About Safdie Rabines Architects

Safdie Rabines Architects is a full-service firm that specializes in architecture and interior design. It has been in business since 1993 and is overseen by husband-and-wife duo, Ricardo Rabines, and Taal Safdie. Together they lead a team of over 50 designers, architects, interior designers, and support staff. They make use of a highly collaborative approach, which has resulted in timeless work. It is especially known for its single-family residences, but it is also known for affordable housing, student housing, mixed-use communities, and large-scale master plans.

Featured Projects

Labeled in its portfolio as the “Bay House,” this project is located in San Diego’s Sail Bay. It spans over 3,700 square feet and sits along the water’s edge. It features an L-shaped design and wonderfully incorporates the home’s indoor-outdoor spaces. Some other great features include its floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors and its recurring theme of straight lines.

About Jonathan Segal FAIA & Development Company

Jonathan Segel Architect is an award-winning firm best known for its stellar and comprehensive services. It is led by its founder and namesake, Jonathan Segel, who is also a proud Fellow of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), which is the highest distinction the prestigious organization bestows upon its members. Under his leadership and supervision, the company has worked on over 300 responsible and environmentally sound designs. These include single-family homes and medium to high-density urban residential and mixed-use projects. Since the firm’s inception, it has won over 40 local, state, and national AIA awards for residential and Urban Design. This has enabled the company to be one of San Diego’s most successful and premier residential architectural companies. The firm has also been featured in a multitude of publications. Its work can best be showcased in the project above.

Featured Projects

Simply called “The Cresta” in its portfolio, the featured project spans over 5,300 square feet. Located in La Jolla, this single-family residence was constructed entirely out of cast-in-place concrete. It consists of three stories and offers its residents excellent views of its surrounding areas through magnificent floor-to-ceiling glass windows.

About M.W. Steele Group

The M.W. Steele Group extends its services throughout San Diego and is among its best and leading award-winning architecture firms. It draws inspiration from over three decades of industry experience and credits its success to both its talented team and its long-term artistic collaborations with some of the area’s most outstanding subcontractors and professionals. Since its establishment, the firm has won numerous impressive distinctions such as Merit Awards from the San Diego American Planning Association and the National Association of Home Builders. The chosen project above is an excellent example of the firm’s talent and expertise.

Featured Projects

Designed for the Andison residence, this single-family home overlooks the golf links in the Rancho Santa Fe Farms. It spans over 4,000 square feet and makes use of seamless indoor-outdoor spaces. Some of its best elements include custom-designed glass, hardware, sculptures, and murals.

About H2 Hawkins + Hawkins Architects, Inc.

H2 Architects is an award-winning firm that operates out of two offices in San Diego and Gig Harbor, in Washington. It focuses on infusing various sustainability and green methods into its projects, assuring its homeowners of the high efficiency of its work. It has been in business since 1998 and is the brainchild of brothers David and Steven Hawkins. Under their supervision, the firm has also become known for its outstanding commercial, cultural, residential, and mixed-use architectural designs. The firm uses a highly client-focused approach and assists homeowners throughout the entire process. That includes site planning, programming, feasibility studies, master planning, and space planning. The firm’s work adheres to LEED standards.

Featured Projects

Completed in La Jolla, this project spans over 6,000 square feet. It won the firm the Gold Nugget Award of Merit under the Best on the Boards Custom Home Category during the Pacific Coast Builders Conference. The home provides its owners panoramic views of the ocean and showcases warm wood detailing with stone, in addition to an open kitchen, a roof terrace, and natural wood accents throughout.

About domusstudio architecture LLP

Deriving its name from the Latin word for “house,” Domus Studio provides its clients with stellar and environmentally responsible architectural services. It has worked on numerous projects including religious structures, educational facilities, senior living facilities, and commercial spaces. It has garnered awards based on its great sustainable designs on LEED Silver, Gold, and Platinum-certified projects. The firm’s team achieves this success through the use of excellent local materials. The firm is known for its projects’ open floor plans and the use of natural light. The Domus process emphasizes the importance of client collaboration, as well as adherence to the latest building techniques. To ensure this, it maintains affiliations with organizations like the US Green Building Council. Since its establishment, the company has worked on over a hundred plus custom residential projects in La Jolla, San Diego, and Del Mar.

Featured Projects

Situated on a beautiful hillside overlooking the San Dieguito Lagoon, this home spans over 4,650 square feet. It features a large expansive deck, its own guest house, and cantilevered roofs. For this, the firm’s team incorporated various sustainable features like photovoltaic cells on the roof and a gray water collection and storage system for the site irrigation.

About House Design Architects

House Design Architects is the product of the vision of its founder and principal, Mark House. He is a licensed architect with over three decades of experience working in Southern California. He founded House Design back in 2015, which grew from the roots of his very first company: House and Dodge Design, which he co-founded in 1998. Mark makes sure that each project that the firm takes on receives the benefit of his experience. Its work has been featured in various publications like San Diego Premier and Luxe. Featured above is one of the firm’s most impressive homes.

Featured Projects

This photo showcases the firm’s work for the Camino de la Costa home. It received the Best Residential project distinction during the International Design and Architecture Awards in London. This oceanfront home boasts multiple outdoor living spaces, a sunken seating area, and an outdoor dining terrace. Some other details include an infinity-edge pool, four bedrooms, and seven bathrooms.

About architectsmagnus

architectsmagnus is the brainchild of its principals, Hector and Pamela Magnus. This husband-and-wife duo makes use of a highly collaborative approach, which has resulted in countless outstanding spaces. Under their supervision, the firm can take on projects regardless of size or scale. The firm’s portfolio showcases a variety of homes rendered in diverse architectural vernaculars, from modern to traditional inspired spaces. Its work has been featured in multiple publications. These include Dwell, San Diego Home/Garden, and Kitchens & Baths.

Featured Projects

The chosen project shows the firm’s work for its Jewell home. This home has been featured in San Diego Magazine and was included in the Dwell Home Tours. For this, the firm’s team designed a house with custom-carved wood screens. It also opted for a row of glass doors that lead to its interiors.

About Hauck Architecture

Hauck Architecture is a San Diego-based practice that offers a full range of architecture and interior design services. It specializes in craft breweries, bars, restaurants, and custom residential projects. The firm has been in business since 1996 and is also highly regarded for its design, layout, and engineering services. The firm maintains affiliations with vital organizations like the AIA, LEED, and the USGBC. The project above is an excellent example of the firm’s talent and expertise.

Featured Projects

Originally, a 3,650-square-foot dysfunctional ranch house in the Muirlands area, this home now features an excellent contemporary rendering of a former mid-century home. For this, the firm had to work on a second-floor addition, a new master suite, and a revamped private living area. The home offers its owners beautiful ocean views and an excellent open floor plan. Its exteriors are clad in western red cedar and seam metal roofing.

About Kim Grant Design, Inc.

Kim Grant Design is an award-winning firm that specializes in historic properties and coastal homes. It extends its services throughout San Diego and the areas surrounding it. The firm makes use of a highly personalized approach for each of its work, ensuring that it tailor fits its methods for each project’s individual and unique needs. The firm has been in business since 2002 and is highly regarded for its existing condition assessments, custom residential designs, historic restorations, permitting, and construction administration. Some of its best work can be found spread across Coronado, Del Mar, Kensington, La Jolla, Mission Hills, Point Loma, Rancho Bernardo, Rancho Santa Fe, and San Diego.

Featured Projects

The photo above showcases the firm’s work on the 1127 F Ave. Coronado Spanish home. This grandiose home features six bedrooms, nine bathrooms, and over 15,067 square feet of upscale space. Its interior showcases a rich embellished home from its dining area to its outdoor pool area. In addition, this home also features a home gym, indoor and outdoor mini golf, a spa, and a bar/theater room.

About Ten Seventy Architecture

Sean and Margaret Canning lead and own Ten Seventy Architecture. They first met while studying architecture at the New Jersey Institute of Technology and together, are known for their love and expertise for modern and minimalist designs. Each holds a Bachelor of Architecture degree and is also both LEED accredited professionals. This assures the firm’s clients that all its work is highly sustainable and energy-efficient. The chosen project above best embodies the firm’s talent and expertise.

