--- title: "U+B Architecture & Design — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/u-b-architecture-and-design-pfvwus-pf~1669404650 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1669404650.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "U+B Architecture & Design" category: ["Architects"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/c7c3be750e6428ef_0213-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "2609 Aldrich Avenue South, Suite 100, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55408, United States" latitude: 44.9466 longitude: -93.2862 phone: "(612) 870-2538" website: http://www.uplusb.com rating: 5 review_count: 14 best_of_houzz_awards: 2 followers: 253 last_updated: 2026-08-24 --- # U+B Architecture & Design Original Houzz profile: [U+B Architecture & Design](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/u-b-architecture-and-design-pfvwus-pf~1669404650) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Architects - **Location:** Minneapolis, MN - **Serves:** Minneapolis, Bloomington, Brooklyn Park, Plymouth, Maple Grove, Eagan, Eden Prairie, Minnetonka, Edina, Minnetonka Mills, Saint Louis Park, Maplewood, Richfield, Roseville, Inver Grove Heights, Brooklyn Center, Fridley, Shoreview, New Brighton, Crystal, Golden Valley, New Hope, Columbia Heights, Lino Lakes, West Saint Paul, Hopkins, Robbinsdale, Vadnais Heights, Saint Paul, Mendota Heights, Little Canada, Arden Hills, Saint Anthony, Falcon Heights, Osseo, Lauderdale, Howard Lake, Maple Plain, Hilltop, Lilydale, Loretto, Sunfish Lake, Medicine Lake, Mendota, Crystal Bay, Navarre, Young America - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (14 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 2 awards (2014–2015), for Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 10,000 Ideabook Saves U+B Architecture & Design is an award-winning architecture and interiors firm based in Minneapolis. Our strategic research & design process reveals the unique opportunities of each project and we deliver elegant design solutions that are tailored to your needs and maximize the value of your investment. Our designs are beautiful, sustainable, energy-efficient and built for quality and lasting value. Our residential work includes new homes, additions, remodels, villas, apartments, cabins, and lofts. We provide unsurpassed customer service and work as your advocate every step of the way; from master planning through construction. It's never too early in the process to meet, please call Mark Burgess or Paul Udris for a free consultation. ### Services Provided - Architectural Design - Building Design - Home Remodeling - Architectural Drawings - Custom Homes - New Home Construction - Home Additions - Home Extensions - Kitchen Design - Sustainable Design - Kitchen Remodeling - Energy-Efficient Homes - Floor Plans - 3D Rendering - Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) - Green Building - Bathroom Design - Space Planning - Guesthouse Design & Construction - Universal Design - Multigenerational Homes - Pool House Design & Construction - Home Restoration - Historic Building Conservation - Project Management - Outdoor Kitchen Design - Structural Engineering - Barn Design & Construction - Basement Remodeling - Attic Conversion - Basement Design - Home Gym Design & Construction - Construction Drawings ### Areas Served - Minneapolis - Bloomington - Brooklyn Park - Plymouth - Maple Grove - Eagan - Eden Prairie - Minnetonka - Edina - Minnetonka Mills - Saint Louis Park - Maplewood - Richfield - Roseville - Inver Grove Heights - Brooklyn Center - Fridley - Shoreview - New Brighton - Crystal - Golden Valley - New Hope - Columbia Heights - Lino Lakes - West Saint Paul - Hopkins - Robbinsdale - Vadnais Heights - Saint Paul - Mendota Heights - Little Canada - Arden Hills - Saint Anthony - Falcon Heights - Osseo - Lauderdale - Howard Lake - Maple Plain - Hilltop - Lilydale - Loretto - Sunfish Lake - Medicine Lake - Mendota - Crystal Bay - Navarre - Young America ### Typical Job Cost $50,000 - 10 million ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | U+B Architecture & Design | | Address | 2609 Aldrich Avenue South, Suite 100, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55408, United States | | Phone | (612) 870-2538 | | Website | http://www.uplusb.com | | Followers on Houzz | 253 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/pages/UB-Architecture-Design/143749879052984?ref=hl - Blog — http://www.uplusb.com/ ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [U+B Architecture & Design](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/u-b-architecture-and-design-pfvwus-pf~1669404650) - **Website:** http://www.uplusb.com - **Phone:** (612) 870-2538 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - Best of Houzz 2014: ServiceBest of Houzz 2015: Service - **Best of Houzz:** 2 awards (2014–2015), for Service. ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 14 reviews** ### Reviews **★★★★★ — wendydwyerbagley, Sept. 2014** > The design and attention to detail was incredible. Beautiful layout, thoughtful use of space and excellent service from U+B. Would hire them to do another renovation in our house and would highly recommend them to anyone. They worked side by side with us and really guided us through the process. More importantly, the overall look and design did not change much from the start of the project to the end, which meant no additional costs --they drew up great plans from the start. > > People that have been through our house and the new renovation comment on the incredible design and concepts and ideas that came from the architects. **★★★★★ — heewon, April 2014** > My husband and I worked with architect Mark Burgess and cannot say enough how much we valued his expertise, his real-world experience