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Architects near Menlo Park, CA

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These pros consistently receive high praise in customer reviews.These popular pros are highly sought after for their quality and expertise.These pros recognize that your time is important, and are the fastest to respond to requests.Pros who have the most reviews.These highly recommended pros are experts, ready to help with your project.

These pros consistently receive high praise in customer reviews.These popular pros are highly sought after for their quality and expertise.These pros recognize that your time is important, and are the fastest to respond to requests.Pros who have the most reviews.These highly recommended pros are experts, ready to help with your project.

Avatar for Studio Etude
Avatar for Studio Etude
2.
Studio Etude
2.
Studio Etude

Exceptional 5.0

(14)

Exceptional 5.0

(14)

  • 4 hires on Thumbtack
  • Serves Menlo Park, CA
Maria S. says, "Studio Etude is a beacon of excellence in the realm of architectural design, setting new standards with their impeccable craftsmanship and visionary approach. From the moment you step into one of their creations, you are transported into a world where form seamlessly marries function, creating spaces that resonate with both purpose and aesthetic finesse. One of the firm's most striking qualities is their unwavering commitment to innovation. Each project bears the hallmark of ingenuity, showcasing an impressive fusion of contemporary trends and timeless architectural principles. This forward-thinking ethos is evident in their use of cutting-edge materials and sustainable practices, setting them apart as true pioneers in eco-conscious design."See more
Maria S. says, "Studio Etude is a beacon of excellence in the realm of architectural design, setting new standards with their impeccable craftsmanship and visionary approach. From the moment you step into one of their creations, you are transported into a world where form seamlessly marries function, creating spaces that resonate with both purpose and aesthetic finesse. One of the firm's most striking qualities is their unwavering commitment to innovation. Each project bears the hallmark of ingenuity, showcasing an impressive fusion of contemporary trends and timeless architectural principles. This forward-thinking ethos is evident in their use of cutting-edge materials and sustainable practices, setting them apart as true pioneers in eco-conscious design."
Avatar for LCF Solutions
Avatar for LCF Solutions
6.
LCF Solutions
6.
LCF Solutions

5.0

(2)

5.0

(2)

Licensed pro
  • Serves Menlo Park, CA
Catherine B. says, "We hired Felix Liu of LCF Solutions to draft the plans for our ADU addition and remodel in San Francisco, and we couldn’t be happier with the experience! From the outset, Felix listened carefully to our ideas and offered practical, creative solutions to maximize our space. He presented us with thoughtful options and made adjustments based on our feedback, helping us feel fully involved in each decision. Throughout the process, Felix was consistently responsive and professional. His drawings were clear and detailed, making communication with our contractor and the city straightforward. Any time adjustments were needed, he responded quickly and provided updates without delay. Thanks to Felix’s expertise, we received our building permit and now feel confident knowing our renovation is being built on a solid foundation. We highly recommend Felix to anyone looking for a knowledgeable and reliable partner for their home project."See more
Catherine B. says, "We hired Felix Liu of LCF Solutions to draft the plans for our ADU addition and remodel in San Francisco, and we couldn’t be happier with the experience! From the outset, Felix listened carefully to our ideas and offered practical, creative solutions to maximize our space. He presented us with thoughtful options and made adjustments based on our feedback, helping us feel fully involved in each decision. Throughout the process, Felix was consistently responsive and professional. His drawings were clear and detailed, making communication with our contractor and the city straightforward. Any time adjustments were needed, he responded quickly and provided updates without delay. Thanks to Felix’s expertise, we received our building permit and now feel confident knowing our renovation is being built on a solid foundation. We highly recommend Felix to anyone looking for a knowledgeable and reliable partner for their home project."
Avatar for DiNuova Building & Design
Avatar for DiNuova Building & Design
8.
DiNuova Building & Design
8.
DiNuova Building & Design

5.0

(3)

5.0

(3)

  • 3 hires on Thumbtack
  • Serves Menlo Park, CA
AMANDA H. says, "Our project was a Tubbs fire rebuild. While I had done some remodeling in the past, a complete home rebuild was very overwhelming. My home was completely destroyed, so basically we had a blank slate to work with. Travis was an amazing partner for the process. I kind of feel sorry for him, he had to deal with a complete newbie coming off of a traumatic disaster who wasn't really sure what she wanted nor if she could afford it. Yikes! Honestly, he was SO patient and kind. And really, really explained everything so clearly that when I had to make a decision, I was confident it was the right move. Also, he always had clever solutions to design changes or other engineering and understand innately how altering one element would effect other areas of a project. He takes the smallest changes and shows you the big picture. It felt really good to be in the hands of a true professional. He and his team are quick to respond and are just great to work with, it's that simple."See more
AMANDA H. says, "Our project was a Tubbs fire rebuild. While I had done some remodeling in the past, a complete home rebuild was very overwhelming. My home was completely destroyed, so basically we had a blank slate to work with. Travis was an amazing partner for the process. I kind of feel sorry for him, he had to deal with a complete newbie coming off of a traumatic disaster who wasn't really sure what she wanted nor if she could afford it. Yikes! Honestly, he was SO patient and kind. And really, really explained everything so clearly that when I had to make a decision, I was confident it was the right move. Also, he always had clever solutions to design changes or other engineering and understand innately how altering one element would effect other areas of a project. He takes the smallest changes and shows you the big picture. It felt really good to be in the hands of a true professional. He and his team are quick to respond and are just great to work with, it's that simple."

FAQs

Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Thumbtack.

How do architects work?

Architects may work for an architecture or engineering firm, they may work for a government organization, they can work for a construction company, or they may be self-employed (freelance). The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics explains that architects spend a large amount of their working time in the home or company office: meeting with clients; creating reports and architectural drawings; and working with other architects and engineers. When not in an office, an architect is often at the construction site either as part of the development of plans or to ensure building progress is following the blueprint.

When a client interacts with an architect, it is typically to have them design drawings for the construction of a house or a building. If you are a client who has hired a large architecture firm, there may be a team of people working on your design. But if you are working with a freelance architect or a smaller firm, one person (or a small group) will take your concept and translate it into an architectural blueprint that a builder can use to construct a house. The plans will lay out everything from the depth of the foundation to the materials to use to the type of metal to be used in the reinforcement. Once the plans have been created and handed off to the builder, the architect may remain on the project — depending on budget — and oversee progress.

How do architects charge for their services?

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the median salary of an architect in 2016 was $76,930. This range included architects with every type of company as well as self-employed architects. Depending on the architect and whether they’re with a firm or independent, they may charge per hour or by the square foot, or they may charge a percentage of the total budget for a construction project. An hourly rate is typically used for smaller projects such as providing consultation, helping clients hone their concept before the design process begins, or drafting documents and plans. If an architect is working on an hourly basis on a larger project, there will usually be an agreed-upon cap on the number of hours they will work. For larger projects, such as new construction or total overhaul remodels, architects may charge a percentage of the total construction costs. The architect will usually set the percentage you will pay after the total cost of construction has been accounted for. Percentages can range within a firm depending on the extent of the services they’re providing. For example, a lower percentage of the total construction costs may include drafting and minimal consultation and guidance along the way, while a higher percentage could include on-site project management services with every detail attended to. Architects may also charge by the square footage of the project. The rate per square foot can vary depending on the individual’s training, the services they are providing, the complexity of the project, and other factors — such as obtaining permits. The national average cost to hire an architect is between $1,690 and $2,500.

What do house plans consist of?

In a house plan, you can expect to see an overview of the construction site, floor plans, roof plans, foundation plans, electrical plans, exterior elevation and more. Always ask your architect what they plan to include in your house plan.

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