--- title: "The Kaufman Collaborative — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/the-kaufman-collaborative-pfvwus-pf~2114181236 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~2114181236.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "The Kaufman Collaborative" category: ["Architects"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/4a030d720310bccd_3445-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "Carlsbad, California 92009, United States" latitude: 33.0954 longitude: -117.2619 phone: "(760) 971-5554" website: http://www.tkcarchitects.com rating: 5 review_count: 22 years_in_business: 25 best_of_houzz_awards: 1 followers: 54 last_updated: 2026-08-26 --- # The Kaufman Collaborative > Highly-Rated Architecture Firm Based in San Diego & Orange Co, CA Original Houzz profile: [The Kaufman Collaborative](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/the-kaufman-collaborative-pfvwus-pf~2114181236) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Architects - **Location:** Carlsbad, CA - **Serves:** San Diego, Oceanside, Escondido, Carlsbad, Vista, San Marcos, La Costa, Encinitas, Camp Pendleton South, Solana Beach, Cardiff By The Sea, Del Mar, Hidden Meadows, Fairbanks Ranch, Rancho Santa Fe, Del Mar Heights San Diego, Houston, Orange County, Ranch Santa Fe, Texas, Utah - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (22 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 1 award (2021), for Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Houzz Pro Software User - Star Houzzer - 5 Star Houzzer - Recommended on Houzz - 25 Ideabook Saves - Locally owned - Online consultation - 25 years in business - Hired on Houzz ### Business highlights - Online consultation - 25 years in business - Locally owned - 10 Hires on Houzz Welcome to The Kaufman Collaborative Architects—where creativity, craftsmanship, and client satisfaction converge. We are thrilled to have you explore our work and vision. At The Kaufman Collaborative, we specialize in designing exceptional custom homes and transformative renovations, with the ultimate goal of enhancing our clients' lives. Our philosophy is to deliver imaginative, functional, and sustainable design solutions that are not only visually stunning but also mindful of budget and environmentally friendly. With over 25 years of award-winning experience, we take great pride in cultivating lasting relationships with our clients, many of whom return for multiple projects. From the first consultation to the final touches, we are deeply committed to making your experience seamless and enjoyable. We are actively involved in every stage of the process, from design to construction, ensuring that your vision is realized with precision and care. Our hands-on approach guarantees that your plans are executed exactly as you envision, with attention to every detail. Above all, we want you to feel inspired by the process and thrilled by the outcome. Designing a home is an exciting journey, and our ultimate goal is for you to feel that your home is not just a place, but a reflection of who you are—a place where you can truly say, "I am home." Services Provided Custom Homes, Home Extensions, Home Remodeling, Home Additions, House Plans, Space Planning, Architectural Design, Architectural Drawings, Bathroom Design, Building Design, Deck Design, Energy-Efficient Homes, Floor Plans, Home Office Design, Areas Served California and Texas California: Camp Pendleton South, Cardiff By the Sea, Carlsbad, Del Mar, Del Mar Heights San Diego, Encinitas, Escondido, Fairbanks Ranch, Hidden Meadows, La Costa, Oceanside, Ranch Santa Fe, Rancho Santa Fe, San Diego, San Marcos, Solana Beach, Vista, Bay Area, Santa Clara County, Eureka & Northern California Texas: Houston metropolitan area, Austin, Dallas/Ft. Worth ### Services Provided - Architectural Design - Building Design - Home Remodeling - Architectural Drawings - Custom Homes - House Plans - Home Additions - Home Extensions - Energy-Efficient Homes - Floor Plans - 3D Rendering - Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) - Bathroom Design - Space Planning - Guesthouse Design & Construction - Pool House Design & Construction - Drafting - Outdoor Kitchen Design - Tiny House Construction - Staircase Design - Deck Design - Garage Design - Landscape Plans - Laundry Room Design - Custom Home ### Areas Served - San Diego - Oceanside - Escondido - Carlsbad - Vista - San Marcos - La Costa - Encinitas - Camp Pendleton South - Solana Beach - Cardiff By The Sea - Del Mar - Hidden Meadows - Fairbanks Ranch - Rancho Santa Fe - Del Mar Heights San Diego - Houston - Orange County - Ranch Santa Fe - Texas - Utah ### Typical Job Cost $300,000 - 10 million Custom design for new home construction as well as renovation and remodeling of existing residential structures. ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | The Kaufman Collaborative | | Address | Carlsbad, California 92009, United States | | Phone | (760) 971-5554 | | Website | http://www.tkcarchitects.com | | Years in business | 25 | | Followers on Houzz | 54 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/tkcarchitects/ - X (Twitter) — https://x.com/tkcarchitects - LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-e-kaufman-6770ab2/ - Blog — https://www.instagram.com/thekaufmancollaborative/ ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [The Kaufman Collaborative](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/the-kaufman-collaborative-pfvwus-pf~2114181236) - **Website:** http://www.tkcarchitects.com - **Phone:** (760) 971-5554 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - Registered Architect in the States of California, Texas, and Utah. - **Best of Houzz:** 1 award (2021), for Service. ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 22 reviews** *Aspect averages:* - Work Quality: 50.0 - Communication: 50.0 - Value: 50.0 ### Featured Review **★★★★★ — Robert Evans, Feb. 2020** > We highly recommend Rick Kaufman and his company, The Kaufman Collaborative. From March through September, 2019, we worked with Rick to design extensive renovations to our home. The construction is currently underway; completion is expected in April, 2020. Since we planned to move exterior walls and remove a load bearing interior wall, Rick hired a structural engineer and coordinated his design with both the engineer and general contractor/interior designer. Although working on a much more extensive and expensive new-build in California, Rick ensured that our Texas project received all needed attention in a timely manner and within budget. He is creative, professional, personable and flexible making suggestions to improve the end result, and willing to listen to our concerns and preferences. We were more than pleased with his attention to detail and the resulting plans. ### All 22 reviews **★★★★★ — Susan Fruit Interiors, July 2022** > I am a licensed ASID interior designer and a residential remodeling contractor and have had the good fortune and pleasure of working with Rick Kaufman, architect on several major collaborative projects over the past few years involving both residential remodeling as well as new builds in and around the Houston area and for a sprawling Texas ranch home outside Dallas. Each project was challenging and complex and required extensive architectural expertise. In each instance, Rick Kaufman was selected over other architects based on his comprehensive architectural knowledge and insight, incisive creative problem solving abilities, remarkable work ethic and his reputation for meeting and exceeding client expectations. His clients appreciate his friendly, easily approachable personality and his willingness to genuinely listen to them. > Rick Kaufman is a visionary architect who is truly outstanding in his field based on his extraordinary talent and technical and artistic skills. He is keenly intuitive and possesses that rare ability to listen deeply and profoundly and respond sensitively to his clients’ needs and desires, never pushing or imposing his own ideas but thoughtfully incorporating them into creative architectural solutions that are unique, desirable and remarkable. His clients learn early on in the design process that they can rely completely on his insight, wisdom and guidance and know that they can trust his vast experience and expertise to produce amazing results. Rick possesses that rare ability to quickly assess and comprehend what a client wants and needs often before they can communicate it themselves. This skill is what makes him such an extraordinary architect and a genuine pleasure to work with. He is everything a client could want or need in an architect. > I highly recommend Rick Kaufman of The Kaufman Collaborative to anyone looking for a qualified, professional architect for their home renovation or new construction project. > > Susan Fruit ASID, GMR, CAPS > Susan Fruit Interiors > Houston, Texas **★★★★★ — Elkayam Design, June 2021** > I’m an Interior Designer in San Diego, CA and I’ve recently had the opportunity to work with Rick @ The Kaufman Collaborative. We’ve been working together on a very extensive remodel and the relationship has proven to be very positive. Rick is extremely well versed in understanding design from an architectural standpoint and has knowledge as well as an immense amount of experience in working with engineers, the city, Home Owners Association's, and understanding specific codes necessary for this level of