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  2. Architects & Building Designers
  3. San Luis Obispo Metro

234 San Luis Obispo Architects and Building Designers

Is the scope of your home design project beyond simply replacing countertops or flooring? It’s the responsibility of a San Luis Obispo home architect to transform human needs and desires into visual concepts and habitable structures. When you hire an architectural designer, you are not only hiring someone for their architectural services, but also to manage and coordinate other parties involved in the project. As you search through San Luis Obispo interior architects and designers, keep in mind the following tips to help you choose the perfect one: More
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1 – 15 of 234 professionals
  • LaGue Kitchen
    Item 1 of 5
    9 Reviews

    Isaman design, Inc. is a full service architecture firm that strives to attain the highest quality in every design...

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    Click to call24 projects in San Luis Obispo
  • Hollywood Hills
    Item 1 of 5

    Santa Barbara's Dedicated & Fresh Architectural Design Studio

    Principal & Founding Architect, Brian Biglin, believes that good design works in harmony with people's lives; refl...

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  • Tuscan Wine Estate
    Item 1 of 5
    6 Reviews

    Thom Brajkovich, with twenty-seven years as an architect and master builder on the Central Coast, believes that ar...

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    Click to call19 projects in San Luis Obispo
  • Lilac Drive Residence
    Item 1 of 5
    7 Reviews

    Efficient & Elegant Architectural Design Solutions in Santa Barbara

    At Manson-Hing Architects, we listen to our clients. We share our ideas and discuss options. We design to realize...

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    Click to callSponsored
  • Corralitos Remodel
    Item 1 of 5
    11 Reviews

    We cultivate creative design solutions unique to each project using strategies that are indicative of local climat...

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    Click to call15 projects in San Luis Obispo
  • Item 1 of 5
    12 Reviews

    Santa Barbara's Award-Winning Architectural Firm-Best of Houzz 2017

    Kent Mixon Architect is an award winning architecture firm that is dedicated to producing quality design solutions...

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    Click to callSponsored
  • Item 1 of 5
    12 Reviews

    Jade Architecture is a progressive architectural firm focused on providing efficient service, while maintaining qu...

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    Click to call13 projects in San Luis Obispo
  • Item 1 of 5
    17 Reviews

    Central Coast Architect Specializing in Custom Homes 3X Best of Houzz!

    With over 30 years of experience, owner Marcus Ziedses des Plantes offers high-level, focused architectural design...

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    Click to call6 projects in the San Luis Obispo areaSponsored
  • Item 1 of 5
    6 Reviews

    I am an architect who is committed to delivering an extraordinary experience. My clients trust me to provide the h...

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    Click to call7 projects in San Luis Obispo
  • Item 1 of 5
    21 Reviews

    Santa Barbara’s Award-Winning Green Architects Best of Houzz x4

    I love their design ideas, their drawings are incredibly detailed and they are a delight to work with. – brian3078

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    Click to call2 projects in the San Luis Obispo areaSponsored
  • Item 1 of 5
    17 Reviews

    Owner and sole proprietor, Marcus Ziedses des Plantes, received his Bachelor of Architecture and Environmental Des...

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    Click to call6 projects in San Luis Obispo
  • Item 1 of 5
    5 Reviews

    Santa Barbara's Boutique Architectural Design Firm

    The essence of our residential work is to understand and accommodate the unique goals and needs of our clients and...

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  • Item 1 of 5
    6 Reviews

    MS|A, founded in 2011 by Micah D. Smith, AIA, is a small San Luis Obispo-based architecture firm specializing in c...

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    Click to call4 projects in San Luis Obispo
  • Item 1 of 5

    Santa Barbara County Premier Architect and Design Firm

    The Warner Group Architects, Inc. is committed to focusing on innovative solutions that exceed the projects needs...

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  • Item 1 of 5
    6 Reviews

    San Luis Obispo's Preferred & Most Experienced Architect

    For nearly 25 years, Mike Smith has worked with hundreds of clients, providing architectural design for residentia...

