--- title: "RLB Architecture — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/rlb-architecture-pfvwus-pf~562518819 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~562518819.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "RLB Architecture" category: ["Architects"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/c063089601536a96_9762-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "15200 W Sunset Blvd., Ste. 201, Pacific Palisades, California 90272, United States" latitude: 34.0787 longitude: -118.5422 phone: "(310) 459-0244" website: http://www.rlbarchitecture.com rating: 5 review_count: 14 license_verified: true followers: 156 last_updated: 2026-11-08 --- # RLB Architecture > LA Westside, CA Based, Innovative & Award-Winning Architecture Firm Original Houzz profile: [RLB Architecture](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/rlb-architecture-pfvwus-pf~562518819) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Architects - **Location:** Pacific Palisades, CA - **Serves:** Los Angeles, Bel Air, Venice, Van Nuys, Santa Monica, North Hollywood, Woodland Hills, Encino, Canoga Park, Sherman Oaks, West Hills, Culver City, Studio City, Tarzana, West Hollywood, Brentwood Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Calabasas, Pacific Palisades, Lake Balboa, Winnetka, Marina del Rey, Topanga, Playa Vista, Hidden Hills, Hancock Park, Playa del Rey, Reseda, Sun Valley, Valley Village - **Verified License:** Yes - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (14 reviews) ## About ### Houzz Badges - Houzz Pro Software User - Star Houzzer - 5 Star Houzzer - Recommended on Houzz - 1,000 Ideabook Saves - Weekend consultations - Award winning - Published nationally - Verified Hires ### Business highlights - Weekend consultations - Award winning - Published nationally - 1 Verified Hire At RLB Architecture we partner, educate and endeavor to protect our clients’ best interest through the entire decision-making design and construction process. Our creative and streamline problem solving approach leads to a satisfying quality outcome that also saves our clients’ money, time and frustration. Our core values include: • Caring/Protecting—We protect our clients because their best interests come first. • Leadership—We conduct the entire project team to produce a successful outcome. The principal, Richard Blumenberg, is involved in all phases of the project. • Craftsmanship—We produce highly detailed drawings that allow the contractor to bid and build the project right the first time. • Problem-solving—We observe the construction of the contractor and endeavor to make sure that the work is in conformance with our drawings to achieve a high-quality result. We are proactive to respond quickly to contractor’s questions and needs which results in money and time savings by the client and contractor. • Partnering—With our expertise, we educate our clients while being active- listeners so they are comfortable and trust every decision that’s being made on the way. RLB Architecture was established in 1997 by Richard Blumenberg, AIA, LEED AP, after a 16-year partnership in Choate Associates. He is the architect of over 150 projects ranging from residential remodels/additions, to new homes, and commercial projects. Richard's career in architecture began by creating award winning senior citizen housing while serving in the Volunteers in Service to America (VISTA) program. Experience was acquired in hotel and commercial projects while working at Maxwell Starkman AIA, and Associates. He is a community leader in Pacific Palisades, where he lives and is the consulting architect of 5 homeowners associations, on the Land Use Committee of the Community Council, and is Chair of the Board of the Pacific Palisades Chamber of Commerce. His work has been published in Luxe, House Beautiful, California Homes, Los Angeles Home and Décor, and the Los Angeles Home Book. ### Services Provided - Architectural Design - Building Design - Home Remodeling - Architectural Drawings - House Plans - New Home Construction - Home Additions - Home Extensions - Sustainable Design - Kitchen Design - Kitchen Remodeling - Floor Plans - Energy-Efficient Homes - Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) - Bathroom Design - Green Building - Guesthouse Design & Construction - Universal Design - Multigenerational Homes - Pool House Design & Construction - Home Restoration - Drafting - Historic Building Conservation - Project Management - Handicap-Accessible Design - Outdoor Kitchen Design - Basement Remodeling - Basement Design - Mudroom Design - Garage Design - Deck Design - Laundry Room Design - Home Gym Design & Construction - Rooftop Deck Installation - Custom Home - Elevator Design - Home Theater Design - Media Room Design - Spec Home Design ### Areas Served - Los Angeles - Bel Air - Venice - Van Nuys - Santa Monica - North Hollywood - Woodland Hills - Encino - Canoga Park - Sherman Oaks - West Hills - Culver City - Studio City - Tarzana - West Hollywood - Brentwood Los Angeles - Beverly Hills - Calabasas - Pacific Palisades - Lake Balboa - Winnetka - Marina del Rey - Topanga - Playa Vista - Hidden Hills - Hancock Park - Playa del Rey - Reseda - Sun Valley - Valley Village ### Typical Job Cost $250,000 - 10,000,000 ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | RLB Architecture | | Address | 15200 W Sunset Blvd., Ste. 201, Pacific Palisades, California 90272, United States | | Phone | (310) 459-0244 | | Website | http://www.rlbarchitecture.com | | License Number | C10862 | | Followers on Houzz | 156 