--- title: "Cline Architects — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/cline-architects-pfvwus-pf~1543540725 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1543540725.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Cline Architects" category: ["Architects"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/60c36d1e0fea3141_7556-w400-h400-b1-p10--.jpg address: "1196 Hampshire St, San Francisco, California 94110, United States" latitude: 37.7509 longitude: -122.4153 phone: "(415) 706-6953" website: https://jbcarchitecture.com rating: 5 review_count: 13 best_of_houzz_awards: 2 followers: 200 last_updated: 2026-08-27 --- # Cline Architects Original Houzz profile: [Cline Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/cline-architects-pfvwus-pf~1543540725) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Architects - **Location:** San Francisco, CA - **Serves:** San Francisco, Oakland, San Mateo, Daly City, Redwood City, South San Francisco, San Rafael, San Bruno, Pacifica, Burlingame, San Carlos, Mill Valley, Emeryville, Tamalpais-Homestead Valley, Hillsborough, Corte Madera, Tiburon, Sausalito, Brisbane, Broadmoor, Belvedere, Colma, Muir Beach, Belvedere Tiburon - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (13 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 2 awards (2016–2021), for Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 1,000 Ideabook Saves - Locally owned - Offers Custom Work - 18 years in business Aging in Place You don’t have to be an elderly person to start thinking about the future of your body, brain, and home. Whatever your age, now would be a good time to think about physical changes, and how you can make your home serve your needs. You don’t have to be forced to leave your home and the community you love, because your home can be adapted to your needs, if you plan properly. ### 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 - Space Planning - Guesthouse Design & Construction - Universal Design - Multigenerational Homes - Home Restoration - Historic Building Conservation - Handicap-Accessible Design - Outdoor Kitchen Design - Basement Remodeling - Barn Design & Construction - Attic Conversion - Basement Design - Passive Solar Heating & Cooling - Construction Drawings - Construction Observation Services - Finish and Fixture Selection - Historic Resource Evaluation - Permit Procurement ### Areas Served - San Francisco - Oakland - San Mateo - Daly City - Redwood City - South San Francisco - San Rafael - San Bruno - Pacifica - Burlingame - San Carlos - Mill Valley - Emeryville - Tamalpais-Homestead Valley - Hillsborough - Corte Madera - Tiburon - Sausalito - Brisbane - Broadmoor - Belvedere - Colma - Muir Beach - Belvedere Tiburon ### Typical Job Cost $500,000 - $2,000,000.00 ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Cline Architects | | Address | 1196 Hampshire St, San Francisco, California 94110, United States | | Phone | (415) 706-6953 | | Website | https://jbcarchitecture.com | | Followers on Houzz | 200 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/james.cline.1800 - Blog — http://www.jbcarchitecture.com ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Cline Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/cline-architects-pfvwus-pf~1543540725) - **Website:** https://jbcarchitecture.com - **Phone:** (415) 706-6953 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - Licensed Architect in California and Wyoming - Certified Green Building Professional - Past national chair, AIA Small Project Practitioners Knowledge Community - Member, AIA Custom Residential Architects Network - **Best of Houzz:** 2 awards (2016–2021), for Service. ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 13 reviews** ### Reviews **★★★★★ — Brit B, Jan. 2020** > After owning our first home for a little over 2 years, we felt ready to kick off a structural remodel to modernize all of our living areas: our kitchen, dining room, living room, entryway, and laundry/bath. We interviewed several architects and firms, and quickly found that Jim and Caroline at Cline Architects were the perfect fit for us. > > We wanted to work with architects who were thoughtful, organized, meticulous, and known for great work — while also being grounded and realistic in terms of working with our space and budget (which was generous, but not unlimited!). We found a perfect match for all of that in working with Cline Architects. They thoughtfully listened to our goals for the remodel, and incorporated ideas and feedback into each round of designs. Throughout the process, we enjoyed how they were just as excited about our project as we were. Communication was a breeze and it really felt like we were all collaborating together as a team. > > With this being our first remodel, we also very much appreciated their guidance throughout the entire process. They never made us feel silly for not knowing how something in the process would work, and they were a huge help in vetting and selecting good suppliers and contractors. Like another reviewer here mentioned, our permit drawings were quickly approved, and our contractor had no issues building to spec -- all a testament to the meticulous thought and attention to detail that Jim and Caroline put into every step of our project. > > We're so pleased with how our renovation went that we already can't wait to start another project with the same team (how often do you hear that? :). We