--- title: "Michael Friedes Design Associates — Interior Designers & Decorators | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designers-and-decorators/michael-friedes-design-associates-pfvwus-pf~1510022886 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1510022886.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Michael Friedes Design Associates" category: ["Interior Designers & Decorators"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/cf43ae500196b988_1471-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "42 Woodward Street, #4, San Francisco, California 94103, United States" latitude: 37.7725 longitude: -122.4147 phone: "(415) 795-3222" website: http://www.mf-da.com rating: 4.9 review_count: 18 best_of_houzz_awards: 7 followers: 159 last_updated: 2026-09-23 --- # Michael Friedes Design Associates Original Houzz profile: [Michael Friedes Design Associates](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designers-and-decorators/michael-friedes-design-associates-pfvwus-pf~1510022886) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Interior Designers & Decorators - **Location:** San Francisco, CA - **Serves:** San Francisco, Oakland, Berkeley, Daly City, San Leandro, Alameda, South San Francisco, El Cerrito, Lafayette, Albany, Orinda, Moraga, Mill Valley, Emeryville, Piedmont, Tiburon, Sausalito, Marin City, Belvedere, Belvedere Tiburon - **Houzz rating:** 4.9 out of 5 (18 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 7 awards (2016–2025), for Design. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Star Houzzer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 10,000 Ideabook Saves At Michael Friedes Design Associates (MFDA), ours is a definitive approach. From concept to completion, MFDA develops your space with great style and detail. We specialize in full-service residential interior design. Whether it is a complete architectural renovation or decorating one room in your house, we are experts in designing interiors that accentuate your tastes, lifestyle and the uniqueness of each space. Taking the time to truly connect with clients, to listen to them and to understand their taste and lifestyle, is crucial in order to interpret their needs in a way that will make them happy. Michael and his team’s talent lie in eliciting the vision and expanding on it. And you can’t expand on something you don’t fully know or understand. Our clients describe us as possessing an intuitive nature for showing them elements of design they love. It’s important to MFDA that clients enjoy the process. Design is fun. It’s inspiring. Through it all, Michael enjoys stretching a client’s comfort zone while still reflecting the essence of their lifestyle. He’s been called “a persuasive advocate,” thoughtfully introducing unexpected elements, employing his exceptional sense of color, and integrating little twists that challenge and entice clients to go beyond what they thought possible. ### Services Provided - Interior Design - Kitchen Design - Bathroom Design - Living Room Design - Bedroom Design - Color Consulting - Space Planning - Furniture Selection - Kids Bedroom Design - Dining Room Design - Custom Cabinets - Lighting Design - Entry Design - Floor Plans - Project Management - Custom Furniture - Custom Rugs - Drafting ### Areas Served - San Francisco - Oakland - Berkeley - Daly City - San Leandro - Alameda - South San Francisco - El Cerrito - Lafayette - Albany - Orinda - Moraga - Mill Valley - Emeryville - Piedmont - Tiburon - Sausalito - Marin City - Belvedere - Belvedere Tiburon ### Typical Job Cost $50,000 - $3mil Hourly rate from $100-$200/ Retainers based on total budget of project ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Michael Friedes Design Associates | | Address | 42 Woodward Street, \#4, San Francisco, California 94103, United States | | Phone | (415) 795-3222 | | Website | http://www.mf-da.com | | Followers on Houzz | 159 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/michaelfriedesdesign?ref=br\_tf - LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelfriedesdesignassociates - Blog — instagram.com/michaelfriedesdesignassociates ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Michael Friedes Design Associates](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designers-and-decorators/michael-friedes-design-associates-pfvwus-pf~1510022886) - **Website:** http://www.mf-da.com - **Phone:** (415) 795-3222 ## Credentials - **Best of Houzz:** 7 awards (2016–2025), for Design. **Affiliations** - [American Society of Interior Designers](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/american-society-of-interior-designers-pfvwus-pf~1510192642) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 4.9 out of 5 — 18 reviews** ### Reviews **★★★★★ — Yvette Yao, Sept. 2017** > When working or in the presence of Michael's amazing work, it makes me want to bow down and say, "I'm not worthy". I am constantly in awe of the studio's designs and ideas, everything from large layouts to small details. Michael and his team of amazing designers (Julie) did stunning living and family room presentation for me. And the oeverall design plan continues to leave me in awe. > > This review is to show appreciation, my gratitude for Michael & his team's vision, hard work and dedication in the designs of our home. The team worked so hard to make our home beautifully stunning. Yet, making us feel part of the design and not lose the foundation of homeowners. > > Michae'ls vision always pushes me to a higher level and help