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/RLBArchitecture - Blog — http://www.rlbarchitecture.com/ ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [RLB Architecture](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/rlb-architecture-pfvwus-pf~562518819) - **Website:** http://www.rlbarchitecture.com - **Phone:** (310) 459-0244 ## Credentials **Verified License** - Number: 10862 - Type: Architects Board, California - Issued by: Architects Board, California **Certifications & Awards** - Leed Accredited Professional, DSW-Volunteer Safety Assessment Program--Cal EMA2014 Tenth anniversary Exhibition--Institute of Classical Architecture & Art, Southern California Chapter2000 Calibre Team Award Honorable Mention - Chair of The Board- Pacific Palisades Chamber of Commerce **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: 5.0 out of 5 — 14 reviews** *Aspect averages:* - Work Quality: 5.0 - Communication: 5.0 - Value: 5.0 ### Featured Review **★★★★★ — Alan Goldman, Oct. 2019** > RICHARD LISTEN TO OUR SPECIFIC NEEDS AND TOOK THE TIME TO MAKE IT WORK CORRECTLY. HE WORKED WELL WITH OUT CONTRACTOR. ### All 14 reviews **★★★★★ — HU-770610399, Nov. 2022** > Richard was a delight to work with. Incredibly knowledgeable about pertinent building code issues, sensitive to our aesthetic and economic concerns while advocating strongly for certain solutions he considered important to overall project design. His plans are detailed and easy to read -- very much appreciated by our GC and his subs! **Comment from RLB Architecture:** > Thank you for the review. It was a pleasure working with you. **★★★★★ — Carin Julsgard, May 2020** > After many interviews with various architects around town, we had our first meeting with Richard and knew immediately he was the right architect for us. > > The home Richard built us far exceeded our expectations. He was patient, thoughtful and a pleasure to work with and his involvement and diligent oversight during the project resulted in a flawless home built on-time and on-budget in less than 9 months. **Comment from RLB Architecture:** > Thank you for this review. It was a pleasure working with you. **★★★★★ — Cecelia Hale, Dec. 2016** > We worked with Richard from fall, 2013 to fall, 2015. He designed and oversaw the major remodel of our home which included adding square footage, removing walls, relocating the staircase and adding an elevator. From the moment we met Richard we were impressed by his professionalism, attention to detail and warm response to what we wanted. We gave him a long wish list and he gave us what we wanted and more. It was a pleasure working with him and we would hire him again should we ever decide to embark on such an adventure again. We absolutely love our home thanks in large part to Richard's design.and assistance throughout the project. **Comment from RLB Architecture:** > Thank you Cecelia. I really enjoyed working with you too. **★★★★★ — axon66, Dec. 2015** > When it was time to select an architect to do an addition and remodel to my 60 year old home in Beverly Hills, I needed to find an architect who could appreciate the intricate detailing of the house and integrate the new and old into a harmonious design. I chose Richard Blumenberg AIA because he had helped the previous owner remodel the home, and was honest with me about what needed to be done. The completed design incorporates rusticated granite veneer 5" thick, limestone quoins and caps, and slate roof which perfectly matches the existing house. > Richard is a gifted architect and a pleasure to work with. He does what he promises. I would highly recommend him to anyone in need of an architect. **Comment from RLB Architecture:** > Thank you very much Kostas. I really enjoyed working with you on your home. **★★★★★ — boxrays, Dec. 2015** > We have had the privilege of working with Richard Blumenberg, AIA for more than twenty years. He designed and rebuilt our home several times to accommodate the needs of our family. We never moved because Richard always managed to create the perfect home for us. Whenever we put our key in the door, it always feels like a five star hotel. Each of our projects were in the $300,000.00 to $400,000.00 range. We have friends who never miss an opportunity to tell us that they wish they had chosen Richard as their architect. They went with someone else and always regretted it...........he's simply..........THE BEST !!!!! > > Holley and Bob Agulnek **★★★★★ — Jana Design Interiors, Dec. 2015** > I am currently working with RLB Architecture on a major renovation of a house with a client. It is a small house onto which we are adding about 1,000 square feet. Although the house is small the project for my client is HUGE! Richard brought so many ideas to the table beyond what we were asking for. He identified opportunities to expand the space that will both add value and make my clients life in the home so much better. > Richards experience has made each step of the process a delight for my client. He listened to her initial desires, worked with her as a team to incorporate her ideas (and mine) and is now following the building period carefully, which is really helping the homeowner relax through the process. > > I am looking forward to seeing how my design choices add to the design RLB Architecture has started. > I look forward to many more collaborations with Richard in the future! **Comment from RLB Architecture:** > Thank you for your review. I really enjoy working and collaborating with you. We make an excellent team. **★★★★★ — ljsale, July 2015** > We have