and flexibility. With a smaller kitchen, we thought we had limited options, but with Mark's innovative ideas and breadth of experience, we ended up with a kitchen that is not only beautiful, but is also highly functional. > > We appreciated how Mark took the time to evaluate our 1920s bungalow and was able to design a look that harmonized with the period and yet provided a modern perspective. > > Mark was also timely, worked well with us on our budget, and recommended excellent contractors. He helped us with our color palette, steered us away from making some design mistakes and was easily reached by phone or email for a quick consult. > > We highly recommend Mark and U+B Architecture & Design and we are confident you will have an excellent experience working with them! **★★★★★ — sboesch1983, Jan. 2014** > I recently contacted U + B Architecture & Design to evaluate a property I was considering purchasing and then renovating. Not only did I receive a very timely response, but Paul was able to make it out on very short notice. Paul provided numerous options and ideas right away and also addressed all the questions and concerns my husband and I presented. We had a great experience and were truly impressed!! **★★★★★ — skruskopf, Oct. 2013** > I have worked with this firm not only on my home, but my business as well. I own an ad agency in Minneapolis, and interviewed many firms. Paul Udris and Mark Burgess are not only really talented and visionary, but a dream to work with. (And did I mention they are fun as well?) Not "prima-donas" like others I interviewed. They really understand it is about the relationship and getting to know you and your needs as a business or homeowner. They know how to manage expectations, and on all three projects, came in on time and on budget. My house projects were an addition one year and a kitchen remodel the next. The agency project won some big awards and the creativity they put into it made it look like we paid way more than we did. They will sweat every detail and that's what makes the biggest difference in both projects. Wish I had another project to work with them on! **★★★★★ — Muriel O, Oct. 2013** > U+B completely designed and oversaw the construction of our new 3500 sf contemporary house. One of the best qualities of Paul Udris is not only is he a great communicator, but he is an even better listener. We explained to Paul that we wanted to have a bright house lots of light and views of the surrounding woods. We wanted clean lines and it was important that the flow of the house was well thought through. Paul and his team delivered a house that not only wowed me, but wowed anyone who came over. There isn't anything I would have changed - even after living there for almost 10 years. Paul is extremely creative, bright, and easy to work with and he found unique solutions that were adapted to the way we live. I was so pleased with their services that I am now using them to remodel my new mid-century modern house. **★★★★★ — katemortenson, Oct. 2013** > We contracted with U+B for a full service design through construction stage remodel of most of our second and all of our third floor in our home, which was built in 1893. I highly, highly recommend this firm for folks who want high touch service, flexibility, responsiveness and results. It turns out having 'the best' does not cost what you think it might. U+B exceeded all of our expectations for creativity, problem solving, decision-making and budgetary aspects of our considerable project. The results are stunning. **★★★★★ — sojo1, Sept. 2013** > We recently completed a major kitchen (and beyond) remodel on our century old home in Minneapolis, under the guidance of the tremendously talented Paul Udris and U+B Architecture & Design. Paul’s creative vision, his attention to detail not only in the design stage but throughout the full construction process, and his openness to listening and collaborating with us, made the entire process a pleasure. The results are spectacular. We highly recommend U+B (and in fact are planning our next phase of renovations with them in the near future). **★★★★★ — margrethe2nd, Sept. 2013** > We worked with Paul Udris on a complete re/imagining, gutting and remodeling of our house. He is a world-class architect and an extraordinary person. He has great ideas, gives straight advice and collaborates with the client to arrive at a better outcome than anyone could have imagined without the creative process he is so skilled at leading. He keeps commitments, listens well, and takes the work seriously while also bringing a good sense of humor and personal humility to the project. He was a stranger when we started our project and now we feel fortunate to count him as a friend. This firm will add a lot of value to any project they do. **★★★★★ — nikkigaz, Sept. 2013** > U+B were amazing throughout our remodeling project! They completely got what we want to achieve with the look of our new house. They were conscience of our budget and did what they could to help us save money wherever possible. They were there sorting out every small detail right through to the end and long after the project was finished as well. They were professional, courteous, efficient and I would not hesitate to recommend their architectural services to anyone in the future. **★★★★★ — eflarsen, Sept. 2013** > U Plus B transformed the way we live and our enjoyment of our home. Paul and Mark collaborated with us, supported us through the stress of the remodel, and came up with cost-effective yet elegant solutions to our design challenges. I can't rave enough about this firm. I have referred them to several friends who have all been equally delighted with the work they do. **★★★★★ — ultrashane, Sept. 2013** > After interviewing several architects and speaking to their references, our