elevate me into the next level of design excellence. Michael's vision is in a statement of of it's own. At the same time, keeping a reflection of our identity and that is truly valued. I thank his team for their dedication and determination to make our home an amazing piece of art. **★★★★★ — caroline sain, Oct. 2016** > I have worked on many projects over the years with Michael Friedes Design. Their professionalism, along with "realness" stands alone - Great team! We love their unique visions and how these ideas come to life - stylish with "wow" factor results - they don't follow blindly along with trends. **★★★★★ — User, Oct. 2016** > Michael is terrific to work with. We installed some significant artwork in his clients beautiful home in the Berkeley Hills and a large house in noe Valley. I would be happy to work with him again. **Comment from Michael Friedes Design Associates:** > Thank you Josie! You know I love working your beautiful artwork into my projects. **★★★★★ — Rebecca Schnier Architecture, Aug. 2016** > Michael is my go-to decorator when clients ask for help with furniture selection and room styling. He always comes through. His designs are fun, lively and yet timelessly classy. He has an excellent design eye and comes up with wonderful ideas. In addition, Michael knows just when to encourage a client and when to hold back. He's such a lovely guy too; I can trust him to be highly professional and yet not stiff or stuffy. **Comment from Michael Friedes Design Associates:** > Thanks so much Rebecca! It is always great to work with you on projects. **★★★★ — juliegillwu, July 2016** > Great design sense and attention to detail. I've never hired a designer before, and I've been very happy with his advice. Result is beautiful and elegant to look at, but also comfortable and inviting to actually use. **Comment from Michael Friedes Design Associates:** > Thank you so much Julie. I have so enjoyed working with you and seeing the beautiful results and how you and your family are enjoying the newly designed rooms. **★★★★★ — Jerome Szymczak, July 2016** > Michael has what I would call an innate aesthetic sense for what's spot-on right for your living environment. It's an intuitive sense for color, composition, textures, etc. that simply can't be taught. You either have the talent or you don't. Michael Friedes has it. **Comment from Michael Friedes Design Associates:** > Thank you so much Jerome for the kind words! You are always a pleasure to collaborate with. **★★★★★ — escasey2007, June 2016** > I've worked with Michael on several projects large and small. I trust him implicitly. Most recently, Michael and team helped us with an extensive remodel/interior design of three main rooms in our house, including a large living room, dining room, and den/bar. The results were amazing. Visually stunning, yet functional and comfortable. We love our new space and are proud to share with our friends and family. **★★★★★ — FMSProjects, Inc., June 2016** > I have known Michael for several years, as professional contacts to each other, and we are now doing a project together. What impressed me going in to this project was his organization - coordination with his staff, the homeowner and the project scope, including concept drawing, photos and materials selections. > As contractor we are doing the physical work but the project goals are well stated upfront and that makes our job easier an the end results more assured. > The first of many jobs I expect. **★★★★★ — Ilona Frieden, June 2016** > Michael is very experienced, has a great eye, and able to tailor the project to the client. He has his own suggestions but also was open to our ideas. Our house remodel is far more beautiful thanks to his efforts. **Comment from Michael Friedes Design Associates:** > Thank you very much Ilona. You and Mark were a pleasure to work with and the outcome truly reflects your style in a beautiful way. Enjoy! **★★★★★ — HU-334731, June 2016** > Michael has a terrific eye for creative and elegant designs. His instincts are great and "final products" outstanding. We've been very pleased. **★★★★★ — sally\_srok3, June 2016** > What a brilliant designer! Michael was my designer for both my East Bay home and my home in the wine country. He has a way of designing to my taste, while bringing me to a new level. He brought my projects in on budget and on time - a rarity. His design sense is impeccable - I'm amazed at what he can do with color and he has an uncanny eye for detail. He also cares about how we actually live in our house. He designed the most comfortable and beautiful sofa ever- with stain resistant fabric. Perfect! He also created storage space I never would have thought of. But I think what really got me was that he wasn't satisfied our house was complete until the bookcases and tables were acccessorized. Now that's a designer who cares. > > I've lived all over and with Michael, designing my home(s) was actually fun! He's is a native New Yorker so if had to sum up his style, it's New York chic meets California casual. It's great to work with a designer who truly makes a house a home. **★★★★★ — Mike Larkin Architecture, June 2016** > Michael did a fantastic job designing the interiors and exterior of a large residential remodel in the town of Ross. As the project architect I was very impressed by his sophisticated use of materials and color to create an inspiring environment. Although the home was historic his decisions made the spaces feel very alive and full of surprise. I would not hesitate to