worked with Richard Blumenberg twice with such stellar results! The first time was to modify the look of the front of our house. This project, which evolved to completely remodel much of our living space, progressed with enthusiasm, creativity and collaboration. We are so happy with the house we have now. About 18 months later, we tackled our master bath, closets, windows, etc. Richard is truly a master of his craft and his discipline. He is exacting in the construction phase, but open minded and a true problem solver in the design process. Extremely easy to work with, experienced in all aspects of structural design, light, space and proportion. We can't recommend him highly enough. A true talented professional. **Comment from RLB Architecture:** > Thank you for your review. I really enjoyed working with you and look forward to starting the construction on the kitchen remodel that we designed for you. **★★★★★ — kristaeverage, May 2015** > RLB Architecture is a joy to work with! Richard and his staff are true professionals who know their craft. We have been working with Richard since 1993 and he consistently delivers beautiful and complete Architectural designs and drawings. We recommend him to anyone contemplating a custom home! John and Krista Everage, Everage Design. **Comment from RLB Architecture:** > Thank you for writing this review. I really enjoy working with you. **★★★★★ — Lafia/Arvin, A Design Corporation, Oct. 2014** > We have worked with RLB Architecture and Richard Blumenberg, AIA on numerous residential luxury projects in Pacific Palisades and Malibu over 15+ years - new construction, and remodels. > > Lafia/Arvin works only on luxury projects - residences, estates and getaways. What's important to us is an Architect's skills, experience on large and luxury projects, attention to critical details that make the project special, personal service - and ability to please our clients, consistent reliability and get along well with the project team/trades. RLB gets an "A" on all of those items - and in addition has brought into projects outstanding team members that our clients have greatly appreciated working with (contractors, trades). > > We admire RLB so much, that we regularly referred RLB/Richard to projects - which we are or are not part of - and sometimes relate to our closest friends! **★★★★★ — Addition Building & Design, Inc., Dec. 2013** > Richard & I have been involved with numerous projects over the past 4 years. Richard has considerable experience with traditional design with numerous high end projects to his credit. His desire to provide the most detailed plans is a major benefit to his clients as it helps avoid change orders once the project begins. High integrity, an abundance of residential construction knowledge and great design abilities! **★★★★★ — User, April 2013** > I am an interior designer & have had the pleasure of working with Richard many times in the last 20 years. I find him to be an excellent architect. His detailed plans are very impressive as is the end result. He sees a job all the way through to completion, is very good at construction supervision & is clever at finding creative solutions for the many dilemmas that come up during construction. **★★★★★ — markleap, April 2013** > We live in a hillside home located in Rustic Canyon that was originally built in 1928. We loved the home for its location and its many charming features that simply are not available in today’s contemporary houses. However, the home was badly in need of a “make-over” to bring it up to date in terms of earthquake safety, efficient plumbing and electrical systems. Make-over is probably an understatement; it needed to be stripped down to the frame and rebuilt. Based on everything we read and heard from people who had experience in major remodels, choosing the right architect was viewed as the key to a successful outcome. In early 2007, we began searching for an architect. We were interested in a professional who understood our desire to maintain our home’s charm without imposing any preconceived notions about how the house should turn out. We interviewed five architects including Richard Blumenberg. At the end of the process our choice was clear; Richard’s extensive knowledge about local building requirements, his attention to detail and his willingness to listen to our needs and desires set him apart from all others. > During the crucial design phase he met with us frequently and was always available to answer questions or discuss ideas. His friendly, easy going demeanor helped dispel anxieties that can become overwhelming during major construction projects. His design elements reflected good taste and practicality that greatly enhanced the curb appeal of the finished product. We particularly appreciated his patience while walking us through this process. As novices we needed his to help to convert our dream house into a visual reality. When final drawings were presented to us it was obvious that he put extraordinary effort into his work – no detail was left to imagination. As a result, the plan check and permit process occurred without unnecessary delays. > During construction Richard was our partner every step of the way. He helped us select a competent contractor and even reviewed the contract to ensure it met his and our expectations. His detailed construction documents helped guide the project from start to finish with a minimum of conflict or cost overruns. During the twelve months of construction Richard spent hours on the job site supervising construction and explaining the process