--- title: "Tom Meaney Architect, AIA — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/tom-meaney-architect-aia-pfvwus-pf~847264718 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~847264718.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Tom Meaney Architect, AIA" category: ["Architects"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/4bb39f2b0f61076d_3421-w400-h400-b1-p10--.jpg address: "629 State Street, Santa Barbara, California 93101, United States" latitude: 34.4197 longitude: -119.7078 phone: "(805) 895-2836" website: http://www.tommeaney.com rating: 5 review_count: 14 license_verified: true best_of_houzz_awards: 13 followers: 798 last_updated: 2026-08-13 --- # Tom Meaney Architect, AIA > Monterey & Santa Barbara Architect > Best of Houzz Design Award Winner Original Houzz profile: [Tom Meaney Architect, AIA](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/tom-meaney-architect-aia-pfvwus-pf~847264718) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Architects - **Location:** Santa Barbara, CA - **Serves:** Ventura, Santa Barbara, Napa, Los Altos, Monterey, Pebble Beach, Malibu, Montecito, Ojai, Santa Ynez, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Summerland, Bay Area, Carmel - **Verified License:** Yes - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (14 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 13 awards (2013–2026), for Design. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Houzz Pro Software User - Star Houzzer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 100,000 Ideabook Saves - Offers Custom Work - Verified Hires ### Business highlights - Offers Custom Work - 1 Verified Hire Understanding and appreciating subtleties of color, proportion, and texture comes from decades of combining architectural training with my fine art work. Emphasis on light, space, scale, and detail remain the hallmark of my efforts. While studying in Rome with the University of Notre Dame, I first realized the potential of combining my passions for art and architecture. My artwork has helped me to understand and appreciate the subtleties of color, proportion, and texture. Combined with my architectural training, I strive to create a home which emphasizes light, space, scale and detail. My goal is to create a home for my clients which reflects the unique qualities of their site and the individual aspects of their lifestyle. Sincerely, Tom Meaney Santa Barbara cell: 805.8952836 www.tommeaney.com ### Services Provided - Architectural Design - Building Design - Home Remodeling - Architectural Drawings - Custom Homes - House Plans - New Home Construction - Home Additions - Home Extensions - Sustainable Design - Floor Plans - Energy-Efficient Homes - Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) - Green Building - Historic Building Conservation - Barn Design & Construction - Construction Drawings - working as a team and having fun ### Areas Served - Ventura - Santa Barbara - Napa - Los Altos - Monterey - Pebble Beach - Malibu - Montecito - Ojai - Santa Ynez - Carmel-by-the-Sea - Summerland - Bay Area - Carmel ### Typical Job Cost $500,000 - 20,000,000 Creating efficiency in building with careful space planning and simple building structure. Better to spend money on finishes and details rather than building complexity. ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Tom Meaney Architect, AIA | | Address | 629 State Street, Santa Barbara, California 93101, United States | | Phone | (805) 895-2836 | | Website | http://www.tommeaney.com | | License Number | C14606 | | Followers on Houzz | 798 | ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Tom Meaney Architect, AIA](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/tom-meaney-architect-aia-pfvwus-pf~847264718) - **Website:** http://www.tommeaney.com - **Phone:** (805) 895-2836 ## Credentials **Verified License** - Number: C14606 - Type: Architect - Issued by: California Architects Board **Certifications & Awards** - Best of Houzz Design - **Best of Houzz:** 13 awards (2013–2026), for Design. **Affiliations** - [The American Institute of Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/the-american-institute-of-architects-pfvwus-pf~1350720471) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 14 reviews** *Aspect averages:* - Work Quality: 50.0 - Communication: 50.0 - Value: 50.0 ### Featured Review **★★★★★ — Ike Z, July 2024** > Wow…not sure where to start with Tom. He is a brilliant man, artist and architect. I was lucky enough to build my dream home from the ground up on a 29 acre vineyard near Santa Barbara and after considering many architects….i zeroed in on Tom Meaney, Tom not only had the aesthetic I was looking for…but was a great listener and was able to incorporate all the things my wife and I were looking for while at the same time staying true to the project: Never once did I 2nd guess my decision to work with Tom….he delivered everything he said he would and more and was a passionate