recommend him on all types of residential work. ## Selected projects - [Fresh Piedmont kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/fresh-piedmont-kitchen-pj-vj~946596) - Location: Piedmont, CA - Photos: 3 - Description: Comfort and style blend equally well within the design of this contemporary house in the hills of Oakland. Inviting, with a hint of playfulness, the intent remains to be one of high drama and relaxation. - [Glamorous Retreat](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/glamorous-retreat-pj-vj~2091793) - Location: Orinda, CA - Photos: 14 - Description: Built in 1939, this striking Ranch house was in need of a stylish update that would accommodate the needs of this busy family. Layers of textures, art and custom furniture set the stage for entertaining as well as day-to-day living. - [Inviting Family Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/inviting-family-home-pj-vj~928120) - Location: Piedmont, CA - Photos: 27 - Description: This 1912 Craftsman home was lovingly renovated and enlarged by previous owners who preserved and enhanced by the architectural details. When the house was sold, the new homeowners, frequent world travelers, enlisted the services of Emeryville-based designer Michael Friedes to redecorate and improve the decor with his unique and personal touches. - [Noe Valley Oasis](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/noe-valley-oasis-pj-vj~917296) - Location: San Francisco, CA - Photos: 13 - Description: Ultra contemporary Noe Valley home combines Asian, African, and mid-century modern sensibilities to create a stunning, livable home with the feel of a luxury destination. - [Penthouse Living in SF](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/penthouse-living-in-sf-pj-vj~2578818) - Location: San Francisco, CA - Photos: 11 - Description: Millennium Tower Penthouse - [Artistic Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/artistic-renovation-pj-vj~2091825) - Location: Oakland, CA - Photos: 23 - Description: A 1920’s Mediterranean home in Oakland’s architecturally significant neighborhood of Crocker Highlands was completely renovated to update the spaces and design throughout this delightful home. Artistic focus, and clean lines are punctuated with pops of colors to delight the senses. - [Sophisticate in Noe Valley](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/sophisticate-in-noe-valley-pj-vj~949202) - Location: San Francisco, CA - Photos: 22 - Description: This striking San Francisco house is on top of a hill in Noe Valley. It has been completely and thoughtfully renovated and designed with many layers and details. A sumptuous feast for the senses, while being completely livable for a dynamic young family. - [Striking House in the Castro (San Francisco)](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/striking-house-in-the-castro-san-francisco-pj-vj~951889) - Location: San Francisco, CA - Photos: 14 - [Modern Organic Haven](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/modern-organic-haven-pj-vj~2587490) - Location: San Francisco, CA - Photos: 9 - Description: Bringing the outside in is evident in the design of this renovated house in San Francisco. From the unexpected combinations of finishes to the use of reclaimed materials and stone, this natural design harmonizes beautifully throughout. spaces. - [Global Design in the Oakland Hills](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/global-design-in-the-oakland-hills-pj-vj~927910) - Location: Oakland, CA - Photos: 7 - Description: Nestled among the redwoods of Oakland's ridge line, this Asian-inspired home provides a calm, yet eclectic retreat for its owners and their beloved dogs. Furnished with a collection of Japanese object d'art, kimono obis and vintage Japanese figurines (in full costume) lend this home a timeless sense of place in a modern environment. - [Noe Valley House, San Francisco](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/noe-valley-house-san-francisco-pj-vj~237617) - Location: San Francisco, CA - Photos: 10 - Description: Drama, texture and color define this Noe Valley home. From the monochromatic entryway enlivened with a zebra-print rug, the delightful purple parlor warmed by a natural fireplace, to the calm, yet romantic master bedroom, each room displays a distinctive personality assembled with a curator's eye. - [Contemporary Retreat](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/contemporary-retreat-pj-vj~2578792) - Location: Oakland, CA - Photos: 8 - Description: Clean lines, mixed with an eclectic mix of materials such as polished concrete, burnished metal and beautiful wood species all come together in this striking modern home. The renovated streamlined kitchen and zen-like bathroom juxtaposes the play of modern tranquility and dramatic design. - [Tailored High Rise](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/tailored-high-rise-pj-vj~2091818) - Location: San Francisco, CA - Photos: 10 - Description: Designed to maximize function and style, this city apartment showcases beautiful custom furnishings and artwork in a refined manner. Accented by a lovely color palette and clean lines, this home above it all is as chic as it is cozy. - [Piedmont Pool House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/piedmont-pool-house-pj-vj~947607) - Location: Piedmont, CA - Photos: 5 - [Sullivan Drive, Moraga](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/sullivan-drive-moraga-pj-vj~946329) - Location: Moraga, CA - Photos: 5 - [Bachelor