Featured Projects

For this project, the firm’s team primarily used stucco, metal, wood, and concrete materials. It was tasked with this home’s extensive remodel. It replaced the stuccoed wood posts with slender black steel. A canopy was also installed to shade the roof deck, while its outdoor spaces were extensively reworked.

About Mark A. Silva Architect

With various features in publications like Architectural Digest and Luxe Magazine, Mark A Silva offers full range architectural services. Mark describes his work as a reflection of the project site and owner’s program. These projects are often a fusion of the client’s vision and the site’s “personality,” meaning that the firm takes a home’s site into great consideration when creating its designs. Showcased above is one of Mark’s homes.

Featured Projects

For this excellent house, Mark employed an open-concept floor plan that ties the home’s living, dining, and entertainment areas. It also opted for floor-to-ceiling windows, which allow in a large amount of light and provide stellar views of the surrounding areas. Some other great details include its angular roofs and exterior finishes.

About Oasis Architecture & Design, Inc.

Having graced the pages of publications such as San Diego Home/Garden, Oasis Architecture and Design provides a full range of award-winning architectural services. The firm designs custom homes, renovations, and additions, and although headquartered in California, the firm has also worked on projects in Wisconsin and Atlanta. The firm is composed of a group of professionals committed to working on creative and innovative solutions. Together, they have created numerous modern and transitional designs.

Featured Projects

The chosen project is an excellent example of the firm’s talent and expertise. For this home, the firm’s team opted for a fusion of modern farmhouse elements coupled with stucco touches and wood elements. Some other great details include its custom portico.

About obrARCHITECTURE

obrARCHITECTURE specializes in working on civic, commercial, educational, and residential spaces. It has had the opportunity to work in some of San Diego’s most sought-after neighborhoods and can take on projects regardless of size or scale. At the firm’s helm are its principals, Garrick Oliver, Christopher Bittner, and Anney Rosenthal-Hall. Oliver graduated from San Diego State University in 1999 and has been a licensed architect since 2007. He is also a LEED-certified professional and is a lecturer of interior architecture at San Diego State University. On the other hand, Bittner has practiced since 2002 and holds a degree from San Diego’s New School of Architecture. Lastly, Rosenthal-Hall graduated from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo in 1999 after spending a year abroad in Florence, Italy. She is also a LEED accredited professional. Under their collective vision and leadership, obrARCHITECTURE has curated a stellar portfolio and clientele list for itself.

Featured Projects

Pictured above are the firm’s contributions to the Bardsley residence. Located in Del Mar, this project was designed and completed back in 2006. Its owners wished to expand their existing house to create a dream home for their retirement. As a result, the home was expanded by a thousand square feet and now showcases a second-floor addition consisting of an office, master bedroom and bath, an entertainment deck, and a private deck off of the bedroom.

About Christian Rice Architects Inc.

Founded in 2004, Christian Rice Architects offers a range of award-winning architectural services. Its portfolio depicts a selection of both public and private projects in addition to an extensive array of designs. Led by Christian Rice, the firm’s team makes use of a cohesive approach that emphasizes the importance of designing homes that are sensitive to a project’s surrounding environment and a client’s budget. It commits itself to excellent project management and collaborates with homeowners throughout the entirety of a project.

Featured Projects

Before his establishment of the firm, Christian Rice first gained experience by working in some of the country’s most respected design studios. These include Will Bruder Architects in Phoenix, Mack Scogin Merrill Elam Architects in Atlanta, and Michael Rotondi/Roto Architects in Los Angeles. He is also well-traveled, which explains the firm’s expertise in a number of exotic designs.

Featured above is the firm’s work on the Georgia Street residence. Located in San Diego, this home stands just east of the Hillcrest neighborhood. It entailed the renovation of an existing two-story home- that was essentially a stucco box. For this, the firm’s team used a contemporary theme, which includes the addition of a glass garage door that opens vertically into a new double-height volume in the entry area. It also opted for new steel roof elements and balconies.

About Architect Mark D. Lyon, Inc.

With over three decades of industry experience, Architect Mark D. Lyon specializes in every aspect of the residential architecture process. It is also regarded for its commercial and historic preservation projects. Since its inception, it has worked on more than 500 architectural projects completed throughout Southern California. The firm’s team is composed of a talented team of professionals. They are Coastal Experts, assuring clients that they are experienced with everything that has to do with constructing and designing beachside homes. The home above is one of the firm’s best homes.

Featured Projects

Labeled in its portfolio as the “Chelsea,” this project is a contemporary oceanfront home. For this, the firm’s team used stucco exteriors and large paneled windows. Some other great elements include its flat roofs and seamless interiors.

About Studio E Architects

Studio E Architects is composed of a talented team of over 24 experienced and talented professionals. The firm operates out of its office in San Diego; it has had the opportunity to work across the Southwestern United States. The firm’s portfolio showcases a wide range of project types—everything from private residences to affordable housing, and mixed-use, civic, and urban planning projects. It is also the proud recipient of countless accolades, including three National American Institute of Architects Honor Awards. Its work has also been featured in publications like San Diego Home/Garden, Residential Architect, and Building Design + Construction.

Featured Projects

The project showcased here is the firm’s on 1660 India in San Diego. Located in the heart of San Diego’s Little Italy neighborhood, this project spans over 9,500 square feet and entailed having to strip the entire project back to its shell. Its new details include new entrances, lobbies, signage, and lighting, as well as new exterior finishes.

About Delawie Architects

Delawie Architects offers its clients a complete range of architecture services and is also regarded for its interior design, master planning, and sustainable design. The firm has been in business since 1961 and extends its services throughout San Diego. Throughout its years in the industry, the firm has had the opportunity to work in some of its most sought-after communities. The firm’s portfolio includes an excellent range of technological, hospitality, educational, government, and specialty spaces.

Featured Projects

Designed for The Hotel at Kirkwood Center, the firm’s team worked on the featured project’s interior design and extensive renovation. It is a four-story building that houses 71 contemporary rooms, common areas, and a lobby. It also worked on its restaurant and bar, in addition to the installation of several custom wall decals.

About Carrier Johnson + CULTURE

Carrier Johnson + CULTURE works in and around some of San Diego’s most impressive commercial districts. It offers prospective clients stellar architecture and interior design work and can take on any project regardless of size or scale. The firm makes use of a highly collaborative approach that brings together both the technical and conceptual aspects of any process. Its portfolio features an excellent portfolio composed of landscapes, healthcare, residential, and mixed-use projects. It has also contributed to several workplaces, including education, science, government, and library spaces.

Featured Projects

The featured project is an excellent example of the firm’s talent and expertise. Designed for NBC 7 in San Diego, this project entailed having to work on its programming, space planning, and architectural renovation. The structure is LEED Silver accredited and spans over 52,000 square feet.

About Safdie Rabines Architects

Safdie Rabines Architects is a full-service firm that specializes in architecture and interior design. The firm has been in business since 1993 and is overseen by husband-and-wife duo Ricardo Rabines and Taal Safdie. Together they lead a team of over 50 designers, architects, interior designers, and support staff. They make use of a highly collaborative approach, which has consistently resulted in timeless work. he firm is known for a variety of residential typologies, including mixed-use communities, student housing, affordable housing, and single-family homes, as well as for civic, institutional, and infrastructure projects.

Featured Projects

This project showcases the firm’s design for Crystal Flats, located in Bentonville, Arkansas. This project is a mixed-use development and serves as the brand’s contribution to the area’s ongoing revitalization of its downtown area. The initial scope of work for the Crystal Flats development involved a conceptual master plan for the entire 26-acre site.

