--- title: "MacCracken Robinson Architects — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/maccracken-robinson-architects-pfvwus-pf~721516814 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~721516814.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "MacCracken Robinson Architects" category: ["Architects"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/7f032ada0bffed42_7003-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "479 9th Street, 2nd Floor, San Francisco, California 94103, United States" latitude: 37.7725 longitude: -122.4147 phone: "(415) 487-2050" website: http://www.macarchs.com rating: 5 review_count: 13 best_of_houzz_awards: 2 followers: 136 last_updated: 2026-09-21 --- # MacCracken Robinson Architects Original Houzz profile: [MacCracken Robinson Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/maccracken-robinson-architects-pfvwus-pf~721516814) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Architects - **Location:** San Francisco, CA - **Serves:** Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, Oakland, Santa Rosa, Berkeley, Daly City, Santa Barbara, Livermore, Alameda, South San Francisco, San Bruno, Montclair, Los Altos, El Cerrito, Albany, Orinda, Mill Valley, Emeryville, Tamalpais-Homestead Valley, Piedmont, Tiburon, Los Altos Hills, Sausalito, Brisbane, Broadmoor, Marin City, Belvedere, Colma, Alto, Muir Beach, Belvedere Tiburon, Kalispell, Lake Tahoe, Stinson, Whitefish - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (13 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 2 awards (2014–2017), for Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 1,000 Ideabook Saves MacCracken Robinson Architects has been a full-service architecture firm since 1985. Our main office is located in the South of Market area of San Francisco in a warehouse building full of light with exposed structure and warm materials. It is an expression of some of the qualities we incorporate into our design work. We have a 40 year history of designing diverse and inspiring places and spaces across the country, including the San Francisco Bay Area, Southern California, Napa Valley, Lake Tahoe, Whitefish, MT., Boston, New York and Hawaii. Our work begins with collecting information — listening to our clients wishes and goals, assessing site conditions, understanding cultural context, and considering environmental factors. We are inspired by the process of translating owner vision and program and site context into specific principles that lend rationale to our design work and result in beautiful, highly functional spaces. We emphasize the use of local, sustainable materials, and seek a balance of natural light and shadow united with carefully curated scale and proportion to establish a coherent language of architecture unique to our client and site environment. Our team is dedicated to achieving a seamless union of design development, careful execution of construction detail drawings, and regular involvement during construction. We are committed to finding meaningful, provocative, and functional solutions for our clients, within established budgets and schedules. ### 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 - 3D Rendering - Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) - Green Building - Bathroom Design - Space Planning - Guesthouse Design & Construction - Universal Design - Multigenerational Homes - Pool House Design & Construction - Drafting - Historic Building Conservation - Project Management - Barn Design & Construction - Basement Remodeling - Mudroom Design - Staircase Design - Landscape Plans - Home Gym Design & Construction - Construction Drawings ### Areas Served - Los Angeles - San Diego - San Francisco - Oakland - Santa Rosa - Berkeley - Daly City - Santa Barbara - Livermore - Alameda - South San Francisco - San Bruno - Montclair - Los Altos - El Cerrito - Albany - Orinda - Mill Valley - Emeryville - Tamalpais-Homestead Valley - Piedmont - Tiburon - Los Altos Hills - Sausalito - Brisbane - Broadmoor - Marin City - Belvedere - Colma - Alto - Muir Beach - Belvedere Tiburon - Kalispell - Lake Tahoe - Stinson - Whitefish ### Typical Job Cost $500,000 - 10 million ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | MacCracken Robinson Architects | | Address | 479 9th Street, 2nd Floor, San Francisco, California 94103, United States | | Phone | (415) 487-2050 | | Website | http://www.macarchs.com | | License Number | C14734 | | Followers on Houzz | 136 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — http://www.facebook.com/pages/maccracken-architects/122183201134635?v=wall - LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=AAMAAAEzfQkB4O6VRFqOseI68xRvTe\_\_y312Cr0&trk=hp-identity-nam - Blog — www.macarchs.com ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [MacCracken Robinson Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/maccracken-robinson-architects-pfvwus-pf~721516814) - **Website:** http://www.macarchs.com - **Phone:** (415) 487-2050 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - Licensed Architect in CA, CO, HI, MT - **Best of Houzz:** 2 awards (2014–2017), for Service. **Affiliations** - [American Institute of Architects, San Francisco](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/american-institute-of-architects-san-francisco-pfvwus-pf~788533068) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 13 reviews** ### Reviews **★★★★★ — Dorothy Tam, March 2021** > My husband and I are novices when it comes to home renovations. I would not describe us as creative in any way. Rather, we are simple, practical and utilitarian personalities. As such, you can imagine both the excitement and dread we felt as we made the decision to fully gut, remodel and expand our home (built in the 1950s). > > After interviewing many architects, my husband and I both immediately knew Daniel / MacCracken would be our architect. Daniel is a good listener, knowledgeable, practical