remodel. His experience speaks volumes and together we’ve managed to solve each challenging aspect that has been brought to the table. I sincerely appreciate working with someone who possesses these strengths and would highly recommend him for any new construction or remodel project. **★★★★★ — JSBA Architecture & Planning, June 2020** > I have known Rick professionally for three years and I am so amazed at the quality of his work and his attention to detail. He has helped me be a better designer and more aware of the possibilities that good design brings to our lives. When I have a difficult design problem I like to discuss it with Rick and have my eyes opened to the possibilities! **★★★★★ — Hulton Construction, Feb. 2020** > It has been a great pleasure working with Rick Kaufman. Rick has created a master piece with the Carlsbad project, and can deliver the details that I need as a general contractor to build. **★★★★★ — JPBLA, Inc., Feb. 2020** > I have worked on several projects with Rick over the years and I have found his designs to be some of the most creative and unique I have seen. He is a highly talented architect. **★★★★★ — GARY HENSCHEL, Feb. 2020** > I am a fellow tradesman in the construction industry (supply side). I work hand in hand with contractors, architects and engineers on a daily basis and can attest to you that not all professions are created equal. Working with Richard Kaufman is a pleasure because he is incredibly knowledgeable and detail orientated. His projects run smoothly because he is really good at anticipating issues. His ideas are also very original and his projects are rarely "me too" style. The thing I like best about Richard is the fact that he is an honest "salt of the earth" gentleman who is kind to those who work his projects while holding his customers interest as priority one. **★★★★★ — Aaron Chang Ocean Art Gallery, Oct. 2016** > It has been such a pleasure interacting with and working with Rick. He is a true professional, as well as an expert in his craft. We share a mutual client, and thus we have had the pleasure of getting to know him through that project. His passion for his work, along with his kind and friendly demeanor, make him a truly exceptional colleague. We're very happy to be working alongside him. **★★★★★ — prowess4u2, Sept. 2016** > Rick was the first person I interviewed for the room addition on my house and I knew instantly he understood my vision. He filed my permits, drew up all the achitectural blue prints, and visited the job site while under construction. He was always professional with my contractor as well as myself! My job was rather small (creating a mother-in-law suite) in comparison to his other ones. I highly recommend his company! You will not be disappointed! **★★★★★ — mreinmi318, June 2016** > Rick Kaufman is a true professional and a great architect. He has a clear vision about how to do the best job for his clients and a great talent for design. He is creative, honest, budget-conscience, and listens to what his clients are telling him. He is a genuine individual and a gentleman at all times. His designs are unique, creative and show real thought. He tries his best to work with the client as well as the contractors and sub-contractors on the job. Anyone would benefit from hiring his firm. **★★★★★ — HU-380288, June 2016** > Rick is a consummate professional and really an "artist" in the best sense of the word. In this industry we throw around terms like "out of the box" and "visionary" but this is a person who truly makes every project spectacular, because he applies his gifts to bring to life the unique dreams and vision of his clients. Rick is an architect with talent, passion and know-how to get the job done. **★★★★★ — Christine Done, June 2016** > I had the pleasure of working with Rick Kaufman for a few years, and enjoyed the experience very much. I found Rick to be creative, innovative, hardworking and generous with his time. Additionally, he always had the client’s interest and budget in mind. I wholeheartedly recommend hiring H&K Architects for your new build, home renovation and/or addition. You will be getting an excellent creative and knowledgeable team to help you from conception, through permitting and construction. **★★★★★ — tfinch065, June 2016** > An Architect myself, I have worked with Rick Kaufman on numerous commercial and interiors projects at a previous firm. His diligence, professionalism and his design integrity contribute to realizing project objectives in a collaborative relationship. **★★★★★ — janekq, June 2016** > We hired Rick to design a room addition of approximately 340 sq. ft. which would enlarge our kitchen and family room and allow enough space to put in a pool table. I also had