--- title: "Koffka Phakos Design — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/koffka-phakos-design-pfvwus-pf~1988369628 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1988369628.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Koffka Phakos Design" category: ["Architects"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/9483abb8012809cc_0577-w400-h400-b1-p10--.jpg address: "8760 Holloway Drive, West Hollywood, California 90069, United States" latitude: 34.0906 longitude: -118.3788 phone: "(323) 461-0050" website: http://www.koffkaphakos.com rating: 4.9 review_count: 34 years_in_business: 23 license_verified: true best_of_houzz_awards: 8 followers: 607 last_updated: 2026-09-26 --- # Koffka Phakos Design > Southern California Full Service Architecture and Interior Design Firm Original Houzz profile: [Koffka Phakos Design](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/koffka-phakos-design-pfvwus-pf~1988369628) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Architects - **Location:** West Hollywood, CA - **Serves:** Los Angeles, Bel Air, Brentwood Los Angeles, Hollywood, Venice, North Glendale, Glendale, Pasadena, Van Nuys, East Los Angeles, Burbank, Universal City, Santa Monica, North Hollywood, Encino, Sherman Oaks, Culver City, Studio City, Tarzana, West Hollywood, Beverly Hills, South Pasadena, La Canada Flintridge, View Park-Windsor Hills, Lake Balboa, Silver Lake, Toluca Lake, Valley Village - **Verified License:** Yes - **Houzz rating:** 4.9 out of 5 (34 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 8 awards (2014–2026), for Design, Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Houzz Pro Software User - Star Houzzer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 50,000 Ideabook Saves - Best of Houzz winner - 23 years in business - Speaks English, Spanish, German - Responds Quickly ### Business highlights - Best of Houzz winner - 23 years in business - Speaks English, Spanish, German - Responds Quickly We are a full service architecture and interior design firm specializing in sustainable solutions for single-family homes. Our expertise include extensive experience with hillside projects, specific plans, design review boards and mansionization ordinances. We have worked on both remodels and new construction in most municipalities in the Greater LA Area; including Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, Burbank, Glendale and Pasadena. ### Services Provided - Architectural Design - Building Design - Home Remodeling - Architectural Drawings - Custom Homes - House Plans - New Home Construction - Home Additions - Home Extensions - Kitchen Design - Sustainable Design - Kitchen Remodeling - Energy-Efficient Homes - Floor Plans - Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) - Green Building - Bathroom Design - Space Planning - Guesthouse Design & Construction - Multigenerational Homes - Pool House Design & Construction - Home Restoration - Historic Building Conservation - Construction Drawings - Custom Home ### Areas Served - Los Angeles - Bel Air - Brentwood Los Angeles - Hollywood - Venice - North Glendale - Glendale - Pasadena - Van Nuys - East Los Angeles - Burbank - Universal City - Santa Monica - North Hollywood - Encino - Sherman Oaks - Culver City - Studio City - Tarzana - West Hollywood - Beverly Hills - South Pasadena - La Canada Flintridge - View Park-Windsor Hills - Lake Balboa - Silver Lake - Toluca Lake - Valley Village ### Typical Job Cost $200,000 - 5,000,000 ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Koffka Phakos Design | | Address | 8760 Holloway Drive, West Hollywood, California 90069, United States | | Phone | (323) 461-0050 | | Website | http://www.koffkaphakos.com | | License Number | C-23352 | | Years in business | 23 | | Followers on Houzz | 607 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — https://www.instagram.com/koffkaphakos/?hl=en ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Koffka Phakos Design](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/koffka-phakos-design-pfvwus-pf~1988369628) - **Website:** http://www.koffkaphakos.com - **Phone:** (323) 461-0050 ## Credentials **Verified License** - Number: C-23352 - Type: Architect - Issued by: California Architects Board **Certifications & Awards** - LEED AP - Licensed Architect - **Best of Houzz:** 8 awards (2014–2026), for Design, Service. **Affiliations** - [The American Institute of Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/the-american-institute-of-architects-pfvwus-pf~1350720471) - [AIA Los Angeles](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/aia-los-angeles-pfvwus-pf~1829789113) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 4.9 out of 5 — 34 reviews** *Aspect averages:* - Work Quality: 4.9 - Communication: 4.7 - Value: 5.0 ### Featured Review **★★★★★ — Danielle, Dec. 2024** > My husband and I had the pleasure of working with Koffka Phakos Design over the past couple of years on the renovation of our single-family home. Adrian and Cynthia are absolutely amazing!! Their professionalism, creativity, patience, and keen attention to detail made the entire experience not only smooth but truly enjoyable. > > One of the standout qualities of Adrian and Cynthia is their ability to listen. They took the time to deeply understand our needs, preferences, and lifestyle, translating our vision into a breathtaking design that is both functional and visually stunning. They brought fresh, innovative ideas to the table, introducing solutions we hadn’t even considered, all while ensuring the design stayed true to what we wanted. > > The final result speaks volumes—it’s everything my husband and I dreamed of for our forever home. The space is a perfect blend of style and practicality, reflecting both our personalities and the life we’ve built together. > > We cannot recommend Koffka Phakos Design enough to anyone looking for a talented, thoughtful, and dedicated architectural firm. Adrian and Cynthia cared deeply about our project every step of the way, and their passion and expertise truly set them apart from other firms out there! ### All 34 reviews **★★★★★ — HU-516875752, Dec. 2025** > Words cannot accurately describe what a productive, professional and ultimately joyful experience it