decision to choose U+B was clear. They weren’t the biggest firm, but for us, they were simply the best. The three areas that stood out for us were… > > FLAT DESIGN FEE > This was the right value equation for us. One set fee ‘til the design was done right. Going into it, we just didn’t know how many rounds it would take to reach our comfort zone. The flat fee design structure ensured we could tweak without the fees creeping up after each round. No surprise, they got it right very quickly. > > TRUE ADVOCATE THROUGHOUT THE PROCESS > U+B was there for every important decision making moment. We’re talking everything from interviewing the builder to ensuring foremen stayed on task throughout the build out process. They truly had our back every step of the way. > > TRUSTWORTHY & TALENTED > While some may say having a good design sense is greens fees for the profession, we quickly realized that some just do it better than others. To put it simply, they just get it. > > While drafting pens and CAD design programs are tools for the trade, the one they use best is their ears. They really listen. How else could they get it so right? > > Combine that with years of honing their craft and a natural pure design sensibility and it’s no wonder how they leave the eye appreciating every thoughtful detail—sometimes with grand statements, others just beautifully understated. > > I trust their taste completely and value it thoroughly. > > Finally, there’s something to be said to working with people that are kind, thoughtful and truly have your best interest at heart. We loved working with U+B and would wholeheartedly hope to do so again. > > They turned our house into a home…and we appreciate it every day. > > Sincerely, > > The Breault Family **★★★★★ — ginazaff, Aug. 2013** > U+B came to our attention via another home they did of some friends of ours. We were so impressed with how the design of their new space was married with their old house and were certain this was our architectural firm. > > Our house is a 100 year old house with fantastic views of our local lake. Previously, the only part of our house which took advantage of our amazing views was the front porch. With some very simple, strategic changes on our main floor, our addition has flawlessly opened up the original floor plan while maintaining the integrity of the age of the home. We can now view our lake from the back of the house and we absolutely love that! > > Paul and Mark have a team who take impeccable care of their client's needs/wants. They listen, strategize and take to completion the sum of ideas and deliver a beautiful product. > > This firm also went above and beyond our expectation of service provided to us. They helped us negotiate some difficult situations with our builder and set a stage for ultimate success with our final product. You won't be disappointed if you use them! We love our new space! ## Selected projects - [Lake Minnetonka Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lake-minnetonka-renovation-pj-vj~4665054) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 13 - [Armatage Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/armatage-renovation-pj-vj~312293) - Location: Minneapolis, MN - Photos: 7 - Description: U+B was brought on to restore and renovate portions of this classic Minneapolis Lakes home. A remodel of the original master suite uncovered structural deficiencies in the home’s roof and attic which had been badly damaged in a 1937 fire. What followed was an attic remodel that paid tribute to the beautiful and historical feel of the home while breathing new life into each space with fresh and modern materials, thoughtful lighting and an open floor plan. The second part of the project was the co… - [Tyrol Hills Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/tyrol-hills-residence-pj-vj~4661378) - Location: Golden Valley, MN - Photos: 11 - [Sorenson Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/sorenson-residence-pj-vj~325007) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 6 - [Orono Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/orono-residence-pj-vj~18580) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 9 - Description: Orono Residence Located on a secluded wooded site, this project transforms a banal late 1950s ranch style residence into a contemporary home for a couple and their two children. The new home blends with the surrounding woods and windows and doors were replaced and reconfigured to optimize views to the surrounding landscape. (Paul Udris with a previous firm) - [New York Apartment](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/new-york-apartment-pj-vj~313207) - Location: New York, NY - Photos: 8 - Description: Located in the historic 5th Avenue Building in Greenwich Village, the project combines two smaller apartments to create a gracious penthouse on the top two levels of the building. The apartment incorporates a wide variety of green materials, technology and building practices to improve energy efficiency, air quality and minimize environmental impact. The result is an open, light-filled and thoroughly contemporary space with unparalleled views of the city. - [Marrakech Morocco Villa](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/marrakech-morocco-villa-pj-vj~313225) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 5 - Description: U+B was commissioned to design eighty houses situated on the arid landscape outside the city of Marrakech. Individual properties are enclosed within ksours and contain gardens that balance the desert landscape and the lush landscape tradition of Marrakech. Each house has been sited for optimal solar and wind orientation, and to maximize views to the Atlas mountains to the south. The houses vary in style including models inspired by indigenous hillside architecture, Art