--- title: "Studio3 Design, Inc. — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/studio3-design-inc-pfvwus-pf~847261942 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~847261942.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Studio3 Design, Inc." category: ["Architects"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/d16392d50f57c141_7487-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "638 University Ave., Los Gatos,, California 95032, United States" latitude: 37.2417 longitude: -121.9554 phone: "(408) 214-6449" website: http://www.studio-three.com rating: 5 review_count: 18 years_in_business: 20 best_of_houzz_awards: 2 followers: 229 last_updated: 2026-08-20 --- # Studio3 Design, Inc. > South Bay Architect & Designer Best of Houzz 2015 Original Houzz profile: [Studio3 Design, Inc.](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/studio3-design-inc-pfvwus-pf~847261942) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Architects - **Location:** Los Gatos,, CA - **Serves:** San Jose, Sunnyvale, Santa Clara, Mountain View, Milpitas, Cupertino, Campbell, Los Gatos, Los Altos, Saratoga, Alum Rock, Los Altos Hills, East Foothills, Boulder Creek, Cambrian Park, Monte Sereno, Seven Trees, Buena Vista, Alviso, Coyote, New Almaden, Redwood Estates - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (18 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 2 awards (2012–2015), for Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Houzz Pro Software User - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 10,000 Ideabook Saves - Best of Houzz winner - References available - 20 years in business - Verified Hires - Responds Quickly ### Business highlights - Best of Houzz winner - References available - 20 years in business - 1 Verified Hire - Responds Quickly Our approach to design enables us to create living environments for people that truly resonate with their lifestyles, dreams and aspirations. We take a holistic view of our design practice, melding interior and exterior design with traditional design services. We build successful relationships that are anchored on developing a deep understanding of how our clients want to live. We spend time eliciting their dreams, helping to identify and articulate what would make their home a meaningful reflection of their style and aesthetic. Our work is a translation of those dreams into the design elements that make them a reality. ### 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 - Green Building - Bathroom Design - Space Planning - Universal Design - Multigenerational Homes - Pool House Design & Construction - Drafting - Historic Building Conservation - Project Management - Handicap-Accessible Design - Structural Engineering - Barn Design & Construction - Basement Remodeling - Attic Conversion - Basement Design - Staircase Design - Deck Design - Landscape Plans - Laundry Room Design - Earthquake Retrofitting - Home Gym Design & Construction - 3D Home Design - Remodeling ### Areas Served - San Jose - Sunnyvale - Santa Clara - Mountain View - Milpitas - Cupertino - Campbell - Los Gatos - Los Altos - Saratoga - Alum Rock - Los Altos Hills - East Foothills - Boulder Creek - Cambrian Park - Monte Sereno - Seven Trees - Buena Vista - Alviso - Coyote - New Almaden - Redwood Estates ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Studio3 Design, Inc. | | Address | 638 University Ave., Los Gatos,, California 95032, United States | | Phone | (408) 214-6449 | | Website | http://www.studio-three.com | | Years in business | 20 | | Followers on Houzz | 229 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — https://www.instagram.com/studio\_3design/ ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Studio3 Design, Inc.](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/studio3-design-inc-pfvwus-pf~847261942) - **Website:** http://www.studio-three.com - **Phone:** (408) 214-6449 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - Best of Houzz 2012 and 2015 - **Best of Houzz:** 2 awards (2012–2015), for Service. **Affiliations** - [AIA Santa Clara](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/aia-santa-clara-pfvwus-pf~378840116) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 18 reviews** *Aspect averages:* - Work Quality: 50.0 - Communication: 50.0 - Value: 50.0 ### Featured Review **★★★★★ — A B, Jan. 2017** > We were referred to Bess by Mehus Construction. > Our initial meeting with Bess was a positive start as she offered a wealth of knowledge in both design and practicality for our remodel. Her ability to encompass design and functionality concepts within the architectural style and attributes of our home was remarkable. > > Bess has a discerning ability to work with the General Contractors to make the right decision when needed most. Her professionalism commands respect from all the sub contractors and the team that works around her expertise. > > We worked with Studio 3 through our project and appreciated the consistency in detailed work and timeliness. > > I highly recommend Studio 3 for your next project. > > Arusha and Greg Bourke ### All 18 reviews **★★★★★ — Sam Pectol, Jan. 2026** > Bess and the Team at Studio 3 Design do incredible work. Working with incredible detail, with beauty and precision in mind, they used our ACRE material to perfection on an amazing home in Monte Serreno. They wrapped walls, staggered our 1 x 6 and 1 x8 shiplap siding boards with perfection and used our PPG Amory stain to accentuate the rock walls. Studio 3 was incredible to work with and do incomparable work. **★★★★★ — Kara Beal, Jan. 2017** > Bess and