was to work with Adrian Koffka and his excellent team at Koffka Phakos Design. From our initial discussions regarding the renovation of our 98 year-old house to the delivery of completed plans, the experience was collaborative, illuminating and thoroughly satisfying. In fact, we were able to retain the contractor we urgently hoped to work with because Adrian’s blueprints demonstrated the degree of precision and sophistication this contractor demanded before even considering a bid. Also, because of this, our permitting gauntlet was surprisingly stress-free. Once construction began, we didn’t make many changes –– when it’s right, you don’t need to fix it –– but there was one addition we wanted to make mid-schedule. Adrian and his colleagues were able to accommodate this change quickly so we were able to stay right on schedule. Completing a long-overdue renovation on a century-old house will trigger any number of stressful situations but Adrian and his team were never the source of any stress whatsoever. We always knew we were in good hands. > > To this day, simply walking into our new kitchen fills us with more happiness than we could have even imagined when we started this project. If you have the opportunity to work with Adrian and his team, and then live in the art that he creates for you, you should certainly take it. **★★★★★ — Weinstein Gallery, Dec. 2025** > I highly recommend Koffka Phakos. Working with them felt like a true collaboration from start to finish. They took the time to understand my vision and translated my wants and needs into a thoughtful, beautifully resolved architectural design that feels deeply personal. > > As a first-time builder, I appreciated how professional, responsive, and supportive Adrian was throughout the entire process. He made everything feel approachable and comfortable, guiding me with clarity and confidence while maintaining an impeccable design sensibility. > > The finished home takes full advantage of every opportunity the property offered, and the result is a house I truly love — functional, elegant, and carefully considered in every detail. I couldn’t recommend Koffka Phakos more highly. **★★★★★ — HU-653389182, Dec. 2025** > Hiring Koffka Phakos to design our new home in Studio City was the best decision we've ever made. Adrian Koffka has been incredible to work with, and his authentic design approach, attention to detail and commitment to excellence shows in every aspect of our project. Adrian has an eye for quality architectural design and site plan aesthetics and understands the importance of how spaces flow and function for day-to-day living. This firm has been so responsive when questions arise in the field and Adrian's communication has been fantastic. We couldn't be happier with the service we've received and our stunning new home which is taking shape! **★★★★ — pplusr, Jan. 2025** > Koffka Phakos designed a remodel of our home that we absolutely adore. It is full of light, flow, and elegance. Every space is both beautiful and useful--form and function are interlinked and each superb. There are also many environmental efficiencies. We simply couldn't be more thrilled with Koffka Phakos's design. **★★★★★ — Jeff Herring, Dec. 2024** > My wife and I worked with Koffka Phakos to renovate our home in San Marino, Ca. The house hadn't been updated since the early 1980s and the city has a design review board that can be somewhat difficult. Despite this, Adrian and Cynthia were able to work through the bureaucracy and get us to the home of our dreams. > > We started by talking to multiple architects and we were most comfortable with Adrian and Cynthia. They then walked us through the renovation process step-by-step and made it as painless as possible. We started with vague ideas and a few pictures of things that we liked and they were able to take that information and create a home that we never thought could fit our wants and needs as well as it does while also looking incredible. > > I honestly cant recommend them enough and would use them again in a heartbeat. **★★★★★ — Michael Leonard, Dec. 2024** > Cynthia and Adrian designed and oversaw the construction of our ADU. I can't say enough about how terrific they are. They were a pleasure to work with. The final product was better than I envisioned it. The process was enjoyable. They followed through on everything. I hope I have the opportunity to work with them again. **★★★★★ — D Evans, Jan. 2021** > Koffka Phakos designed a beautiful renovation for our mid century home. Previously my house had an inefficient and outdated layout. Koffka Phakos's created an open concept with modern, clean lines and maximum natural light, which was exactly what we wanted. We are renovation novices and were nervous to take on an expensive renovation. Adrian guided us through the process from planning, permitting and contract bidding to window ordering (more complicated than you'd think) and paint colors. He also suggested helpful ways to save money throughout the process. We would've been lost without Koffka Phakos and highly recommend their services and expertise. **★★★★★ — melsonteri, Dec. 2020** > Koffka Phakos created my dream house! There is at least one time each day that I look around and cannot believe this beautiful house is mine. I chose Kaffka Phakos after seeing how they transformed three houses in my neighborhood. Everyone comments on how seamless my new second story looks - my house looks like it was built from the ground up. One of the things Kaffka Phakos excels at is making an addition completely blend in instead of adding an addition that doesn’t completely match the style of the original house. **★★★★★ — Matthew Diamond, Dec. 2020** > Adrian Koffka and Cynthia Phakos designed and oversaw a complete house renovation for my wife and I this year. Their work was absolutely exceptional. The design itself is exquisite and perfectly matched the original style of the house, which is eighty-six years old and enjoys a classic style of red oak wood floors and ornate molding. They solved quite a number of difficult problems we faced with the space. Their piece de resistance is a stunning gourmet kitchen which has already proven itself to be the centerpiece of the house. > > To put a fine point on it their