About JCJ Architecture

JCJ Architecture operates out of several offices in Boston, Hartford, Las Vegas, New York, Phoenix, Tulsa, and, of course, San Diego. The firm has been in business since 1936, making it one of the oldest companies on this list. It is composed of over 50 talented and experienced architects, 25 of whom are LEED Accredited Professionals. The firm is a diverse planning, architecture, and interior design practice that works on both projects from both the public and private sectors. Its portfolio of experience encompasses gaming, entertainment, hospitality, hotel, retail, workplace, higher education, civic, community, culture, and public safety spaces

Featured Projects

The chosen project above is a great example of its expertise. Spanning over 103,000 square feet, this project was completed in 1996 for the North American headquarters of LEGO. JCJ partnered with Danish architect Soren Norgaard Laundsen in order to provide full architecture and interior design services.

About The Miller Hull Partnership

In business since 1977, The Miller Hull Partnership is the product of the vision of its founding partners, David Miller and Robert Hull. They first met as undergraduate architecture students at Washington State University. The two were heavily influenced by their experience in the Peace Corps in Brazil and Afghanistan. Under their leadership, the company makes use of passive solar, super insulation, and earth-sheltered design and construction. In 2021, it launched EMission Zero, an initiative targeting the elimination of greenhouse gas emissions in buildings.

Featured Projects

This project won the firm several accolades, including the 2019 Orchid Award for Architecture from the San Diego Architecture Foundation and the 2020 Sustainable Tenant Improvement from the USGBC San Diego. Spanning over 4,600 square feet, this space was completed for the Miller Hull Studio. It features an open office setting and modern touches.

About RDC

In business since 1979, RDC is a full-service architectural firm headquartered in Los Angeles with offices in Washington, D.C., and Arkansas. It also operates overseas from an office in Shanghai. Its staff is composed of over 160 experienced and seasoned professionals who take a comprehensive approach when designing spaces. The firm is a forerunner in the commercial industry market and specializes in retail, hospitality, and entertainment venue projects. Its portfolio also showcases various corporate interiors, mixed-use, grocery, and wellness spaces. The firm’s experience covers all consumer experiences, rendering it equipped to manage any task. The RDC team takes a comprehensive look at each of its projects’ space, and from there, methodically employs an approach that is an infusion of architecture, planning, and interior design. From conceptual design, entitlement, and site planning to construction documentation and administration, the firm’s team is there to assist throughout the entire process.

Featured Projects

The firm is the recipient of a multitude of awards, including the LA Business Council Award, the AIA Long Beach/South Bay Citation Award, and a FRAME Design Social Award. Showcased above is one of the firm’s most impressive projects. Located in San Diego, this project spans over 26,700 square feet and features a collection of interconnected restaurants in one space.

About H2 Hawkins + Hawkins Architects, Inc.

H2 Architects is an award-winning firm that operates out of two offices in San Diego and Gig Harbor, Washington. It focuses on infusing various sustainability and green methods into its projects, assuring its homeowners of the high efficiency of its work. The firm has been in business since 1998 and is the brainchild of brothers David and Steven Hawkins. Under their supervision, the firm has also become known for its outstanding commercial, cultural, residential, and mixed-use architectural designs. The firm takes a highly client-focused approach and thus assists homeowners throughout the entire process. That process includes site planning, programming, feasibility studies, master planning, and space planning. The firm’s work adheres to LEED standards.

Featured Projects

The featured project showcases the firm’s work for the Caffe Pan Bon. It spans over 10,400 square feet and is located in the Little Italy district of San Diego. The main dining area of the space houses a two-story area with a 4,000-square-foot mezzanine and a balcony lounge area.

About M.W. Steele Group

The M.W. Steele Group extends its services throughout San Diego and is among its best and leading award-winning architecture firms. It draws inspiration from over three decades of industry experience and credits its success to both its talented team and its long-term artistic collaborations with some of the area’s most outstanding subcontractors and professionals. Since its establishment, the firm has won numerous impressive distinctions, including Merit Awards from the San Diego American Planning Association and the National Association of Home Builders.

Featured Projects

This photo showcases the firm’s work on JAI by Wolfgang Puck. It is a tenant improvement for an all-new 4,700-square-foot restaurant within the Theatre District on the campus of the University of California San Diego. The restaurant is an Asian fusion-inspired space that features indoor and outdoor dining spaces, a full bar, and a state-of-the-art catering kitchen.

About Ferguson Pape Baldwin Architects

Ferguson Pape Baldwin Architects is composed of a talented and experienced team of design professionals. It extends its services throughout San Diego and has worked on some of its most noteworthy commercial structures. Since its inception, the firm has been the proud recipient of countless impressive accolades. These include several Build San Diego Awards from the Associated General Contractors San Diego as well as several mentions on the Engineering News-Record. Depicted below is one of the firm’s best projects.

Featured Projects

Located in San Diego, this project spans over 186,000 square feet. The firm’s team was tasked with its full redevelopment. It now features a flexible lab and office spaces. Some other great details include collaborative workstations, lounges, and break rooms.

About Charco Design & Build, Inc.

Charco Design & Build is an award-winning design-build firm founded by Armando Flores, after his 20 years of experience in the design and construction industry. Following his studies in architectural drafting and interior design, the San Diego native began his career at a prestigious Los Angeles design firm. He then moved back to San Diego to start his own company. He quickly became recognized for his talents, and his work has since been featured in numerous magazines and a television show. One of his kitchens is featured weekly on the local cooking show Sam the Cooking Guy. Flores’s philosophy is to capture and create the home of his client’s dreams, “despite the challenges of space, architecture, and budget.” Among his awards and accolades, he was featured in Luxe and San Diego’s Home and Garden Magazine. The Modern Luxury December 2016 issue named Armando Flores one of the influential insiders of San Diego, and he was an HGTV Faces of Design 2016 finalist.

Featured Projects

Accentuated by a live, succulent wall and generous use of glass, Charco Design and Build’s work on a multilevel La Jolla home was featured in the February 2017 issue of Ranch & Coast Magazine. The palatial, six-bedroom residence includes a beautiful state of the art design, floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that open to the stunning outdoor space, a freestanding soaking tub in the shower, a gorgeous fireplace, an LED enhanced fire pit, sauna, full outdoor kitchen, a cascading infinity pool and a spa surrounded by a vast, green manicured lawn.

About Chaun Miller Design and Construction

Chaun Miller is a third-generation general contractor who stands behind the quality of his work. He takes charge of his namesake construction firm in offering full-service design-build services. The firm takes projects from concept to completion and prides itself on the seamless system that makes the designing and building process as enjoyable as possible for their clients. The firm is dedicated not only to excellence in its work, but also to its impact on the environment. With an emphasis on sustainability, and environmentally friendly construction methods and materials, they have joined the important movement of incorporating green building principles and practices into their design work for the past decade — an effort that has made their work more valuable over time.

Featured Projects

Among the firm’s portfolio of homes is a Mid-century modern minimalist design with a large kitchen island that is a focal point in the open floor plan. The home features wood cabinetry and walls in the kitchen and along the stairwell, which add warmth to the space. A beautiful winding stairwell with a simple black rail spiral up to the second floor, and the many clean lines and natural tones offer elegance with ease.

About Daley Custom Homes

Under the leadership of Jeff Daley, a fifth-generation San Diegan raised in the construction industry, Daley Custom Homes offers a full-service luxury home building development and construction services to the San Diego area since 1928. He personally oversees each of their projects to ensure that his clients’ needs are met every step of the way. With the utmost attention to detail, Jeff Daley’s firm has successfully completed projects for happy clients of custom homes and large scale renovations, as well as celebrity estates. They place great value on exceptional craftsmanship with the highest level of design and customization in each home they build.

Featured Projects

Majestic views, a bright and airy living area with oversized windows, and sliding glass doors that fold away creating an indoor-outdoor living area are just two of the many exciting features of a Daley Custom Homes La Jolla creation. The home includes a neutral and crisp color palette, a beautiful master bedroom with a fireplace, and french doors that open into the courtyard. It also has a pool that has cascading water fountains.