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    Click to call7 projects in the San Luis Obispo areaSponsored
  • Item 1 of 5
    9 Reviews

    Danciart Architecture is dedicated to the service of the client and the stewardship of the planet. Following a re...

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    Click to call3 projects in San Luis Obispo
  • Item 1 of 5
    8 Reviews

    Southern California Architecture, Designer-Led Design Build

    Regardless of size & budget, we incorporate environment friendly design into all of our projects to fits our clien...

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  • Item 1 of 5
    13 Reviews

    Santa Barbara County Architect, Best of Houzz Design Award Winner

    Understanding and appreciating subtleties of color, proportion, and texture comes from decades of combining archit...

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    Click to call2 projects in the San Luis Obispo areaSponsored
  • Item 1 of 5
    3 Reviews

    Full service Design + Engineering firm located in San Luis Obispo. From land acquisition, feasibility studies and...

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    Click to call2 projects in San Luis Obispo
  • Item 1 of 5
    6 Reviews

    Premier Santa Barbara Architect | Best of Houzz '17

    From the design, to the planning and permitting, to the construction, we maintain direct control. We take pride in...

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    Click to callSponsored
  • Item 1 of 5
    6 Reviews

    Santa Barbara Award Winning Architect

    KARI ARCHITECTS, established in 1991, is an architectural firm dedicated to the highest quality of residential des...

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    Click to call2 projects in the San Luis Obispo areaSponsored
  • Item 1 of 5
    7 Reviews

    Jessica Lehrbaum, Architect, provides a full range of architectural services specializing in Single, Multi-Family...

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    Click to call2 projects in San Luis Obispo
  • Item 1 of 5
    12 Reviews

    San Luis Obispo's Creative Architect & Building Designer

    At Jade Architecture we embrace the unique parameters of each project, and by using an intuitive yet sensible appr...

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    Click to call13 projects in the San Luis Obispo areaSponsored
  • Item 1 of 5
    7 Reviews

    Based in Paso Robles, Nina Nazarov offers high level residential design for everyone. Whether you are looking to b...

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    Click to call8 projects in San Luis Obispo
  • Item 1 of 5
    5 Reviews

    Santa Barbara-Based Full Service Architecture & Interior Design Firm

    Here at KMA, we work with our clients and teams of consultants like interior designers, Landscape Architects, engi...

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    Click to callSponsored
  • Item 1 of 5
    6 Reviews

    Studio B. Elements is a full service architectural interior design firm located in San Luis Obispo, California. Ou...

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    Click to call1 project in San Luis Obispo
  • Item 1 of 5
    2 Reviews

    San Luis Obispo County Architectural Design Firm

    If you are dreaming about a building project, but don’t know where to start, call on us! We can provide ALL the se...

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  • Item 1 of 5
    3 Reviews

    Brooks Clifford Studio is an architectural design firm specializing in the integration of interior and exterior li...

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    Click to call1 project in San Luis Obispo
  • Item 1 of 5
    2 Reviews

    San Luis Obispo Architectural Design Firm

    Whether you are looking for a large villa or a small beach bungalow, RRM will work with you to design the perfect...

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    Click to call7 projects in the San Luis Obispo areaSponsored
  • Item 1 of 5
    8 Reviews

    Our small practice is located in the beautiful Santa Ynez Valley just outside of Solvang, CA. We’ve been practic...

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    Click to call1 project in San Luis Obispo
  • Item 1 of 5
    9 Reviews

    San Luis Obispo Architect + Design Firm 8X Best of Houzz Winner!

    Isaman design strives to attain the highest quality in every design. Specializing in Custom Residential, Isaman de...

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    Click to call24 projects in the San Luis Obispo areaSponsored
  • Item 1 of 5
    3 Reviews

    Interior Coordinates Design Company is a full-service residential and commercial design firm offering a variety of...

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    Click to callArroyo Grande, CA
  • Item 1 of 5
    40 Reviews

    Santa Barbara Area Architecture Firm - Best of Houzz 2018 Winner

    The firm of Neumann Mendro Andrulaitis Architects was established with the goal of providing comprehensive archite...