a specific request to include a large window above the French doors leading out to the patio that would accommodate a large stained glass piece. Rick came up with a great design that exceeded all our expectations. We are so pleased with the end result. Rick always answered my phone calls, emails or texts within a timely manner. This was our first remodeling project, and he patiently listened to what we wanted and provided us with guidance and many great ideas. His knowledge, experience and professionalism was evident at every meeting. He provided all of the plans and submitted them to the city for approval. He met all deadlines and dealt with the city or our general contractor when questions or problems arose. He came by often to check on the progress of the construction. We are so pleased with our new kitchen and family room. We would highly recommend him to anyone looking for someone to design a remodel. He was wonderful to work with. **★★★★★ — Bobby Jones, June 2016** > I and my clients have always had a great experience with Rick Kaufman on all our construction projects in San Diego. Rick is very creative, pleasant and professional. I highly recommend Rick to help out with anyone's architectural needs. After working with Rick for years I consider him a friend ! > > Best, > > Bobby Jones **★★★★★ — Ann Packard, June 2016** > I have worked with Rick Kaufman for more than 20 years and highly recommend him for any design work you may have. Rick is innovative in his design vision, creating design concepts that clearly shows his depth and understanding of each project . He considers the clients needs, wants and the boundaries of the proposed project - offering detailed options to complete a successful design and actual product. **★★★★★ — patrick dougherty, June 2016** > I worked with this architectural firm on a $2,000,000 plus project in Rancho Santa Fe as the general contractor. the residence was over 8,000 s.f. and the information flow before and during the project was excellent. I would highly recommend them for their professionalism and their attention to architectural details. > > sincerely, Patrick E. Dougherty, CEO for Steigerwald-Dougherty, Inc. **★★★★★ — Mike Welch, May 2016** > I worked with Rick for 20 years and have always been amazed at his creative flair. With an eye to cost effective solutions that go far beyond the norm, he is honest and creative. **★★★★★ — Randy Johnson, May 2016** > I have admired Rick Kaufman's work for many years. He is extremely talented and creative. I know him personally as a man of integrity who will always go the extra mile in every project he undertakes. I would highly recommend Rick without hesitation. **★★★★★ — HU-453459, May 2016** > Rick is a very talented designer and competent Architect. I have known him for over 35 years and he is very congenial to work with and has a positive working attitude. His work is wonderful. **★★★★★ — confortodennis, May 2016** > Rick is an amazingly talented architect and designer. His skill sets are without parallel in the industry. The work is stunning and his detail work and knowledge is impressive. > > Rick take whatever ideas you might have and add tremendous value to your own thinking and your own vision of what it is you're trying to create. > > If you search the world over and try to find a more talented architect and designer than Rick you're just not gonna find anyone that is better. > > It is without hesitation that I can give my very highest recommendation to a true professional who will always deliver beyond your own expectations. > > If you have any need to have more information about this incredibly talented individual please do not hesitate to call me directly . > > Sincerely, > > Dennis Conforto > Chairman & CEO > National HouseCheck Corporation > > Cell: 619-322-2481 > Dennis.Conforto@HouseCheck.com **★★★★★ — Castillero Design & Construction, March 2016** > I have been in the residential construction business for 35 years and recently started working with Gary Harcourt and Rick Kaufman. I find them both to be very creative and easy to work with. I am looking forward to future projects with them. ## Selected projects - [Carlsbad Beach House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/carlsbad-beach-house-pj-vj~3270974) - Location: Carlsbad, CA - Photos: 35 - Description: This is a major renovation of a 1950’s beach house 40’ above the Pacific Ocean. Working initially with Harcourt & Kaufman Architects, and then through The Kaufman Collaborative, only three walls of the existing garage were kept to maintain current setbacks. The 9.500 sf biophilic structure includes a lower-level theater, playroom, wine room, and courtyard in addition to a 35’ H soaring interior atrium flanked by