About Eco Minded Solutions

Eco Minded Solutions, led by the creative genius of Josh Rosenthal, Barry Thau, and David Milton, is an award-winning design-build firm known for environmental sustainability, innovation, and creative vision, balanced with practicality in their designs. They strive to create spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing to the eye and functional, but also environmentally safe. The firm is keenly aware and conscious of the impact their work will make on future generations, and they have been praised for the high quality of their design and build services that are changing the profession’s landscape. 

They have been featured in media outlets ranging from broadcast news KUSI to print publications such as San Diego Home & Garden Magazine, Del Mar Magazine, and Coastal Living Lifestyle Magazine.

Featured Projects

Eco Minded Solutions is responsible for the design and construction of a stunning home in La Jolla with an abundance of comfort and luxury. The home features impressive views of its beautiful locale and showcases the usable space with a vast open floor plan, a neutral color palette, a unique transitional design, and a spacious view deck that adds the wow factor to this beautiful home.

About Flagg Coastal Homes

Flagg Coastal Homes is one of the leading custom home builders in the new California-coastal style found in San Diego and the surrounding areas. John O’Brien founded the firm in response to the high demand for upscale, nautically themed homes in the beautiful resort town of Coronado in San Diego county. 

With more than 40 beautiful homes designed and built, the firm is known for its unwavering commitment to outstanding quality and meticulous attention to detail during the design process. They have successfully designed and built award-winning homes, including a spectacular Bayview home overlooking the San Diego Bay.

Featured Projects

One of their creations, at 927 First Street, is a beautiful five-bedroom, four-and-a-half bathroom home with panoramic views of the San Diego Bay. The spectacular design with picturesque perfection is adjacent to the Coronado Ferry Landing, as well as Boney’s Bayside Market. The home includes a guest house and was offered for sale for over $6M. A second design, “The Coastal Living Showhouse” in San Diego, was Flagg’s signature project for 2014. Built on the beautiful Coronado Island at Sunset Park, the house had over 5,000 visitors when it was open during a 10-week summer tour that raised over $100K for its nonprofit beneficiary, the Navy SEAL Foundation. The exquisite home takes every detail into account and includes french doors, crown molding, vaulted ceilings on the second floor, and large windows that blast the light in from the outside. A beautiful wraparound deck is perfect for enjoying the summer breeze and breathtaking views that are among the finest San Diego living has to offer. 

About GDC Construction, Inc.

GDC Construction has been building homes in San Diego for four generations. Led by Pancho Dewhurst, the firm provides full-service design and build firm handling the building process from pre-construction, design, and construction to post-construction. GDC operates with the four foundations of openness and transparency, financial clarity, working with the best, and offering a creative edge. 

The firm’s arsenal of awards and accolades include being the Best Contractor by La Jolla Village News two years in a row. It has also been featured in San Diego Home and Garden Magazine. 

Featured Projects

GDC Construction took on the challenge of building a modern luxury home to replace an aging, ranch-style structure in great need of revitalization. To rebuild the home, the firm began with demolishing 90 percent of the existing property. It maximized every inch of the land by adding a pool and a tennis court and incorporating original, custom woodworking to retain the feel of the old accented by the beauty of the new. The home includes stunning design features like rich wood floors, a gourmet outdoor kitchen, state-of-the-art technology, and much more. 

About Jackson Design & Remodeling

Jackson Design & Remodeling has been designing and building their clients’ dream homes in the San Diego area for almost 30 years. Led by Todd Jackson, the firm’s President and CEO, operates with keen attention to detail and the ability to make even the wildest of their client’s dreams come true. These values helped the firm garnered numerous awards including 20 awards from ASID, over a dozen Master Design Awards, and multiple other awards. 

The firm also offers the Jackson Design & Remodeling showroom for their clients to visit for endless amounts of inspiration and a behind-the-scenes look at how they perform their magic. 

Featured Projects

The Jackson Design & Remodeling team was faced with the exciting challenge of creating an ultra-modern loft to fulfill their client’s love of city living coupled with a fun urban design. The answer was a chic, award-winning, two-story stunner with a flawless open floor plan, high ceilings, and countless windows flooding the home with natural light. The modern, minimalist design paired with high-end fixtures and perfect attention to detail strike just the right balance between understated sophistication and unexpected pizzazz. 

About K-CO Construction Inc.

K-CO Construction is an award-winning, family-owned general contractor specializing in design-build services for custom homes and residential remodeling projects. The firm has built homeowner’s dreams in the greater San Diego community since 1995, but the team understands that in construction, sometimes things do not go as planned. They resolve problems by ensuring constant and open communication between all parties involved in the process. With this practice in mind, K-Co Construction has completed thousands of complicated projects successfully. 

Ethical business practices being a top priority, the firm is proud to be chosen by the Better Business Bureau as a finalist for the Torch Award for excellence in marketplace ethics.

Featured Projects

K-Co Construction was presented with a logistical challenge when it came across a family that wanted to demolish a cottage one-and-a-half blocks from the ocean and build their dream home of a two-story villa with a guest apartment atop a detached garage. Despite the challenges, K-Co successfully followed Coastal Commission requirements of leaving 50 percent of the existing walls in place and built the entire second floor and guest quarters exactly as their client had imagined.

About McCullough Design Development

Founded by lead designer, Monty McCullough, who holds over three decades of experience in the architectural field, McCullough Design Development has established itself as one of San Diego’s finest luxury custom estate builders.

Priding itself on authenticity in design and uniquely unifying drafting services, planning and engineering departments, cost schedules, budgeting, and construction management under one roof has allowed the firm to successfully build over 200 homes in the greater San Diego area. McCullough’s highly-skilled team dedicates the utmost attention and care to each project providing ease and understanding to the client through every step of the design-build process.

For the firm, each project receives the utmost level of care and attention, given the client’s specific requests and requirements, their home site and layout, location, and budget. With the firm’s professionalism and love of design and construction, they have successfully designed and built over 150 custom homes in the greater San Diego area.

Featured Projects

The Modern Farmhouse featured in the photo is one of the firm’s most recent accomplishments in custom estates. The 4,675 square foot homestead showcases the incomparable quality of craftsmanship and attention to detail that McCullough implements into every home. The great room, which consists of the living room, dining area, and kitchen, is a signature feature for the firm. This open layout design seamlessly blends into an expansive outdoor veranda, perfectly translating the Southern California dream of indoor-outdoor recreation into a reality. Located in Del Mar Mesa is a brand new single-level estate called West Rim, which demonstrates the fusion of traditional and contemporary elements evoking a sense of community and togetherness while maintaining its modern, transitional feel.

About Murray Lampert Design, Build, Remodel

Established in 1975, Murray Lampert is a design-build and remodeling company serving the San Diego community. The firm has been providing top quality service for four generations, and it shows in the firm’s work. President and CEO Gregg Cantor began working in the industry in 1977 and built a longstanding reputation in the local community for integrity. Gregg’s daughter Rachel Cantor joined the firm in 2014, after obtaining her degree in architecture from Miami of Ohio.

Featured Projects

Murray Lampert has a strong portfolio of remodeled and custom homes in varying styles. The Coronado whole remodel in the photo is a testament to the firm’s great eye for function and design. The firm filled the home with custom details in the hard surfaces, cabinetry, stonework, and masonry that reflect the owner’s profession as a retired Navy Captain.

The company is very proud of its creative architect Micah Winkelstein, Senior interior Designer Rachel Bancroft and the design team.

About Nicolls Design Build

Coronado-based Nicolls Design Build is a much-adored local business offering commercial and residential works all over the area. The firm’s reputation was centered around its premium-quality service and cost-effective construction solutions. Kraig Nicolls, company president, puts a great emphasis on workmanship and customer satisfaction. He has led the team in completing multiple projects from modest residential projects to commercial establishments and restaurants. The firm is capable of remodeling and ground-up construction alike.

Featured Projects

The firm’s dedication to craftsmanship is evident in its portfolio. The project displayed in the photo is a humble California Spanish Colonial-style home. The home is straightforward yet elegant, as achieved with a neutral palette and classic detailing. 

