---
title: "Mark A Cuellar, Design + Build — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz"
canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/mark-a-cuellar-design-build-pfvwus-pf~1327231852
markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1327231852.md
entity_type: LocalBusiness
business_name: "Mark A Cuellar, Design + Build"
category: ["Architects"]
image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/bd835db2060af705_5866-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg
address: "875 W 24TH ST, San Pedro, California 90731, United States"
latitude: 33.7339
longitude: -118.2914
phone: "(424) 210-5088"
website: http://www.mac-da.com
rating: 5
review_count: 6
years_in_business: 24
best_of_houzz_awards: 1
followers: 43
last_updated: 2026-09-03
---

# Mark A Cuellar, Design + Build

> Long Beach's Award-Winning Architect

Original Houzz profile: [Mark A Cuellar, Design + Build](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/mark-a-cuellar-design-build-pfvwus-pf~1327231852)

## Professional summary

- **Primary category:** Architects
- **Location:** San Pedro, CA
- **Serves:** Los Angeles, Long Beach, Venice, Huntington Beach, Torrance, Costa Mesa, Santa Monica, Lakewood, San Pedro, Redondo Beach, Rancho Palos Verdes, West Hollywood, Manhattan Beach, Seal Beach, El Segundo, Palos Verdes Peninsula, Palos Verdes Estates, Rolling Hills Estates, Rolling Hills, Palos Verdes
- **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (6 reviews)
- **Best of Houzz:** 1 award (2021), for Service.

## About

### Houzz Badges

- Houzz Pro Software User
- Star Houzzer
- Houzz Industry Research - Barometer
- Recommended on Houzz
- 500 Ideabook Saves
- References available
- Eco-friendly
- 24 years in business
- Verified Hires

### Business highlights

- 24 years in business
- References available
- Eco-friendly
- 1 Verified Hire

Mark A Cuellar Design + Build is an award-winning practice providing architecture, interior design, construction management, and construction services for residential and commercial projects. 

Project approach starts with a careful investigation of many factors, including client wishes, budget, site, and local municipality requirements. Detail-oriented project management and clear communication throughout the design, bidding, and construction phases is followed to ensure a successful outcome.

Work ranges from small, affordable bath and kitchen renovations to new construction project development. We prefer to be involved in a Design-Build capacity from inception through construction completion to ensure a fully coordinated and high-quality project. However, on many occasions, services are limited to design concepting, or up through receipt of permits and turn over to another contractor. After initial meetings, we can tailor a service proposal to your needs.

Current work is throughout Southern California, Chicago, and New York; and is managed through a combination of in-person site visits, collaboration with local partners, and virtual meetings with consultants and clients.

Mark A Cuellar, Design + Build:
CA General Contractor License \#1065284
CA Licensed Architect \#C37800
NY Licensed Architect \#033700
IL Licensed Architect \#001017862

### Services Provided

- Architectural Design
- Building Design
- Home Remodeling
- Architectural Drawings
- Custom Homes
- House Plans
- New Home Construction
- Home Additions
- Home Extensions
- Kitchen Design
- Kitchen Remodeling
- Energy-Efficient Homes
- Floor Plans
- 3D Rendering
- Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
- Bathroom Design
- Green Building
- Guesthouse Design & Construction
- Pool House Design & Construction
- Project Management
- Outdoor Kitchen Design
- Tiny House Construction
- Staircase Design
- Deck Design
- Custom Home
- Remodeling

### Areas Served

- Los Angeles
- Long Beach
- Venice
- Huntington Beach
- Torrance
- Costa Mesa
- Santa Monica
- Lakewood
- San Pedro
- Redondo Beach
- Rancho Palos Verdes
- West Hollywood
- Manhattan Beach
- Seal Beach
- El Segundo
- Palos Verdes Peninsula
- Palos Verdes Estates
- Rolling Hills Estates
- Rolling Hills
- Palos Verdes

### Typical Job Cost

$5,000 - 1 million

I've worked on projects as small as a fence detail or custom office cabinetry; don't hesitate to reach out to discuss your project and see if we are a fit!