elegant and efficient sense of space is only matched by their delicate and pinpointed sense of color, as evidenced by the new paint job. They collaborate beautifully, both with each other and with us, as clients. We cannot recommend them highly enough. We have done a number of renovations over the years in various houses and they are unquestionably the best architect/designers we have worked with. **★★★★★ — Mike Winiarski, Dec. 2020** > There simply are not enough superlatives to describe the experience working with the Koffka Phakos team. The quality of individual time, attention, and care that a client receives is second to none. Cynthia, Adrian and the full team make a concerted effort to listen and understand their clients' needs. They then leverage their tenured experience and abilities to translate their clients' desires into reality, taking into account how a project looks, feels, and functions. They are exceptionally collaborative in their process and multidisciplinary in their approach, offering the rare ability to deliver a cohesive, fully integrated solution. More than anything, this team truly cares and is fully vested in the quality of work, from initial conceptualization to final delivery. As a result, every consideration is acknowledged, every detail addressed. You are fortunate if you have an opportunity to work with them, I cannot recommend this team enough! **★★★★★ — Doug Prochilo, Dec. 2020** > Adrian and Cynthia have been my go-to architects for the past 15 years. We started out doing small projects together, but over the years the scope of those projects grew, and they have recently designed a high end home for me that his currently under construction. They're attention to detail and their love of what they do shows up in the final product — a home that is exactly what the client needs. Koffka Phakos make sure you get everything you want — in addition to what you didn't even know you wanted or needed. **★★★★ — XIAN-JIE YANG, Jan. 2019** > We worked with Koffka/Phakos Design firm on our whole house renovation. The principals Adrian and Cynthia listened to our ideas and concerns carefully, and respected our desire of not making radical changes to the footprint but focusing on updating and refining the existing structure. Throughout the design process, the firm provided blue prints, design ideas, materials sources, and suggested potential contractors. Adrian helped us to make several big design decisions including the colors schemes for tiles and paints. Cynthia provided very detailed and logical lighting designs. We also engaged the firm to oversee the construction process. Cynthia was involved in monitoring the major infrastructure updates and solved problems with the contractor and construction crews on site. The resulting renovation, the first and perhaps only one in our lives, brought a 40-year old house to a more contemporary state as we intended. **★★★★★ — Karim Forsat, Jan. 2019** > Adrian, Cynthia and Mark built my dream house. The project took 15 months from the design until we moved in. A complete rebuild of the house. Koffka Phakos Design helped me every step of the way. They patiently advised and educated me since this was my first time. I am very happy and I get many compliments from my neighbors and family. Thanks. **★★★★★ — noahe00, Dec. 2018** > Koffka Phakos is the best! We found them while looking through Houzz and really loved their projects on here. We had purchased a 1920’s Spanish style home that not only needed an extensive renovation but we also wanted to add more room. They really listened and understood what we wanted and came up with amazing solutions. Throughout the entire project, from the initial meeting, to the design phase, to finding a contractor, and right up to the last day of work Adrian was there all along the way. We love our house, but should we decide to do any more work on this house, or another one in the future, we will definitely be working with them again. We can’t recommend them enough! **★★★★★ — Daniel Pipski, Dec. 2018** > Adrian & Cynthia came highly recommended to us from a friend who did a year long project with them and having spent our own year with them, I truly can't say enough good things about the process of working with them, and about them as people. (They're so nice and fun and easy to work with!) Our job was big and tricky. We wanted to remodel our three bedroom, two bath into a four bedroom, three and a 1/2 bath, adding a second story, all while in a neighborhood with strict square footage and height restrictions. We had a very distinct idea of what we thought we wanted to do and upon our first meeting, Adrian and Cynthia came at us with so many better ideas than we could have ever even conceived; we were just blown away. The real talents of these two is their ability to problem solve, to make efficient and beautiful use of space, to know where to spend money and where to save, and their overall taste. They also hooked us up with a great contractor who finished on time and on-budget (aside from additional cabinetry which we decided to add mid-job). It was such a good experience, we've put Adrian & Cynthia up for multiple other jobs and they've done great work for those friends as well. We absolutely love our house and Koffka Phakos deserves all the credit! **★★★★★ — Philip Pierce, Sept. 2016** > I worked with KoffkaPhakos Design on the renovation of my house in the Hollywood Hills, LA. It involved an extensive renovation including bathrooms, kitchen and a second floor addition with complicated zoning rules. Loved working with them: professional, creative (while taking in my ideas), responsive and helped me pick an excellent contractor. The project actually required thinking "outside the box" because we were trying to preserve a 100 year old cactus tree so space was limited; they came up with a brilliant concept, placing the staircase in a diagonal location which had the added benefit of creating a little courtyard! I highly recommend these excellent architects! **★★★★★ — User, Dec. 2015** > Working with the team at Koffka/Phakos has been a pleasure. They are extremely knowledgable and work to bring all their projects in on time and on budget. Their clients are always very pleased with the results and this