and responsive. He listened carefully to our goals and requirements for the project. Through conversations and iterations, we worked together to create a space that married our goals and personalities with MacCracken's expertise and eye for detail that collectively made a big impact to the house. > > Daniel and his team provided a steady hand through the permitting and construction process. I was pregnant with our second child at the time and cannot imagine how stressful it would have been without Daniel and his team. > > The general contractor we chose was not one MacCracken had ever worked with before. But that proved to be a non-issue. Daniel and his team were responsive to our GC's questions and worked through unexpected issues (they exist no matter how much planning you do!) professionally, practically and in a timely manner. > > This home is a goal my husband and I saved for and dreamed of for a long time and we wanted to get it right for us. We were in great hands from day one with Daniel and team. **★★★★★ — Stephanie Conner, April 2019** > We had the best experience working with Daniel and Emmanuelle from MacCracken architects! Daniel approached our project with a perfect balance of artistic design, function and practicality, and a sharp vision for the final product. We were so grateful to have Emmanuelle’s eye for design ideas to help us define our style and give us ideas, and Daniel was a LIFESAVER during the actual construction, helping supervise the project and adjust as needed as things arose. What’s more, their prices were fair and they were timely and responsive. We could not recommend them higher, you won’t be disappointed! **★★★★★ — Joszi Meskan, March 2017** > As an Interior Designer for very high profile projects we are often faced with vexing architectural questions and have called on MacCracken Architects as collaborators > and problem solvers many times. They have always responded impressively and professionally. They have been extremely creative and clever, solving many delicate and sticky detail and construction problems. > > MacCracken Architects approach always respects the design intent and offers solutions which often save the day. They are an outstanding architectural firm, well published in Northern California and abroad. They offer stunning design work and are lovely people to have on a team or in full control directing any major project. > > MacCracken Architects come highly recommended. > > Joszi Meskan, President > Joszi Meskan Associates > Established 1985 **★★★★★ — Andrew Meyer, Aug. 2016** > I've had the pleasure of working with the whole team at MacCracken Architects (MA) on several residential and commercial projects, and I highly recommend them. For me, the word that best describes MA is "thoughtful." MA is incredibly thoughtful in understanding client needs (budget, design preferences, schedule) and translating those needs into successful design. They are thoughtful and well-researched when navigating code restrictions, and they are able to devise solutions and easily communicate them to clients. Finally, the team at MA is polished, well-rehearsed, and of course, thoughtful when making presentations to various governing bodies (e.g. city Planning) which may have jurisdiction over a client's project. > > I am impressed by MA's preparedness for all meetings we hold with them. They are able to stick to timelines they set, and they are to produce and administer beautiful design. If you choose MA, you will be well taken care of throughout the entirety of your project. **★★★★★ — benjaminrmeyer, Aug. 2016** > I have worked with MacCracken Architects on at least 5 projects including my own residence. All of these projects have taken place between 2013 and the present (Mid 2016). I expect to work with MacCracken for many years to come for all sorts of projects ranging from single family home remodeling to office renovations. > > MacCracken is a small to medium sized team with incredibly flexibility and experience. While they are able to design efficiently for projects on a budget, they are also able to design your dream home. In my experience, it is difficult to find an architect that can do both. MacCracken's versatility is an asset to any type of project. > > It has been a real pleasure getting to know everyone at their office over the past few years. They are a tight knit team that function like a big family. Everyone is easy to work with and good at communicating their ideas and understanding yours. When remodeling your home or spending a lot of money on any project, it is especially comforting to have an architect that can walk you through a complicated process or put your mind at ease when you are unsure about something. > > Lastly, everyone's first concern is having a beautiful and functional building. MacCracken will not disappoint. A simple glance at their projects should be proof enough. Whether you have a condo in the city or a ranch home in the suburbs, you will be happy with the outcome. Give MacCracken a call. Just don't take them away from us! **★★★★★ — Matthew Plunkett, Aug. 2016** > We hired MacCracken Architechs to lead the design for a "reboot" of our 1991 Oakland Hills spec home. They brought a clean design ethic to the project and were very interested in how we used - and wanted to use - the space. > > Come construction time, the MA team was very engaged. They focused on details large and small to ensure the construction work reflected the vision in the architect's plans. The project was quite large and accordingly there were a lot of details to ensure came out right. > > We are very appreciative of their work and would not hesitate to hire the MA team again. **★★★★★ — carolyn\_galbreath, July 2016** > We are in the process of working with MacCracken Architects. > We set a goal with MacCracken Architects to obtain design review approvals for our extensive remodeling at the first hearing. They not