advocate of the project from beginning to end. We got lucky with him! ### All 14 reviews **★★★★★ — Joseph Baumgaertner, Jan. 2019** > Tom Meaney designed our recently completed home in the Santa Ynez Valley. Embarking on the ambitious project of building a house was new for us, and Tom’s participation throughout the design and building phase was critical for the project’s success. For the uninitiated, there are innumerable, unexpected decisions to be made during the course of construction. When distance is involved, as it was in our case, full trust in one’s architect becomes paramount. Having an architect who is not only a master of his craft but also ethical and sensitive to his clients’ financial needs is essential, and Tom did not disappoint on this count. He was available, always punctual, and a joy to work with. Tom Meaney’s portfolio and the testimonials on this site speak for themselves. He is an artist with an unerring eye for detail who is well-versed in a broad range of architectural styles. We are truly fortunate to have worked with such a talented and dedicated individual, an architect who has given us a home far more beautiful than we ever imagined. We recommend Tom Meaney without reservation. > > Elise Magistro and Joe Baumgaertner **★★★★★ — HU-189390820, Nov. 2018** > My husband and I purchased a poorly designed “rustic” ranch house. With Tom’s vision, we flipped the entire floor plan, moving the public spaces to take in the expansive views. As we chose to live in the house during the remodel, Tom designed it to occur in 3 phases. To see the house now it looks as if it were always this view encompassing sophisticated ranch house. **★★★★★ — Leonard Unander Associates, Inc., April 2015** > Tom is exceptional! We had the fortunate opportunity to collaborate on a successful estate in Montecito CA. Tom has a very pleasant personality and does well to accommodate his client's wishes. We hope to collaborate with Tom again soon! **★★★★★ — ledwards46, Jan. 2014** > Thank you Tom Meaney for taking the images, thought and ideas we had for our "dream" home and making it a reality. You listened to us. You had both economical and practical suggestions for us. You were patient with our questions. You were able to incorporate everything that was important to us in our floor plan. You were detailed. Once the plans were finalized, you did not make any major adjustments that would have cost us more money and we appreciated that gift of not making unnecessary and expensive changes. Tom Meaney has amazing talent and we are proud to be the homeowners of a beautiful home that was designed by him. **★★★★★ — Joni L. Janecki & Associates, Inc., Jan. 2014** > Tom's attention to detail, light, views and appreciation of the relationship of the interior and exterior are commendable. As a landscape architect, I have found Tom to be collaborative and respectful and sincerely interested in the overall outcome of a project: from concept development through completion. **★★★★★ — Riddell construction, Jan. 2014** > I'm a 35 year licensed contractor working primary in custom residential homes. This last 2 years I had the pleasure of working with Tom. Being of a more mechanical mind, myself, it is very nice to be able to a gain faith and know the structure your building has a comfortable and pleasing proportion. Let alone fact that suggestions and discussions were appreciated and handled in a very professional manner , not going unheard. I know my client was very happy, and also appreciates, Tom, not only as an architect, but as an artisan. **★★★★★ — kiwi1203, Jan. 2014** > I have worked with Tom Meaney on various projects in Montecito and Ojai throughout the last 10 years. His plans are very detailed and easy to follow and he is always available for advice on conditions and solutions that may be required on New Construction and Remodels. I would not hesitate to recommend him for any client that may be looking for an Architect that pays special attention in Custom home designs and details. > > Martin Prideaux > MPX Construction, Inc. **★★★★★ — wfconnell, Jan. 2014** > Tom Meaney designed all features of our home. His skill with colors is amazing. He gave us a great lighting plan, terrific skylights and captured our goals for the home with taste and high style. He is a joy to work with, and we are proud to consider him our architect and our friend. **★★★★★ — Leonard Unander Jr. - Project Manager, Jan. 2014** > Tom Meaney is a true artist that is able to transform his client’s dreams into reality. I have always admired Tom’s fine art abilities and have really enjoyed seeing how his fine art skills enable him to create such beautiful Architecture. There is a balance of form, function and space with Tom’s Architectural drawings that can only come from someone with years of experience and an artist’s eye. As a General Contractor we have had the pleasure to work with Tom for the past 10 years on custom high-end residential projects in both Santa Ynez