makes for a great transition from the building of the house to the furnishing of the homes interiors. I would recommend them highly. **★★★★★ — dmc465, Sept. 2015** > Let's face it. Building a home is a massive undertaking, fraught with peril. At least that's what I had always believed. That was before my wife and I hired the Koffka Phakos team to design our home. The most daunting thing about our home building experience? Writing this review. Why? Because Cynthia and Adrian were so amazing it's almost impossible to adequately express in such a short blurb. > We hired Cynthia and Adrian in the Spring of 2014 to turn a teardown into a dream home. Cynthia and Adrian went to work right away, listening to our ideas and imbuing them with their overabundant creativity and expertise. Cynthia is both a master technician and a highly inventive thinker. Comfortable working both inside the box and venturing far outside it, she always considered our building challenges from every angle, offering multiple brilliant solutions. Our hardest task was choosing between her various great ideas. If Cynthia is a true dynamo at what she does, Adrian is her perfect compliment. He's technically astute, fastidiously detail-oriented, and has absolutely impeccable taste. Our reliance on him went far beyond the job description. He helped us pick out nearly every fixture in our home, from kitchen hardware to paint colors, helping us to create an aesthetically gorgeous look and feel for our space. Together these two make a fantastic team. The partnership between them is utterly harmonious and it's clear they thoroughly value each other's abilities and enjoy each other's company. That said, they were always ready and willing to challenge one another for the sake of getting the best result. Working with such a smart, amiable team, it was hard not to look forward to our meetings. We enjoyed every minute of our design process and missed our weekly confabs once they were done. > Long story short, if you hire Koffka Phakos here's what you can expect: > Timeliness: They worked well within our timeframe, quite often exceeding it. > Reliability: They were abidingly quick with email responses and patiently responsive to all of our annoying questions and concerns. > Efficiency: They oversaw every step of our construction process, making sure things were done correctly and on schedule. They were also dogged in their dealings with the city, handling all the un-fun permitting issues and sparing us what I imagine to be an enormous hassle. > Budget-consciousness: They are keenly aware of the fact that money doesn't grow on trees, and were always looking for solutions that would lessen our expenses. They knew we needed to stick to a budget and they aimed for going under so that we wouldn't exceed it (which we didn't). > Eco-awareness: They are green building experts, and brought numerous ideas to the table to make our home more eco-friendly. > Creativity: As mentioned above, an area they truly shine. They were never short on ideas, and have a knack for transforming half-baked concepts into brilliant results. > Thoughtfulness: They took the time to truly understand who we are and what we wanted in our home, and relished in finding opportunities to personalize our space and make it special. > Attention to detail: Every nook and cranny of our home was given careful consideration. No stone was left unturned, and hence, the actual construction process was quick and efficient with zero holdups. > Cynthia and Adrian, thank you for giving us the home we wanted and then some. You and your team truly deserve your magnificent reviews, and we are so glad to have been able to share in this process together, to be a part of an amazingly collaborative environment, and (now that our house is nearly complete) to enjoy the results for many years to come! **★★★★★ — Dekstra Cerbo Llc, Sept. 2015** > As a project manager representing my principal, I have had a excellent experience with the whole Koffka Phakos Design team. They have been timely and creative in the drawing stage, and consistently overseen the job through construction. Their staff has been readily available as well. The two lead architects are a great combination of design and detail. This has been a seamless project which I attribute to this architectural firm. > Very talented! > They also have recommended an excellent contractor. **★★★★★ — gracielalucia, Oct. 2014** > Easy to work with, flexible, unpretentious, approachable. Listened to our ideas and suggestions, and gave their professional recommendations with tact and a supportive attitude. Were able to give us the best possible options within our budget, and got along very well with the contractor, who they had not worked with before. Can take charge when appropriate, but can also accept input and appreciate feedback. Took our lifestyle and our preferences in account when developing the plans, so that the final result suited our needs and our tastes. **★★★★★ — jpiepenkotter, Oct. 2014** > Koffka Phakos did a wonderful job with my condo. They were honest, creative, responsive, and demonstrated excellent attention-to-detail. In addition, they really understood what I was endeavoring to achieve and steered me in the right direction on all, including securing a great contractor. I couldn't be happier with the result. **★★★★★ — ninonet, April 2014** > My partner and I hired them to redesign and restore a 1920's Spanish Bungalow. Their attention to details, commitment and involvement made the project such an amazing experience. Adrian met us there every week and always encouraged us and in many ways allowed us to dream. Our house is now a dream! Thank you Koffka Phakos!!! **★★★★★ — Bruce Dolin, Jan. 2014** > Koffka Phakos did a major remodel of our home, including adding a master bedroom and master bath as well as completely transforming the flow of the house, access to the garden, re-envisioning the kitchen. They were fantastic throughout the process, we remain thrilled with our house and find that we utilize all the spaces optimally. Adrian and Cynthia are dear to our hearts and we could not give a higher recommendation. They are top rate in innovation, in creativity, in professionalism, in awareness of environment and in melding the