---
title: "Tomlinson Designs — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz"
canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/tomlinson-designs-pfvwus-pf~1258377418
markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1258377418.md
entity_type: LocalBusiness
business_name: "Tomlinson Designs"
category: ["Architects"]
image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/8d4380140330a098_4638-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg
address: "141 S College Ave, #102, Fort Collins, Colorado 80524, United States"
latitude: 40.5986
longitude: -105.0581
phone: "(970) 372-0965"
website: https://tomlinsondesigns.com
rating: 5
review_count: 38
best_of_houzz_awards: 9
followers: 84
last_updated: 2026-09-09
---

# Tomlinson Designs

Original Houzz profile: [Tomlinson Designs](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/tomlinson-designs-pfvwus-pf~1258377418)

## Professional summary

- **Primary category:** Architects
- **Location:** Fort Collins, CO
- **Serves:** Denver, Fort Collins, Boulder, Ft Collins, Windsor, Wellington, Severance, Timnath, Laporte, Clear Creek County, Colorado, Front Range, Grand County, Jefferson County, Larimer County, Northern Colorado, Summit County, Weld County
- **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (38 reviews)
- **Best of Houzz:** 9 awards (2015–2025), for Service, Design.

## About

### Houzz Badges

- Star Houzzer
- Houzz Influencer
- Recommended on Houzz
- 10,000 Ideabook Saves
- Best of Houzz winner
- High-end
- 17 years in business

Building a new home or remodeling your existing one can be an overwhelming process.

At Tomlinson Designs, we pride our selves on attention to detail and the ability to cohesively design projects that accommodate your lifestyle, from initial conception to the very last interior finishes and details. Our goal is to make the process enjoyable and rewarding.

Sean Tomlinson, Assoc. AIA
Sean Tomlinson founded Tomlinson Designs in March 2007 to help clients design a home that caters to their lifestyle.  His passion for architecture began at an early age when he experienced the remodel of his family's home.  

Sean's academic credentials include a Bachelors of Science degree from Santa Clara University and a Masters in Architecture from the University of Oregon.  Sean's community relationships and background in sustainable design, planning, and consulting allows him to design personalized homes with his client's desires and future generation's needs in mind.

Sean's practical experience, prior to entering grad. school, includes working in the construction industry as a framer for a high end luxury home contractor in Lake Tahoe, CA.  as well as, working for a leading residential architectural firm in Seattle.  After moving to Fort Collins in 2004, Sean worked for local reputable architectural firms and earned a certificate in construction management from Colorado State University. 

Sean enjoys spending time with his family, skiing, golfing, hiking, and playing soccer and tennis.

### 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
- Sustainable Design
- Energy-Efficient Homes
- Floor Plans
- Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
- Green Building
- Bathroom Design
- Space Planning
- Universal Design
- Drafting
- Outdoor Kitchen Design
- Basement Remodeling
- Mudroom Design
- Basement Design
- Attic Conversion
- Staircase Design
- Deck Design
- Garage Design
- Site Preparation
- Laundry Room Design
- Construction Drawings
- Custom Home

### Areas Served

- Denver
- Fort Collins
- Boulder
- Ft Collins
- Windsor
- Wellington
- Severance
- Timnath
- Laporte
- Clear Creek County
- Colorado
- Front Range
- Grand County
- Jefferson County
- Larimer County
- Northern Colorado
- Summit County
- Weld County

### Typical Job Cost

$50,000 - 4 million

Overal construction costs

## Business Details

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Business Name | Tomlinson Designs |
| Address | 141 S College Ave, \#102, Fort Collins, Colorado 80524, United States |
| Phone | (970) 372-0965 |
| Website | https://tomlinsondesigns.com |
| Followers on Houzz | 84 |

**Social profiles:**
- Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/tomlinsondesigns/
- Blog — https://www.tomlinsondesigns.com/
- Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/tomlinsondesigns/

## Contact

- **Houzz profile:** [Tomlinson Designs](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/tomlinson-designs-pfvwus-pf~1258377418)
- **Website:** https://tomlinsondesigns.com
- **Phone:** (970) 372-0965

## Credentials

**Certifications & Awards**
- AIA Member
- Best of Houzz Winner 2015-2023

- **Best of Houzz:** 9 awards (2015–2025), for Service, Design.