her Studio3 Design team have completely remodeled three rooms in my house (kitchen, bathroom and living area), and have helped freshen up (paint, light fixtures, furniture) three other rooms. This has all taken place in many stages over the course of two years and I can unequivocally say that Studio3 has been outstanding to work with on all the projects. They meet their deadlines. They care enough to get to know my family's taste and needs so they are only presenting me with options that are within the range of what I am likely to want. The finished rooms in my house are beautiful, interesting and very easy to live in (even with three kids and a dog!). I couldn't be more pleased with the home they have helped me design. **★★★★★ — Daphne Ross, Jan. 2017** > We hired Studio 3 to help us with our entire home remodel (we bought a tear-down), from redesigning our first floor to adding a second story. From the initial design sketches to helping us choose furniture, the entire team of Studio 3 worked closely with us to listen to our ideas, add their input, and steer us in a direction based on our vision. Whenever we had a question, the team was very responsive. Her team helped us to evaluate contractor estimates, and worked extremely effectively with the contractor we chose to make sure things went according to plan, to confirm details, to resolve miscommunications, etc. There are an insane number of details when doing a rebuild, and Studio 3 made sure that each detail was attended to. Even more importantly, when things didn't go as planned, they made sure to correct inaccuracies and make things right. Bess is very good at making things happen and getting things done! > > Looking back, we are so glad that they helped us with so many details. Their ability to understand what we wanted, listen to our feedback, and make our vision a reality was exactly what we needed. We are extremely happy with the result and with the relationship we built with them. **★★★★★ — Mehus Construction, Jan. 2017** > As a general contractor, we are proud to build the visions of Bess and her team. We are continually impressed by the rare ability to provide architectural/design/decorating services under on roof! > Our lengthy list of successful projects with Studio 3 is a testament to the firm's unwavering talent. **★★★★★ — Nordin Builders, Inc., Jan. 2017** > We've had the privilege of working with Bess and her team on several projects. Always a refreshing approach to design from the architectural concept through to the color selections and furnishings. Bess is very talented and puts her personal touch on every project. Trust her to make your project stand out from the rest! **★★★★★ — Lily Chu, Jan. 2017** > We hired Studio3 Design for our full house remodel in late 2012 and have continued to work with Studio3 on subsequent smaller projects. As 2 engineers, we clicked immediately with Bess and her team. They are the perfect combination of a creative design team that meets timelines and budgets! > > We bought a new house and wanted to remodel before moving in. The remodel started from the frame/studs almost throughout the entire house. We were constrained by our rental to 9 months and Bess nailed this deadline! Of course, this was through close partnership with our general contractor, who was recommended by Bess. She has a great network of contractors and other tradesmen, and we benefited greatly from this. Even now, we'll reach out to her for recommendations. During the construction phase of the project, she fully managed the project, worked directly with the contractor, and included us in their weekly meetings. As the project moved into the interior design phase, we started to work more with other members of her team. They were always prepared for our meetings and presented 2-4 options with clear pros/cons and were happy to share their opinions during the discussion. > > We highly recommend Bess and Studio3 Design and would go to her in an instant if we had another house to remodel! **★★★★★ — sbkhouse, Jan. 2017** > Bess and the Studio-3 team have done a fantastic job in leading us through our remodel project. We especially appreciate her "take charge" attitude. We absolutely love our plans and feel like the team truly understood our wants and needs. She has brought to us many creative ideas that will surely make our home both stylish and functional. **★★★★★ — Cindy, Jan. 2017** > We hired Bess Wiersema and her Studio3 design team based on her stellar reputation and her ability to work successfully with the Town of Los Gatos. She guided us through every step of the process and proved to be an excellent architect. Bess is also down-to-earth and a joy to work with; a trait that can be difficult to find in the fast paced Silicon Valley environment. She exceeded our expectations--we couldn't be more pleased! We look forward to working on future projects with her. Ed and Cindy **★★★★★ — Peninsula Builders + Development, Jan. 2017** > I have worked with many architects over my 15+ years in homebuilding. When it came time to have a custom home designed for my family, I selected Studio3. I’ve enjoyed working with Bess and her team on a number of projects. Their knowledge, creative talent and professionalism are unmatched. I can confidently recommend Studio3 for any architecture or design needs. **★★★★★ — Jennifer Musolf, Jan. 2017** > I hired Bess to advise me on some cosmetic changes I wanted to make on my house. For never going through this before with a professional, I was nervous! I have an average size home and was changing everything but the bedrooms. Living here for almost 