Pad](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/bachelor-pad-pj-vj~2091866) - Location: San Francisco, CA - Photos: 6 - Description: At the beginning of this project the owner told us he wanted a feeling of a high-end boutique hotel, with an extra dose of warmth and flair. A mix of textures and warm tones of beiges and browns highlight the overall design scheme of this welcoming apartment. - [CSL Showcase House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/csl-showcase-house-pj-vj~2091810) - Location: Piedmont, CA - Photos: 3 - [Elegance in Piedmont](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/elegance-in-piedmont-pj-vj~2587145) - Location: Piedmont, CA - Photos: 21 - Description: With a foundation of stunning Persian rugs and collections from around the globe, this renovated 1920’s Piedmont home exudes a sophisticated air while balancing a high level of comfort and accessibility. - [Colorful Mix](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/colorful-mix-pj-vj~2587355) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 5 - Description: Comfort and style blend equally well within the design of this contemporary house in the hills of Oakland. Inviting, with a hint of playfulness, the intent remains to be one of high drama and relaxation. - [Graceful Living](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/graceful-living-pj-vj~2587290) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 3 - Description: This stately 1930’s Mediterranean home in Oakland is designed with a richness of colors and materials that create a sumptuous environment to enjoy for all types of living. This young family enjoys the striking great room as both their formal living room as well their family room hang-out space. [See all 20 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designers-and-decorators/michael-friedes-design-associates-pfvwus-pf~1510022886) ## Ideabooks - [14th Street HOUSE](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/183466984/list/14th-street-house) — 47 ideas - [Morrison House Landscaping](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/183611951/list/morrison-house-landscaping) — 33 ideas - [My Likes](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/176215120/list/my-likes) — 26 ideas - [Hamptons Concept](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/168781785/list/hamptons-concept) — 46 ideas - [Middlefield Dining Room](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/159678423/list/middlefield-dining-room) — 15 ideas - [Brandi](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/145967025/list/brandi) — 1 idea - [O'Connor](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/141712980/list/o-connor) — 3 ideas - [Middlefield](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/139148466/list/middlefield) — 3 ideas - [Libitzky](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/134866059/list/libitzky) — 32 ideas - [YOUNG - New Projects](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/125488789/list/young-new-projects) — 54 ideas - [Green Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/130058344/list/green-renovation) — 67 ideas - [Corneilus](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/129614198/list/corneilus) — 122 ideas - [Pillow Webinar](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/128223152/list/pillow-webinar) — 67 ideas - [3D Renderings](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/129356903/list/3d-renderings) — 21 ideas - [Urban Decorist](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/124846517/list/urban-decorist) — 19 ideas - [Rainin](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/124289244/list/rainin) — 22 ideas - [TOMMY](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/124219437/list/tommy) — 69 ideas - [Kramer NYC](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/95771710/list/kramer-nyc) — 7 ideas - [Wish List](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/80733247/list/wish-list) — 54 ideas - [Pieces I Like](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/130652882/list/pieces-i-like) — 1 idea [See all 49 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/michaelfriedes) ## Community Q&A **Q: love the cribs! Where are they from?** *(in Photo Questions)* Will you please tell me where you purchased these cribs? Thank you! A: Thanks so much. We actually had them made for the room. **Q: What is the name and manufacturer of the backsplash?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Thank you for your inquiry. I got it at a local tile showroom, so I do not know the manufacture's name or info. **Q: giraffe print on wall** *(in Photo Questions)* hi i was wondering was that wallpaper on the wall? where did you purchase this and also what is the name of the yellow paint? love it thanks A: Hi MB, It is a mural wall that we designed and had Shannon Geis paint. She is wonderful! The yellow is Benjamin Moore \#177. Thanks so much for your comment. Michael **Q: Beautiful dresser** *(in Photo Questions)* Can you please tell me the manufacturer of this beautiful dresser? Thank you! A: It is from Bernhardt. We can order for you if you like, or you can buy it from Houzz too. **Q: Where is the yellow stool from? Thanks in advance!** *(in Photo Questions)* A: If memory serves me correctly it is from Bungalow 5. **Q: May I ask where you got the mirror from?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Howard Elliott. They have great mirrors! --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-09-23.*