## Business Details

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Business Name | Mark A Cuellar, Design + Build |
| Address | 875 W 24TH ST, San Pedro, California 90731, United States |
| Phone | (424) 210-5088 |
| Website | http://www.mac-da.com |
| License Number | Architect \#37800; GC \#1065284 |
| Years in business | 24 |
| Followers on Houzz | 43 |

**Social profiles:**
- Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063732843258
- Blog — https://www.instagram.com/markcuellararchitect/

## Contact

- **Houzz profile:** [Mark A Cuellar, Design + Build](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/mark-a-cuellar-design-build-pfvwus-pf~1327231852)
- **Website:** http://www.mac-da.com
- **Phone:** (424) 210-5088

## Credentials

**Certifications & Awards**
- 2007 AIA Chicago Honor Award for Interior Architecture (Touch Salon);
- 2006 Speaker at AIA Illinois Professional Development Conference, “On the Home Front: Current Residential Design”;
- 2004 AIA Chicago Interior Architecture Award (I&S Residence);
- LEED Certified;
- AIA Member;
- NCARB Certified

- **Best of Houzz:** 1 award (2021), 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)
- [AIA Long Beach / South Bay](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/aia-long-beach-south-bay-pfvwus-pf~1922306802)

## Reviews

**Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 6 reviews**

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

### Featured Review

**★★★★★ — MaryStarr Hope, Sept. 2018**

> Mark Cuellar is a brilliant architect, a joy to work with and a consummate professional.  He has impeccable taste and exactly the clean, modern aesthetic we love.  Working with Mark we were able to design a total makeover of our cramped and dark 1950 California Bungalow that transformed it into a light filled, modern loft like space - increasing our usable square footage and creating great flow without expanding the footprint.  He’s basically a wizard
>
> We live in a Wildland Urban Interface Zone, which has many building restrictions.  Mark navigated our town’s incredibly complicated code and permit process with great skill and patience, submitting drafts quickly when changes were required by the building department.  He coordinated with structural engineers to get our dream project through a meticulous, fine tooth comb permit review, implementing structural framing upgrades and fire sprinklers that make our house the safest in the neighborhood (as well as the best looking). We so appreciated his sense of humor and steady presence when we decided to change contractors in the middle of our project - Mark calmly helped us through the transition and made sure no information was lost in translation.
>
> Mark is just great to work with.  He was available every time I had a question and is super collaborative.  I’m very interested in design and took a very active role in the project.  Mark was skillful at both helping me decide between competing ideas in my head and introducing me to things I hadn’t considered.  He has a great eye and I knew I could trust his choices.  He always kept both our vision and the ultimate property value / future resale viability in mind, helping us make choices that would result in a house we love and also a house we could sell someday. Whether it was deciding on tile and finishes, explaining things we didn’t understand, giving smart design advice (like advocating for including a coat closet in our entry for future resale, that we now so appreciate putting our own coats in!), or graciously listening to our inexpert ideas and interpreting them beautifully in the plans, Mark always made us feel heard.  I couldn’t be happier with our beautiful, new space.  We love our house so much and our neighbors are blown away!  I cannot recommend him highly enough - he is literally the best.

### All 6 reviews

**★★★★★ — Reyes Family, Jan. 2024**

> My family recently had the pleasure of working with Mark to remodel my home, and let me just say, the experience exceeded all of our expectations. From start to finish, Mark and his crew showcased professionalism, expertise, and a genuine commitment to transforming our space into something truly amazing.
>
> First and foremost, communication was impeccable. He promptly responded to all of our inquiries, ensuring that we were kept in the loop throughout the entire process. He took the time to listen to our ideas and vision, providing valuable insights and recommendations along the way. It was evident that he genuinely cared about bringing my family's dream home to life.
>
> When it came to the actual remodeling work, the craftsmanship was simply outstanding. From the smallest details to the larger projects, no stone was left unturned. He flawlessly executed each task, taking great care and attention to ensure that everything was perfect. We were particularly impressed with his ability to seamlessly blend functionality with aesthetic appeal, resulting in a space that not only looked beautiful but also served its purpose efficiently.
>
> His team was an absolute pleasure to work with. Each member displayed a high level of professionalism and skill, working diligently to complete the project within the agreed-upon time frame. They were respectful of my home, maintaining a clean and organized work environment throughout the entire process.
>
> One aspect that truly stood out was his commitment to quality. He used top-grade materials and employed the latest techniques, leaving no room for anything but excellence. The end result was a home that surpassed all of our expectations, exuding a sense of luxury and sophistication that we had always envisioned.
>
> Not only did he deliver an extraordinary final product, but he also proved to be trustworthy and reliable. Throughout the project, he kept me informed of any necessary changes or adjustments, always seeking our input before proceeding. This level of transparency and accountability instilled complete confidence in his work.
>
> In conclusion, hiring Mark for our home remodeling was a decision we will never regret. His unmatched professionalism, exceptional craftsmanship, and commitment to excellence transformed our house into a true dream home. We wholeheartedly recommend Mark to anyone seeking remodeling services, as he will undoubtedly exceed your expectations and leave you in awe of the incredible results.