**Affiliations**
- [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 — 38 reviews**

*Aspect averages:*
- Work Quality: 50.0
- Communication: 50.0
- Value: 50.0

### Reviews

**★★★★★ — Lindgren Landscape, July 2025**

> We hired Sean to design an extensive remodel for our home.  He offered great suggestions and was extremely creative.  The completed project was exceptional and we would highly recommend Sean

**★★★★★ — Kate and Hunter Swanson, Dec. 2024**

> Transcendent Experience with Tomlinson Designs – A Perfect Blend of Creativity, Integrity, and Expertise
>
> I had the pleasure of working with Tomlinson Designs on a major remodel of our 1900s-built bungalow, which included remodeling the existing, a new addition, basement, second floor, and garage/ADU. From the very beginning, their approach stood out to us for two main reasons: communication and their impressive track record. They made the entire process feel seamless, and the results far exceeded our expectations.
>
> What truly set Tomlinson Designs apart was their attentiveness to our needs and how they blended that with fresh, innovative ideas. They took the time to understand our vision and incorporated modern elements that were perfect for our young family, while preserving the vintage charm of our home. The balance of old and new is absolutely stunning.
> Throughout the project, their team was highly communicative and provided updates regularly. We felt very comfortable knowing they were always available to answer questions and address concerns. Their integrity is unmatched — they were true to their word, and their follow-up was impeccable.
>
> One of the best parts of working with Tomlinson Designs was their professionalism, combined with the ease of building a genuine connection. They quickly became more than just a team we worked with; they became people we genuinely enjoyed spending time with. Respect, kindness, and even a little laughter helped us navigate the sometimes-lengthy renovation process with ease.
>
> I can’t recommend Tomlinson Designs enough for anyone looking for a team that combines creativity, professionalism, and integrity. If you want a firm that delivers exceptional results while making you feel truly valued, this is the one!

**Comment from Tomlinson Designs:**

> Thank you for the kind words and glowing review. It truly means the world to us to know that you had such a positive experience working with us. Your feedback is not only greatly appreciated but also incredibly motivating for our team. We're so glad we could meet your expectations and are grateful for the trust you've placed in us.

**★★★★★ — HU-388441818, Feb. 2024**

> Moving from a a home that we built in California, to a home that needed major updating, was going to be a challenge until Sean (Sensitive Information Hidden) was recommended. Sean tackled both the exterior and interior design flaws, that gave our home curb appeal, as well as functionality.  Sean enhanced our living space, while at the same time keeping us in compliance with our Homeowners Association.  They welcomed his vision because it dramatically improved the neighborhood!
>
> Sean and his staff were readily available, helpful, and guided us through the necessary decisions that had to be made.  They thought of everything!

**Comment from Tomlinson Designs:**

> Thank you so much! We're so glad you had such a wonderful experience!

**★★★★★ — Elaine Edwards, Dec. 2023**

> Sean did a great job designing an addition to our home which fits in perfectly with the neighborhood architectural style. Our home addition looks as if it was part of the original design.
>
> Sean was available to consult with our builders during the entire process. During the final inspection he called attention to finishing work that still needed to be done by our builders to complete the project.

**Comment from Tomlinson Designs:**

> Thank you so much for the kind words, Elaine!  It was a pleasure working with you on this project.