and Montecito. During our working relationship with Tom it has become clear that in addition to beautiful drawings Tom is very knowledgeable in regards to the approvals and permitting process. The permitting process can be complicated but it pays to have someone like Tom to guide the way. Over the years we have also noticed that Tom is very attentive to his clients and spends a great deal of time working through the day to day details during the project. From conception to completion Tom leads the project team so that the Owner has the best building experience possible. We really appreciate the opportunity that we have had to work with Tom on our past projects, we are really enjoying our current project with Tom and hope that we can work with Tom on many more projects in the future! **★★★★★ — Gayle Triolo, Jan. 2014** > Tom Meaney is fantastic to work with. He designed a new home at The Santa Lucia Preserve in Carmel, Ca which we have just completed. > Tom is great at design details and also conscious of costs. During construction he was always available to answer questions for myself and my contractor. **★★★★★ — Emerson Development Group Inc, Dec. 2013** > Tom Meaney is a truly exceptional architect. He has a complete mastery of form and proportion and his homes have an authenticity that you rarely see in new home construction. Where Tom truly excels is in his relationships with the customers. He listens and is responsive to the clients wishes and guides them to the best possible home for them and for the site. He is that rare combination of artistic talent and practical execution. He is a joy to work with and has made every project I've worked with him on both fun and successful. He has built lasting friendships with many of his clients which is a testament to his work and his character. I would wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone. **★★★★★ — jordandesigncrewinc, Dec. 2013** > Jordan Design Crew, Inc. is an interior design firm in Los Angeles that worked with Tom Meaney from 2011-2013 on a $4,500,000. project in Carmel CA. It was such a pleasure to work with someone as incredibly talented as Tom! The home he created for the clients is so perfect for their lifestyle. The clients were able to put complete trust in him as he always listened to them.That helped make our job so much easier. Beyond his creative talents, he is just so great to work with, such an ease about him which help make it a fun project! He came up with great solutions for every design dilemma. Always on time with documents and for meetings was a real plus as well!!! Cannot wait to do more projects together! **★★★★★ — rgermani, Dec. 2013** > The process of designing and building a home on the west coast while we lived on the east coast would have been a challenge. Tom made it easy and fun. He was available whenever we needed him throughout the design and build process. Best of all, Tom is now one of our good friends. ## Selected projects - [Rancho Los Olivos](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/rancho-los-olivos-pj-vj~7171490) - Location: Los Olivos, CA - Photos: 21 - [Chapala Street Development](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/chapala-street-development-pj-vj~7042507) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 16 - Description: The Chapala Development offers 39 units spread over 30,000 square feet and an additional 5,000 square feet of commercial space. - [Pebble Beach](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/pebble-beach-pj-vj~6962973) - Location: Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA - Photos: 30 - [San Ysidro](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/san-ysidro-pj-vj~6686606) - Location: Montecito, CA - Photos: 20 - [Luretík Farm](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/luretik-farm-pj-vj~6963545) - Location: Santa Ynez, CA - Photos: 38 - [The Meadows](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/the-meadows-pj-vj~6918456) - Location: Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA - Photos: 16 - [Cernobbio](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/cernobbio-pj-vj~5828575) - Location: Montecito, CA - Photos: 27 - Description: This 14,000sf estate sits on four acres in Montecito overlooking the green rolling hills and ocean beyond. This architectural style was inspired by the villas around Lake Como in northern Italy. The formal central part of the home contains the formal rooms, while the less formal areas are reflected in simpler detailing, more rustic materials, and more irregular building forms. The property terraces towards the view and includes a koi pond, pool with cabana, greenhouse, bocce court, and a small v… - [Mariposa](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mariposa-pj-vj~1391436) - Location: Montecito, California - Photos: 15 - Description: New 7200sf contemporary hilltop residence in Montecito. Designed as a holiday home, the main common rooms were designed for their