feel so fortunate to have found Jim and Caroline, and can't wait to recommend them to friends. Thanks again for a dream project! **★★★★★ — TY, May 2018** > Experienced, talented, knowledgeable, creative, responsive, efficient, and personable…these are some of the words that I ascribe to Caroline and Jim at Cline Architects. Caroline and Jim were a pleasure to work with on our home addition/remodel. The scope of our project was addition of two bedrooms and complete renovation of the existing structure. > > We decided to contact Cline Architects based on the recommendation of friends who had a good experience working with Caroline and Jim for renovation of their home. During our initial meeting with Caroline, she gave us a very clear description of the entire process from design, permit application, finding a contractor, to build. After providing a rough description of what we wanted, Caroline brought up some excellent suggestions and recommendations that we had not considered. > > The drawings that Caroline provided after our initial meeting were right on the mark. Caroline very creatively incorporated all of the key elements we had requested within the inherent limitations dictated by the size and shape of our lot. Caroline also introduced many new features and design elements that we had not previously considered but found to be very appealing. We appreciated that Caroline made an effort reduce costs by retaining as much of the existing structure as possible, while still creating a very different home from the existing home. After a few iterations, Caroline and Jim generated a final set of drawings that we really loved and were ready to submit for the permit application. > > Caroline managed the entire permit application process, which went very smoothly. Caroline and Jim were able to quickly address the minor comments we received from the building department without making any significant changes to the design of the house. The fact that we received only minor comments from the building department speaks to Caroline and Jim’s knowledge and experience. > > Caroline worked very well with our contractor throughout the entire build phase. The periodic site visits from Caroline were very useful for ensuring the build went true to plan as well as providing opportunities to discuss finish and fixture details that we had deferred making decisions on. Whenever we or our contractor reached out to Caroline with questions she reliably responded the same day and typically within an hour. > > Since completing the house and moving back in, we are very happy with the final product. The home is very comfortable and fits our life well. We are grateful for Caroline and Jim’s work. If you are considering a remodel or renovation of your home, we recommend that you meet with Jim and Caroline at Cline Architects to discuss your project. **★★★★★ — Satindar Dhillon, Dec. 2015** > We worked with Cline Architects in the Spring of 2014 to create plans and pull permits for our home renovation in West Portal (shown in their projects portfolio). James and Caroline were great at listening to what we wanted for the house and were efficient in coming up with several design options that opened up the upstairs layout, developed the empty garage space on the lower floor, and managed to fit a wider (and safer) stairway between the floors. Once we selected a layout they were quick to produce plans for the city and also negotiated well with DBI when we went to pull permits. We got a design we were happy with and we quickly able to begin building. > > During the construction process we made a few design changes and Cline was responsive in helping us modifying our permits. Once we completed the structural portions of our project we hired Cline for additional design services to help us pick tiles, paint color, and other finishes. They made the process easy and one year after completing our house we are still very happy with the outcome. > > I would hire Cline again when we need architectural services. They are real professionals and know how to work intimately with their clients. **★★★★★ — yusukevisa, Dec. 2015** > Honest opinions provided, expectations explained, clients needs addressed or modified. Both Jim and Caroline are extremely professional yet personable. They were always on time and respectful of client's time. Would recommend to my friends. **★★★★★ — David Deng, Oct. 2015** > my wife and I found Cline Architects on houzz and had met several other architects to consider a 3rd floor addition and roof deck. Immediately they stood out from the rest! We found Jim and Caroline incredibly helpful, thoughtful, and detail orientated.They listened to our needs and respected our opinions. They made the permit process in San Francisco hassle free. Our friends and neighbors were all shocked how smooth the process was for us! > > I would not hesistate to work with them again in the future! **★★★★★ — goober68, Oct. 2015** > I found Jim through a family member. > He listened to what I wanted in my remodel and we began to work together. > I live in the attic of an Edwardian and wanted to open it up. > His design was exactly what I wanted. > We encountered a few problems along the way, like not having enough support in the roof structure, joists being taken out by previous owners... This house was built in 1912. > All along the process Jim was able to fix problems as they arose keeping the project going. > Now the project is