12 years, I thought I knew my house well enough to know what it needed. She brought in ideas some awesome ideas. Her knowledge and gift of creating a space is quite impressive. She literally turned my house into something I visioned but 100 times better. She did not make me feel like my ideas were not important, she just made them better, much better. HIlda was also super helpful and very organized and kept me up to date on information regarding furniture orders. I hope I can do more work to my house in the future- as I would love to use them again. Oh and when I talk about them, it seems many people I know have used Studio Three and have done amazing work, especially remodels from what I hear! A good word out is a good word in! **★★★★★ — K, Jan. 2017** > We've worked with Bess and her team for several years now. They recently helped re-model our office and I couldn't be happier with how they developed the space into something my family can not only use now but grow into. The rooms they've touched have always exceeded my expectations. **★★★★★ — reggiehidalgo, June 2016** > I hired Studio 3 for my kitchen addition/remodel. I was comfortable with Bess at our first meeting and my initial read was spot on. She was easy to work with, available when I needed her and always had great ideas and solutions. I went over my wish list with her and she came back with 4 floor plans. We took ideas I liked from each plan and re-worked the final. She always listened to my input and the end result is fabulous. She took a cramped and hard to use kitchen and created my dream kitchen. I will definitely use Bess and Studio 3 for my next project. **★★★★★ — tschmier, March 2016** > My husband and I hired Bess and her team at Studio3 for two large remodel projects. The first was a full kitchen remodel, 160 square foot office addition, and general aesthetic updates. The second was a 900 square 2nd story + balcony addition to our existing one story home. Based on our extensive experience working with Studio 3 for many years, I highly recommend the team for a variety of reasons: > > 1\) Thoughtful and Creative Design - really took the time to get to know us, how we live in our home, and what we were trying to accomplish with our remodels. The result is a home that is incredibly functional, versatile, and will meet the needs of our family for many years to come. > > 2\) Knowledge and Professionalism - Bess and team artfully guided us through an lengthy and contentious plan approval process that included hearings at both the Planning Commission and City Council levels. Because of the due diligence Bess did up front and throughout the process to ensure our plans were well within all city guidelines and laws, our plans were approved unanimously at both hearings with no additional changes required. In addition, Bess stood by us and helped us manage through a painful transition of general contractors when our original contractor turned out to be a disaster. > > 3\) Breadth of Experience - Expert in many areas and willing to advise on everything from paint colors to stair railing providers to project management to,.. you get the idea. Basically Bess and team are who I go to for pretty much any advice I need on home design and improvement. > > I am happy to serve as a reference for anyone considering the Studio3 team for your home remodeling needs. **★★★★★ — Compass Silicon Valley, Feb. 2016** > Bess and the team at Studio 3 were a pleasure to work with in the design, planning, and build-out phases of our remodel/addition. Our home was built in 1921, so meshing styles, architecture, functionality, etc. for a home of that age into the 21st Century is not an easy task. Bess met with us, listened, understood what we were trying to achieve, and came back with 4-5 ideas. Ultimately, we ended up melding a few of the designs together to create the perfect solution for our lives and household needs. I would hire Bess and Studio 3 again in a second! The photos from her work are under "Contemporary Cottage Addition." **★★★★★ — Adam Crowell, Feb. 2014** > Bess of Studio3 Design designed end to end our home in Willow Glen that we completed in September of 2009. We started from scratch as we completely tore down the house so we had a clean slate. The design process is full of many critical decisions that can be difficult when only looking at plans. Bess really listened to us and helped guide us when we were not sure on what to do. Bess also brought the important design element to the architectural piece. It was important to me that our home flow with an overarching design yet allow our kids rooms individuality. Bess and her team brought a lot to life with samples and layouts that helped immensely in the decision making process. We really enjoyed working with her. **★★★★★ — maremodel, Feb. 2014** > Bess at Studio 3 really listens to her client and can get their vision down on paper, accurately. She suggests and advises well keeping the client's vision clearly in focus. She lets me know when I'm unknowingly veering away from my vision too far, yet I've NEVER felt like any idea she has suggested been forced upon me-I've always felt she has my wishes at the top of her list. I really enjoy working with her. She is not only an architect, but a certified interior designer as well, which is a true asset during the finishing touches phase. Having her work with me on the whole design process, she "gets" where I'm trying to go for all the fine details. She has a great design eye, smart, quick and down to earth. **★★★★★ — Maureen, Feb. 2014** > I was introduced to Bess through a previous Designer I worked