practical use of space with aesthetics. **★★★★★ — cbubser, Jan. 2014** > Adrian and Cynthia were a pleasure to work with from start to finish. They helped us improve the flow of and expand a 1920s Hancock Park cottage. The project preserved the charm of our house and the addition feels organic. They helped us make our home perfect for our family, and were patient, thoughtful and creative. They also helped us stay within our budget and focus on the things that mattered most to us, and stayed close during the construction phase. They recommended a wonderful builder who made that phase pleasant. All in all, a project that could have been stressful was pleasant and a wonderful collaboration. **★★★★★ — aalsberg, Jan. 2014** > Koffka Phakos Design worked with us to redo and add to our home. They revamped our living room, completely redid our kitchen and added a bedroom and bathroom. > > We couldn't be more pleased with the design and with working with Adrian and Cynthia. They are amazingly talented, efficient, patient, and the nicest people ever. A complete pleasure to work with! **★★★★★ — David Collins, Dec. 2013** > Simply put, my experience with the Koffka / Phakos was Superb! > > The duo otherwise know as Adrian and Cynthia guided me from our initial meeting to our last walk through with style, taste and class. I came to them with a botched project and asked them to step in and take over. Not only did they take over, but they revealed through their design a home that I would never have imagined possible. They took a dilapidated 1920's Spanish and transformed it into a timeless classic that truly is the gemstone of the neighborhood, a mini jewel box compound. > > Collaborative and Sensible, Skilled and Caring, are just a few words I would use to describe my team. They introduced me to my contractor, a perfect fit not only for the job but for me personally. I don't think i could have asked for a better team to design, build and deliver a new home for me and my children! **★★★★★ — Amanda Schrier, Sept. 2013** > Koffka Phakos is the team to hire. > > Having worked with Adrian on a kitchen remodel, we knew he was the design partner we needed for our next project. Our objective was to renovate a 4000 square foot mid-century home with refined taste, but without breaking the bank. > > Adrian is an expert that delivers value far beyond the standard architect. He can analyze the situation, visualize the potential and formalize a plan, yes. But, he also has the aptitude for any challenge and exemplifies passion. Passion for beauty, passion for collaboration and passion for the working home. > > Throughout the design to construction process, Adrian would pause to ask not just about form, but function. Oftentimes, he understood our future needs better than we did. We now live in a home that offers serenity and beauty, while serving all of our growing family and entertaining needs. > > We are indebted to Adrian for mastering our mid-century remodel and look forward to working with him again in the future. **★★★★★ — jmisher, Sept. 2013** > Adrian and Cynthia were innovative, creative, attentive and thorough. We had a wonderful experience working with them and we have a wonderful house! **★★★★★ — markworkman, Sept. 2013** > Koffka Phakos was the perfect architectural team for us. They are extremely professional, wonderfully creative and they do what they say they will. They also are extremely easy to work with, and on a nearly year long project, that asset became so important to us all. > > On a skill level there work is impeccable in it's design approach. They really do have a spectacular ability to re-imagine what can be, and make changes to what every the project is. They both have unique strengths but their partnership ensures that the clients needs are met. > > We interviewed multiple architectural teams and K/P was heads above the other teams we spoke with. We liked that they thought outside of the box, and they brought exceptional ideas into their concept, and then worked closely with us to bring the ideas alive. > > We had very high standards on our project, and K/P over-delivered on virtually every level. They are a must add to any project! **★★★★★ — rovingcow, Sept. 2013** > We just completed a six month renovation on our home. It was a two phase project, focusing on two parts of our home. All in all, we remodeled around 2000 square feet, redesigned spaces, raised two ceilings and renovated five bathrooms. > > When we bought our home, the original owner had added on a lot of square footage but had made the layout very odd, with tandem rooms and no hallways. Cynthia and Adrian were able to straighten it all out, re-define all the spaces, and make it feel like it was actually supposed to be this way from the beginning. It takes huge skill, I think, to design a huge remodel so that it doesn't feel like a remodel....and they did this brilliantly. > > They worked with us the whole way from design thru completion. Early on we were going to add square footage and they quickly adapted to a new design when the addition became cost prohibitive. We were appreciative that they never pressured us to do the bigger remodel...especially when bigger would have benefited their wallet. And when things came up, like they do with any project, they took responsibility and corrected what needed to be corrected, quickly, without trying to argue the point...which was greatly appreciated. > > Renovation is stressful and we always felt like Cynthia had our backs. My wife and I are very happy with the renovation and are very appreciative of what they did for us and for our home. **★★★★★ — Cool Water, Aug. 2013** > I worked with Koffka Phakos on the renovation of a 1910 Craftsman that had gone unloved for about 60 years. > > We undertook a thorough and thoughtful design development process that transformed a hundred year-old kitchen, service porch, pantry, and breakfast room into an entertaining hub ready for the next 100 years. The design included the re-organization of the second-floor main bathroom and transforming a sewing room into a home office. The rear of the house was similarly transformed by the addition of a rear deck that extended the house into a generously-sized backyard from which it had seemed previously