large, extended family. The terraces take advantage of the panoramic views and connect to the interior living spaces. - [Cortijo](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/cortijo-pj-vj~3132741) - Location: Ojai, CA - Photos: 42 - Description: This 6000 square foot residence sits on a hilltop overlooking rolling hills and distant mountains beyond. The hacienda style home is laid out around a central courtyard. The main arched entrance opens through to the main axis of the courtyard and the hillside views. The living areas are within one space, which connects to the courtyard one side and covered outdoor living on the other through large doors. The outdoor living space has a fireplace, TV, BBQ, and amazing views over the pool. The bedr… - [Modern Ranch Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/modern-ranch-home-pj-vj~129104) - Location: Santa Ynez, CA - Photos: 11 - Description: This 8400 square foot farmhouse respects the building forms, materials, and details of the earlier agricultural buildings of the Santa Ynez Valley. We used reclaimed corrugated metal on the two story water tower office. The stone used for the foundation face and the fireplaces was collected from the river which borders this 100 acre ranch. The outdoor fireplace is part of the large, wrap around porch which overlooks the surrounding fields and distant mountains. - [Los Altos](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/los-altos-pj-vj~5837721) - Location: Los Altos, CA - Photos: 11 - Description: 4200sf residence on a half-acre lot. We used a rustic antique roof tile as a nice contrast to the white plaster walls. Simple building forms with nice details create a house that is economical, elegant, and timeless. - [Renderings](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/renderings-pj-vj~1935120) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 23 - [Contemporary Hillside Home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/contemporary-hillside-home-pj-vj~129595) - Location: Santa Ynez, CA - Photos: 8 - Description: This 3200 square foot second home sits on 10 acres in the Santa Ynez Valley. I incorporated some forms and details from traditional English country cottages but with a contemporary interpretation. A metal roof, steel windows, and crisp detailing combined with the warmth of hardwood flooring and exterior stone makes the home sophisticated and comfortable. Several terraces and a screened porch expand the living areas into the adjacent gardens. - [Ennisbrook courtyard](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/ennisbrook-courtyard-pj-vj~44609) - Location: Montecito, California - Photos: 17 - Description: The design objective for this six acre ocean view parcel in Montecito was to create a literal replication of an 1800's California hacienda. Four adobe structures define the central courtyard while secondary terraces and walled gardens expand the living areas towards the views and morning light. Simple, rustic details and traditional, handmade materials evoke a lifestyle of a distant era. - [Fine Art](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/fine-art-pj-vj~1902743) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 30 - Description: My artwork has been an enjoyable outlet as well as a helpful tool for my architecture. Sketching and painting buildings was stressed during my training at Notre Dame. Pastel portraiture and street drawing have become more recent interests. Creating art has helped me in understanding color, proportion, and composition. And it has made me a better architect. - [Ladera](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/ladera-pj-vj~5832648) - Location: Santa Barbara, CA - Photos: 10 - Description: Six thousand square foot home on an ocean view acre. The project consisted of a major remodel and addition. The original home had the master bedroom in the rear of the lot, away from the ocean view. The kitchen, family, and dining rooms were on the upper floor, disconnected from the pool area and outdoor living terraces. I moved the kitchen and family rooms to the lower level connecting to the pool terrace and views to the south. I added an intimate morning terrace off the kitchen and dining roo… - [Montecito](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/montecito-pj-vj~5606852) - Location: Santa Barbara, CA - Photos: 16 - Description: This 10,000 square foot Spanish Colonial estate sites on two acres in Montecito. Simple building forms, playful symmetry, and a variety of classic details evoke the style made popular in the area during the 1920’s. The rear terraces overlook a pool, city lights, and the harbor beyond. There is a romantic notion of what a Santa Barbara estate should be, and achieving that was my primary design objective. - [San Carlos](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/san-carlos-pj-vj~2028344) - Location: Carmel-by-the-Sea, California - Photos: 31 - Description: The main entrance to this Carmel Valley