About Smith Brothers

Since 1978, Smith Brothers has provided award-winning design, architecture, and construction throughout San Diego County. The firm specializes in building custom homes, from inception to completion. Under the leadership of Jeff Smith, over the years they have developed a leading business for the purpose of intermingling exceptional design and construction for the benefit of their customers. Their ultimate goal is to make every project come to life through a collaborative and transparent process that respects all involved. This philosophy allows their loyal clients to make informed and beautiful decisions that will enrich their homes and their lives for many years to come.

Featured Projects

Inspired by a modern allure with a touch of traditional warmth, the Smith Brother’s design of a two-story residence feels like a minimalist’s haven. The home opens with large glass doors into an interior flooded with sunlight, and natural tones that bring the outdoors in. Just outside the large windows on the ground floor is a stunning outdoor living area, complete with a fireplace, a pool, and a large outdoor seating area that’s sure to wow and entertain.

Smith Brothers also paid homage to the designs of Frank Lloyd Wright with their zen-inspired Craftsman Contemporary. It is a true gem in the Del Mar area of San Diego. The features are carefully chosen to beckon to an earlier time while offering many modern luxuries. The entry features a Zen garden feel, complete with a bridge leading to the large front doors. The interior is rich with wood details, and there is a multi-level pool in the entertainer’s backyard.

About RDC.

RDC is an award-winning architecture firm founded in 1979. It has been dedicated to making everyday spaces extraordinary via successful design solutions and great customer relationships. The firm specializes in the retail, interior, workplace, hotels, cinema, and restaurant sectors, and it provides those buildings in Los Angeles, San Diego, Washington D.C., Arkansas, and Shanghai. The team is comprised of over 160 members, all dedicated to helping clients’ visions come to life. RDC’s comprehensive expertise allows it to cater to just about any need.

The company operates under the leadership of Brad Williams. He joined the firm in 1999 as a junior designer and currently functions as RDC’s president and CEO. His past projects include urban infill revitalization, high-density retail developments, and numerous successful façade revitalization programs for both public and private entities.

About H2 Hawkins + Hawkins Architects, Inc.

H2 Hawkins + Hawkins Architects is an award-winning firm founded by brothers Steven and David Hawkins in 1998. From its offices in San Diego and Gig Harbor, Washington, the firm specializes in architecture, space planning, feasibility study, and master planning services. The firm is licensed to perform work up and down the west coast and into the southwest: California, Washington, Colorado, Nevada, Texas, and Arizona. Since its inception, H2 Hawkins + Hawkins Architects, Inc. has built a portfolio of commercial, cultural, residential, and mixed-use projects. The firm seeks creative solutions to provide a human sense of place.

Founders Steven and David Hawkins are both registered architects in California and are members of the American Institute of Architects. Steven serves as the firm’s vice president and is responsible for design development, production documents, and construction services. Meanwhile, David is the company’s director of design and provides continuity between the client and the project team.

About ACRM Architects + Interiors

ACRM Architects + Interiors is a multi-faceted design firm recognized for its ability to transform clients’ visions and aspirations into elegant and unique solutions with lasting value. The firm has been in the business since 2002, specializing in hospitality, retail, restaurants, multifamily residential, office, and mixed-use projects. Headquartered in San Diego, the firm extends its services to Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Jersey, Oregon, Utah, Virginia, and Washington. ACRM Architects + Interiors has strived for excellence since its founding. It won the 2021 Loved by Guests Award from Hotels.com.

Tom Awbrey is the principal architect of ACRM Architects + Interiors. He graduated from Texas Tech University’s College of Architecture, then was a design principal for a previous firm before establishing his own company. The firm has been featured by multiple press publications, including Condé Nast Traveler Magazine.

About Ergo Architecture

Operating out of its office in San Diego, Ergo Architecture has been passionate about making the world a better place for over 25 years. Since 1995, the firm has earned a reputation for building innovative designs for intelligent people and practicing thoughtful, contemporary techniques for its clients. The firm specializes in a wide range of services, including commercial and interiors, custom homes, multifamily and urban infills, supportive and assisted living, and restaurants, bars, and clubs.

Ergo Architecture believes that architecture is not about people and costly finishes but about creating authentic experiences and working with customers to provide tailored, accurate designs. Steve Mayman leads the team and oversees each project. During his long career as a licensed architect, he has never stopped learning about construction and connecting to his clients through empathy.

About Hauck Architecture

Hauck Architecture is a licensed, full-service architecture and interior design firm in San Diego. Founded in 1996, the firm specializes in breweries, bars, restaurants, and custom residential projects in Chula Vista, La Mesa, and Solana Beach. Since its founding, the firm has been dedicated to assisting clients on every aspect of their project, from design and layout to navigating government agencies. Its unmatched experience, expertise, and attention to detail set it apart from other design firms in the area.

Hauck Architecture strives to go beyond its customers’ needs. The firm believes that listening carefully to clients’ goals and objectives leads the firm to create designs with lasting value. T. Dustin Hauck is the owner and managing principal of the firm; he is licensed to practice architecture in Arizona, California, Florida, Maryland, Missouri, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Washington. For 25 years, he has been the driving force behind the firm’s projects and award-winning designs.

About obrARCHITECTURE

Established 14 years ago, obrARCHITECTURE is an architecture and design firm specializing in civic, commercial, educational, restaurant, and residential architecture. The firm builds elegant structures across San Diego County and is made up of 29 construction professionals passionate about challenging themselves in every aspect of design. The firm’s commitment to excellence has enabled it to develop many award-winning projects. The firm received the American Institute of Architects, San Diego Design Award in 2020. obrARCHITECTURE focuses on completing its work on time, within budget, and always to a superior standard of quality.

The firm operates under the direction of Garrick Oliver, Christopher Bittner, and Anney Rosenthal-Hall. The firm’s managing principals are licensed architects and each has an extensive background in architecture. Before establishing the company, they worked for other design firms, where they honed their skills and knowledge.

About Lahaina Architects

Lahaina Architects is a premier architectural design company creating forward-thinking solutions that exceed client expectations. The firm was founded in 2007 and employs highly-trained professionals dedicated to providing every customer an outstanding level of service. The firm specializes in entertainment, mixed-use, restaurant, commercial, and tenant improvements, serving much of the Western United States. Lahaina Architects is licensed to perform work in California, Colorado, and Nebraska, with the ability to be licensed in any state in the United States.

Since its inception 15 years ago, Lahaina Architects has put together a diverse clientele list of local restaurant operators, real estate investors, property owners, prominent corporations, and local and national retail tenants. Philip Cudaback owns and leads the company. He is passionate about creating warm and inviting spaces for his clients and providing transformations that consistently deliver exceptional results.

About Marengo Morton Architects

Marengo Morton Architects has been building beautiful homes and unique structures in San Diego for over two decades. The firm specializes in multifamily, residential, commercial, restaurant, and hospitality developments, serving clients across Chula Vista, Logan Heights, Mission Valley, San Diego, Solana Beach, and beyond. Since 2000, the firm has strived to bring a unique signature statement of customers’ properties while focusing on function, form, style, and creativity. Marengo Morton Architects comprises a team of young, innovative architects passionate about bringing dreams to scale.

Michael R. Morton and Claude-Anthony Marengo serve as the firm’s managing principals. The former is a San Diego native who developed his design skills as a designer/architect in several award-winning San Diego architectural firms. He is licensed to practice in California and is a member of the AIA. Meanwhile, Claude-Anthony has 25 years of experience in coastal design and entitlement. He has managed significant developments in the La Jolla and the greater San Diego region.

About Baker Architecture

Baker Architecture is a commercial and residential architecture firm in San Diego. It specializes in a wide selection of services, including tenant improvements and ground-up construction for restaurants, retail, residential, and commercial uses. The firm opened its doors in 2005 and has been committed to guiding clients through the design experience. Baker Architecture encourages communication among stakeholders. It guarantees its team’s commitment to identifying creative solutions to meet clients’ demands, aspirations, and goals.

