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  • Average homeowner rating star icon4.8
    Average homeowner rating
  • Verified reviews icon35
    Verified architectural services reviews

Top-Rated Architects in San Francisco - Updated Nov 2026

Avatar for Ogle Design
Ogle Design
4.9(
8
)
Architect - For Business

Serving San Francisco, CA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2017

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"It was such a great experience working with Will and his team at Ogle Designs. They helped us design a blueprint for creating additions to our house including designs for the inside and patio/landscape design We so impressed with Ogle Design's high level of professionalism, expertise and overall delivery of our project. They completed everything on time and within budget! Thanks for your excellent service."
Modern Deck
Modern Deck 2
Exterior Contemporary
Kitchen Island
Living Room

+14

Response time2 days
5 neighbors recently requested a quote
Recommended by100%of homeowners
StudioNorth
4.9(
7
)
Designer - BuildingDraftsperson/CADD

Serving San Francisco, CA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2012

Customers say: Quick response

"Esther responded quickly to my inquiry, made me feel comfortable in determining what could be done with the space on a limited budget, offered many options and followed through with updates and contacts efficiently so that I had the best solutions and products available to complete the project."
2 neighbors recently requested a quote
Recommended by100%of homeowners
Avatar for Evolution Drafting
Evolution Drafting
3.7(
127
)
Draftsperson/CADDDesigner - BuildingArchitect+1 more

Serving San Francisco, CA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2018

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"I hired them to create plans for an apartment building. The process was quick and painless. Cost was good. The plans are full complete abd ready to take to builders for quotes. I will definitly use them again."
Zeal Floor Plan
Charcoal
Palm Floor Plan
Charcoal Floor 2
Charcoal Floor 1

+23

Response time1 day
Response rate100%
66 neighbors recently requested a quote
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Architects FAQs, answered by experts

The biggest upside to hiring an architect is that they will ensure an efficient building process without errors. They will also ensure your home is free from structural issues and that everything is up to building code. Many permitting agencies require architects to draw construction plans and layouts before working, so hiring an architect will also ensure your project is legal. Additionally, architects help homeowners have a clear idea of their project details before the project starts. Hence, they help unify all parties on a shared vision for the project.

On average, the cost to hire an architect is between $2,200 and $10,500. Hourly rates for professional architects range from $45 to $250 per hour, depending on the architect’s experience level and location.

The cost for architect services vary depending on several factors, including:

  • Location

  • Project type

  • Experience level of the architect

  • Local demand for the architect’s services

  • Overall cost of the project

You likely need to hire an architect for your new house design and build, unless you have the design skills and experience with building regulations and standards needed to get your plans approved. If you are able to meet the design requirements, you can hire a draftsperson to create the blueprints for the builders to follow.

Universal design is a design concept that states that products, spaces, and general environments are designed to be used by everyone, with an emphasis on accessibility for those with limited mobility or other special needs.

Federal and Colonial architecture are similar in that they both appear mostly utilitarian and symmetrical, but Federal architecture is a bit more ornate. Federal design often includes decorative palladium windows, window lintels, and, sometimes, columns surrounding a more decorative portico. Inside, Federal architecture is set apart by its centrally-located oval room. Additionally, Federal homes tend to have brick facades, whereas Colonial homes more often have wood siding.

The San Francisco, CA homeowners’ guide to architectural services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.