separated from. > > Adrian Koffka has amazing taste, and was a great steward for the renovation of a house located in an HPOZ (Historic Preservation Overlay Zone); the firm was very helpful in appearances before the HPOZ board when seeking approval for exterior door and window revisions at the side and rear of the house. > > The renovation construction took place over a seven month period. Adrian attended weekly site meetings and was always available to answer questions and advise on new approaches as things progressed on the project. Adrian provided invaluable advice on developing exterior and interior paint schemes as well. > > I give them my highest recommendation. **★★★★★ — jakereuther, Aug. 2013** > KP helped me completely renovate/redo my house in Hancock Park. From the very beginning they were creative, hard-working, respectful, and always on time. Honestly, I couldn't really ask for more. I would recommend them to anybody looking for great architects. **★★★★★ — chloebglass, Aug. 2013** > Koffka Phakos designed our 3,400 square foot home from blueprints to finish. They were with us every step of the way. We believed them to be collaborative, creative, helpful and such nice people. We are thrilled with the way our home turned out and thoroughly enjoyed the process of working with Adrian, Cynthia and their staff. ## Selected projects - [Canyon Estate](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/canyon-estate-pj-vj~7585693) - Location: Los Angeles, CA - Photos: 12 - Description: Nestled in the hills above Studio City, this 11,000sf home is designed as a series of linear volumes ascending the slope and creating varied views both towards the structure and from each space within to the wooded landscape. While the lower floor is dedicated to entertaining and connects seamlessly to the grassy yard, pool terrace and guest house, the volumes on the upper floors separate formal rooms from family spaces and bedrooms. Every public and private space within the house connects to th… - [Rebuilding After The Fires](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/rebuilding-after-the-fires-pj-vj~7656881) - Location: Altadena, CA - Photos: 4 - Description: This is one of our first projects coming out of the devastating Eaton and Palisades Fires that raged in Los Angeles County in January. Thousands of people, among them friends and former clients, lost their homes and everything they own. We are committed to assist in the rebuilding of homes and communities by giving advice to homeowners and sharing resources with community organizations and other construction professionals. Our goal is to help as best we can in the rebuilding efforts to create ne… - [Hilltop Estate](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/hilltop-estate-pj-vj~7338022) - Location: Los Angeles, CA - Photos: 16 - Description: Situated on top of a hill overlooking the San Fernando Valley, this exceptional estate sits at the end of a private road, surrounded by public parkland. The estate consists of a 7,000sf main residence and a two story carriage house. A sweeping stair hall opens to an open floor plan with spaces for entertaining, which in turn spill out to the pool area, landscape terraces and views to the mountains. The casual elegance of the property serves the owner's family oriented life style while also accom… - [A New Coastal Architecture for the Palisades](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/a-new-coastal-architecture-for-the-palisades-pj-vj~7822231) - Location: Los Angeles, CA - Photos: 5 - Description: Since the devastating fires of January 7, 2025, we have been working with owners to rebuild their homes. We have been afforded the opportunity to develop a vision for what the future of the affected communities will be. This flexible, multi-generational home of reasonable size draws its inspiration from the regional Modernism of the California Coast as developed in Communities lie Sea Ranch - [House in the Forest](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/house-in-the-forest-pj-vj~7493319) - Location: La Cañada Flintridge, CA - Photos: 28 - Description: When the new owners of a 1950ies time capsule home in La Canada first called us, they said that their house was “the one with the bear”. It had been on the news after a bear that had strolled down from the near forest had first taken a swim in a neighbor’s pool and then sought refuge on a treetop on this property. The tall redwood trees that scatter the area became a theme for the design of the house and landscape. Drawing inspiration from the Finnish modernist architect Alvar Aalto, who had des… - [Urban Retreat](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/urban-retreat-pj-vj~7134286) - Location: West Hollywood, CA - Photos: 12 - Description: This 1920s bungalow was re-conceived as a serene retreat in the middle of the bustling city. Bracketed by lush front and back yards, each space relates to the outdoors despite the tight urban lot. While the house retains it period character, the open contemporary interiors and landscape bring it into today's life style. The addition of a luxurious primary suite, guest house and spa complete this escape from the pressures of daily life. - [Bel Air Modern](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/bel-air-modern-pj-vj~236800) - Location: Los Angeles, CA - Photos: 10 - Description: Our clients purchased this 1960 modern home at the top of Bel Air from its original owners who had not altered the house in half a century. We added a new wing with a family room, pool bathroom and gym, enlarged the kitchen and opening it up to the new spaces and created more privacy for the bedroom wing. Much larger windows and sliding doors, custom built in Douglas Fir, flood the house with light, open it up to the stunning views and almost eliminate the separation from indoor to outdoor. A pa… - [Atwater Spanish Bungalow](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/atwater-spanish-bungalow-pj-vj~1307491) - Location: Los Angeles, CA - Photos: 18 - Description: When David called us to help him with his house, the project was in disarray. The small Spanish style bungalow originally built in 1926 had been stripped to the studs and partially demolished by a contractor who