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    Click to call16 projects in the San Luis Obispo areaSponsored
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Featured Reviews for San Luis Obispo Architects and Building Designers

Manson-Hing Architects Inc.
San Luis Obispo Architects and Building Designers
Nov 18, 2014
“As senior citizens planning our first addition and remodel we needed an expert. After many interviews we selected Christopher -- he listened! He continued to listen, to hear what we wanted and needed throughout our year-long project, guiding us to choices that were better and more efficient. His exacting plans made the process go smoothly for the contractor and for the various subs. His presence was a delight, his expertise invaluable. He is a true professional with the highest design and coordination skills.”
Andrulaitis + Mixon
San Luis Obispo Architects and Building Designers
Jul 23, 2014
“Kent was a great listener, followed through, and was available as the project progressed. Highly recommend him for his professional approach, attention to detail and anticipating our needs.”
des Plantes and Associates
San Luis Obispo Architects and Building Designers
Dec 10, 2013
“My husband and I are remodeling both of our bathrooms, and want to open up our kitchen area so it works better with the layout of our house. Marcus has been working with us and he's been fantastic. Even though it is just a remodel, he's given us so many great ideas to tie the whole house together, as well as help us understand what is worth spending money on for the long run, and where we could save. He's making the process really fun and exciting, and I can't wait to live in a house that is finally well designed and perfectly us. Also, he lives is San Luis Obispo, CA and we live in Santa Cruz, which I thought might be a problem when it came down to meeting one on one, but he was very flexible and has been shooting up to meet with us multiple times bringing beautiful sketches of ideas, or examples of materials for us to look at. I hightly recommend him for big or small projects. He's truely a professional.”
Thompson Naylor Architects Inc
San Luis Obispo Architects and Building Designers
Jun 10, 2012
“Dennis Thompson worked closely with us to design a new home on our land, after our house was destroyed by a wildfire. He was sensitive and cognizant of the emotional factors going into the design process, given our circumstances. Dennis took us through the entire process, from design concept through City approval, from choosing a contractor through managing on-site building issues. Ultimately, we ended up with a beautiful, energy efficient home.”
Two Trees Architect
San Luis Obispo Architects and Building Designers
Nov 27, 2017
“Our family had outgrown our home and we were contemplating a move to a larger house. We loved our current location but needed more room. Danny met with us and discussed options for adding on to our current home. After several discussions plans were developed and he continued to meet with our contractor throughout the process to ensure the project was done right. Having Danny involved in the project was the best decision we made. We are so thankful for our home addition and highly recommend Two Tree Architects.”
Michael D Smith Architect
San Luis Obispo Architects and Building Designers
Jan 18, 2017
“Michael has been a great resource for my company. Affording us the opportunity for a quick response to our needs as as remodeling contractor in the San luis Obispo and Southern Monterey Counties. His quick response to our needs has been a tremendous asset. I have seen his work on complete projects down to minor architectural and structural requirements. I can highly recommend Michael, and do so whenever I get the chance.”
arketype architects inc
San Luis Obispo Architects and Building Designers
May 13, 2015
“I interviewed a number of architects and talked to a couple of references before selecting David Ferrin and Arketype Architects for my rather different project, that of building a two story home on top of an existing stone warehouse, providing three floors plus roof-deck in a tight urban setting. Before I selected him, I was impressed with his "can-do" attitude and examples of some of his thinking outside-the-box. The design work I saw was classy and much of it different. His use of materials tends towards the green but when price becomes an issue, he will demur or come up with an alternative. David is quietly spoken and his demeanor is thoughtful, low-key and confident. The project is still 12 months away from completion (I'm writing this in May 2015 ) so it isn't possible to give you final comment but to this point I have been VERY happy with his work. He is quick to effect changes and is very thorough with his plans, attention to detail (according to several other architects and planners) being well above what is normally produced. I swear this attention to detail is what allowed our plans to get through to permitting in so few hearings.”
Tom Meaney Architect, AIA
San Luis Obispo Architects and Building Designers
Dec 18, 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.”
Tom Ochsner AIA
San Luis Obispo Architects and Building Designers
Jun 18, 2015
“We are currently involved in a large project in Monticello, California designed by Tom. This amazing design is beginning to take shape and will showcase the clients desires perfectly.Tom was instrumental in connecting with us through the Client.. Tom has been very professional throughout the choosing of the hard surface and architectural elements to be placed in the home. It is always nice to find through, and thoughtful professionals to work beside.”
Kari Architect
San Luis Obispo Architects and Building Designers
May 4, 2014
“Lori Kari is great! Being a residential contractor in Chicago for over 28 years, I am accustomed to a variety of working and design styles. In choosing Lori for our personal home in Santa Barbara our desires and concerns could not have been more perfectly satisfied. Her design skills are outstanding. Beyond that, the intricacies of dealing with the departments and committees -including the historic review- whose requirements needed to be mitigated while keeping us happy was handled with the most skillful aplomb. It was delightful to collaborate with Lori from the initial concept to the final flourishes of color and texture.”
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How do I find the best San Luis Obispo architect for my home design project?


