Guides
Plain-English architecture, plans, permit, and design-build guides for homeowners who would rather avoid expensive confusion.
Short answer first. Comparison second. Sales pitch never.
A Bay Area homeowner guide to choosing the right first call: licensed architect, residential designer, design-build firm, or permit drawing team.
By Ryan Nakamoto
A homeowner-first Bay Area guide to deciding when a licensed architect is worth it, when another path is cleaner, and what to ask before hiring anyone.
By Lillian Chia
A homeowner-first Bay Area guide to knowing whether you need a permit set, a design set, or a fuller drawing package before you pay for plans.
By Kelly Braz
A Bay Area homeowner interview script for testing scope, fees, consultants, permits, budget reality, and construction support before signing.
By Michael Schultz
A Bay Area homeowner guide to architect proposal exclusions: consultants, permit fees, interiors, pricing, and construction-phase support.
By Michael Schultz
A Bay Area homeowner guide to the plan-check comments that delay ADUs, additions, and remodels, and how to reduce resubmittals before you submit.
By Vivian Ni