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Avatar for Geico Builders
Geico Builders
5.0(
61
)
Architect - Landscape

Serving San Rafael, CA and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 2013

Free estimates

Warranties offered

"I reached out to Geico Builders through referral program. Project Manager Mila was super responsive and came out to give me ideas and quote. Once we agreed to the bid they were able to start work in just a few days. I already had a plan and plant list from a landscape architect so I was able to share those documents with them. I had biggest issue with the goffers all over my front yard, the suggestion that Mila gave me was priceless. The way how they did concrete an the amount of rebars they use I knew at that time this concrete stays here for a very long time! Team worked very quickly and efficient always left the job site clean when they left for the day. Mila was also helpful when we added more elements to the original plan. I got several quotes for this job and Geico Builders beat them all. The quality of the work was great so I feel like I got a great deal. Geico Builders thank you so much for all your hard work. We love our new yard!"
Composite Deck Replacement Trex
Full Backyard Remodel with Outdoor Kitchen
Remodeling - Kitchen & Bathroom Project
Deck Replacement Composit
Composite Deck

+270

Response time1 day
Response rate100%
13 neighbors recently requested a quote
Auburn Detailing and Construction Services
4.7(
32
)
Draftsperson/CADD

Serving San Rafael, CA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1998

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Rich knows his business. He's thorough, very reasonable in pricing, and follows up until the job is complete. He's easy to work with, and responds instantly to questions. If you need building plans for permits or design, Rich will get it done."
Lay-out,Installation
Frame work
Access Stair, 1 of 2
How we found them, 1 of 6
2 of 6

+10

Response time1 day
Response rate85%
1 neighbors recently requested a quote
Avatar for Whitfield Architects, Inc.
Whitfield Architects, Inc.
5.0(
7
)
ArchitectArchitect - For Business

Serving San Rafael, CA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2009

Offers commercial services

Customers say: Quick response

"David helps you understand/see the finished project and asks questions that will help the customer really understand their use of the space. He brings you into the design process with him with full transparency!"
Noe Remodel 01 Restored Entryway
Custom Mountain House 01
Contemporary Kitchen
Castle Hill limestone preserve
Dramatic section using modeling software

+47

Response time1 day
Recommended by75%of homeowners
Avatar for Ogle Design
Ogle Design
4.9(
8
)
Architect - For Business

Serving San Rafael, 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
3 neighbors recently requested a quote
Recommended by100%of homeowners
StudioNorth
4.9(
7
)
Designer - BuildingDraftsperson/CADD

Serving San Rafael, 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 McCormick Home Builders, Inc.
McCormick Home Builders, Inc.
4.7(
42
)
Designer - Building

Serving San Rafael, CA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2017

Free estimates

Customers say: True professional

"Our kitchen remodel exceeded our expectations, providing us with a beautiful and highly efficient space for cooking and gathering. We're thrilled with the results, as the new design seamlessly integrates style and functionality."
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.
.
.
.

+1

Response time6 hrs
Recommended by17%of homeowners
Avatar for BlueSquare Studio
BlueSquare Studio
5.0(
5
)
Architect

Serving San Rafael, CA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2025

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"Exceptionally competent high level professional Architect and building permit facilitator. He has my highest recommendation with no reservations. Ted Vinson, Ph.D., PE"
BluePrint Plans
Response time12 hrs
Response rate90%
1 neighbors recently requested a quote
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Architects questions, answered by experts

A construction manager is particularly useful in the case of a large-scale build with custom design elements, so it’s usually worth it to hire one. They can help manage your budget, maintain quality control, oversee timelines, and navigate unexpected hurdles. While construction managers are pricey, they can actually save money in the long run by identifying cost-saving opportunities and ensuring the project stays within budget.

When conducting space planning, building codes and regulations need to be considered. As long as you are taking them into account and discussing them with the architect, you should be able to do your space planning appropriately.

The design phase varies by project size and complexity; initial ideas can take weeks, while extensive plans may extend to months for complete detailing.

While the Arts and Crafts movement inspired many architectural elements, the primary styles from the time include Craftsman, Tudor Revivals, bungalows, and Mission homes. You'll see elements of these styles in homes, churches, museums, and schools—particularly Country Day schools from the era.

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 Rafael, CA homeowners’ guide to architectural services

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