**★★★★★ — Gretchen Casterella, July 2023**

> Jeff and I met Sean 7-ish years ago via a project he was working on in our Ft Collins neighborhood, and we knew we would work with him someday! The opportunity came when we moved to Kure Beach, North Carolina, bought a beachfront property, and hired Sean to design a new duplex with the upper unit as our home and the lower unit as a short-term vacation rental. We had only a few requirements :-) -- Please make it different than the Coastal Carolina architecture that dominates the area; give it a West Coast vibe that maximizes the living/eating spaces and the ocean views; source exterior materials that look great and withstand the brutal salt air and hurricanes… Oh yes, and the lower unit has to be \< 2500 square feet and needs to sleep up to 15 people without compromising the spacious living/dining area, and we are on a tight budget!
>
> We had high expectations, and Sean and his team exceeded all of them! Not only was the design everything we could have asked for and more, but his consultation throughout the construction process was invaluable. The spaces in both units flow and function perfectly. Over and over, our guests tell us that they specifically booked our property (out of many other oceanfront rentals) because of the contemporary architecture and the open design, that the moment they walked in to the house, they could feel themselves exhale and relax, and that they will treasure the memories made there with friends and family. We agree! Thank you, Sean. We could not have asked for more (although I’m sure we’ll be asking again if/when Jeff finds the next plot of land to build on ).

**★★★★★ — cheryl juneau, June 2023**

> We are delighted with the kitchen/great room design that Sean Tomlinson created for us. He took our awkward layout and created a space that flows. His designs accentuate the natural architecture of the kitchen. The house feels entirely different because it finally makes sense. The Tomlinson Design team was easy to work with. They were really helpful in bringing together a cohesive look that suits the home beautifully. We will definitely work with them again for our next project.

**★★★★★ — Doug and Anne McCord, March 2023**

> What a pleasure to find a home design firm that is so focused on meeting the needs of the customer. Sean Tomlinson and his staff were just fabulous to work with. We couldn't have been more pleased with the outcome.

**Comment from Tomlinson Designs:**

> Doug and Anne, thank you for the kind words! It's so rewarding to hear that you had such a great experience and we hope you're loving your home!

**★★★★★ — HU-980062211, March 2023**

> Sean designed a new kitchen for our old house.  We took out 2 walls to have a large open space.  His design was fantastic and the kitchen flow is wonderful.  The lighting, colors, appliances all turned out great.  He thinks of everything.  I am using his services again.

**Comment from Tomlinson Designs:**

> Thank you so much! Thrilled you're loving the kitchen's flow and looking forward to the next project together!

**★★★★★ — Melinda, Dec. 2022**

> A great team of experts that clearly know what they are doing.  Well coordinated process, with good communication.
> Visionary design and implementation.  Very pleased with a major remodel project.

**Comment from Tomlinson Designs:**

> Thank you for your kind words Melinda!  It is truly a pleasure working with you!!

**★★★★★ — Carlos Mendoza, Dec. 2022**

> Excellent company. Talented ensemble. Thoughtful. Willing to think outside the box.  I would not hesitate to use again.  I would highly recommend.

**★★★★★ — Wendy L, Sept. 2022**

> The vision that Sean had for our home is nothing like we imagined. We renovated a 1960's ranch with Sean's guidance and we are not exaggerating when we say that daily someone stops to tell us how incredible our home is. He worked well with our interior designer and builder to create our forever home. Sean was accessible at all stages of the project and never stopped offering his expertise. For example, during the electrical walk-through, he noticed unused space behind the fireplace and designed a hidden storage area. He sees things we would never even think about. We would highly recommend Thomlinson Design!

**Comment from Tomlinson Designs:**

> Wendy, thank you so much for the kind words! We're thrilled you had such a positive experience and agree, your home is INCREDIBLE!

**★★★★★ — Tiffin Vaughn, Aug. 2022**

> We added a full bathroom & reconfigured crawlspace to our main house.  Tomlinson Designs did a fantastic job of making recommendations so we could stay within our budget.  What a joyful relief.
> They're very thorough in their designs (we now have an entire plan for our whole house in case we do more work in the future.)  All the staff was prompt when communicating with us when we had questions and concerns.  From start to finish they genuinely cared about our project.  We were never wondering if we made the right choice.
> They're very personable and make the process of remodeling as smooth as can be expected.   We'd definitely recommend them and will not hesitate to hire them again in the future!