disappeared and left David to deal with the mess. Originally he asked us to help him get the construction back on track with a new team, but after making a few suggestions to improve the flow of the house, he decided it was worth taking a closer look. As most Los Angeles homes of this er… - [House for Everyone](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/house-for-everyone-pj-vj~7461594) - Location: Santa Monica, CA - Photos: 14 - Description: This contemporary house on a tight lot in Santa Monica, California, was designed for a client whose life circumstances changed during the course of the project, so much so that the project developed into a prototype urban single-family house for a post-pandemic world. There is a bedroom on the first floor that can be an office, guest room, or room for an older child. Also a second bedroom suite at the top of the stairs which also can be an office or child’s room, an open area with a terrace whic… - [Hancock Park Mediterranean](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/hancock-park-mediterranean-pj-vj~5566913) - Location: Los Angeles, CA - Photos: 12 - Description: The renovation of this 1920 Italianate Villa spanned over 12 years, and Koffka/Phakos accompanied the owners from the moment of purchase to its completion. The historic Hancock Park home was both refurbished and seamlessly expanded. A once-forgotten garden room that was dampened with mildew was transformed into a new library/office. The addition of a breakfast room and multiple powder rooms amount to 100 square feet of added living space. The owners sadly had to relocate to New York for business… - [Modern Hacienda](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/modern-hacienda-pj-vj~7282464) - Location: Los Angeles, CA - Photos: 10 - Description: This project started as a nondescript suburban house that had been added on over many years. We added a second story office and grand colonnade and took the entire house into a new direction for a family of lifestyle entrepreneurs. We followed the matriarchs direction to create a modern Hacienda with a series of courtyards expanding the living spaces to the outdoors. - [House On A Ravine](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/house-on-a-ravine-pj-vj~1492476) - Location: Los Angeles, CA - Photos: 18 - Description: This house at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac faces a natural ravine in the midst of Los Angeles. The clients asked us to conceive their home from the ground up as a bucolic oasis in a bustling city. Clean lines, lots of light and warm natural materials come together to form a peaceful setting to raise their young children. Landscape Design by Dan Garness, www.garness.net Photography by Spaceshots and John Ellis. - [Hollywood Hills Manor](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/hollywood-hills-manor-pj-vj~2303253) - Location: Los Angeles, CA - Photos: 15 - Description: While the original home was already stately at 4,000sf the addition of a 2,000sf wing gave this project a much stronger presence on the street. Taking cues from the original home and the vernacular of English manors we developed the language of steep roofs and dormers that give the house is distinct style. Hand-troweled stucco, copper gutters and a slate roof add to the old-world quality of this modern home. The interiors were rearranged to create a suite of open living spaces from indoors to ou… - [Hollywood Hills Addition](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/hollywood-hills-addition-pj-vj~6073950) - Location: Los Angeles, CA - Photos: 11 - Description: This second-story expansion of a 1920s Hollywood Hills home embraced the challenges of the hillside property and highlighted its lush greenery. Additions to the floor plan thoughtfully accommodated the steep triangular site, stepping up the hill and encouraging movement through the property’s changing grade. The finished home features views of the sprawling euphorbia tree through each of its meandering tiers. - [New Spanish Traditional](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/new-spanish-traditional-pj-vj~6661863) - Location: Los Angeles, CA - Photos: 6 - Description: The New Spanish Traditional is a newly constructed, 3-bedroom house, crafted in the spirit of a historic Los Angeles home. Our client requested a simpler iteration of a traditional Spanish Colonial, replicating the architectural character of an original home with cleanly reimagined interiors. Rather than maximizing square footage, the house consciously addresses the scale and size of its corner lot. The floor plan opens carefully towards the property with a pool and guesthouse, and remains cogni… - [Deck House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/deck-house-pj-vj~6661842) - Location: Los Angeles, CA - Photos: 6 - [Contemporary Barn](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/contemporary-barn-pj-vj~236847) - Location: Los Angeles, CA - Photos: 13 - Description: This extensive remodel and second-story addition of a previously nondescript home in the Sherman Oaks Hills expanded the house to 5,000 SF. The client, and entertainment executive, had envisioned the home to be a casual hang-out place for herself, her husband and two daughters, a retreat from her high-pressure work, but also a house suitable for large parties from backyard barbecues with friends to political fundraisers. As aesthetic guidance she gave us the motto or “Contemporary Barn." We crea… - [Spanish Courtyard](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/spanish-courtyard-pj-vj~177581) - Location: Los Angeles, CA - Photos: 8 - Description: The Spanish Courtyard House is a remodel and addition to a small Spanish-Style bungalow in Westwood. Existing bedrooms were opened up and became a large entertaining space, while a new bedroom wing and guest house surround a landscaped courtyard. Archways and beamed ceilings on the interior and textured stucco and clay tile on the exterior pay respect to this important regional style, while more the clean modern palette of cabinetry and fixtures identifies the house as a contemporary piece. 