--- title: "J.Sweitzer-Architects LLC — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/j-sweitzer-architects-llc-pfvwus-pf~1955043493 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1955043493.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "J.Sweitzer-Architects LLC" category: ["Architects"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/ca43f3860190fb34_8965-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "4514 Arden Ave So, Edina, Minnesota 55424, United States" latitude: 44.9052 longitude: -93.3403 phone: "(612) 220-3283" website: http://www.jsweitzerarchitects.com rating: 4.9 review_count: 13 best_of_houzz_awards: 1 followers: 109 last_updated: 2026-08-26 --- # J.Sweitzer-Architects LLC Original Houzz profile: [J.Sweitzer-Architects LLC](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/j-sweitzer-architects-llc-pfvwus-pf~1955043493) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Architects - **Location:** Edina, MN - **Serves:** Minneapolis, Plymouth, Eden Prairie, Minnetonka, Edina, Minnetonka Mills, Saint Louis Park, Golden Valley, Hopkins, Wayzata, Deephaven, Crystal Bay, St Louis Park - **Houzz rating:** 4.9 out of 5 (13 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 1 award (2016), for Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Star Houzzer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 1,000 Ideabook Saves J.Sweitzer-Architects is a full service architectural firm specializing in traditional, transitional, modern and contemporary artful design of residential and commercial projects. We also offer interior and product design to enhance and compliment the look and style of your project. In addition we have designed and developed two flexible and interactive modestly sized concept homes each with numerous possible floor plans, the UU House (Urban Universal Home) and the Red Haus series. A few of the homes are featured in the project file. As a simplified design philosophy we strive to address a project's program with artful and well detailed construction solutions while providing direct and personal service to each client as requested and as quickly as possible. Our experience is varied and extensive with well over 250 projects of varying complexity and scope. A brief summary of my education and past experience includes: Bachelor of Environmental Design - U of MN 1972 Bachelor of Architecture - U of Mn. 1974 Principal at Bentz-Thompson-Rietow Assoc. 74-95 Principal at Miller-Dunwiddie Assoc. 95-99 Director of Design at Sharratt Design 99-09 Principal/Owner J.Sweitzer-Architects 09-Present Attributes and Philosophy include: \- Promote spirited and artful design \- Seek simple design solutions \- Always consider the environment \- Be real, present and intuitive \- Challenge assumptions \- Listen \- Be ethical There are others however this is hoped to give a sense of a how your project would be addressed ### Services Provided - Architectural Design - Building Design - Home Remodeling - Custom Homes - House Plans - New Home Construction - Home Additions - Home Extensions - Kitchen Design - Kitchen Remodeling - Energy-Efficient Homes - Floor Plans - Bathroom Design - Space Planning - Universal Design - Drafting - Basement Remodeling - Site Preparation ### Areas Served - Minneapolis - Plymouth - Eden Prairie - Minnetonka - Edina - Minnetonka Mills - Saint Louis Park - Golden Valley - Hopkins - Wayzata - Deephaven - Crystal Bay - St Louis Park ### Typical Job Cost $50,000 - 5 million ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | J.Sweitzer-Architects LLC | | Address | 4514 Arden Ave So, Edina, Minnesota 55424, United States | | Phone | (612) 220-3283 | | Website | http://www.jsweitzerarchitects.com | | License Number | MN \#13001 | | Followers on Houzz | 109 | ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [J.Sweitzer-Architects LLC](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/j-sweitzer-architects-llc-pfvwus-pf~1955043493) - **Website:** http://www.jsweitzerarchitects.com - **Phone:** (612) 220-3283 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - Licensed Architect - State of MN. since 1978Certified Interior Designer - State of MN. since 1994 - **Best of Houzz:** 1 award (2016), for Service. **Affiliations** - [The American Institute of Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/the-american-institute-of-architects-pfvwus-pf~1350720471) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 4.9 out of 5 — 13 reviews** ### Reviews **★★★★★ — aspitz, April 2015** > I don't normally post reviews but I wanted to make an exception in this case. Jeff is truly a credit to his profession. My wife and I hired Jeff to design our new lake home. He brought an energy and expertise to the project that we really needed. He continuously listened to our ideas/requests and would come back with design ideas that took them to the next level. He is open minded, patient, and thoughtful. Hiring Jeff will be the easiest decision you make during your project. **★★★★★ — DEVIN HARRINGTON Re/Max Results, March 2015** > Jeff assisted me by patiently engaging in conversations pertaining to an Organic Modern remodeling of an older warehouse type structure into a live/creative work/play “Headquarters”. > Even though the existing vacant masonry storage shop, to the untrained eye, might seem beyond hope he kept putting out creative possibilities for me to consider. > When I get down to making the project happen I’m glad I have him on my team. He’s really a service oriented “go-to” Architect! **★★★★★ — Ramsey Engler LTD, May 2013** > Ramsey Engler Ltd has worked with J.Sweitzer on multiple projects and we hope to work