to us. His tenacity in representing our interests during construction was value added. Undoubtedly, had he not been so personally involved the house would not have turned out as it did. > Whether you are considering a major remodel or a simple room addition Richard Blumenberg is the right choice. We give this endorsement not only from personal experience, but also from other clients of Richard’s we interviewed before making our final decision. He is competent, creative and honest. We were so satisfied with our relationship with Richard that we would not hesitate to use him again if the need arises. **★★★★★ — pbsiloveyou, April 2013** > Richard has always treated our projects as priorities, and is always so pleasant and accommodating. He's overcome many challenging technical, functional, aesthetic, and city-related obstacles, and always invents creative ways to achieve even our most complex objectives. ## Selected projects - [Schapira-Summit Transitional Residence \| Beverly Hills](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/schapira-summit-transitional-residence-beverly-hills-pj-vj~2495182) - Location: Beverly Hills, CA - Photos: 29 - Description: Located within the hillside area of Beverly Hills, this residence was completely remodeled. The exterior façade was changed to a Tuscan design with plaster walls and cast stone trim.. The small backyard was enlarged by removing a unneeded wing. The carport was changed into a garage and was given an entrance into the house. The foyer, stair, living & dining, powder, kitchen, laundry, and den were redesigned. Upstairs we created two master suites, a guest and baby’s room, each having their own bat… - [Point Dume New Residence \| Malibu](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/point-dume-new-residence-malibu-pj-vj~1229499) - Location: Malibu, CA - Photos: 20 - Description: Traditional European style stone and siding faced home with a slate roof. Decomposed granite pathways and driveway. Everything designed and installed in the house was custom including, the windows, doors, furniture quality cabinetry, interior finishes, lighting. I designed all of the interior and exterior working directly with the owners. Wood flooring from 17th century english and French Chaueaus Kitchen features Zinc Countertops, Marble on the island, furniture quality cabinets, wood burning o… - [Guest House with Covered Patio and Outdoor Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/guest-house-with-covered-patio-and-outdoor-kitchen-pj-vj~7501096) - Location: Beverly Hills, CA - Photos: 2 - Description: Features rusticated limestone veneer, slate roof and copper standing seam roof at the covered seating area. - [Contemporary Craftsman Home Build](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/contemporary-craftsman-home-build-pj-vj~5763405) - Location: Los Angeles, CA - Photos: 7 - [Custom Accessory Dwelling Unit \| Pacific Palisades](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/custom-accessory-dwelling-unit-pacific-palisades-pj-vj~7501107) - Location: Los Angeles, CA - Photos: 9 - [Mediterranean Century Woods Home \| Century City](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mediterranean-century-woods-home-century-city-pj-vj~1452574) - Location: Los Angeles, CA - Photos: 20 - [Transitional Home Addition](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/transitional-home-addition-pj-vj~5975780) - Location: Beverly Hills, CA - Photos: 16 - Description: This was a complex project in which we removed a wing of the house and dug a 1200 sq.ft basement with a garage above and a partial second floor above the garage. The upper level consisted of 2 bedrooms, baths and closets. The garage allowed for tandem parking of 3 cars. The basement consisted of a Nanny suite, children’s playroom, bathroom and gym. Because the owners did not want to lose their view, the basement extends beyond the house and is covered with grass. - [Wallace Neff Historic Renovation \| South Pasadena](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/wallace-neff-historic-renovation-south-pasadena-pj-vj~766749) - Location: South Pasadena, CA - Photos: 12 - Description: Keeping the design within the vernacular of the home, the interior of this home was updated and reconfigured to correct an unworkable floor plan. Working closely with the client, I went to showrooms to select the finish materials, determined the layouts, and incorporated that information into the drawings so the contractor knew what to bid and what to build. During our weekly site visits I observed the work, and responded to any contractor questions. We continued to fine tune and improve the des… - [Beverly Hills Hillside Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/beverly-hills-hillside-residence-pj-vj~2482865) - Location: Beverly Hills, CA - Photos: 17 - Description: In this hillside residence, I redesigned the front of the home façade, created the covered porch, enlarged and reconfigured the foyer, raised the ceiling of the foyer, living and dining areas. Existing overly large & unused master bathroom was reconfigured into the new master bath and closet. - [Transitional Pacific Palisades New Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/transitional-pacific-palisades-new-home-pj-vj~5534080) - Location: Los Angeles, CA - Photos: 53 - Description: This was a challenging project on a 40 x 130 ft. lot. New home consists of an 1800 sq. ft. basement with 2 stories totaling 3400 sq. ft. above. Strived to create spaces that were light and airy and flowed into each other. Basement consists