--- title: "Geoffrey Holton and Associates - GHA — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/geoffrey-holton-and-associates-gha-pfvwus-pf~503472236 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~503472236.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Geoffrey Holton and Associates - GHA" category: ["Architects"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/a853c14808bf2c36_6552-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "Berkeley, California 94703, United States" latitude: 37.863 longitude: -122.2749 phone: "(510) 872-0726" website: http://ghadesign.net rating: 5 review_count: 10 best_of_houzz_awards: 2 followers: 30 last_updated: 2026-09-24 --- # Geoffrey Holton and Associates - GHA Original Houzz profile: [Geoffrey Holton and Associates - GHA](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/geoffrey-holton-and-associates-gha-pfvwus-pf~503472236) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Architects - **Location:** Berkeley, CA - **Serves:** San Francisco, Oakland, Berkeley, Richmond, Alameda, Martinez, San Pablo, Hercules, El Cerrito, Lafayette, Albany, Orinda, Pinole, Moraga, Emeryville, El Sobrante, Piedmont, Tara Hills, North Richmond, Rollingwood, Vine Hill, East Richmond Heights, Bayview, Montalvin, Canyon - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (10 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 2 awards (2023–2026), for Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Star Houzzer - Recommended on Houzz - 1,000 Ideabook Saves Geoffrey Holton & Associates (GHA) is a small Berkeley, California architecture firm with a diverse portfolio that focuses on single-family and multi-family residential design. Formed in 1995, we bring as of this writing a 24 year track record of success in the practice of architecture. We are committed to that practice as a broad based discipline and have also provided services ranging from visionary ecological urban design to fabrication of custom furniture and fixtures. Principal Architect Geoffrey Holton received an M.Arch degree in 1989 from U.C Berkeley and has practiced architecture since 1984. In addition, Geoff taught for more than ten years at U.C. Berkeley, California College of the Arts and Dalhousie University in Nova Scotia, Canada. Associate Architect Gretchen Ross received a B.Arch from Carnegie Mellon University in 2001, and has been with the firm since 2005. She has been licensed since 2012 and is integrally involved in all aspects of the work of the firm, from design, through technical production to construction administration. GHA strives to make work of functional beauty which expresses the unique character of our clients and their programs. We take pride in providing thorough, thoughtful service and delivering high quality, innovative work within time and budget constraints. Our work is based on careful understanding of site and context, and seeks an active partnership between building and landscape. We approach every project with ecological materials and practices in the forefront of our thinking; within project constraints we optimize daylighting, natural ventilation, water conservation, energy performance and carbon footprint. Our detailing and materials specifications draw upon renewable resources and reliable building science. Knowledge of and respect for construction methods and trades also characterizes our work. We cultivate collaboration among client, contractor and consultants to assure the success of the design and construction process. Based on years of experience, we bring to bear on each project an understanding of materials and attention to detail, from the technical and pragmatic to the tactile and sensual, regardless of scale and budget. GHA is a Bay Area Certified Green Business and a member of the U.S. Green Building Council ### Services Provided - Architectural Design - Building Design - Home Remodeling - Architectural Drawings - House Plans - Home Additions - Home Extensions - Kitchen Design - Sustainable Design - Kitchen Remodeling - Energy-Efficient Homes - 3D Rendering - Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) - Green Building - Bathroom Design - Space Planning - Universal Design - Multigenerational Homes - Drafting - Project Management - Handicap-Accessible Design - Basement Remodeling - Mudroom Design - Basement Design - Attic Conversion - Staircase Design - Deck Design - Garage Design - Landscape Plans - Prefab Houses - Custom Homes ### Areas Served - San Francisco - Oakland - Berkeley - Richmond - Alameda - Martinez - San Pablo - Hercules - El Cerrito - Lafayette - Albany - Orinda - Pinole - Moraga - Emeryville - El Sobrante - Piedmont - Tara Hills - North Richmond - Rollingwood - Vine Hill - East Richmond Heights - Bayview - Montalvin - Canyon ### Typical Job Cost $150,000 - 2.5 million ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Geoffrey Holton and Associates - GHA | | Address | Berkeley, California 94703, United States | | Phone | (510) 872-0726 | | Website | http://ghadesign.net | | License Number | C 23896 | | Followers on Houzz | 30 | **Social profiles:** - Blog — ghadesign.net ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Geoffrey Holton and Associates - GHA](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/geoffrey-holton-and-associates-gha-pfvwus-pf~503472236) - **Website:** http://ghadesign.net - **Phone:** (510) 872-0726 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - 2020 San Francisco Chronicle, Designer Profile Feature - 2019 Fine Homebuilding, Downsize Special Issue - 2014 Berkeley WaterWise Conference Presenter & Discussion Panel Member - 2011 Inaugural AIA East Bay Home Tour - 2010 AIA East Bay Exceptional Residential Design Awards - Merit Award - **Best of Houzz:** 2 awards (2023–2026), for Service. **Affiliations** - [U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC)](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/u-s-green-building-council-usgbc-pfvwus-pf~1797160658) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 