complete and I have a remodeled and safer home. **★★★★★ — yileishi, Oct. 2015** > My husband and I were in the market for an architect who can design and project manage the addition of a third floor and a roof deck to our 2 story house in russian hill, San Francisco. We shopped around and interviewed a few different architects before finding Jim and Caroline. The moment we met them, we knew they are the right partners as they listened to our vision, shared their expert advise on things we haven't considered, and most importantly they are very easy to work with! We've worked with them for 1 year between designing the house and going back and forth with building department and received our building permit back in March. Although we didn't go through the physical building phase ( we had a baby and construction became too daunting) but are very pleased with the work that Jim and Caroline did. All in all, we highly recommend Jim and Caroline on any architectural projects. Their pricing were reasonable, have great taste in simple yet practical design, and are just great people to work with. **★★★★★ — Jack Lakes, Oct. 2015** > We hired Jim to design and manage construction of a completely new garden apartment. Although we thought we knew exactly what we wanted, Jim presented several fantastic improvements that are now part of the plan. We also had concerns about type of flooring and ceiling materials to use and Jim walked us through the various alternatives until we found the best solution. Jim is now working with us and our limited budget to complete this project and the results are looking great! **★★★★★ — pbogatsky, Dec. 2014** > I first met Jim Cline in 2004 while working as the general contractor on a construction project for the local university. > > Since then I have hired him to work on several residential construction projects ranging from small remodels on single family homes to a major condominium development. Most recently Cline Architects has designed a modern addition for my own home and I am very pleased with the end result. > > Jim and Caroline are very easy to work with, quick to incorporate my ideas into the design, responsive to my concerns and full of creative solutions. I would recommend Cline Architects to family and friends. **★★★★★ — Carmel\_Co, Dec. 2014** > Jim did the architectural drawings for our home when we remodeled. We found Jim and staff very easy to work with and they listened to my husband's (a general contractor) and my suggestions as to what we really wanted for our home but was also great at offering suggestions when we needed them. We have recommended them to friends in the past and will continue to do so in the future. **★★★★★ — Karen Saux, Oct. 2014** > Cline Architects has worked on two projects for us: a redesign of our exterior front stairs in 2012 and a complete kitchen remodel in 2013-14. It was a pleasure to work with Jim and Caroline on both of these projects. They are a great creative team who offered us a high level of personal service and attention. > > In 2012, our Victorian home still had its original stairs with no landing, forcing anyone at the front door to awkwardly stand several steps below the door. We needed to add a landing and bring the stairs up to code, and because we are located in a historic district, the design needed to meet the requirements of the Historic Preservation Commission. Jim and Caroline understood our concerns about respecting the historic character of the house and neighborhood and also finding a buildable solution that wouldn’t put us in an extended review process with the City. They consulted with City Planning and presented us with several viable options. We chose one, which the contractor we hired had no problem executing. We now have a graceful, solid set of stairs with a beautiful landing worthy of the house they are attached to. > > The second project was a complete and unexpected kitchen remodel in 2013, after a house fire destroyed our kitchen. Jim and Caroline met with us shortly after the fire and were able to set up a schedule that would have a complete design in place to meet the contractor’s timeline for getting us back into the house. We really appreciated that they not only accommodated us on short notice but also worked with us to understand our habits, taste, and needs. Caroline pointed us to several websites for idea gathering and was skilled in translating our many ideas into a set of finished designs. She was also great at coming up with creative solutions when we couldn’t quite decide what we wanted; for example, we opted for an island and were pretty sure we wanted a bookshelf rather than space for seating on one side. Caroline came up with a great solution that would allow either: we ended up with two fixed columns of shelves at either end with a removable center shelf that would allow a couple of stools to tuck under the counter. She referred us to a local cabinet dealer who also worked with us on cabinet selection. During the approval process, the City wanted floor plans of the entire house, which Cline accommodated. They also accommodated our need for separate billing for insurance purposes, with no problems. The end result is a beautiful and functional custom kitchen that is up-to-date and complements the rest of the house. > > (An added bonus of working with Cline Architects is visiting their offices in the fabulous Flood Building downtown.) **★★★★★ — lynn9, April 2013** > My