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254 Santa Barbara Architects and Building Designers

Is the scope of your home design project beyond simply replacing countertops or flooring? It’s the responsibility of a Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara 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 254 professionals
  • Kitchen
    Item 1 of 5
    21 Reviews

    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 call31 projects in Santa Barbara
  • Santa Barbara Hope Ranch
    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...

    See my projects
    Click to call10 projects in the Santa Barbara areaSponsored
  • Charming Spanish Revival Home in Montecito, California
    Item 1 of 5
    12 Reviews

    Santa Barbara Home Designer, Consultant and Author Jeff Doubét on Houzz Jeff Doubét is the author of Creating S...

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    Click to callSanta Barbara, CA
  • Ojai Studio
    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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    Click to callSponsored
  • Riviera Craftsman
    Item 1 of 5
    16 Reviews

    Since Banyan was founded in Santa Barbara in 1995, Kirk has designed and completed over 300 projects of diverse ty...

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    Click to callSanta Barbara, CA
  • 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 Santa Barbara areaSponsored
  • Item 1 of 5
    13 Reviews

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

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    Click to call7 projects in Santa Barbara
  • 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...

    See my projects
    Click to call9 projects in the Santa Barbara areaSponsored
  • Item 1 of 5
    11 Reviews

    Award-winning architect John D. Kelley specializes in environmentally friendly design. His mission is to encourage...

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    Click to callSanta Barbara, CA
  • 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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    Click to callSponsored
  • Item 1 of 5
    5 Reviews

    We are a full service Architecture and interior design firm located in Santa Barbara, led by licensed Architect Ke...

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    Click to call9 projects in Santa Barbara
  • 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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    Click to call9 projects in the Santa Barbara areaSponsored
  • Item 1 of 5
    5 Reviews

    AB design studio (ABds) is committed to consistently redefining and expanding the perception of what is possible f...

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    Click to callSanta Barbara, CA
  • 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...

    See my projects
    Click to call1 project in the Santa Barbara areaSponsored
  • Item 1 of 5
    5 Reviews

    Design Professional with over 35 years experience in the Architectural field, working on the east coast from New J...

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    Click to callSanta Barbara, CA
  • 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...

    See my projects
    Click to call7 projects in the Santa Barbara areaSponsored
  • Item 1 of 5
    17 Reviews

    As a husband and wife team, we have been craftsmen and designers for over 30 years. We are adept at wearing many...

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    Click to callSanta Barbara, CA
  • 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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    Click to call4 projects in the Santa Barbara areaSponsored
  • Item 1 of 5
    4 Reviews

    Our focus is smart, healthy residential design. We nurture collaborative relationships with both clients and cont...

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    Click to callSanta Barbara, CA
  • 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

    View full review
    Click to call31 projects in the Santa Barbara areaSponsored
  • Item 1 of 5
    12 Reviews

    Andrulaitis+Mixon Architects is committed to designing uniquely functional spaces that transform the lives of thei...

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    Click to call10 projects in Santa Barbara
  • Item 1 of 5
    2 Reviews

    Santa Barbara 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 call6 projects in the Santa Barbara areaSponsored
  • Item 1 of 5
    5 Reviews

    With 30 years of architecture experience in Santa Barbara, I can creatively help you realize the vision for your p...

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    Click to callSanta Barbara, 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 Santa Barbara areaSponsored
  • Item 1 of 5
    6 Reviews

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

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    Click to call2 projects in Santa Barbara
  • 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
  • Item 1 of 5
    15 Reviews

    Custom residential design

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    Click to callSanta Barbara, CA
  • Item 1 of 5
    3 Reviews

    Residential and Small Commercial Designs since 1994

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    Click to callSanta Barbara, CA
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Featured Reviews for Santa Barbara Architects and Building Designers

Andrulaitis + Mixon
Santa Barbara 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.”
arketype architects inc
Santa Barbara 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.”
Kari Architect
Santa Barbara 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.”
Kevin Moore Architect
Santa Barbara Architects and Building Designers
Dec 26, 2013
“As a window/door and glass consultant I've known Kevin for several years and have worked on many projects together from contemporary style to rustic. He is creative, knowledgeable and thorough in all that he does. I'd recommend him for any project. Kevin has a great eye for design and function giving his clients exceptional value from the simple to the extreme while keeping control of budget. I enjoy working with him every chance I get.. He is truly one of those special and gifted architects.”
Tom Ochsner AIA
Santa Barbara 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.”
Tom Meaney Architect, AIA
Santa Barbara 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.”
Two Trees Architect
Santa Barbara 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.”
Thompson Naylor Architects Inc
Santa Barbara 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.”
RRM Design Group
Santa Barbara Architects and Building Designers
Aug 12, 2014
“I have been commissioned to do freelance photography by RRM Design Group since June 2012, so this review is not for only one project, but for multiple projects. I enjoy working with RRM because of their professionalism, community involvement, environmentally conscientious and high level designs. Each project has been interesting and unique, which has made them a pleasure to photograph. RRM has used my photographs on their web site, marketing materials, design competition submittals. A few of the projects have been published in trade magazines, including a cover photo. On the administrative side scheduling and setting up the photo shoots as well as payments have been a smooth process. Communication about photography project objectives and anything else that has come up have been excellent. I would highly recommend working with RRM Design Group.”
Neumann Mendro Andrulaitis Architects LLP
Santa Barbara Architects and Building Designers
Sep 30, 2013
“Our firm collaborated with NMA Architects on a large scale project for over 7 years. In every aspect, they exceeded our expectations, and were in our opinion, ideal creative partners for this project. We look forward to the opportunity to work together again soon.”
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How do I find the best Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara on Houzz. Narrow your search in the Professionals section of the website to Santa Barbara 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.

Find architects and building designers near me on Houzz

Before you hire an architect or building designer in Santa Barbara, California, shop through our network of over 254 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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