10 reviews** *Aspect averages:* - Work Quality: 5.0 - Communication: 5.0 - Value: 5.0 ### All 10 reviews **★★★★★ — John Coveney, Dec. 2025** > GHA was a great team to work with. Not only did they come up with smart and creative solutions in the design phase- we love the covered balcony off our primary bedroom, but they expertly ran the gauntlet of Berkeley permit review. Highly recommended **★★★★★ — Katie Lefevre, Oct. 2025** > I had so much fun working with Geoff and Gretchen. > > It was easy to pick Geoff, because he was the first one to respond to my initial call, and he's kept it up ever since. Clear and prompt communication is a big deal! > > We had a verrrrrrry extended build but Geoff stuck with it and helped us push forward wherever he could. > > I think he encouraged us towards more fun/interesting ideas that have really emphasized the best aspects of the house, keeping it's historical charm but making it more lively and livable. Thank you Geoff! Thank you Gretchen! **★★★★★ — H Lester, Sept. 2022** > Our search for an innovative, green and sustainable architect led us to GHA. We are first time homeowners, and had limited experience of house remodeling or additions. Geoff Holton and Gretchen Ross were amazing to work with from first contact to the end of our project. We felt very comfortable working with them throughout the project due to their professionalism, competence, creativity and kindness. We really liked that their design was not only highly creative, but also incorporated sustainable practices and products. They took time to listen to our ideas and concerns, which led to great outcomes for our project. They patiently guided us through the construction process with our great builder, also recommended by GHA. We were very happy with the completed project and we have received lots of compliments from friends and neighbors on the transformation of our house. We enjoyed working with Geoff and Gretchen so much that we recommended them to our close friends who are now also happily working with them on a remodel project. **★★★★★ — HU-713455155, Jan. 2020** > I am a general contractor and when I decided to build my own home, my search for a local architect brought me to GHA. > Geoff and Gretchen were great to work with, listened thoughtfully to all of our requests and helped us to design a modern home that we constantly get compliments on! > Being a builder and client made for a unique experience and it could not have gone smoother. > I was so happy with GHA’s work on our home, I just recently hired them to design a “modern barn” workshop/garage for another property. > I’d recommend their services to anyone considering an architect in the Bay Area! **★★★★★ — Deborah Cohan, Jan. 2020** > I have only rave reviews for Geoffrey Holton and his colleague Gretchen Ross. It was a complex project -- a major renovation and addition to a home that was deemed historic by the city. I now have a gorgeous, comfortable, eco-home with fantastic indoor-outdoor flow. Friends and neighbors are utterly flabbergasted by the transformation. There were many logistical hoops and restrictions placed by the city because of its historical status. Geoff's design was incredibly creative, and he helped me navigate the sometimes treacherous permit approval process. Geoff and Gretchen listened to my preferences and needs and incorporated them willingly into the design, including some unusual requests like the ability to hang circus equipment from rafters ;) They were also very conscious of my financial constraints and helped me choose materials that were Earth-friendly and affordable. I also really appreciate the work they do for Habitat for Humanity and like both of them as people. They are both kind, grounded, approachable, flexible, and creative. In summary, I recommend Geoff and Gretchen enthusiastically and without reservation. Good luck with your project. **★★★★★ — Keira Armstrong, July 2019** > We worked with Geoff Holton and his team on a large house remodel and appreciated his experience, professionalism, and aesthetic. His firm worked with us on all phases of our project from drawings and permits, to construction and collaboration with our contractor. He had great advice for materials and finishes. Geoff worked well with our contractor, was a collaborative problem solver, and helped keep the project moving. His firm is committed to green building practices and helped us include greywater and rainwater in our project. Finally, we appreciate his creative and efficient use of small spaces to create an extremely warm and livable home. **★★★★★ — Joshua Kimmich, July 2019** > Geoffrey brings a few key features to a project. First is his eye for design and detail. Geoffrey brings a unique look the can help blend more modern building techniques with a classic feel we found very valuable on our project. Second, we found Geoffrey to be very good at designing around what the client wants to achieve as well as their budget. For us, the ladder was the most helpful and allowed us to keep the home owner pleased while also adjusting the design in cleaver ways to meet there budgets as the project progressed. **★★★★★ — Axiom Build, July 2019** > Geoff and his team were a pleasure to work with on this project. The final results exceeded expectations and the project is one we are quite glad to have in our portfolio. The partially vaulted ceiling was particularly challenging detail to pull-off given the age of the house. Geoff stayed creative through out entire process. I would highly recommend him, especially if you are looking for someone that understands sustainability and building performance. **★★★★★ — Michael Warch, Oct. 2017** > We hired Geoff for an extensive remodel of a non-descript, very plain one story home built in the 70’s, which was transformed into a beautiful, open modern space. We have many friends that are involved in real estate and they have