Deco homes based on Morocc… - [Downtown MPLS Penthouse](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/downtown-mpls-penthouse-pj-vj~312282) - Location: Minneapolis, MN - Photos: 9 - Description: For this penthouse project in in downtown Minneapolis, the owner desired a museum like space to display a vast collection of art and artifacts. The juxtaposition of the very clean modern design with the eclectic personality of our client resulted in a stunningly rich space. One primary design feature is the stair with glass guardrails and lighting incorporated into the risers of the stairs. - [Minneapolis Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/minneapolis-renovation-pj-vj~312310) - Location: Minneapolis, MN - Photos: 4 - Description: This discreet addition to a Minneapolis home involved the complete renovation of two bathrooms and the creation of a master suite with an office for a family of 5. The design included cabinets, trim and tile patterns in keeping with the 1920s era house and an efficient and colorful office with plenty of bookshelves and document storage for a freelance writer. - [Minneapolis Addition](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/minneapolis-addition-pj-vj~18581) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 5 - Description: For this addition to a 1923 home, the client was interested in maintaining the architectural integrity of the original house while integrating new amenities such as a mudroom, office, master suite and entertainment center. The addition matched the original woodwork, cabinetry and aesthetic elements of the existing house while new spaces were arranged to suit the clients’ modern lifestyle. - [Edina Remodel](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/edina-remodel-pj-vj~18579) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 6 - Description: Our clients asked us to create a whole new look and feel for their run-down Cape-Cod-style house. The extensive remodel included remediation of decades of water damage and neglect, the addition of a dining room and a master suite, and a new interior aesthetic that is both sleekly modern and warmly inviting. [See all 11 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/u-b-architecture-and-design-pfvwus-pf~1669404650) ## Community Q&A **Q: Very dramatic lighting! Where is it from?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Hello there. I know, we were thrilled to have this in a space we designed! This fixture is a custom piece that was made out of recycled plastic done by an artist. Our client had it in his collection prior to the project and wanted to use it. An electrician rewired the fixture and put new lighting in it. **Q: Can I put small river rock/pebbles in a shower tray?** *(in Design Dilemma)* Previously some asked this as well (\[https://www.houzz.com/discussions/can-i-put-river-rock-in-my-shower-dsvw-vd~700080\[(https://www.houzz.com/discussions/can-i-put-river-rock-in-my-shower-dsvw-vd~700080)) but they were looking at mortar instillation. I was thinking of gluing them down with silicone sealant. Would this work and not cause the shower tray to fail from stress? I am aware this may not be ideal, and there are several things to consider like comfort and cleaning, but I'm specifically asking if by not using a hard set material you can line a shower tray? A: I would not recommend this installation technique to any of my clients, I would focus on finding the right river washed stone to put down that minimizes the gap between stones and go for a really tight grout joint. With this type of product you will find the stones come mounted to a mesh back like a lot of mosaic tiles, so product selection is very inportant to you being happy with your shower floor. **Q: Love the sconces- where are they from?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Hi again! These sconces we believe we purchased through Rejuvenation lighting. **Q: Where did you get the railing for the patio?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Hi Lynn, This railing was custom for this project. It was manufactured from galvanized steel and cables. **Q: I really like your screen doors. Can you tell me where you got them?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Hi there. These screen doors were custom built by the mill work shop / carpenter for this particular project. **Q: Upset that marble was installed instead of granite in my kitchen!** *(in Design Dilemma)* When I went to Home Depot, I had picked out a sample block of the carrera white marble, not knowing that it was marble. I told my contractor that "this" was the granite countertop I wanted. He went to his granite source and told me that the piece I gave him was marble, but that I was in luck. There was a slab of granite that looked very similar to the marble piece I provided him. So great, we had the granite installed and now it's been week 2 and there are many scratches showing up, one red hot sauce stain and one nick already. I've barely cooked in the kitchen and we haven't done much in kitchen as we just moved in. I've noticed that even dragging a glass plate across the countertop will leave a scratch. I'm convinced that we have marble and not granite, as I do not see any shiny specks in my countertops. We've wiped it down with granite sealers 4 times already and no luck! What should I do? I think I should be due the entire refund of the "granite," that is now appearing to be marble. I've spent $4,800 on the granite alone, without the installation cost! Please advise what I should do! A: You should press this point with your contractor but to verify that you received granite. There are several Blanco varieties that feature coloring and veining similar to that of a Carrara marble --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-24.*