husband and I worked with Jim Cline to design a passive solar 7000 square foot home in Heart Mountain, Wyoming. We wanted a home that complemented our certified organic farm and ranch. Jim was a joy to work with. He listened to our ideas and came up with an innovative design that enhances the high desert and Rocky Mountain prairie surroundings. It is a totally unique and original design, creative and artistic. Although it is a large house, the emphasis on natural materials makes it feel warm and inviting. Jim maximized the views of the surrounding landscape. > > I never tire of this house. We have lived here for over four years, and I am constantly rediscovering aspects of this home that make me appreciate Jim's creativity and attention to detail. I would recommend the services of Cline Architects to anyone who wants to build their dream home. ## Selected projects - [San Mateo Redesign and Addition](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/san-mateo-redesign-and-addition-pj-vj~2676999) - Location: San Mateo, CA - Photos: 18 - Description: A complete renovation plus a modest addition transformed a cramped 1940's home into a modern airy space for a young family. The under utilized attic was opened up to create a new vaulted Great Room in the existing portion of the home. An addition of a master and guest suite off the rear creates a courtyard layout surrounding a mature oak tree in the back yard. Clever reuse of space and an addition of less than 500 square feet took this previously two bedroom, one bath house to a four bedroom and… - [San Mateo Addition 2](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/san-mateo-addition-2-pj-vj~3568534) - Location: San Mateo, CA - Photos: 18 - Description: A complete renovation plus a rear addition transformed a confined 1940's home into a large + modern space for a young family of five. All the interior walls were removed and the ceiling was opened up to roof rafters to create a new vaulted Great Room in the existing portion of the home. A new master and guest suite addition off the rear creates a generous courtyard layout surrounding a deck in the back yard. A full re-imagining of the existing space plus an addition of 750 square feet took this… - [New Custom Home in Baja California - Design Phase](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/new-custom-home-in-baja-california-design-phase-pj-vj~7125082) - Location: Todos Santos, Baja California Sur - Photos: 4 - [Ranch House at Heart Mountain Wyoming - Design Phase](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/ranch-house-at-heart-mountain-wyoming-design-phase-pj-vj~7147694) - Location: Cody, WY - Photos: 6 - Description: Off the grid. 100% solar, wind, alternate fuel powered. Passive solar design. Includes dwelling, equipment shed, outdoor recreation areas, plans for future expansion. - [Liberty Hill Home Remodel](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/liberty-hill-home-remodel-pj-vj~774638) - Location: San Francisco, CA - Photos: 9 - Description: A complete remodel of a fire damaged kitchen in a historic Victorian era home on Liberty Hill. The original character of the kitchen was maintained with traditional materials such as painted shaker cabinets, Carrara marble counter tops and white subway tile back splashes. The cramped existing room was enlarged by incorporating 2 adjacent, underutilized closets and maximizing the storage space by installing floor to ceiling cabinets in the pantry. - [San Francisco Apartments](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/san-francisco-apartments-pj-vj~217208) - Location: San Francisco, CA - Photos: 8 - Description: An extensive remodel of a fire damaged 3 unit building in San Francisco. A Victorian era house originally, a large addition & remodel in the 1970's had erased any trace of the building's architectural provenance. The complete remodel after the fire focused on opening up the closed off spaces done in the 70's - creating a modern open space inside while also updating the street facade into the present era. - [Fully Rebuilt San Francisco Condominiums](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/fully-rebuilt-san-francisco-condominiums-pj-vj~109914) - Location: San Francisco, CA - Photos: 8 - Description: A new three unit condominium building in San Francisco constructed after a fire destroyed the original building. The new units contain modern, light filled open spaces while the front facade complements the varied architectural styles of the neighbors. - [New Custom Built Ranch Retreat](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/new-custom-built-ranch-retreat-pj-vj~113143) - Location: Powell, WY - Photos: 6 - Description: A Japanese inspired spa retreat and guest house on a Wyoming ranch. Complementing the form of the main house on the ranch, the retreat is situated to take advantage of the stunning views and offer a private zen sanctuary for the owners or guests to enjoy. The building features reclaimed wood elements that add to the soothing material palette of natural wood. - [Nob Hill Remodel](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/nob-hill-remodel-pj-vj~239198) - Location: San Francisco, CA - Photos: 7 - Description: A complete remodel of an Edwardian flat on top of Nob Hill for a young, professional couple. The unit had excellent bones but was in need of refreshing to bring it into the modern era. The kitchen was relocated from a cramped, closed-off