commented that our remodel is one of the nicest that they have ever seen. > > Geoff and his team were a great fit for our project. Besides having a great modern design aesthetic, they were always professional and honest. The project was a fruitful creative partnership, with no budget surprises. > > They were pragmatic in guiding us and made excellent suggestions that allowed us to design and build the type of house we wanted within our budget. Geoff partnered really well with the builder; the builder commented that the architectural drawings were some of the best and most thorough he had ever worked with. Geoff was super reliable throughout the project and a real pleasure to work with. We have stayed in contact since the project and I would definitely use GHA again and have recommended him to numerous friends and co-workers. **★★★★★ — Mark G, Oct. 2017** > We worked with Geoffrey Holton and Associates on a remodel to transform the majority of the public spaces in our single story ranch home. We really appreciated Geoff's collaborative approach which made us feel like we were a big part of the team, and not just on the receiving end of an architect's vision. We found Geoff's style, thoughtful green design, and knowledge of sustainable building practices to be key to our project's success. Our "collaboration" resulted in a transformation of our cramped, dark, compartmentalized house into an open and inviting modernized home with new and satisfying connections to the outdoors. It was a pleasure working with Geoff and his team and we would not hesitate to work with him again on any project. ## Selected projects - [Santa Cruz Mountains Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/santa-cruz-mountains-residence-pj-vj~2737229) - Location: La Honda, CA - Photos: 14 - Description: This project presented us with an opportunity to further explore a design philosophy of regeneration and connection to the land. Our master plan proposes the strategic restoration of the topography and native flora of the house's ridge top site, brutally altered by a previous owner. This approach heals the site while providing an entry sequence to the house and privacy for new outdoor spaces. The ridge top restoration and passive solar orientation led to a house plan that embraces two outdoor ro… - [Queens Road House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/queens-road-house-pj-vj~2737216) - Location: Berkeley, CA - Photos: 14 - Description: In addition to a commitment to building green, our clients for this project shared with us three particular goals: To connect to a courtyard or garden; to take advantage of a spectacular Bay view; and to harvest rainfall as a precious resource. These simple ideas became the main formgivers for the house. We kept in mind the Roman Impluvium, an ancient courtyard building type whose roofs flow to a central cistern. In our case, the site suggested an open courtyard. The Impluvium unfolded to the vi… - [West Berkeley Infill House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/west-berkeley-infill-house-pj-vj~6535974) - Location: Berkeley, CA - Photos: 14 - Description: Our client approached us with a desire to construct a second dwelling on her double lot. The design process began with several quick models. The selected option included a subtle rotation of the building footprint and a building form which addressed solar access for neighboring properties. We shared our client’s interest in designing a building with an extremely simple footprint and barn-like volume. All wall & floor framing is on 24” spacing (rather than the conventional 16” spacing) to minimiz… - [North Berkeley Cottage / Barn](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/north-berkeley-cottage-barn-pj-vj~6538629) - Location: Berkeley, CA - Photos: 11 - Description: Our client for this project was a family of three living in a cottage of less than 600s.f. GHA studied 3 options for increasing living area on the very narrow lot. The final design converts the cottage to a single light-filled public space and includes a dining courtyard, covered breezeway, and a 2-story “barn” addition which houses 3 new bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and laundry. GHA worked closely with City agencies throughout the planning process to preserve the existing cottage, which was deemed a… - [Orinda Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/orinda-residence-pj-vj~2740038) - Location: Orinda, CA - Photos: 13 - Description: The owners of this modest 1970’s ranch house approached us with a desire to totally transform it on a moderate budget. Internally, we focused on public spaces while integrating a new 375 sf family room over the garage. We also worked with the owners to achieve a much more modern home, paying careful attention to material selection and their family’s use of interior space. The remodeled home includes a contemporary kitchen and a light-filled, open plan. Floor and ceiling planes modulate scale whi… - [Berkeley Flats Addition & Remodel](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/berkeley-flats-addition-and-remodel-pj-vj~4045681) - Location: Berkeley, CA - Photos: 13 - Description: Photos by Christian Klugmann, General Contractor Kimmich Construction, Structural Engineer St. Onge & Associates, Rainwater & Greywater Catchment Systems by DIG Cooperative - [Berkeley Flats Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/berkeley-flats-residence-pj-vj~2737199) - Location: Berkeley, CA - Photos: 13 - Description: At the site scale this renovation project creates a series of outdoor garden rooms both in front and in back, using inexpensive and recycled materials whenever possible. It also embodies a 17 year exploration of living sustainably on a small urban lot, pairing architecture with a variety of food producing gardens. On the interior, a tall stairwell floods public rooms with light while transom windows share the light with bedrooms. Details include