**★★★★★ — HU-772104687, April 2020**

> Mark Cuellar has been excellent  to work with! Not only does he always makes himself available to answer my questions, but he also has been a big help with design considerations for our new home addition and remodel project. I would recommend him to anyone that is looking for a knowledgeable Architect and Design professional to work with.

**★★★★★ — Akhil Viz, April 2020**

> If there was an option to provide a higher rating I definitely would!
>
> Mark was a phenomenal architect to work with right from the beginning. He listened carefully to what we're were trying to achieve and provided feedback based on his expertise. I admired Mark's courage to challenge us in the design process and back it up with logical reasoning (and data where applicable).
>
> Our project entailed a remodel of an old home and due to the size, city code constraints and budget, Mark had to be very creative as to how he designed our home considering the limitations. It was evident that Mark was up for the challenge and Mark's work reflected that he had analyzed various solutions for our project.
>
> We were guided through the design process step-by-step and Mark was very prompt in responding to our questions - again, a characteristic that I appreciated because who likes waiting for a response?
>
> There aren't many professionals who can provide both a high caliber customer service AND subject matter expertise!
>
> If you're reading this review you should stop "shopping" for another architect and just contact Mark immediately! Take my word for it - you won't be disappointed!

**★★★★★ — gary5792, Feb. 2016**

> Mark is an extremely talented and collaborative architect.  Throughout the process of designing our new home, Mark took the time to sit with us and understand how we would use the structure and grow in to it so we could live here for the long term.  At the same time, Mark pushed back at the right times to make sure we kept the structure attractive to the outside world, preserving its value and keeping it in context with some very complex surroundings in our neighborhood.
>
> Mark has an uncommon vision for the future and was able to look at our empty square of land and "see" what the house would be like once it was finished.  He designed a number of innovative features in to the building that capture unique views of the City, giving our visitors' "Oh, my God!" moments as they ascend the staircase, relax in our living room within a cantilevered corner of the building, and relax outside on numerous terraced decks.
>
> As a true testament to Mark's work, it was not uncommon for us to have 3-4 unsolicited offers to buy/rent our building in a single weekend, during a recession, and before construction was even finished!

**★★★★★ — danmartin15300, Nov. 2015**

> Mark designed an addition for our house in a historic district of Chicago that more than doubled the size of the house (effectively a new house).  Three years in, the house is great and we still get compliments from neighbors who believe it enhances their home values.  The biggest compliment is that the rooms in the old house are delightfully furnished and have high ceilings and great windows (one, a fireplace) but we spend most of our time in the new addition - which also has high ceilings, a fireplace, a second story deck and a great first floor round-the-house deck.  Thanks Mark, our loss is LA's gain.  Dan & Madonna

