family saved me thousands of dollars and more than paid her very reasonable fee. > > Kindly contact me at ruthderedita at gmail dot com if you would like to speak in more detail about my unqualified, and grateful, recommendation of Smartly Staged by Wendy Mellinger. **★★★★★ — Carol Taylor, May 2017** > Wendy went above and beyond staging my listing in River Creek. I would never hire anyone else and I have dealt with other stagers before. She is overqualified as she is an architect by trade but that is another advantage of hiring her. Her furniture was of the highest quality and perfect for the home. I believe the home sold because of her efforts. ## Selected projects - [Leesburg Kitchen/Laundry Room Remodel](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/leesburg-kitchen-laundry-room-remodel-pj-vj~7411710) - Location: Leesburg, VA - Photos: 28 - [Modern Primary Bath Upgrade](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/modern-primary-bath-upgrade-pj-vj~7198181) - Location: Vienna, VA - Photos: 10 - Description: This 'unwell' '70's bathroom has made a full recovery. It now features radiant flooring and fully customized solid walnut vanities with high end Hans Grohe faucets and rectangular Kohler sinks. The swing door was replaced with a pocket door to increase usable space and the tub/shower combination is now a more spacious shower outfitted with glass doors and a built in bench. - [From Outdated to Outstanding- Vienna Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/from-outdated-to-outstanding-vienna-renovation-pj-vj~2485986) - Location: Vienna, VA - Photos: 10 - Description: The entire main level of this once hip '70's home has been given a major face lift. The once dark, inefficient kitchen is now bright with a perfect work triangle and tons of storage. The once sad bar is now open for service. Everything from solid hardwood flooring to recessed lighting has transformed this home into a show piece. - [Renovation Projects](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/renovation-projects-pj-vj~2483702) - Location: Vienna, VA - Photos: 13 - [On the Boards-Creating an more Open Floor Plan](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/on-the-boards-creating-an-more-open-floor-plan-pj-vj~7207722) - Location: Leesburg, VA - Photos: 2 - Description: This project will be under construction summer 2023. Removing the wall between the existing kitchen and dining room will transform this house. The once one-person kitchen will accommodate the whole family graciously. The chic walnut cabinets, white quartz countertops with gold and black accents will make this space the jewel of the home. - [Townhouse Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/townhouse-renovation-pj-vj~6134125) - Location: Falls Church, VA - Photos: 8 - Description: A once tiny and outdated main bath is now chic and welcoming. They have radiant floors and a towel warming rack to add elements of comfort and sophistication perfectly suited to the home owner. - [McLean Kitchen Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mclean-kitchen-renovation-pj-vj~6041371) - Location: McLean, VA - Photos: 4 - Description: This once tiny and fully enclosed kitchen lost two of its walls and gained an island and a view of the rest of the main floor. It's home owner couldn't be happier. - [Vienna Home Updated-SOLD in one day](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/vienna-home-updated-sold-in-one-day-pj-vj~6351274) - Location: Vienna, VA - Photos: 3 - Description: This house was going on the market. WM Design was asked to help make improvements to get it ready for sale. From removing a window/repairing the siding, to replacing flooring, painting cabinets and walls the house was ready for its close up. It sold over ask on the first day. Mission Accomplished. - [On the Boards-Kitchen layout Improvement](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/on-the-boards-kitchen-layout-improvement-pj-vj~7207711) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 1 - Description: This is project is 'on the boards' and will be built soon. The kitchen will be enlarged slightly, into the existing garage space, and reoriented to create a much bigger island and lots of added storage. - [Kitchen Renovation \| Before & During Construction](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/kitchen-renovation-before-and-during-construction-pj-vj~2819538) - Location: Vienna, VA - Photos: 6 - [Relocation Project, Vienna, VA](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/relocation-project-vienna-va-pj-vj~2483685) - Location: Vienna, VA - Photos: 11 - Description: A busy working family requested assistance relocating from Tennessee to Virginia. They were downsizing from 8,500 SF to 6,000 SF. We cataloged everything in their TN home, drew it up and located it in the plans of their VA home. We met the movers at the door and everything was set right into place. They were able to hit the ground running - [Articles](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/articles-pj-vj~2501131) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 2 - Description: Realtors: Know anyone Moving? [See all 12 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/wm-design-studio-llc-pfvwus-pf~1226917903) ## Video - [Company video](https://player.vimeo.com/external/840764640.m3u8?s=4900d15d1614786ac52054a7ef9cc2309a0206be&oauth2_token_id=1384357804) ## Frequently Asked Questions **Do you handle permitting, zoning, and regulatory approvals?** Yes, navigating permitting and regulatory approvals is a key part of my service. I guide clients through each phase, providing permit-ready construction designs to ensure a smooth approval process. My goal is to streamline this often-complex step for you. **What types of projects do you specialize in (custom homes, remodels, additions)?** I specialize in residential architectural renovations and home remodeling solutions. This includes kitchen and bathroom remodels, attic conversions, basement designs, home additions, and extensions. My passion is transforming existing spaces to better suit your family's needs and enhance your daily life. **Do you provide full-service architectural services through construction?** Yes, I provide comprehensive architectural services from initial concept through construction. My role includes guiding you through schematic designs, material selections, and providing permit-ready plans. I also work closely with your chosen builder to ensure the design vision is realized. **Can you work with the builder I select, or do you recommend specific builders?** Absolutely, I am happy to work collaboratively with the builder you select. Client testimonials highlight my ability to work closely with builders. If you need recommendations, I can also share insights based on my experience with trusted professionals. **Do you offer construction administration or site visits?** Yes, I offer project management and remain actively involved throughout the construction phase. This includes site visits and close collaboration with your builder to ensure the design is executed precisely and to address any questions that arise. *FAQ content may be generated based on the Pro's Houzz profile and website.* ## Ideabooks - [Wish List](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/69717415/list/wish-list) — 10 ideas - [Furniture](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/85748214/list/furniture) — 29 ideas - [Lighting](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/85750273/list/lighting) — 16 ideas - [Architecture](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/88297603/list/architecture) — 13 ideas - [Artwork](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/85749713/list/artwork) — 17 ideas - [Rugs](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/85751607/list/rugs) — 5 ideas [See all 6 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/wendy7640) ## Community Q&A **Q: Love the rug. Where can I purchase it?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: dellerg-it was rented by Churchill Living for a staging job. It is quite attractive, i agree. --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-24.*