cabinets of recycled fir and waxed recycled sheetm… - [Sebastopol House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/sebastopol-house-pj-vj~6538591) - Location: Sebastopol, CA - Photos: 9 - Description: Designed for a general contractor and his family, this project completely transformed a small ranch house, adding a kitchen wing and a second story and opening up existing spaces to light and natural ventilation. Rooflines of the addition were configured to maximize solar orientation for a future photovoltaic system. A concrete topping slab was added throughout, helping cool the house in summer through it’s thermal mass, and heating in winter with radiant hot water. General Contractor Gidon Reli… - [North Berkeley Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/north-berkeley-residence-pj-vj~2737209) - Location: Berkeley, CA - Photos: 10 - Description: Located in the North Berkeley flats, this 750 sf addition to an existing residence, adds a new office, laundry area, pantry and 2nd floor guest suite. The client's goals included harmonizing with the existing 90 year old cottage while also creating a distinctly modern addition. The design makes use of passive solar heating and cooling techniques. Carefully placed windows both preserve privacy on the small lot, and provide targeted natural daylighting. Other green components of the project includ… - [Danville Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/danville-residence-pj-vj~2740029) - Location: Danville, CA - Photos: 4 - Description: Our clients for this project had a modest but realistic budget, and a clear vision for an ecologically minded contemporary remodel. We collaborated with an engineer to open up the interior of their modest 1970’s ranch house, and strategically introduced daylight using exposed structural steel. In addition to a ceiling fan in the dining area, the project included a whole-house fan located in the attic, which allows efficient overnight cooling during hot weather and minimizes use of air-conditioni… - [Oakland Artists Studio](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/oakland-artists-studio-pj-vj~2740034) - Location: Oakland, CA - Photos: 6 - Description: Set within an unusual and tightly constrained urban lot, this project makes use of a very simple volume to introduce light and views into affordable studio space for two working artists. Collaborating closely with a general contractor from the project's inception, we set in place guidelines to assure delivery of the project for just over $100 per square foot. Strategies toward this end include the simple volume, daylighting, use of recycled and salvaged materials, and a rigorous application of O… - [Oakland Hills Addition](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/oakland-hills-addition-pj-vj~6538759) - Location: Oakland, CA - Photos: 10 - Description: This modest-budget project involved adding bedrooms for two young children. By thinking carefully about the project in section we were able to stack two uniquely tailored bedrooms within a new 1.5 story stairwell. This creates a bonus basement playroom and connects the house to a productively farmed half-acre back yard. General Contractor Southface Construction Inc., Structural Engineer Ozeryansky Engineering - [Mill Valley Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mill-valley-residence-pj-vj~2740030) - Location: Mill Valley, CA - Photos: 7 - Description: Photography courtesy 2017 MLS listing, General Contractor W.B. Elmer, Structural Engineer iAssociates Inc. - [Oakland Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/oakland-residence-pj-vj~2740035) - Location: Oakland, CA - Photos: 7 - Description: Photography by Open Homes Photography, General Contractor Southface Construction Inc., Structural Engineer Komendant Engineering - [Berkeley House Lift](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/berkeley-house-lift-pj-vj~2740024) - Location: Berkeley, CA - Photos: 4 - Description: This project has presented us the opportunity to serve clients with a small budget and excess of creativity and resourcefulness. The thorough and thoughtful approach of these owner builders to green building has made them a pleasure to work with. The client's commitment to building green began with a decision to salvage their existing home in spite of its lengthy list of failings and infirmities. This fundamental commitment to treat the existing home with respect has led to a richer process and… - [Berkeley Studio](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/berkeley-studio-pj-vj~2740026) - Location: Berkeley, CA - Photos: 5 - Description: This backyard studio allows the owners to make full use of their compact Berkeley lot. Carefully sited outside the drip line of native oak and buckeye trees, the studio uses a custom barn door on inexpensive rolling hardware to expand work areas outdoors under the trees. A translucent interior wall separates wood shop and ceramic studio while allowing the spaces to share both light and a sense of space, while a salvaged interior window allows dual use of a single sink. © Photography by M. Kibbey… - [West Oakland Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/west-oakland-residence-pj-vj~2740042) - Location: Oakland, CA - Photos: 7 - Description: This extensive remodel and addition to a West Oakland Victorian home is located in a challenging historic district. This required us to work within design guidelines and with neighborhood historic advocates. The design focuses on re-use and reinvestment in existing housing stock, and transformation of a traditional building envelope to accommodate a number of sustainable design strategies. Sustainable strategies include the use of passive solar and thermal mass, retractable shading for solar con… [See all 17 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/geoffrey-holton-and-associates-gha-pfvwus-pf~503472236) --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-09-24.*