It is best to hire a home architect who will be involved in all phases of the design process, from the initial concept to the completed construction. The architect is often the first person you will hire for your project. If necessary, they might also help you select and hire California subcontractors, which can include the builders, engineers and landscaper. Interior architects are also involved in negotiating contracts for all involved participants. It is for these reasons that it is extremely important for you to have a good relationship with the San Luis Obispo residential architect you hire. He or she can be the tie-breaking vote between you and the general contractor and can be your biggest advocate during the construction process. Different architecture firms in San Luis Obispo provide different services, so the scope of the work can span from pre-design environmental impact studies to selecting furniture and finishes, depending on what your specific needs are.

What sort of process can I expect from a residential architect?


As far as the process goes, the architecture firm or individual that you choose will start with concept drawings and finish with construction drawings and documents. Some firms even design with 3D renderings and videos, but that should not be assumed. There should be plenty of meetings between you and your building designer until you have agreed upon a design that you are completely happy with. Always keep in mind that the designer will have building codes to follow, and likely pre-existing design limitations when dealing with a remodel, so while they might not be able to execute your exact ideas they always have your safety and aesthetics in mind. One of the most important duties of a residential architect is to serve as managers and supervise most aspects of construction, as well as facilitate communication between all other contractors, so you can expect them to be present throughout the entire building process to ensure everything is executed as planned.

It is very important to hire the right professional for the job. Remember that the most well-known or established designer might not provide the best architectural services for your needs. It all comes down to the individual project. Research and ask people whose work you like for recommendations. It's important to have somewhat of an idea of the style of house architecture that you prefer, as well as the amount you would like to spend. Residential architects in San Luis Obispo are natural problem solvers. They will assess the entire situation and help you to solve your problems too. Don't settle for a single company too early. Call and interview a few. Make sure that you feel like your personalities will mesh well and that you like their professional perspective.

Questions to ask prospective San Luis Obispo interior architects:


  • What is your fee structure?
  • What does the cost include?
  • Do you have professional liability insurance?
  • Can you handle my special requests (ADA, LEED etc.)?
  • What types of renderings (3D, video, illustrative) will you produce?
  • What is your experience with similar projects?
  • When do you expect to start and be finished with the project?
  • What do your services include? (It's best that the services are until construction is completed.)
  • What happens when the cost exceeds the budget?
  • Can you provide me with references?
  • Would you say your work has a defining style? (This is important in case the architect's personal style will interfere with your vision.)
  • Will you help with hiring a general contractor and subcontractors?
  • What do you estimate the cost will be?
  • What will I need to provide?
  • Are there any complications you foresee with this project?


Find a home architect in San Luis Obispo on Houzz. Narrow your search in the Professionals section of the website to San Luis Obispo architects. You may also look through photos of California projects to find interior architects and building designers who have worked on a project similar to yours.

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Before you hire an architect or building designer in San Luis Obispo, California, shop through our network of over 188 local architects and building designers. Read through customer reviews, check out their past projects and then request a quote from the best architects and building designers near you.
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