only achieved that goal but have designed a remodeled home that has garnered compliments from neighbors and professionals alike. > Our home is on a hillside and presents many design challenges. They have collaborated with us to explore all feasible options and have incorporated our ideas into an open, sophisticated and elegant design. > We are now ready to embark upon the remodel and look forward to working with the MacCracken team to make our ideas a reality. **★★★★★ — Lloyd Taylor, Feb. 2016** > After a lengthy process of reviewing the work of over 20 architects, interviewing six, and deep reference-checking three, we selected MacCracken Architects for our project: conversion of a 60-year-old SOMA (San Francisco) warehouse to single family residence. We wanted a ‘warm industrial' feel - to honor the industrial history of the building, while making it warm, inviting, and comfortable for us and our many guests. > > Steve and his team did a magnificent job of not only listening to our strange ideas, but challenging and extending them into what ended up being something much greater. Their use of complex design components transformed a blocky, cubical space into a flowing, fluid experience. > > Collaboration with our General Contractor and our Interior Designer was professional and respectful. Where appropriate, Steve and his team challenged ideas which were inconsistent with the design goals. His team was with us throughout the construction process, and added great value and comfort as the various twists and turns of zoning, permitting, demolition, subcontractors, inspectors, and vendors played out. > > We ended up with exactly what we wanted - which was much greater than we could have imagined at the beginning of the project. Steve and his team were the magic that made that happen. **★★★★★ — rbond45, Dec. 2015** > Moroso Construction is in the process of completing a highly designed and meticulously detailed single family residential project in San Francisco with MacCracken Architects. MacCracken Architects are strong advocates for their client while maintaining a professional and collaborative relationship with the General Contractor. Without reservation, we would be thrilled to collaborate with this firm on another custom home project in the future. > > Ron Bond > President > Moroso Construction Inc. **★★★★★ — lynnseppala, Oct. 2015** > MacCracken Architects did an extensive remodel and expansion of an existing 1959 home, including the exterior space design that continued the interior theme. MA used exterior cedar, Douglas fir ceilings, stone floors and wood-framed windows to create a light and airy living space that shows off our primitive furniture and collectables. I particularly like the clean modern lines and use of natural concrete for the patio walls and reflecting pool. Many guests have noted the beauty and simplicity of this house and how it blends into the oak covered hills, creating a peaceful and uplifting experience for ourselves and visitors. After eight years, we have found nothing that we could do to improve the house. We are very happy. **★★★★★ — Laura Fingal-Surma, Sept. 2013** > I hired MacCracken Architects after firing another architect who had been dilly dallying for six months without results. MacCracken was able to get a version of my project permitted that some other architects I interviewed said simply couldn't be done -- and on a reasonably tight schedule too. The process was challenging, and MacCracken expertly managed my expectations through it. They didn't make false promises and explained the risks and likely outcomes in detail so that I could make informed decisions. The concept that they came up with for my house is simply dazzling (expensive too, but you get what you pay for). > > I truly enjoyed working with the entire MacCracken team and would enthusiastically hire them all over again. **★★★★★ — Sierra Robinson, May 2013** > MacCracken Architects are motivated, creative and reliable. They are patient and clear communicators who have helped me understand each phase of my project thoroughly and without making me feel like I was asking too many questions or taking up too much of their time. (Did I mention they were patient?) > > They were respectful of my budget and found innovative solutions to help me reach my design goals without breaking the bank. > > Overall, I've found their office extremely pleasant to work with and I would definitely recommend them for residential projects. ## Selected projects - [Arboreal House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/arboreal-house-pj-vj~7499121) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 15 - Description: Our introduction to the Tahoe site was in late winter, on a clear sunny day with filtered light and long shadows through snow-laden fir and pine bows. It made a strong impression, stored for future consideration but the impetus for the design came soon after the spring snow melt. A powerful sense of horizontal layering of vegetation and various stages of decomposing downed timber on the two-acre site, juxtaposed with pine and fir trees and the dense canopy of the surrounding forest. The site is… - [Piedmont House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/piedmont-house-pj-vj~7565335) - Location: Piedmont, CA - Photos: 17 - Description: MacCracken Robinson Architects was commissioned to modernize the interior, recondition and upgrade building systems and functionality of a 1920’s era Mediterranean influenced masonry home and studio in the hills of Oakland California. The intent was to balance existing exterior characteristics, improved through restored brick, new window locations and removal of unneeded stair and deck components, with a completely new and modern interior. Passage of time became an interesting consideration both… - [Russian Hill Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/russian-hill-residence-pj-vj~5716116) - Location: San