a folding window wall system. The flowing open floor plan is organized to reflect th… - [Rancho Cielo Estate](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/rancho-cielo-estate-pj-vj~3267936) - Location: Rancho Santa Fe, CA - Photos: 9 - Description: This Tuscan/Mediterranean residence gently rests on the top of a large hill and provides breathtaking 360° views ranging from Mexico to Catalina Island. The main hallway, or "Street" is only 7' wide and separates public and private functions. At one end of the Street is a small wine tasting room, with the exterior stone bleeding into the interior space. - [House on Granados Avenue](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/house-on-granados-avenue-pj-vj~3267747) - Location: Solana Beach, CA - Photos: 10 - Description: This new residence is located in a sleepy beach community just North of San Diego. The curvilinear motif was inspired by the California coastline. - [House in Old Del Mar](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/house-in-old-del-mar-pj-vj~470649) - Location: Del Mar, CA - Photos: 5 - Description: Nestled in the rolling hills of old Del Mar, the owners of this Craftsman two-story addition/remodel wanted a home with lots of space to raise their young children. Although the original home had “good bones” it lacked curb appeal as well as a workable floor plan suitable to their needs. We worked diligently with the owners to create a beautiful street elevation in Craftsman/Contemporary style. Additionally, we opened up the claustrophobic interior spaces to create a unique sculptural environmen… - [Stratford Drive](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/stratford-drive-pj-vj~3270842) - Location: Encinitas, CA - Photos: 13 - [Olivenhain Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/olivenhain-residence-pj-vj~472252) - Location: Olivenhain, CA - Photos: 8 - Description: The owners of this two-story remodel had a problem. They needed two different houses: one small and intimate house for the two of them and their youngest daughter and a larger, friendlier home to accommodate the 25-30 extended family members who converge for week-long visits 3-4 times a year. We designed the rooms for double duty. The art studio converts into a dorm room for the grandkids. The kitchen/dining/family room combine into one large space that feels intimate with 3-4 people but does no… - [House in Orange Park Acres](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/house-in-orange-park-acres-pj-vj~470203) - Location: Orange Park Acres, CA - Photos: 31 - Description: This contemporary home was designed based upon passive solar principles, utilizing the angles of the sun and direction of prevailing winds. Located on a 1-acre corner lot with limited views in an equestrian community, it is comprised of five pavilions that focus on an interior courtyard. On one side, a staggered 8-car garage of varying height displays vintage cars to the courtyard and Great Room. Upon entering the foyer, one sees a curved floating wall hovering a foot above the stained concrete… - [House on Noma Lane](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/house-on-noma-lane-pj-vj~472301) - Location: Encinitas, CA - Photos: 13 - Description: Nestled among the coastal sage on an Encinitas hillside overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this 6200 sf two-story residence was designed to take advantage of the spectacular views. The clay tile roofing beautifully complements the surrounding eucalyptus trees, and the house cascades down towards the south to follow the slope of the hillside while focusing the view to the northwest. A negative-edge pool spills towards the freeway below and is lit at night. The massing of the structure makes this one… - [Fallbrook Pueblo](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/fallbrook-pueblo-pj-vj~472323) - Location: Fallbrook, CA - Photos: 25 - Description: In 2007 San Diego County experienced one of the worst fires in it’s history. The Rice Canyon fire destroyed a 1962 Ranch-style home overlooking a beautiful citrus orchard. Rising from the ashes, the owner desired to build a fire resistant home out of recycled polystyrene and concrete (Performwall). He also wanted it to be the most sustainable and energy efficient residential structure in the County. The result is a beautiful open plan structure that exceeds minimum energy requirements by more th… - [Rancho Conforto](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/rancho-conforto-pj-vj~3270654) - Location: Rancho Santa Fe, CA - Photos: 10 - [The Garrett Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/the-garrett-residence-pj-vj~472270) - Location: Escondido, CA - Photos: 10 - Description: The Garrett