with him more in the future! He is a wonderful architect to have on your team as he is very detailed oriented, organized and on top of things. Not only is he an extraordinary architect but he has strong project management skills, making sure no detail is over looked and everything is followed through. His positive, upbeat attitude makes it a pleasure to work with him as well! **★★★★★ — Julie Idzorek, May 2013** > Jeff designed an extensive remodel project for our 1927 home. He also represented our interests with the contractor. He negotiated change orders for the project that required professional contracting knowledge. We would not have been able to acheive the positive outcome for the project without his assistance. Jeff has a broad depth of knowledge of architecture and design, is patient and very willing to work with his client. We highly recommend him. **★★★★★ — Gary Bennett, May 2013** > Jeff did a redesign of a large cantilevered deck off the back of our home. He was very sensitive to the mid-century roots of the house, maintaining the design integrity, yet allowing for a more functional structure to meet our needs. **★★★★★ — tawny12, May 2013** > We remodeled our main level of our home. We wanted more open living and larger conversation areas. We look like we gained a ton of room without adding anything to the structure. Our friends are wowed at the design. > Jeff was very prompt in getting plans and changes done. The project complete end of 2012 > > > Jeff had done architectural work for our business. I saw his attention to detail. Most important was his attention to us. He listened to what we wanted for an outcome as well as made it an easy conversation when an idea did not fit into our budget. He always had options. His love of what he does shows thru with each and every meeting to completion of the project. I can,timagine using anyone else **★★★★★ — Jean Nead, May 2013** > I have had the pleasure of working on several residential projects with Jeff. I find him easy to work with, highly creative and an excellent listener-qualities that assure a seamless result. I highly recommend Jeff as an architect! **★★★★ — Robert Kost, May 2013** > We typically utilize Jeff on commercial tenant build-outs. Some are office and some are retail tenants. He has been able to effectively capture what the tenants desire from a branding standpoint and he is able to work with the budget of the landlord/tenant. He is a very good listener when finding out a tenant's requirements. Jeff usually exceeds expectations--even on a preliminary plan. **★★★★★ — Kim, May 2013** > Creative, professional and easy to work with. Jeff helped us design the salon and spa of our dreams. Numerous changes and adjustments did not deter him from attaining our vision. Would absolutely recommend him. **★★★★★ — johnhartley, May 2013** > Jeff is a true professional in the the way he approaches a project. He listens to the client and incorporates their ideas as well as expressing his own views and expectations of a project in a very respectful way. Jeff always researches a remedy to any challenging issue before proceeding which tends to save the client money and aggravation. His attention to detail is exceptional and is evident in the final result of his work. I would recommend Jeff for any architectural service. **★★★★★ — Sally O'Neal, May 2013** > Jeff Sweitzer is our architect who designed a kitchen and bathroom in our Mid-Century style home. Our esthetic is very much the same and I highly appreciate his attention to detail and work ethic. He designed a unique rolling partition and pocket doors for the kitchen so that, even tho we have an open floor plan, the kitchen can be closed off when wanted. Jeff has also been working on the updating of our lake cabin and it's out buildings on Lake Vermilion. We are currently working on transforming an old sauna into a space for more sleeping. I have also called on Jeff on a number of occasions for advice on roofing and interior design. **★★★★★ — judygalbraith, May 2013** > Jeff Sweitzer worked for me when I was renovating a turn of the century > warehouse building in the North Loop Neighborhood. It was a challenging project, but throughout Jeff was responsive, professional, thorough and very detail-oriented. He knows building codes, and that proved enormously helpful as I tried to navigate working with building inspectors. If I ever have another project that requires a designer or architect I'll definitely hire Jeff again. ## Selected projects - [Twin Homes](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/twin-homes-pj-vj~233691) - Location: Minneapolis, MN - Photos: 1 - Description: Craftsman/shingle style two family home. Exterior consists of cedar shingles and ledge stone veneer. Deep wood brackets and wrought iron railings are used in keeping with the traditional look of East Coast Shingle Style homes. - [Village Loft Condo](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/village-loft-condo-pj-vj~233628) - Location: Minneapolis, MN - Photos: 7 - Description: Raw space penthouse condominium build-out - [Phoenix Condominium - Buildout](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/phoenix-condominium-buildout-pj-vj~420575) - Location: Minneapolis, MN - Photos: 3 - Description: J.Sweitzer-Architects LLC collaborated with Ramsey Engler LTD (a premier Minneapolis MN interior design firm) by providing architectural design assistance, construction document preparation and site observation services. The two firms complimented each others strengths by shaping and furnishing the final "raw space" condominium in the Phoenix Condominiums into a fresh new home for a St