Francisco, CA - Photos: 10 - Description: This urban infill project is an adaptive re-use of an underutilized one story concrete garage originally part of the adjacent apartment building, using it as the base for a new single-family residence on Russian Hill in San Francisco. Set at the end of a small alley, the building makes a natural transition step from an adjacent seven story apartment complex to a two story existing house to the south. The project included a variance to have complete lot coverage on the ground floor, with raised e… - [Moss Street Residence, San Francisco](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/moss-street-residence-san-francisco-pj-vj~1787753) - Location: San Francisco, CA - Photos: 12 - Description: The owner's move from suburban to urban living was spurred in part by a desire for change and flexibility within a new living environment. They wish for some spaces to function as both public and private, in addition to very specific private areas. They see some of the rooms serving a variety of uses, from family gatherings and holiday dinners to small discussion groups to large and small presentations and events. The message of a cultural gathering place harkens to salons of Paris in the 1920’s… - [Green Street Condo](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/green-street-condo-pj-vj~62962) - Location: San Francisco, CA - Photos: 10 - [Mines Road House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mines-road-house-pj-vj~6452) - Location: Livermore, CA - Photos: 20 - Description: This project is a modern update of a 1950’s ranch in the oak studded hills of Livermore, California. Completed in early 2010, this private residence has undergone a complete ground up transformation from an existing Bay Area Ranch house to an open, contemporary dwelling, paying tribute to the merits of the original building design. Our goal was to create a new dwelling which incorporated our interpretation of California modern design: clean continuous lines, open loggias, natural materials, and… - [Los Altos House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/los-altos-house-pj-vj~6453) - Location: Los Altos Hills, CA - Photos: 13 - Description: The house is divided into four wings: bedroom, living, kitchen, and in-law unit. The different levels and axes follow the topography of the site and are oriented to the southeast around a courtyard and pool. The three stepped wings have similar structural sections consisting of rectangular volumes with flat roofs and a central clerestory structure and metal sloped roofs supported on exposed steel columns. The design concept of the house was conceived as a gradual discovery, uncovering and reveal… - [Hillsborough House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/hillsborough-house-pj-vj~1705046) - Location: Hillsborough, CA - Photos: 9 - Description: This project was a complete makeover of a 1950’s ranch style home. The original building perimeter and roofline are discernible in the background, but an entirely new image for the home, modern but reminiscent of the California arts and crafts style, occupies the foreground. A series of light boxes provides skylights for the altered interior plan, increasing ceiling heights and breaking up the long, low roof plane. A primary design objective was to open up the home to the remodeled pool and new… - [San Francisco House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/san-francisco-house-pj-vj~7104930) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 7 - Description: The recent owners of a dilapidated two unit building approached us to convert this property into their family home. We successfully merged the two units into one with the San Francisco Planning Department, and then continued with a full interior remodel adding an additional 600SF. Circulation was revised and conceived as a stone clad, partially enclosed metal stair form connecting the three floors with a large skylight above. The exterior wooden stair at the rear was removed and replaced with a… [See all 9 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/maccracken-robinson-architects-pfvwus-pf~721516814) ## Community Q&A **Q: What is the floor? It seems to match real color well** *(in Photo Questions)* A: ealwine - The flooring is Beech wood. **Q: what type of wood is used here?** *(in Photo Questions)* Is this Doug fir? A: sadie1jane - The flooring is Beech wood. Everything else is Quarter-sawn sapele wood. **Q: Is this the whole house made of concrete slabs?** *(in Photo Questions)* It looks like it could just be that one wall from the picture. I think it would be really cool to have something like this as a spare room or garage. http://www.allconnsw.com.au/services A: The main structure of the house is cast concrete (concrete poured into forms) but there is wood framing in many areas. **Q: Where is the bean bag chair from? LOVE IT!** *(in Photo Questions)* A: It is the Ottoman model from Ligne Roset. Thx **Q: Skylights** *(in Photo Questions)* Who makes these skylights and what is the finish on the wood and glass. Thank you. A: I believe they were O'Keefe and simply had acid etched glass in them to reduce direct sunlight and give a more diffused light. **Q: What is the square footage of the house? Are there different buildings?** *(in Photo Questions)* I love this layout and design. We may be moving to West Texas. I'm interested in the actual layout of the buildings. Are there bedroom quarters separate from the main living area? A: Off hand I think it is around 3,500 sqft and the only separate building is the garage which can be seen in this image to the right. Bedroom and guest rooms are separated by the central court area, but are physically connected. You can take the long way through the house, or exit to the outside and shortcut across the central court. - Thanks, MacCracken Architects --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-09-21.*