residence is accessed through a walled courtyard and under a towering oak. The home connects to this courtyard from a covered porch while an exterior stair provides a link to the second floor guest rooms. The kitchen and dining area expands through sliding doors onto a screened porch ‎with its stone fireplace. Between the residence and guest house is the dramatic rear terrace. This space has a firepit, barbeque, sitting fountain, and mountain views. Select… - [Collection](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/collection-pj-vj~46902) - Location: Santa Barbara and Carmel, CA - Photos: 26 - Description: I find the variety of my work most enjoyable. The clients bring to the process different tastes, personalities, building sites, and wishes. I don't impose a certain architectural style on my clients, but I try to carefully listen and take the design in a direction that suits them. As a result, no two experiences or results are the same. - [Park Lane](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/park-lane-pj-vj~1416866) - Location: Montecito, California - Photos: 6 - Description: New 3400sf hilltop residence is o‎verlooking the ocean and city below. An intimate courtyard serves as a counterbalance to the dramatic terraces and distant views. An infinity pool, firepit, outdoor kitchen, and a covered loggia complete the view side of the layout. [See all 25 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/tom-meaney-architect-aia-pfvwus-pf~847264718) ## Video - [Company video](https://player.vimeo.com/external/864937848.m3u8?s=77b77ac4a7517920c80f560c0d12ed77992efe6b&oauth2_token_id=1384357804) ## Frequently Asked Questions **Do you handle permitting, zoning, and regulatory approvals?** Yes, I do handle permitting, zoning, and regulatory approvals. My experience includes guiding clients through the often complex approvals and permitting process, as highlighted in my blog and client testimonials. I aim to make this aspect as smooth and efficient as possible for your project. **What types of projects do you specialize in (custom homes, remodels, additions)?** I specialize in a comprehensive range of residential projects, including architectural design for custom homes, new home construction, home additions, extensions, and remodels. My goal is always to create a unique home that perfectly reflects your lifestyle and the specific qualities of your site. **How do you help clients design within their construction budget?** I prioritize getting my clients the greatest value for their investment. By focusing on efficient floor plans, structural forms, and building systems, we can reduce complexity, allowing more of your budget to go towards quality finishes. I also provide economical and practical suggestions to stay within your construction budget. **Do you provide full-service architectural services through construction?** Yes, I provide full-service architectural services through construction. I am actively involved from the initial concept through project completion, attending meetings, answering calls, and collaborating with the construction team to ensure the design intent is realized precisely. My aim is to lead the project team for the best building experience. **Do you design fully custom homes?** Absolutely. I specialize in designing fully custom homes. My process involves a thorough analysis of your site, budget, and unique design objectives to create a home that is truly one-of-a-kind, perfectly reflecting your individual lifestyle and the specific characteristics of your property. *FAQ content may be generated based on the Pro's Houzz profile and website.* ## Ideabooks - [Jorgensen](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/168891856/list/jorgensen) — 1 idea - [sbsrjs](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/70628607/list/sbsrjs) — 16 ideas - [web](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/23270663/list/web) — 1 idea [See all 3 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/testcalistoga) ## Community Q&A **Q: fireplace surround is perfect** *(in Photo Questions)* Where can I find the fireplace surround, or was it custom made? A: Yes it is a custom design **Q: Love the chandelier** *(in Photo Questions)* Could you tell me where the light fixture is from? A: Ironwood design in santa barbara **Q: What type of outdoor ceiling material is used here?** *(in Photo Questions)* Looking for a wood alternative for my outdoor ceilings and wondering what is used here for the ceiling & wraps? A: Spruce **Q: Can I use your image on my blog page? Thanks** *(in Photo Questions)* Can I use your image on my blog page? Thanks A: Sure. Just mention the source. **Q: what is the width and height of the sliding door? thank you** *(in Photo Questions)* A: 24ft wide and 9ft 6in tall **Q: window between mirrors** *(in Photo Questions)* What is the make and model of the narrow window between the mirrors? A: custom leaded --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-13.*