Katherine Baker is the president and founder of the company. After completing her degree in architecture at Ball State University, she began working for two small architecture firms to gain experience. In 2001, she obtained her architecture license in California and established Baker Architecture four years later.

About BASILE Studio

Headquartered in San Diego, BASILE Studio is a full-service design, build, and fabrication studio operating throughout Southern California. The firm is recognized internationally for its progressive designs and for fabricating every project at its studio. The firm specializes in restaurants and hospitality projects and is committed to creating innovative, functional, and relevant structures. Since 1994, it has built an impressive client list of renowned restaurant groups, boutique hotels, entrepreneurs, and industry-leading chefs.

BASILE Studio runs under the direction of Paul Basile. He is a fourth-generation builder and a first-generation designer, developer, sculptor, and entrepreneur. He is frequently referred to as San Diego’s “brick and mortar guru” and is known for his critically-acclaimed commercial, hospitality, and retail projects. Under his oversight, the firm has amassed numerous awards, including the 2020 Hospitality Design Award from HD Awards.

About Delawie Architects

Delawie Architects offers its clients a complete range of architecture services and is also well-known for its interior design, master planning, and sustainable design. The firm has been in business since 1961 and extends its services throughout San Diego. Throughout its years in the industry, the firm has had the opportunity to work in some of the city’s most sought-after communities. The firm’s portfolio includes an excellent range of technological, hospitality, educational, government, and specialty spaces.

Featured Projects

The project featured here best embodies the firm’s talent and expertise. Completed back in 2007, this project spans over 473,960 square feet and entailed having to work on its interior design, lobby, cafeteria, and executive offices. Its team also had to design its boardroom and various conference rooms. The building itself offers residents views of the surrounding city and ocean. Our editorial team loved its rich wood and natural stone accents

About Carrier Johnson + CULTURE

Carrier Johnson + CULTURE works in and around some of San Diego’s most impressive commercial districts. It offers prospective clients stellar architecture and interior design work and can take on any project regardless of size or scale. The firm makes use of a highly collaborative approach that brings together both the technical and conceptual aspects of any process. Its portfolio features an excellent portfolio composed of landscapes, healthcare, residential, and mixed-use projects. It has also contributed to several workplaces in the education, science, government, and library sectors.

Featured Projects

The project featured here is the firm’s work for the Sony Headquarters. Located in San Diego, this project challenged the firm not only with its architecture but also with its interior design. It is LEED-Gold certified and spans over 455,900 square feet.

About Studio E Architects

Studio E Architects is composed of a talented team of over 24 experienced and talented professionals. The firm operates out of its office in San Diego; it has had the opportunity to work across the Southwestern United States. The firm’s portfolio includes a wide range of project types—everything from private residences to affordable housing, and mixed-use, civic, and urban planning projects. It is also the proud recipient of countless accolades, including three National American Institute of Architects Honor Awards. Its work has also been featured in publications like San Diego Home/Garden, Residential Architect, and Building Design + Construction.

Featured Projects

The featured project showcases the firm’s work for Schiefer + Sons. Located in San Diego, this project is located just beyond Petco Park’s outfield fence. It is a historic structure that sits among new offices and high-rise residential structures. As part of the development of the Park at the Park, the firm’s team was tasked with reworking this three-story brick and heavy timber building into retail space, restaurant space, and office suites. They also worked on the project’s extensive preservation of the brick and wood interior surfaces.

About BNIM

BNIM extends its services throughout San Diego and provides its clients a complete range of commercial architecture services. These encompass not only architecture but also interior design, sustainable and landscape architecture, and planning. The firm is highly respected for its innovative methods and processes. In 2011, it was lauded with the National Architecture Firm Award. Showcased below is one of the firm’s best office projects.

Featured Projects

Located in San Diego, this project spans over 53,325 square feet. It is LEED-Platinum certified and serves as both a workplace and residential development. It is a six-story structure with both retail and restaurant suites on the ground floor.

About The Miller Hull Partnership

In business since 1977, The Miller Hull Partnership is the product of the vision of its founding partners, David Miller and Robert Hull. They first met as undergraduate architecture students at Washington State University. The two were heavily influenced by their experience in the Peace Corps in Brazil and Afghanistan. Under their leadership, the company makes use of passive solar, super insulation, and earth-sheltered design and construction. In 2021, it launched EMission Zero, an initiative targeting the elimination of greenhouse gas emissions in buildings.

Featured Projects

The showcased project is the first of its kind and depicts the company’s work for the East County Office and Archives. It achieved Pursuing Net Zero Energy and LEED Gold Certification and spans around 25,000 square feet. The structure’s main entrance is noted for its great natural lighting and expressive roof structure that soars to capture daylight and supports a PV array overhead.

About Safdie Rabines Architects

Safdie Rabines Architects is a full-service firm that specializes in architecture and interior design. The firm has been in business since 1993 and is overseen by husband-and-wife duo Ricardo Rabines and Taal Safdie. Together they lead a team of over 50 designers, architects, interior designers, and support staff. They make use of a highly collaborative approach, which has consistently resulted in timeless work. The firm is especially known for its single-family residences, but it is also known for affordable housing, student housing, mixed-use communities, and large-scale master plans.

Featured Projects

The photo depicts the firm’s work on this Fifth Avenue mixed-use project. Located in San Diego’s Hillcrest neighborhood, this three-story urban mixed-use development showcases an infusion of private residential and office space. Some of its best features include its modern architecture and open floor plan.

About Joseph Wong Design Associates

Established in 1977, Joseph Wong Design Associates extends its services throughout San Diego and is a leader in architecture and interior design markets. The firm has had the opportunity to work in some of the most sought-after commercial districts across California and most major cities in Asia. The firm is the recipient of countless local and national awards of excellence. These include numerous AIA distinctions and National Design-Build Institute Design Awards. Showcased below is an excellent example of the firm’s talent and expertise.

Featured Projects

Located in Downtown San Diego, this project spans over 162,000 square feet. It was completed back in 2019 and is a four-story atrium-style building. It is composed of steel frames and floor-to-ceiling glass.

About H2 Hawkins + Hawkins Architects, Inc.

H2 Architects is an award-winning firm that operates out of two offices in San Diego and Gig Harbor, Washington. It focuses on infusing various sustainability and green methods into its projects, assuring its homeowners of the high efficiency of its work. The firm has been in business since 1998 and is the brainchild of brothers David and Steven Hawkins. Under their supervision, the firm has also become known for its outstanding commercial, cultural, residential, and mixed-use architectural designs. The firm takes a highly client-focused approach and thus assists homeowners throughout the entire process. That process includes site planning, programming, feasibility studies, master planning, and space planning. The firm’s work adheres to LEED standards.

Featured Projects

The featured project is the firm’s work on the North Island Credit Union Headquarters. It is a six-story building that spans around 128,000 square feet and has a LEED Silver certification. The structure showcases a combination of stone and light glass. The firm’s team also opted to make use of green technology. Other great elements include its efficient mechanical systems and the use of renewable materials like bamboo flooring and waterless urinals.

About Ferguson Pape Baldwin Architects

Ferguson Pape Baldwin Architects is composed of a talented and experienced team of design professionals. It extends its services throughout San Diego and has worked on some of its most noteworthy commercial structures. Since its inception, the firm has been the proud recipient of countless impressive accolades, including several Build San Diego Awards from the Associated General Contractors San Diego as well as several mentions in the Engineering News-Record. Depicted below is one of the firm’s best projects.

Featured Projects

Located in San Diego, this project spans over 186,000 square feet. Designed and completed for the RMR Group—an alternative asset management company with more than 30 years of institutional experience—this project challenged the firm with having to work on its overall redevelopment. It now features flexible lab and office spaces, collaborative workstations, lounges, and custom break rooms.