## Selected projects

- [Vista Lake Dr](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/vista-lake-dr-pj-vj~7714188)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 20
- [Barnswallow Circle](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/barnswallow-circle-pj-vj~7775136)
  - Location: Fort Collins, CO
  - Photos: 9
- [Westview Road](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/westview-road-pj-vj~7700925)
  - Location: Fort Collins, CO
  - Photos: 7
- [Sycamore Street](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/sycamore-street-pj-vj~7667069)
  - Location: Fort Collins, CO
  - Photos: 22
- [North Shields Street](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/north-shields-street-pj-vj~7661757)
  - Location: Fort Collins, CO
  - Photos: 21
- [Sunset Peak Court](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/sunset-peak-court-pj-vj~7652892)
  - Location: Fort Collins, CO
  - Photos: 15
- [3rd Street](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/3rd-street-pj-vj~6644948)
  - Location: Fort Collins, CO
  - Photos: 30
- [Modern Bungalow](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/modern-bungalow-pj-vj~7079535)
  - Location: Fort Collins, CO
  - Photos: 24
- [Arwen Lane](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/arwen-lane-pj-vj~6644817)
  - Location: Loveland, CO
  - Photos: 22
- [Terry Lake Road](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/terry-lake-road-pj-vj~7657575)
  - Location: Fort Collins, CO
  - Photos: 7
- [W Magnolia St](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/w-magnolia-st-pj-vj~7203040)
  - Location: Fort Collins, CO
  - Photos: 22
- [Aggregate Blvd](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/aggregate-blvd-pj-vj~7098041)
  - Location: Erie, CO
  - Photos: 21
- [Woody Creek Lane](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/woody-creek-lane-pj-vj~7133974)
  - Location: Fort Collins, CO
  - Photos: 14
- [East Elizabeth Street](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/east-elizabeth-street-pj-vj~6644985)
  - Location: Fort Collins, CO
  - Photos: 21
- [Moore Lane](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/moore-lane-pj-vj~6441148)
  - Location: Fort Collins, CO
  - Photos: 39
- [South Shields Street Homestead Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/south-shields-street-homestead-kitchen-pj-vj~7299664)
  - Location: Fort Collins, CO
  - Photos: 8
- [Dorshire Lane](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/dorshire-lane-pj-vj~496427)
  - Location: Fort Collins, CO
  - Photos: 24
  - Description: Colorado contemporary residence with main floor and walkout basement.
- [Fossil Creek Drive](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/fossil-creek-drive-pj-vj~7346146)
  - Location: Fort Collins, CO
  - Photos: 18
- [Terrace View St](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/terrace-view-st-pj-vj~7410882)
  - Location: Timnath, CO
  - Photos: 15
  - Description: Basement finish: bedrooms, bunk beds, kids space, living room, home bar, kitchen, home office, laundry room, staircase
- [Sailors Reef](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/sailors-reef-pj-vj~7490780)
  - Location: Fort Collins, CO
  - Photos: 7

[See all 39 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/tomlinson-designs-pfvwus-pf~1258377418)