## Selected projects

- [Nico's House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/nico-s-house-pj-vj~6009751)
  - Location: Los Angeles, CA
  - Photos: 23
  - Description: An existing 1920’s San Pedro bungalow receives an 1,200 square foot, L-shaped addition creating 1,900-square feet of living space, a private courtyard, and large front yard. Large glazed sliding doors and windows are set on axis to allow views from the master bedroom through courtyard, living room, front yard, and entry gate. This project utilizes "SIP" wall construction - a prefabricated, panelized, and highly-efficient insulated building envelope.
- [Cloverdale](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/cloverdale-pj-vj~7340608)
  - Location: Los Angeles, CA
  - Photos: 8
  - Description: A 217-sf building addition is added to an existing home as a Mid-Century appendage to triple the size of the existing kitchen and laundry room. North-facing windows are maximized above and below cabinets to bring indirect light into the new vaulted ceiling space. Natural sun angle studies were performed to avoid direct sun exposures and maintain energy code compliance and thermal comfort. The sloping roof canopy contains openings for shade effect and as a beacon from the street facade view.
- [RPV Remodel & Addition](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/rpv-remodel-and-addition-pj-vj~7385257)
  - Location: Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
  - Photos: 13
- [Goethe](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/goethe-pj-vj~1333992)
  - Location: Chicago, IL
  - Photos: 14
  - Description: This 4,200 square-foot, 2 bed, 2-½ bath condominium is located in a Parisian-inspired, limestone-clad Gold Coast building. The space is a modern urban refuge for a young Chicago couple. The residence has a biaxial layout. Transversely, the Master-Bed Suite is separated from the Guest-Bed Suite for privacy. Longitudinally, the Living/Dining area is separated from the Kitchen by a corridor of end-grain wood. The linear plan forced the Master Bath into a windowless pocket of space. Solution: Natura…
- [West Hollywood Remodel, Addition, and ADU](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/west-hollywood-remodel-addition-and-adu-pj-vj~6067977)
  - Location: West Hollywood, California
  - Photos: 12
  - Description: Full remodel of a 1,200-sf residence with a 430-sf Master Suite addition, and 330-sf Garage ADU conversion. (Interiors and construction management by Owner)
- [Long Beach Bungalow](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/long-beach-bungalow-pj-vj~3755167)
  - Location: Long Beach, CA
  - Photos: 17
  - Description: Single-family remodel in Long Beach
- [Huron](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/huron-pj-vj~1334061)
  - Location: Chicago, IL
  - Photos: 15
  - Description: A single-family residence on a smaller-than-average urban lot had a program that set out to maximize the living area and appear grand in size, despite a tight building envelope close to its 4 property lines and neighbors. Rather than turn its "eyes" on the street and rear yard, the design scheme opened them to all sides in order to maximize natural light and help the interior spaces feel larger. Glass, masonry, and wood rain-screen form an exterior façade pattern interwoven on an 8-foot grid. Th…
- [Bronzeville](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/bronzeville-pj-vj~1334124)
  - Location: Chicago, IL
  - Photos: 8
  - Description: This 5,000 square-foot home is located in a Landmarks neighborhood in Chicago. The facade design underwent a rigid landmarks and neighborhood committee review before approval. The client, and attorney and art gallery owner, asked to maximize the allowable floor area of the property, focusing on entertaining areas, a master suite, and ample wall space for his art collection. The solution started with maximizing the vertical and horizontal building envelope, as dictated by the zoning setbacks and…
- [Chicago rental loft](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/chicago-rental-loft-pj-vj~1999339)
  - Location: Chicago, IL
  - Photos: 9

[See all 9 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/mark-a-cuellar-design-build-pfvwus-pf~1327231852)

## Video

- [Company video](https://player.vimeo.com/external/901031727.m3u8?s=e5b4603092b0c5c2b6f9bf32583a9ac93afa4357&oauth2_token_id=1384357804)

## Ideabooks

- [Wish List](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/166038127/list/wish-list) — 1 idea
- [Parris](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/154727103/list/parris) — 4 ideas
- [Kitchens by Mark Cuellar Design](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/114028805/list/kitchens-by-mark-cuellar-design) — 11 ideas
- [Bathrooms by Mark Cuellar Design](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/114028641/list/bathrooms-by-mark-cuellar-design) — 9 ideas
- [Exteriors - Landscape](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/54910080/list/exteriors-landscape) — 49 ideas
- [Exteriors - stucco colors](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/68089075/list/exteriors-stucco-colors) — 37 ideas
- [San Anselmo](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/75070170/list/san-anselmo) — 4 ideas
- [Proj Jia- exteriors](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/73162812/list/proj-jia-exteriors) — 18 ideas

[See all 8 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/markcuellar)

## Community Q&A

**Q: Help choosing accent wall/color** *(in Design Dilemma)*

Recently finished our grey floors now wood planks on the wall do not match. We have to paint our island and fix this wall,any ideas?

A: Not at all, but I will say that's the very safe way to go, and probably recommended if you're considering resale. I like the features though, so if you have the personality to enjoy a pop of color and wood wall feature, go all the way!

**Q: I would like to change things up, but I’m not sure where to begin.** *(in Design Dilemma)*

A: I like the TV remaining on the wall too- that said, now that I see the photos, the TV isn't as big as I thought, and that wall could use some art or decor to the left to balance things out. 
Another thing that might help there is a looong, but narrow picture ledge under the TV - the soundbar can be mounted on it so you don't see the dangling wire, and you can lean some art or photos to the left and right of the TV.
Another crazy idea would be to create an accent "frame" for the TV - a large rectangle maybe 1-2-feet larger than the TV, and either a painted accent color, or built with tile or wood planks. It would help ground the TV on that large wall.
I like the fireplace remaining a fireplace, but it's a lot of brick - you need much larger art there as well, and possibly a tall vase on the left or right of the mantle for some asymmetry.

---

*Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-09-03.*