About obrARCHITECTURE

obrARCHITECTURE specializes in working on civic, commercial, educational, and residential spaces. It has had the opportunity to work in some of San Diego’s most sought-after neighborhoods. It can take on projects regardless of size or scale. At the firm’s helm are its principals, Garrick Oliver, Christopher Bittner, and Anney Rosenthal-Hall. Oliver graduated from San Diego State University in 1999: he has been a licensed architect since 2007. He is also a LEED-certified professional and a lecturer of interior architecture at San Diego State University. On the other hand, Bittner has practiced since 2002 and holds a degree from San Diego’s New School of Architecture. Lastly, Rosenthal-Hall graduated from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo in 1999 after spending a year abroad in Florence, Italy. She is also a LEED-accredited professional. Under their collective vision and leadership, obrARCHITECTURE has put together a stellar portfolio and clientele list for itself.

Featured Projects

The project above was designed for Bespoke Partners, which hired both obrARCHITECTURE and Studio H Design Group to revamp its old office building. Some of its best elements include its blackened steel entry canopy that gives way to a glass entry volume, its glass façades, and its modern touches. The firm’s team also employed great open spaces and industrial finishes.

About Ergo Architecture

Backed by over three decades of industry experience, Ergo Architecture specializes in commercial, residential, multifamily, and restaurant projects. The firm’s portfolio also showcases several impressive bars, clubs, assisted living, and urban infill projects. Since the firm’s inception, it has worked on over 187 projects and has won countless impressive accolades, including the Young Architect of the Year Award from the AIA San Diego and a Public Service Award from the same organization.

Featured Projects

The highlighted project best embodies the firm’s talent and expertise. Designed for the Formula Office, this project features excellent wood finishes and industrial touches. Some of its best elements include the custom lighting, the floor-to-ceiling glass windows, and a rich color palette.

About Architects HGW

Architects HGW offers a complete and comprehensive range of architecture, site, and interior design services. The firm specializes in civic, commercial residential, and medical office projects. It is also highly respected for its recreation, master planning, and sustainability efforts. In terms of design, it can take on any project regardless of scale or complexity.

Featured Projects

Located in San Diego, this project is LEED Gold Certified. It is a class A office development and sits at an intersection of two busy freeways. Its structures were designed to frame the views of its beautiful environment. Some other excellent features include its projecting decks, layered building skins, patterned glazing types, and walkways.

About Bungalow 56

Bungalow 56 is an award-winning Coronado and San Diego interior design firm with a strong sense of the importance of color, texture, and use of light, as well as the impact of a thoughtful design. Their work has been successful in adding just the right touches to breathe new life into outdated rooms. The firm is led by Jessica Nicolls, who has been part of the design industry for over 12 years. Nicolls began her career in an architecture firm, and then studied at the Art Institute of San Diego to pursue her degree in interior design. Four years ago, she took the important step of creating her interior design firm and has been bringing breathtaking designs to her clients ever since.

Featured Projects

Bungalow 56 worked on a Coronado Country Club-style exquisite transformation of a residence, with details chosen so carefully they each fit perfectly within the design. The use of color includes the perfect shade of green pillows against an otherwise monochromatic white bedroom, with a hint of dark blue. Pink and gold floor-to-ceiling floral curtains accent an otherwise neutral nursery. These seemingly minor additions together create just the right amount and intensity of color to give this residence a new and vibrant life. The grace and beauty of a space is fully realized with another Bungalow 56 design. This time a beach bungalow is full of perfect little treasures: a gold stool; a beaded chandelier in a beautiful, bright bedroom; a lovely bathroom with an exotic fish wallpaper; a small bedroom with delicious mint green walls; and two tiny stools at the foot of the bed. The designs are so balanced and beautiful they are almost poetic, and a fun treat for the eyes.

About Hope Pinc Design

Hope Pinc Design is a studio founded by Hope Pinc, who has been a part of the San Diego design community for over 15 years. She began her career in 2002 at The Design Institute of San Diego, one of the renowned CIDA (Council of Interior Design Accreditation) schools in the country. Her design philosophy is to provide clients with practical, contemporary solutions that celebrate and reflect their style and taste. Pinc’s goal is not only to transform her client’s spaces, but to transform them in the way the client views as beautiful.

Featured Projects

A bohemian kitchen remodel showcases Pinc’s design savvy in a simple and elegant way. A center island dominates the space, lined with three golden barstools with high backs. A wooden dining table is surrounded by contrasting black chairs and a beautifully detailed warm rug. The design takes a turn for the whimsical with a black-and-white patterned backsplash that’s positioned low along the counters, then climbs all the way to the ceiling behind the silver range hood. It is a minimalist, meticulous design that creates interest and warmth with the perfect amount of color and texture. Another of Pinc’s designs is the Rike Residence, complete with Mid-century modern touches paired with glamorous throws, the use of live plants, books against interesting bookends, abstract art, and a geometric metal pendant light over the dining table that adds the hint of an industrial touch. Together, the elements are earthy and playful in a space that feels comfortable, intelligent, and easy to live in.

About Esteban Interiors

Esteban Interiors is an award-winning design team that believes good design is timeless while also transforming over time. Named after the founder, Esteban Lopez, a New York native who is known as a “style maker,” they pride themselves on creating interiors that perfectly meet their client’s needs and exceed their expectations within their budget and timeline. With every project they undertake, they strive to deliver a product of the very highest quality. The firm has been featured in numerous magazines, including Modern Luxury Interiors, Best of La Jolla Magazine, and San Diego Home/Garden. They were also voted “Best of La Jolla” in the 2016 Readers Poll for Interior Design in the La Jolla Light Newspaper.

Featured Projects

Among the firm’s most beautiful designs is a timeless apartment in the El Cortez complex in San Diego. The space is an amalgamation of beautiful design and color that excites the senses and pleases the eye. The rich tones of gold and coral play off of each other in what makes for a warm and luxurious interior. The firm has cleverly incorporated the client’s choice of eclectic art into the design to perfectly complete the space with a unique and personal touch. Another of the firm’s designs is dubbed “Casa de Manana,” in La Jolla, California. The interior here includes bold color choices, an oversized intricate mirror, metallic light fixtures, and a textured geometric red sofa that wows the eye. The space is a conversation with color and shape that is exciting and unique.

About Savvy Interiors

Savvy Interiors is an interior design firm based in San Diego, where they say, “There’s no shame in an outdated home, in fact, we think it’s cause for celebration.” And they celebrate by transforming these outdated spaces into beautiful new designs. Led by the creative genius of Susan Wintersteen, Principal Designer and Owner, they work with each client to make their dreams a reality and their homes a place where they want to spend most of their time. Their design choices are bold, daring, and offer a great degree of attention to detail.

“At Savvy Interiors, our team is one of the only firms in San Diego that holds a General Contractors license which allows us to simplify the remodeling process for our clients, being both the designer and the one to implement the design. With our team of designers, we want to make the process as streamlined as possible” – Susan Wintersteen

Featured Projects

Savvy Interiors designs vibrant, rich, textured, and classy interiors. Their design of a “Gatsby Bathroom” wows, with walls covered in a beautiful black and white Art Deco wallpaper. The vanity is sleek and black with gold Art Deco-inspired handles, and the mirror above the vanity has a textured, gold trim. Together, the details make for a glamorous and rich design that perfectly represents the thrill of the 1920s. In another of the firm’s San Diego designs, the kitchen takes center stage with its perfect light fixture, with several exposed light bulbs in a geometric gold metal design that transforms the room into a delight. The color combination is light, creamy, and inviting. There are light grey countertops, bright white cabinetry, and soft cream walls. There is a valance over a window in a perfectly contrasted dark blue, geometric pattern. The high-hung valance raises the eye up, makes the room tall, and adds an element of luxury that’s a perfect match for the chandelier.

About Alpha Design Group

Alpha Design Group, led by Regina Kurtz, has been providing extraordinary yet comfortable design to their clients for over 30 years. Kurtz studied at Fashion Institute of Technology and worked in New York City’s fashion industry prior to moving to San Diego and starting her career. Her background and expertise have enabled her to assess a client’s needs and deliver a design and environment that exceeds their imagination. Among many others, the firm has won San Diego Home & Garden Lifestyle Magazine’s Kitchen of the Year Award in 2013; first place in the ASID Residential Design Awards for the years 2000, 2002, 2003, and 2009; and HGTV’s “Designer’s Challenge,” #811 ‘Painter’s Studio,’ Winning Design in 2004.