room into the formal dining room to create a large, open great room. An area perfect for entertaining guests or just enjoying day to day living in the light filled space. The former kitchen was transformed into an additional bedroom, adding value and function to… - [New Custom Wyoming Ranch Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/new-custom-wyoming-ranch-home-pj-vj~110990) - Location: Cody, WY - Photos: 13 - Description: A new home built using sustainable principles, on a working ranch near Cody Wyoming. This expansive property takes advantage of passive solar design to keep the house warm in the winter and cool in the summer, all the while enjoying fabulous views over the surrounding high desert. The roof beams were salvaged from a demolished local supermarket, while the pine floors were reclaimed from a warehouse in Georgia. A stone double height wood burning fireplace adds to the rustic charm of this remote,… - [City Addition](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/city-addition-pj-vj~111825) - Location: San Francisco, CA - Photos: 8 - Description: A young family was out-growing their small city home. Rather than move, they chose to added a rear addition containing a new playroom/bedroom, family room and master suite. The style of the addition is reminiscent of the original home and complements the character of near-by neighbors. Large windows and sliding doors allow plenty and light into the home, and provide the family with a greater connection to the outdoors. - [Various Exterior Transformations](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/various-exterior-transformations-pj-vj~695840) - Location: San Francisco, CA - Photos: 11 - Description: A selection of exterior transformations on homes in the San Francisco Bay Area completed by Cline Architects. Projects ranging from the restoration of historic homes, the refreshing of contemporary facades and the addition of modern light filled spaces onto cramped houses. - [West Portal Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/west-portal-renovation-pj-vj~1259251) - Location: San Francisco, CA - Photos: 14 - Description: A complete renovation transforming a 1920's home marred by a bad remodel from the 1960's into a modern open space for a young family. Walls between the living room, dining room and kitchen were removed to create an easy space for entertaining and day to day living. The former powder room was enlarged to create a new full bath en-suite with the Master bedroom. Downstairs, an underutilized storage space was turned into a large family room, guest suite and laundry room. - [Home Remodeling Projects - Detailed Kitchen Designs](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/home-remodeling-projects-detailed-kitchen-designs-pj-vj~187277) - Location: San Francisco and Wyoming, CA - Photos: 18 - Description: A few of the kitchens designed by Cline Architects. Projects ranging from modest apartment remodels, restored and refreshed historic homes to new construction where the spacious kitchens become the center of the home. - [Home Remodeling Projects - Detailed Bathroom Designs](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/home-remodeling-projects-detailed-bathroom-designs-pj-vj~184789) - Location: San Francisco, CA - Photos: 13 - Description: A few of the bathrooms designed by Cline Architects. Remodeling Projects include tiny powder rooms, closets turned into functional master baths, and new construction with spacious bathrooms offering a peaceful sanctuary from the outside world. - [Various Home Detail Designs](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/various-home-detail-designs-pj-vj~695892) - Location: San Francisco, CA - Photos: 19 - Description: A selection of stairs, fireplaces, windows and other details from various projects completed by Cline Architects. [See all 16 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/cline-architects-pfvwus-pf~1543540725) ## Community Q&A **Q: what color is this island?** *(in Photo Questions)* Hi! What color is the island? A: Sorry for the late reply, but our colorist has been traveling. Benjamin Moore Winter Lake **Q: windows** *(in Photo Questions)* what brand of windows are these? metal vs. vinyl? black or bronze? A: Hi kb8sm3ai3, these are Marvin Integrity windows, wood interior and Ultrex fiberglass exterior, the color is called Ebony (black). Thank you for your interest in our project! **Q: Table and bench** *(in Photo Questions)* Do you have any idea where they are from? A: I'm sorry we can't answer your question. The homeowners purchased it. **Q: great floor plan. What is the length of the wall with the appliances?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Hello melinda913, the wall is 11'-1" long. Thank you for your interest in our project! **Q: Cabinets** *(in Photo Questions)* Hi! What color/brand are these cabinets? A: Hello kmms9, the cabinet doors & fronts are by Semihandmade in their shaker style. The white is Benjamin Moore Simply White and the blue is Benjamin Moore Winter Lake. Thank you for your interest in our project! **Q: what are the paint colors?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Hello cinneysue, the paint colors for this project are the following: Wood Siding - BM 2108-70 Stucco - BM 2108-50 Red Accent - BM 2086-10 Dark Accent - BM 2134-30 Thank you for your interest in our project! --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-27.*