of a media room, 2 bedroom suites, power room, elevator, and a laundry room. Main floor has a foyer, living, dining, 3 story stairway, powder room, kitchen and family. Family room features pocketing sliding doors to create an indoor/outdoor feeling. Upstairs h… - [Glenn Residence \| Pacific Palisades](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/glenn-residence-pacific-palisades-pj-vj~213333) - Location: Pacific Palisades, CA - Photos: 14 - Description: Traditional New England style home located in Pacific Palisades, California. - [Avgeropoulos Pool House --Beverly Hills](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/avgeropoulos-pool-house-beverly-hills-pj-vj~1594804) - Location: Pacific Palisades, CA - Photos: 3 - [Pacific Palisades Contemporary Craftsman Home Build](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/pacific-palisades-contemporary-craftsman-home-build-pj-vj~5763575) - Location: Los Angeles, CA - Photos: 6 - [Zetcher Colorful House \| Century Woods](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/zetcher-colorful-house-century-woods-pj-vj~1634426) - Location: Los Angeles, CA - Photos: 15 - [Leap Residence \| Pacific Palisades](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/leap-residence-pacific-palisades-pj-vj~213325) - Location: Los Angeles, CA - Photos: 1 - [Partridge Residence \| Holmby Hills](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/partridge-residence-holmby-hills-pj-vj~213357) - Location: Los Angeles, CA - Photos: 2 - [Schapira Residence \| Beverly Hills](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/schapira-residence-beverly-hills-pj-vj~213346) - Location: Beverly Hills, CA - Photos: 1 - [New Home Build \| Contemporary Craftsman](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/new-home-build-contemporary-craftsman-pj-vj~5763578) - Location: Los Angeles, CA - Photos: 2 [See all 18 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/rlb-architecture-pfvwus-pf~562518819) ## Video - [Company video](https://player.vimeo.com/external/920507356.m3u8?s=21192807da2efe31b42df0db01570333045adf3a&oauth2_token_id=1384357804) ## Frequently Asked Questions **Do you handle permitting, zoning, and regulatory approvals?** As RLB Architecture, we guide our clients through the entire design and construction process, which inherently includes navigating permitting, zoning, and regulatory approvals. Richard Blumenberg's involvement with the Land Use Committee of the Community Council further strengthens our expertise in this area, ensuring your project adheres to all necessary requirements for a successful outcome. **What types of projects do you specialize in (custom homes, remodels, additions)?** We specialize in a wide range of residential projects, including custom homes, new home construction, home remodels, and additions. Richard Blumenberg has designed over 150 projects, from residential remodels and additions to new homes, ensuring we bring extensive experience to your unique vision. We also handle Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), guesthouses, and various interior design aspects. **How do you help clients design within their construction budget?** We prioritize designing within your construction budget by employing a creative and streamlined problem-solving approach. Our highly detailed drawings ensure contractors can bid and build your project right the first time, minimizing costly errors and delays. We proactively address contractor questions, saving you money and time, and protecting your best interests throughout the process. **Do you provide full-service architectural services through construction?** Yes, we provide full-service architectural services that extend through the construction phase. We partner with you from initial concept to completion, leading the project team and observing the contractor's work to ensure it conforms to our detailed drawings. Our proactive problem-solving and quick responses to contractor needs help achieve a high-quality result, protecting your best interests throughout the entire process. **Do you design fully custom homes?** Absolutely, designing fully custom homes is one of our core specialties. We work closely with clients to bring their unique vision to life, crafting bespoke designs that reflect their individual needs and preferences. Richard Blumenberg has extensive experience with new home construction, ensuring a personalized and high-quality outcome for your dream home. *FAQ content may be generated based on the Pro's Houzz profile and website.* ## Community Q&A **Q: Unique** *(in Photo Questions)* This is so unique. I have never seen this combination of colours in a house. I wasn't sure whether I liked it in the beginning, but it has grown on me as I looked at all the pictures. So unique! A: Thank you. **Q: curtain/tub question** *(in Photo Questions)* Hello--might you share the dimensions between the tub, tub filler, and curtains/wall? I love the look, and want to know if I have enough space for a similar setup. Thanks! A: 4 inches **Q: how many square meters has?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: 42 sq. meters **Q: Stairs** *(in Photo Questions)* Great staircase! A: Thank you **Q: What kind of floors** *(in Photo Questions)* What kind of floors A: Floors were limed oak with a white stain **Q: Where does this tile come from?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: The tile was selected by the interior designer, Antonia Hutt. I don't have a source for the tile. --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-11-08.*