Featured Projects

When they came across a condo that had lackluster interiors, Alpha Design was eager to convert the space into a beautiful showpiece. With their new design, the living room boasts a chic and classic elegance that is intentionally minimal and inviting. White armchairs face each other against the backdrop of warm wood paneling surrounding a white fireplace. Tall, silky curtains drape from the ceiling, beckoning a time of beauty and grace. The carefully chosen art pieces in the living room offer a touch of originality and a whole lot of intrigue to the immaculate design. The team also updated a kitchen in great need of an overhaul. The transformation includes warm cherry wood cabinetry and a luxurious and unexpected rug that adds warmth and texture to the room. Also, a spacious center island and french doors leading to the outside make this kitchen not just a cook’s dream, but a cook’s retreat.

About Howard Interior Design

Howard Interior Design is a San Diego design firm led by Mike Howard, who earned top honors in local and regional design competitions for being an expert with regard to creativity, problem-solving, and attention to every design detail. With each client, Howard’s goal is to build on their vision to create a home that is stylish, comfortable, and unique. The firm received the Freshome Best Interior Design award in San Diego in 2016, and the 2016 National Kitchen & Bath Association Star Award for Best Small Bath. The award-winning, small-bath project was featured in the November issue of San Diego Home & Garden Magazine, and they have featured again in the magazine, this time in the Profile in Design section.

Featured Projects

Howard Interior Design was tasked with updating and reconfiguring a 1950s San Diego ranch-style home, to add a spacious master bath. The result was a more efficient layout, moving the space three feet into the adjacent office space. They expand the master suite and created a custom bed niche. Arguably the most eye-catching element in the room is the colorful headboard made from recycled boat lumber. The beautifully reimagined master bathroom was also moved partially into an adjacent large closet to create a dramatic, glass-enclosed, walk-in shower.

In another of the firm’s designs, the need for a new kitchen island translated into an exciting full-home makeover, complete with a new stone fireplace facade accented with black wood trim, and refinished hardwood floors in a deep, rich grey. In the kitchen, the island is topped with a beautiful white countertop, contrasting deep grey cabinetry, and gorgeous glass subway tile for the backsplash adds just the visual pop the room needs.

About Blythe Interiors

No matter the project size, Blythe Interiors consistently delivers designs that complement their client’s personal style and helps turn their space into something they will love and enjoy for years to come. The firm is led by its president, Jennifer Verruto, who believes that good design should be available to everyone. The firm is known for beautiful, functional, and affordable interior designs. They received the San Diego Freshomes Best Interior Designs Award in 2016. The San Diego Real Estate Hunter called Blythe Interiors one of San Diego’s best 25 interior design companies in 2017.

Featured Projects

Blythe Interiors helped transform an unimpressive and dated living room into a classic, luxurious space with a dramatic center ottoman that offers both comfort and class. The glamorous floor-to-ceiling drapery accentuates the tall ceilings, and the light grey beams create a modern and edgy feel. There is also an aged wood, beaded chandelier that ties the room together and adds a level of high end sophistication and timelessness to the design. In another of their eye-catching transformations, Blythe Interiors redesigned a dated living room to add color and warmth with a modern design. At the room’s center is a teal tufted ottoman surrounded by geometric patterned accent chairs. The same pattern repeats in the tall curtains that outline two french doors leading to the outdoor seating area. Pops of deep red and blue give the room a fun and vibrant atmosphere.

About M. Swabb Decor + Style

M. Swabb Decor + Style is a boutique, high-end design firm founded by Maegan Swabb, lead designer and owner, that specializes in creating spaces that aim to deliver the “wow” factor to their clients’ homes. With each design, they strive to employ cutting-edge creativity, high-end style, and what they admit is an obsessive attention to detail. The firm offers services from space planning and 3D rendering to material acquisition and installation, with the ultimate goal of a very happy client in mind. They have been featured in various magazines, including Coastal San Diego Homes, Modern Luxury, Luxe Interior Design, and California Home & Design.

Featured Projects

M. Swabb Decor + Style is behind the design of the “La Jolla Treehouse,” a beautiful space that’s a testament to how well they can play with shape, color, and contrast. There are beautiful pops of color on pillows and throws, an abstract painting on a bedroom wall, a chandelier that reflects light over the dining nook, a perfectly positioned gold lamp in the living room, and the use of a large green plant to bring life into the space. The result is an amalgamation of different shapes, textures, and patterns that together become a bright and bold visual delight. Another of the team’s creations is the design of an edgy kitchen in downtown San Diego. The shimmering backsplash reflects light with patterns that entertain the eye, and clean minimalist cabinets complement the oversized light fixture suspended over the bar. The space is beautiful but functional all at once. The materials used spark a perfect balance between form and glamour in a design that is both modern and edgy, as well as timeless.

About CM Natural Designs

CM Natural Designs finds joy and purpose in creating personalized and meaningful designs that provide their clients with a sense of self and well-being. Led by Corine Maggio, principal and design director, the team has created arguably some of the trade’s most unique spaces. Although they are based in Southern California, the design crew loves to travel, and they’ve been creating beautiful designs nationally and internationally. Their work can be found not only across the United States, but also in Mexico, Australia, and Turkey. CM Natural Designs has been featured on HGTV and in many magazines, newspapers, and web publications.

Featured Projects

One of the firm’s creations is a home purchased by a young couple who was looking for a design influenced by French style. The outcome is a beautiful home that includes a formal dining room complete with dark cabinetry with gold fixtures, deep grey velvet drapes that outline the large windows, and tufted luxurious dining chairs along the oversized rectangular table with golden legs. The black, gold, and white accents are carried throughout the rest of the home, giving the space a rich, Old World sophistication and class. Another of their designs is an urban bathroom remodel that looks almost cinematic. Here, too, the designers introduce gold accents that give the space a luxurious feel. Round, gold light fixtures dangle from the ceiling, and two large mirrors with perfectly thin gold frames are contrasted with black faucets and black handles on white cabinets. The design is rich but minimalist, and it is tied together by a small, round, black clock perched on the vanity — a touch that is both whimsical and practical all at once.

About Studio Surface

Michelle Salz-Smith, owner and principal interior designer at Studio Surface, is an award-winning interior designer specializing in residential and commercial design. Founded in 2009, the firm is known to transform spaces throughout the West Coast and internationally. Their philosophy is that every surface is a platform upon which dialogue and ideas are originated, explored, and realized. With projects ranging from residential home remodels to high-end resort brands, Salz-Smith and her team create beautifully balanced interiors with an unexpected edge. They have been featured in magazines such as Modern Luxury Interiors, Modern Luxury Riviera, and the online magazine Design Milk.

Featured Projects

A design with an edge. This living area created by Studio Surface is one that draws you into its deep and soulful interior. There are two large sofas in a rich blue velvet fabric that are reminiscent of Old World glamour. Between them sits a gold fish scale-patterned coffee table full of whimsy. The coupling of the gold and the blue is regal and grand. Beneath these beautiful colors are what feel like endless white floors, with a Mid-century modern white chair perched in the far corner. There is a fireplace that starts at the bottom as white stone but transforms into a black structure leading up to the ceiling, drawing the eye up as far as it will go. In another design we find the feel of the ocean. The colors of sand, sky, and sea are brought in. There’s a large area rug with splatters of different shades of blue and beige that evoke the surf and sand. There is a massive, light wood coffee table above it, a large piece of beautiful driftwood on top, and a juxtaposed black pot of succulents to the right. The sofa surrounding the table is luxuriously immaculate white linen, and two armchairs balanced on the side are dark blue like the deep ocean. Then, higher up, the light fixture that ties the room together is shaped like a bursting star. The space is more than just a room — the pieces are more than just furniture. It feels like brilliant risk-taking that has translated into undeniably transformative art that accentuates the experience of being present.