## Ideabooks

- [TD - Cannon](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/167073976/list/td-cannon) — 1 idea
- [TD - Burkett](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/160765811/list/td-burkett) — 3 ideas
- [TD - McCord](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/129389160/list/td-mccord) — 1 idea
- [TD - Mendoza](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/127582329/list/td-mendoza) — 25 ideas
- [TD - Clements](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/124779539/list/td-clements) — 10 ideas
- [TD - Pearson](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/124156632/list/td-pearson) — 28 ideas
- [TD - Kit Fox Road](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/123656241/list/td-kit-fox-road) — 1 idea
- [TD Lamb/Larsen](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/123070391/list/td-lamb-larsen) — 1 idea
- [TD - Hall](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/120279770/list/td-hall) — 7 ideas
- [TD - Woody Creek](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/116789536/list/td-woody-creek) — 1 idea
- [TD - Waldron](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/114886303/list/td-waldron) — 3 ideas
- [TD - Terry-Varnell](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/114751761/list/td-terry-varnell) — 38 ideas
- [TD - Michalczyk](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/114405569/list/td-michalczyk) — 2 ideas
- [TD - Augustine](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/114370556/list/td-augustine) — 25 ideas
- [TD - McClure](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/113875977/list/td-mcclure) — 7 ideas
- [TD - Philbeck](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/110239979/list/td-philbeck) — 4 ideas
- [TD Office Space](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/104953926/list/td-office-space) — 10 ideas
- [TD - Robenhymer-Trotter](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/102271956/list/td-robenhymer-trotter) — 3 ideas
- [TB - Breaux](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/97942605/list/tb-breaux) — 3 ideas
- [TD - Micklo](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/87126041/list/td-micklo) — 6 ideas

[See all 26 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/tomlinsondesigns)

## Community Q&A

**Q: Is there a floor plan available** *(in Photo Questions)*

Curious about the sq footage, \# of bedrooms, general layout

A: No I'm sorry we don't share floor plans.

**Q: Is there a floor plan available** *(in Photo Questions)*

Curious about the sq footage, \# of bedrooms, general layout

A: Hello and thank you so much for your interest in our design. All of our work is completely custom to the homeowner. Although we don't share floor plans, I can tell you this house is open concept with 4 bedrooms. The finished main level is approx 2300 sf, not including over 1000 sf of patio space.

**Q: how high are the pendant lights hung over the island?** *(in Photo Questions)*

Looking at hanging pendant lights over an island with vaulted ceilings.  How high were these hung?

A: Thank you for your question.  These are a bit unique as there are many of them, the emitted light is low, and we used them for more ambiance... thus they were installed as a feature and very in height above the counter.
In general, I would say for pendant lights over an island it will depend on several factors:

The actual light fixture (how big, how much light, and transparency thru the fixture... solid shade vs glass)
How the light is emitted from the fixture (up, down, 360, etc)
The space around the island (any view lines or sight issues)
How many fixtures (this will effect the amount of light)
Activities on the island (task lighting vs ambient or both)


With that being said, we typically start around 30&quot; above the working surface and adjust for all the items above.  One great way to test is to fill balloon(s) with helium to the approximate size of the fixture and test.  Adjust the ribbon length to move the balloon up or down and at the same time you can see how many will look good over the counter.  This will give you a great visual and not cost much at all.
I hope that helps.  Thanks again.

**Q: flooring brand and material** *(in Photo Questions)*

Can you tell me the details of the dlooring

A: Thank you for your question.  The flooring is an engineered version to match the main level as this is over a concrete slab.  It's a reclaimed heart wood pine from old tobacco drying plants... so they black or dark areas are from the tobacco.  It was sourced from a company called Reclaimed Designworks and installed by a local flooring company.  Hope that helps. Thanks

**Q: What color is the paver** *(in Photo Questions)*

A: Sorry for the delay as I thought I answered this before but it was the same question for another person.  Here was my response... I am positive it's a Belgard product, and I think it's the Lafitt Rustic Slab in Bella color. Hope that helps.

**Q: TV size** *(in Photo Questions)*

What is the size of TV? I am trying to figure out what is the maximum size of TV for this layout since my house has a similar layout. Thanks!

A: Sorry for the delay in response... I did not see this question.  I believe the TV in the picture is a 49&quot; or similar.  TV manufacturers should list the full dimensions of the TV and you can use those to see if one will fit or not as the size in the description relates to the diagonal dimension, not width/height.

---

*Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-09-09.*