2300… - [Hancock Park Estate](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/hancock-park-estate-pj-vj~175994) - Location: Los Angeles, CA - Photos: 5 - Description: This 1920’s estate had been utterly destroyed in a prior remodel. The task was to remove most of the interior structure and to reconfigure it to both reflect the original style of the house and a modern way of life. The client was Dennis Smith Construction and Development who purchased the house as a development opportunity. The pool was added, as well as a second story guest unit above the garage. A third garage stall was opened to pool as a cabana. - [Pop Up House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/pop-up-house-pj-vj~177719) - Location: Santa Monica, CA - Photos: 7 - Description: The Pop Up House is an addition of a two story room in the center of a one story 1940's home in Santa Monica. The new space becomes the focus of the house with a den and dining space opening to the kitchen and a home office on the mezzanine. The addition provides natural ventilation with high windows on the West by drawing warm air to the top and capturing ocean breezes. Dual-glazed windows at the North let in ample light for work and play without solar heat gain. The addition was done with mini… [See all 22 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/koffka-phakos-design-pfvwus-pf~1988369628) ## Video - [Company video](https://player.vimeo.com/external/1161816274.m3u8?s=b449afea7e952447587acea884d0899ed60e5551&oauth2_token_id=1384357804) ## Frequently Asked Questions **Do you handle permitting, zoning, and regulatory approvals?** We have extensive experience navigating specific plans, design review boards, and mansionization ordinances in the Greater LA Area. Our expertise ensures a smooth process for permitting, zoning, and regulatory approvals for your project. **What types of projects do you specialize in (custom homes, remodels, additions)?** We specialize in sustainable solutions for single-family homes, encompassing both remodels and new construction. Our services include custom homes, home additions, extensions, and comprehensive home remodeling, all tailored to your unique needs. **Do you provide full-service architectural services through construction?** As a full-service architecture and interior design firm, we guide you through every stage of your project, from initial concept and architectural drawings to construction documentation. We aim to provide comprehensive support until your vision is realized. **Do you design fully custom homes?** Absolutely, we specialize in designing fully custom homes. Our approach focuses on creating unique, sustainable single-family residences tailored precisely to our clients' lifestyles, preferences, and the specific site conditions. **Do you have experience with luxury or high-end homes?** Operating in areas like West Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Santa Monica, and dealing with 'mansionization ordinances,' we frequently work on high-end and luxury single-family homes. Our designs prioritize quality, sustainability, and bespoke solutions for discerning clients. *FAQ content may be generated based on the Pro's Houzz profile and website.* ## Ideabooks - [Awnings](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/34753006/list/awnings) — 25 ideas - [Bathrooms](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/50823282/list/bathrooms) — 10 ideas - [Modern Railing](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/83718120/list/modern-railing) — 27 ideas - [Contemporary Craftsman](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/20822093/list/contemporary-craftsman) — 11 ideas - [Spanish Railing](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/70696040/list/spanish-railing) — 12 ideas - [Office Shelving](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/64429944/list/office-shelving) — 25 ideas - [Fireplaces](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/56997780/list/fireplaces) — 5 ideas - [Hoods](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/39090840/list/hoods) — 6 ideas - [wet rooms](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/43145581/list/wet-rooms) — 9 ideas - [Kitchen Cabinets](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/37362046/list/kitchen-cabinets) — 10 ideas - [Craftsman Colors](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/34510701/list/craftsman-colors) — 14 ideas - [Eaves](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/24329129/list/eaves) — 9 ideas - [Transitional Stair Railing](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/22662213/list/transitional-stair-railing) — 3 ideas - [Balcony Railings](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/22661580/list/balcony-railings) — 9 ideas - [Redwood Fence](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/21058466/list/redwood-fence) — 6 ideas - [Outdoor showers](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/19195596/list/outdoor-showers) — 7 ideas [See all 16 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/koffkaphakos) ## Community Q&A **Q: what are the stones used for backyard floor?** *(in Photo Questions)* Beautiful choice of tiles for backyard floor & front yard floor. We need some info on those tiles please. A: It's natural Bluestone **Q: beautiful! what color is the the wall?** *(in Photo Questions)* Beautiful A: Thank you! The wall color is Farrow&Ball All White No.2005 **Q: Wall question** *(in Photo Questions)* Is that tile or wallpaper? And what is the name? A: It is wallpaper the client selected. Most likely from this company: Walnut Wallpaper **Q: I love the flooring.** *(in Photo Questions)* What is the company and product used for the tiling? A: It is Bluestone, a natural material which you can obtain from vendors of natural stone. **Q: what color is the pergola please?!** *(in Photo Questions)* hi! I love this design could you please tell me what color the pergola is? So beautiful! A: Hi James, It is a semi solid stain from Cabot called "Driftwood Gray" https://www.cabotstain.com/colors-and-finishes/families/Semi-Solids-Colors.html **Q: I love the Spanish tile on the pool wall—May I have the mfr name?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: This was an Ann Sacks product but it has been discontinued. --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-09-26.*