Paul MN couple who wanted to simplify, downsize and have a fresh new home within which to entertain and enjoy t… - [O'Neal Bunkhouse](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/o-neal-bunkhouse-pj-vj~890159) - Location: Cook, MN - Photos: 3 - Description: Built as additional sleeping quarters for extended family get-togethers, the bunkhouse contains two twin beds and a small 1/2 bath. The style and building materials recall the original cabin but with a bit of a twist on the interior furnishings and finish. - [Northeast Minneapolis Duplex](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/northeast-minneapolis-duplex-pj-vj~233695) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 3 - Description: Traditional Northeast Minneapolis 1915 duplex with a modern look - [Sticha Garage](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/sticha-garage-pj-vj~890206) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 3 - Description: A 4 car garage for a car collector hobbyist and graphic artist who has a great interest in mixing modern looking architecture with simple traditional building types - [Mid Century Modern Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mid-century-modern-kitchen-pj-vj~233662) - Location: Minneapolis, MN - Photos: 4 - Description: Similar to the Master bathroom in this home the kitchen was completely taken apart. The size of the space was enlarged with all new cabinetry, appliances and surface treatments. The character of the space loosely recalls the "bones" of this 1957 home but with a modern interpretation and use of more current building materials - [O'Neal Cabin](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/o-neal-cabin-pj-vj~890179) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 3 - Description: This fishing cabin in northern Minnesota has become a year round retreat for the owners and continues to receive new touch each Summer such as, patios, fire-pit, landscaping, a new green asphalt shingle roof, docks, etc. - [Mid Century Modern Bathroom](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mid-century-modern-bathroom-pj-vj~233713) - Location: Minneapolis, MN - Photos: 3 - Description: Complete gut of an existing bathroom, installation of new Kohler, Vitra-Form and Dornbracht plumbing fixtures with Roral Mosa wall tile and Indian Madras floor slate - [Tuscan Villa](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/tuscan-villa-pj-vj~233643) - Location: Eagan, MN - Photos: 4 - Description: The client's request was to merge Rocky Mountain and Tuscan character together and be a little heavy on the Tuscan side. The over looks the Mississippi river between Minneapolis and St. Paul MN. Vistas are as far as you can see in both directions of the river. The property, as purchased, came with a construction "pad" which had already been "permitted" by the City. Consequently and as a result of the owner's building program and the approved construction limits the home became a four story "tigh… - [Modern Swedish Stuga](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/modern-swedish-stuga-pj-vj~813260) - Location: Nevis, MN - Photos: 4 - Description: As a form of relaxation the home owner (who restores classic Porsches) wanted to learn about and participate in the construction of a cabin. Swedish is in the couple's heritage and so they decided to pursue the look of a "modern Stuga" for the building's character. Working on German engineered cars also lead to wanting the building to be efficiently designed and constructed thus SIPS construction was chosen for the foundation walls as well as wall, floor and roof panels. Erection of the basic "b… - [White Bear Lake Porch/Entry Addition and Remodeling](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/white-bear-lake-porch-entry-addition-and-remodeling-pj-vj~268104) - Location: White Bear Lake, MN - Photos: 5 - Description: As seen in the "before" photo the front entry to the house was without a sense of arrival or "place". The home owner requested that a new more dramatic feel be given to the home since the front door lead directly into the living room. As seen in a few of the design proposal "overlays" there was an attempt to make the arrival at the front door be an experience of moving through covered structures before actually opening the front door. Budget and timing drove the final solution. - [Turn of the Century Addition](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/turn-of-the-century-addition-pj-vj~233685) - Location: Minneapolis, MN - Photos: 3 - Description: The new home owners purchased a 1900 "turn of the century" four square Queen Ann style home in the heart of Minneapolis, quite a bit different than their St Louis Park rambler. Their objective was to get closer to their mission, a program for misguided inner city youth. The design brief consisted of converting certain rooms of the home into additional bedrooms, create a new master bedroom suite and create a much larger congregate dinning/meeting room. Since the original garage on the property wa… - [Cobalt in the Sky](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/cobalt-in-the-sky-pj-vj~128003) - Location: Minneapolis, MN - Photos: 9 - Description: Space is sculpted with curved walls and ceiling planes. Surfaces are finished with luscious lacquers, and sensuous sycamore. Restrained palette, named "platiwinkle" to signify equal parts of platinum and periwinkle, imparts glamour and glimmer to this urbane feminine condominium home. - [Suburban Make-Over](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/suburban-make-over-pj-vj~234500) - Location: Minneapolis, MN - Photos: 7 - Description: The home is located in the New Hope Golden Valley area of Minneapolis. The home owner knew it had the potential to be opened up and create less of a compartmentalized 1950's home. Luckily the existing center bearing wall could be easily and cost effectively re-framed to support the roof structure. The end result is an open dining/kitchen layout with only interior cabinetry separating the two spaces. A bonus of the re-framing work netted a borrowed lite opening at the top of the wall that separat… - [Cobalt Condominium](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/cobalt-condominium-pj-vj~233701) - Location: Minneapolis, MN - Photos: 4 - Description: When purchased by the home owner construction had just begun on the build-out of the space by a different owner who subsequently decided to stop the project. The design team envisioned a completely different floor plan since the space was to include only a master suite and guest room in lieu of the originally designed 4 bedroom home. The new home owner had only a few select pieces of furniture that needed to be worked into the layout. Additionally she was moving from approximately twice the squa… - [Spanish Exterior Entry Remodeling](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/spanish-exterior-entry-remodeling-pj-vj~233678) - Location: Minneapolis, MN - Photos: 2 - Description: Located in south Minneapolis along Minnehaha Drive, this Spanish Mission style home was in need of water leaking repair. The curved front entry originally was topped with a "built-up" flat roof that had seen too many winters. Furthermore the from front door had suffered from south facing fading and cracking. In addition the interior of the dining room (to the left of the front entry was "lean" on windows. The charge was to correct the maintenance issues and at the same time add architectural cha… - [1926 Tudor remodeling-modernization](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/1926-tudor-remodeling-modernization-pj-vj~233726) - Location: Edina, MN - Photos: 6 - Description: The home is located in the first "Planned Unit Development" the the entire United States, located just outside of Minneapolis. As such the building's front elevation is "protected". That requirement however does not translate to the interior so when it was time to remodel various rooms and spaces in the home the interior theme turned Modern. Where appropriate and for budget reasons most features of the home considered having "good bones" were maintained but past remodelings that compromised the… - [Rock Island Condo](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/rock-island-condo-pj-vj~233680) - Location: Minneapolis, MN - Photos: 1 - Description: Completed during the hey-day of condo construction this one bedroom project provided the home owners with just the right amount of customized upgrade s to make the place feel like home. None standard touches included a huge granite island counter-top (both of the owners love to cook) and twice the amount of kitchen cabinetry normally provided with a stock plan build-out. In addition the owner elected to buy all of their own lighting. - [1970's Modern Remodel](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/1970-s-modern-remodel-pj-vj~244350) - Location: Minneapolis, MN - Photos: 9 - Description: The design brief was to de-compartmentalize the first floor living/dining and kitchen spaces plus create a "real" formal dining room without affecting the building's structural system. The home owner also wanted to "freshen" her furniture and accessories while keeping the entire make-over cohesive. Just as important as the space planning effort was the need to optimize viewing of the TV since friends and family regularly gather for group viewing of sporting events. Sightlines to the TV from the… [See all 30 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/j-sweitzer-architects-llc-pfvwus-pf~1955043493) ## Community Q&A **Q: What kind of siding is used here? Also, what is the roof pitch?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Sorry this is taking a while. I've written the home owner to get a clarification re: the siding. He priced out a number of different materials. I'll get back to you as soon as I hear from him In the meantime the roof pitches are 12/12 (45 deg.) Hope this helps... **Q: What back splash was used?** *(in Photo Questions)* This is a beautiful kitchen. What back splash was used? A: The Owner selected the tile. It is a combination of clear glass, frosted glass and one with a white coating on the back of the third selection. All tiles were 1x2, sorry I don't know the name of the manufacture. **Q: pretty look** *(in Photo Questions)* Make of the sink (and dimensions) and the faucet make/manufacturer? A: Actually the sink was existing but I believe it is an American Standard and the are either Kohler or American Standard. **Q: dining chairs** *(in Photo Questions)* who is the maker of the dining chairs? A: These were specified by the interior designer. Please contact Laura Engler at Ramsey Engler Ltd. in Minneapolis MN. She is also on HOUZZ Thank you for your inquiry **Q: what material and color is used on the roof?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Sorry, just got back to the computer, the product is GAF Timberline HD and the color is Weathered Wood. Hope that helps... **Q: Hello, wondering shower curtain colour used from Cascade coil -Thanks** *(in Photo Questions)* A: We went with stainless steel so that it would not rust plus it is heavier than aluminum so it hangs nice and straight, thanks for asking... --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-26.*