with who was retiring her business. She felt Bess would be a good fit for me and my job, and I knew from our first meeting she was right. Bess and her Studio 3 team came on the job when we completed the basic house conceptual plan. Her input and ideas only further enhanced the function of the floor plan. As well, her knowledge, expertise and practical approach has been so valuable especially as this is my first major house remodel. I have quickly found how easy it is to keep expanding the plan as well as the budget! She does a great job keeping me on track and realistic, which my husband appreciates! Bess has guided us through our Phase 1 of the crazy permit process for an in law quarters and is now assisting with our phase 2, the rest of the house., all the while setting expectations of how to work with the city. She is also great when working with your personal choice of contractors, although she provides her own top notch referrals. Her team is friendly and responsive. > We still have a ways to go, but she is willing to work with you on what services you need in regards to your budget, which I appreciate. > I've been in Real Estate for 13 years, and one thing I've learned is when you find great vendors, partner with them, keep using them and refer them! I've referred Studio 3 to two people / clients with different styles and both have been thrilled to work with her. I would highly recommend you give Studio 3 and Bess a call for your next large or smaller project! ## Selected projects - [Classic Shingle](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/classic-shingle-pj-vj~7237298) - Location: Los Gatos, CA - Photos: 27 - [Eclectic Crafted Farmhouse](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/eclectic-crafted-farmhouse-pj-vj~7237257) - Location: Los Gatos, CA - Photos: 25 - [Los Gatos Storybook](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/los-gatos-storybook-pj-vj~1214354) - Location: Los Gatos, CA - Photos: 57 - Description: This house was built from the ground up in the storybook style. There are two floors and a fill walk-out basement. Large outdoor entertaining backyard area with kitchen and pizza oven and an artist studio adjacent to the garage. - [Classic Update and Addition](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/classic-update-and-addition-pj-vj~2569293) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 22 - Description: A classic update and addition near Los Gatos. Completely remodeled home with expansive kitchen and great room, luxurious master suit and gorgeous game room. - [Heritage Chic Remodel](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/heritage-chic-remodel-pj-vj~3568720) - Location: Los Gatos, CA - Photos: 34 - [Modern Ranch Re-Do](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/modern-ranch-re-do-pj-vj~1912976) - Location: Monte Sereno, CA - Photos: 25 - Description: A modern update to a typical California Ranch home. By expanding the footprint and opening up the main living space we created a large family room that connects seamlessly to the remodeled kitchen. The game room fits a beautiful vintage pool table and is just steps away from the beautiful bar. The master bedroom and master bathroom were completely remodeled to create an open, modern space that is filled with natural light and calming finishes. - [Los Altos Tranquil Kitchen Transformation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/los-altos-tranquil-kitchen-transformation-pj-vj~3043164) - Location: Los Altos Hills, CA - Photos: 14 - [Los Altos Crafted Ranch](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/los-altos-crafted-ranch-pj-vj~275931) - Location: Los Altos, CA - Photos: 20 - Description: A ground up build of a spacious craftsman style home. The rooms filled with character, warmth and lots of natural light. Feature a spacious basement game room with a light-well, bar, wine room and movie theater. - [Contemporary Cottage Addition](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/contemporary-cottage-addition-pj-vj~1345684) - Location: Los Altos, CA - Photos: 22 - [Modern Pool House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/modern-pool-house-pj-vj~1444962) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 11 - Description: A stunning modern pool house with kitchen/family room combination that easily opens to the pool deck. Outdoor kitchen and dining connects to the main house patio seamlessly. - [Los Altos New Traditional](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/los-altos-new-traditional-pj-vj~1214693) - Location: Los Altos, CA - Photos: 14 - Description: Full kitchen and family room remodel, addition of wine storage in the foyer, new stairway and master bathroom remodel. In addition the exterior was updated. - [Willow Glen Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/willow-glen-kitchen-pj-vj~1424915) - Location: San Jose, CA - Photos: 15 - [Stunning Addition](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/stunning-addition-pj-vj~1846057) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 12 - Description: A second story addition and modern update to the exterior. The upstairs addition includes two bedrooms, a full bath, a spacious stairway and a family room with a gorgeous view. Full of light and great details this addition is seamlessly joined with the existing house with modern style. - [Contemporary Ranch](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/contemporary-ranch-pj-vj~1219146) - Location: Los Altos, CA - Photos: 22 - Description: Remodel of the kitchen and dining rooms. Two bathrooms and a Master bath