"Very honest engineer. He performed a mandatory seismic inspection that was required for the city of Hayward. There was no foundation issue whatsoever. Before Mr Padir did the inspection I had a retrofit company look at my building and they told me it would cost $58k to fix the problem and I almost fell for it. It turns out that one joist was rotten from a sewer leak that was repaired. It is hard to find honest people these days. I am so glad it is only a cosmetic fix and a sister joist installed next to it to relieve the pressure on the building. Thank you once again Mr. Padir. Excellent job and quick turnaround."
"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."
"It is always a pleasure to work with Arthur. He is a skilled individual that takes close attention to detail. Due to his experience, he is able to revert quickly on cycle revisions to help get plans approved in a timely manner. I would highly recommend working with Arthur."
"Fred is a God send. His work is amazing he is the definition of professional. This is the best architect in Sacramento he helped me build Daddy Os Smokehouse the best bbq on Sacramento. I'm forrver grateful and I'd recommend Fred to anyone looking for architectural services. I've sent him to my close friend to help build his restaurant and he's doing a great job as well for them."
GEM Drafting provides professional Drafting, 3D Laser Scanning, Existing-Condition documentation, and Building Information Modeling (BIM) services for homeowners, contractors, designers, and property professionals.\n\nWhether you are planning a remodel, addition, renovation, tenant improvement, or residential/commercial construction project, we help you start with accurate information and clear, detailed drawings.\n\nGEM is a U.S.-based, veteran-operated company committed to responsive communication, dependable service, and high-quality deliverables. Every project is approached with attention to detail and a practical understanding of what homeowners, designers, and contractors need to move forward confidently.\n\nContact GEM Drafting today to discuss your project and receive a customized proposal.\n\nDraft. Scan. BIM. Build with confidence.
"Our kitchen remodel with McCormick Home Builders went beyond our expectations. Leoni and her team took the time to understand exactly what we wanted. The open layout design changed the way we use the space, and it’s been perfect for family gatherings. They were prompt, courteous, and genuinely invested in making sure we were happy. Really impressed!"
"Jamie and his crew were outstanding. Always professional, on time, on schedule, clean and my design was followed perfectly. I am a Facility Manager and have dealt with contractors in several of the trades including concrete for many years. This was top quality work done at a fair price. Jamie listened to what we wanted and made it happen just like we envisioned. We are revamping the front yard in a couple of years and Maranata will be our contractor."
"Michael and his team were incredibly professional. They remodeled two of our bathrooms, including doubling the square footage in our master suite. Michael stood behind his work and insured. We were fully satisfied with the product. Throughout every stage of the process, he kept a clean and tidy, worksite, and was respectful of our families time and space. We’ve referred Michael to many of our friends because of the great work and professionalism he exuded on the job. We plan on using Michael and his team for our kitchen makeover later this year."
An architect is usually involved in the process of determining the layout and structural features and requirements of the home itself, taking into account the local codes, climate, and materials needed to make the home structurally sound. Architects may communicate more with contractors and subcontractors throughout the building process. In comparison to architects, interior designers typically focus on the aesthetics of a home interior and possibly exterior, helping the homeowner decide on color schemes, textures, and materials to incorporate into the design.
Hiring a contractor with knowledge about historic renovations and reviewing their previous work is important. You can find a historic home renovation contractor by calling your local historic preservation office, historical society, or any local historic museums nearby. The staff may have suggestions for specialized contractors who have worked for them. You can also ask them about historic home restorations that you have seen and liked in your area to get recommendations for pros.
Open floor plans can come with drawbacks—mainly the lack of privacy and noise dampening. Walls act as an important barrier for traveling sounds, meaning in an open floor plan you could hear your dishwasher running while sitting in your living room. Storage limitations and separation of activities (for example, keeping the kid’s playroom away from the dining room) are other reasons some homeowners are opting out of an open floor plan.
In most cases, you should get an architect before you hire a builder. An architect will be the one to draw up formal plans for your project, including guidelines and even material lists for your builder to follow during construction. Many architects can even help you find builders, choose one for your project, and negotiate prices. Some are also willing to act as project managers throughout the process, working closely with a builder from start to finish.
Choose an architect based on their portfolio, experience with similar projects, client reviews, and whether their design approach matches your vision.
The Shingle Springs, CA homeowners’ guide to architectural services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Wondering how much hiring an architect cost? Discover architect prices, cost factors, and money-saving tips to help you plan your home project with confidence.
Floor plans can help you visualize a space and are useful in home construction and design. Learn how much a floor plan costs and what affects the price.
