Equinox Architecture Inc. - Jim Gelfat

From the moment we met Jim to discuss our major kitchen remodel, he made us comfortable. He offered several options for layouts, took our budget seriously and took our opinions to heart. He's fair, current on trends and the latest technologies and suggested areas where we could actually save money. We absolutely LOVE our new kitchen and it's due in no small part to Jim and Equinox Architecture.

In June, 2016 my wife and I hired Jim Gelfat, Equinox Architecture Inc to design the plans for our master bathroom remodel. Jim gave us various creative options, both verbally and in conceptual drawings. Once the final design was selected, Jim provided detailed drawings of the finished remodel, from various angles including top down. They were so helpful that we provided them to each of the sub-contractors and used them for obtaining city permits. Jim also monitored the work in process, offering additional suggestions and talking to the contractors. His low key style and professionalism took a lot of pressure off of us and we are so pleased with the end result. My wife and I initially hired Jim Gelfat, Equinox Architecture Inc in 2000 to design the plans to replace a large hillside wood deck. We used a new composite wood product and Jim's design plans. helped to facilitate obtaining city permits, the construction process and final city approval. Jim continued to check on the work progress, giving us much comfort in the process, and the excellent finished product.

We hired Equinox Architecture to help design the renovation of our ‘70’s era home. We had the unique challenge of having a staircase in an awkward and intrusive spot in the living room, and were having trouble envisioning a way to relocate it without changing the footprint of the house. Jim Gelfat found a creative way to relocate the stairway, as well as redesign the kitchen area in a way that we had not thought of to open it up and make it more functional and attractive. We are very pleased with the design of our remodeled home, and would highly recommend Equinox Architecture.

We have personally known Jim for many years. When moving to San Diego we have an opportunity to creatively build on our 1.3 Acres. Although still in the process, Jim has been a major asset. From suggestions, as well as, time and money saving suggestions and ideas, our dream project is under way. Professional, upfront , and a pleasure to work with, his understanding of the "Big Picture" has successfully guided us and eased our minds. Ability to "roll with the punches" and dynamics of all of our parameters both of environmental as well as financial budget has made a daunting task a more simple choice in logical building. If you are looking for an honest opinion without the "BS", i believe Jim is your man.

It has been a pleasure to work with Jim from start to finish. In addition to his obvious high level skills in regard to his vision and design, he is responsive, engaging, communicative, and collaborative. I started with the most basic of ideas and yet Jim was able to know what to ask, and how to guide me, so that that he helped me both define and then operationalize the vision for my ideal living space. All of that, and working with him made the whole process fun and a pleasure! I recommend him most highly and with no reservations whatsoever.

I was introduced to Jim through a mutual friend who had used Jim as an accomplished architect for his house. Our own project was very challenging in that we wanted to hire a multi-talented architect with a deep understanding of construction as well as pure architecture. Jim fit the bill royally. Our project involved the complete gutting of the house we had been living n for 20 years and reconstructing it with most of the existing layout intact but adding about 2,000 square feet and a complete makeover both inside and out. He was amazing in detail, has an excellent rapport with the Department of Building and Safety and with his gentle persistence was able to achieve many difficult tasks. His knowledge of the construction trade and ability to work with all levels of contractors is superb, a quality that is necessary in modern times. Jim has an unbelievable eye for original geometrical perspective, color combination and material selection. He was a God send to me and to my wife through this difficult project. He is an excellent architect and I recommend him without hesitation.

Several years ago we wanted to do something to our home. We sought out an architect who specialized in hillsides and modernism. Jim fit both bills! Not only is he talented but he is a genuinely nice guy. He designed a home that not only was architecturally unique, but is functional and beautiful. We loved working with Jim. He navigated us through the waters of the LA Building and Grading Depts. handling some pretty problematic issues that arose because of our contractor and the site in general. We can without a doubt tell you that choosing Equinox Architecture is not only a good choice but the most excellent choice you can make in an architect. He has kept up with us though time and has even addressed some issue with the Assessor's office due to their mistakes. You have a need..he is your man.

I have worked with Jim Gelfat and Equinox Architecture for over 10 years on various custom residential projects. Jim is a problem solver. He has a team of various engineers and specialists that he coordinates to provide a full service experience. He also knows how to navigate through the building department, where he is familiar with many of the personnel. Jim's style is not to push an agenda or try to sell what he wants. He is sensitive to his clients wants and wishes, and blends that criteria into the physical parameters of the site or project area. One of Jim's assets is that he was once a builder. This is a tremendous advantage over most architects. As a building contractor for 38 years, I have worked with many architects, but only recommend Equinox Architecture, as I never have to worry about complaints from my customers. Jim's pleasant demeanor belies his energetic approach and devotion to his projects. He works well with the client, and the builder. I highly recommend his services.

We saw some of Jim's work in Venice and admired his creative use of materials and his spacial organization. We are currently working with him on renovating our home and appreciate his diverse approach to solving some of our design issues in a creative and cost effective manner. He is always trying to keep solutions within our budget.