remodels. Patio update and furnishings. - [Cottage Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/cottage-kitchen-pj-vj~1789976) - Location: San Jose, CA - Photos: 9 - Description: A timeless kitchen remodel with a modern twist that brings in light and great pops of color. The space now opens into the dining room allowing for casual dining and connection to the rest of the house. The tile accents are stunning. There are clean lines and great use of space in this beautiful cottage kitchen. - [Los Gatos Mountain Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/los-gatos-mountain-home-pj-vj~1517804) - Location: Los Gatos, CA - Photos: 17 - Description: A refresh of the interiors in the Living and Dining Room. Home Office build out to add Mud Room style entry with lots of storage. A home full of light, color and modern touches. - [Rose Garden Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/rose-garden-kitchen-pj-vj~1383683) - Location: San Jose, CA - Photos: 15 - Description: Full kitchen remodel with a large island, laundry/mudroom, baking center, wine cabinet and banquette seating around the kitchen table. - [Cozy Horse Ranch Refresh](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/cozy-horse-ranch-refresh-pj-vj~3586357) - Location: Aptos, CA - Photos: 20 - [Wine Country Rustic](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/wine-country-rustic-pj-vj~253055) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 23 - [Los Altos Americana](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/los-altos-americana-pj-vj~253071) - Location: Los Altos, CA - Photos: 12 [See all 33 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/studio3-design-inc-pfvwus-pf~847261942) ## Video - [Company video](https://player.vimeo.com/external/841300731.m3u8?s=f36c00549fd62d994c230606c485928ca7b1d23c&oauth2_token_id=1384357804) ## Frequently Asked Questions **What types of interior design projects do you specialize in (full-home, single room, remodel support)?** We specialize in a holistic approach to interior design, seamlessly blending it with our architectural services. This includes full-home designs, specific room transformations like 'Tranquil Kitchen' and 'Bathroom Design,' and comprehensive remodel support, ensuring your living environment truly resonates with your lifestyle. **Do you handle permitting, zoning, and regulatory approvals?** We absolutely handle permitting, zoning, and regulatory approvals as part of our comprehensive architectural and project management services. Our goal is to make the design and construction process as smooth as possible for you, taking care of these essential steps to ensure your project complies with all local requirements. **What types of projects do you specialize in (custom homes, remodels, additions)?** We specialize in a wide range of residential projects, including custom homes, significant remodels, and thoughtful additions. Our portfolio showcases diverse work from 'Heritage Chic Remodels' to 'Contemporary Cottage Additions' and 'Tranquil Kitchen Transformations,' all designed to resonate with our clients' lifestyles. **Do you specialize in specific design styles?** Our expertise spans various interior design styles, from 'Heritage Chic' to 'Contemporary Cottage' and 'Modern Ranch.' We don't adhere to a single style but rather focus on understanding your unique aesthetic and aspirations, translating them into a personalized and meaningful reflection of your taste. **Do you work with contractors and architects during renovations?** As both architects and interior designers, we inherently work closely with contractors during renovations. Our 'Project Management' services ensure seamless coordination, and our holistic approach means we integrate interior and exterior design from the start, fostering a collaborative environment for successful project completion. *FAQ content may be generated based on the Pro's Houzz profile and website.* ## Ideabooks - [Ferrari outdoor](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/66715064/list/ferrari-outdoor) — 24 ideas - [Gentile - Lot 61](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/46258172/list/gentile-lot-61) — 17 ideas - [Johnson-2](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/46258522/list/johnson-2) — 1 idea - [Siding](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/45146600/list/siding) — 32 ideas [See all 4 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/studio3design) ## Community Q&A **Q: kitchen tile details** *(in Photo Questions)* My wife LOVES the kitchen tile? where is it from? A: Hello - this is a glass tile from All Natural Stone **Q: color of pergola** *(in Photo Questions)* What is the color and material to this pergola? A: Clear stained western cedar **Q: What are the dimensions for the outdoor pool house, including pergola?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: the overall poolhouse was approximately 30'X17', not counting pool deck or roof overhang **Q: what species of wood is the soffit and ceiling** *(in Photo Questions)* A: western clear cedar, no knots, vertical grain **Q: Love this coffee table with extra seating!** *(in Photo Questions)* So ingenious. Where can I find this item? Thanks A: This is a custom table. You can find similar things at Arteriors, Ironies, and I think a cost effective solution at Crate and Barrel that is similar in concept. **Q: Where did you get the tic tac toe set?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: I'm sorry - but I cannot help you with this item, our client had it already! --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-20.*