Residence sits on top of a wooded hill near Escondido complete with commanding views of Mt. Palomar to the north and San Diego County to the South. The owners wanted to the building to take advantage of these views while employing passive solar design to maximize the use of the sun. Solar panels (photovoltaic and thermal) rest on top of the garage. A strong central axis defines the main gathering space, and the soaring ceiling is supported by the trunk of an 18” diameter eucalyptus t… - [Two-story ADU](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/two-story-adu-pj-vj~7575155) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 15 - Description: Located in a heavily wooded area in San Diego County, the owners requested a two-story ADU with amenities to take advantage of the surrounding views. We provided covered parking, bicycle storage, an upper deck on the second floor, and a South-facing exterior patio. - [Temecula Barn Conversion](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/temecula-barn-conversion-pj-vj~7575409) - Location: Temecula, CA - Photos: 11 - Description: This 1,200 sf ADU is actually a converted barn. The Owners had recently bought several acres in the Temecuila countryside and needed a place for visiting friends and family. The existing barn was essentially unused, and the perfect place for the accessory dwelling unit. The unique interiors include a mezzanine workspce that overlooks the great room below. A tall atrium connects the mezzanine and creates a spacious environment for gracious living. - [The Dolphin Beach House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/the-dolphin-beach-house-pj-vj~474546) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 5 - Description: This is a conceptual study for a beach house in Carlsbad, Ca., located where the dolphins surf and play. Sitting 100 feet above the blue Pacific Ocean the inspiration for this home are the crashing waves below. The existing home was built in the early 1960’s with several subsequent additions throughout the years. The owners wanted something new; a fresh look that would include a gallery at the entrance to display the wife’s metal sculptures. For this reason turned copper metal was used on the ro… - [Coronado Island](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/coronado-island-pj-vj~3267563) - Location: Coronado, CA - Photos: 3 [See all 15 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/the-kaufman-collaborative-pfvwus-pf~2114181236) ## Video - [Company video](https://player.vimeo.com/external/912344382.m3u8?s=084b535c0257ee638ff766ab6ec1bb8116562d6d&oauth2_token_id=1384357804) ## Frequently Asked Questions **What types of projects do you specialize in (custom homes, remodels, additions)?** We specialize in designing exceptional custom homes and transformative renovations. Our portfolio includes major additions and remodels, like the Carlsbad Beach House and Del Mar Residence, alongside new custom builds such as Fallbrook Pueblo. We focus on creating spaces that truly enhance our clients' lives. **How do you help clients design within their construction budget?** Absolutely. Our philosophy is to deliver imaginative, functional, and sustainable design solutions that are not only visually stunning but also mindful of your budget. We work closely with you from the outset to ensure your vision aligns with your financial goals, making the process seamless and enjoyable. **Do you provide full-service architectural services through construction?** Yes, we provide full-service architectural services. We are actively involved in every stage of the process, from the initial design concepts all the way through construction. Our hands-on approach ensures that your vision is realized with precision and care, and that plans are executed exactly as you envision. **Do you design fully custom homes?** Yes, designing fully custom homes is a core part of our expertise. Our Houzz profile highlights our specialization in 'exceptional custom homes,' and our website showcases unique projects like the Fallbrook Pueblo and Rancho Cielo Estate, each tailored precisely to our clients' desires and site conditions. **Do you specialize in specific architectural styles?** We embrace a variety of styles, often blending contemporary elements with regional influences. For instance, we designed the Fallbrook Pueblo as a 'pueblo contemporary' residence and the Rancho Cielo Estate as 'Tuscan contemporary.' We also created the Granados Residence with a 'curvilinear motif inspired by the California coastline.' Our designs are always tailored to your vision. *FAQ content may be generated based on the Pro's Houzz profile and website.* --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-26.*