The small town of Corte Madera features a unique landscape that attracts outdoor lovers and commuters. Its location makes it convenient for people to access San Francisco. Over the past years, the town’s real estate market has been booming. From single-family homes and apartments to condos and townhouses, you’ll find plenty of options to suit your needs.
With a thriving housing market, you’ll also find a lot of architecture and design firms in town as well as nearby cities. Choosing the right architect to design your home will depend on your vision, budget, and lifestyle. We narrowed down this list to only the most reputable firms in the area. Some of these companies were chosen for their 40+ years of experience while others were chosen for their unique expertise in green architecture. However, all of these firms have multiple credentials that can help you create or design your dream home.
Castor Architecture
1925 Francisco Blvd. E Suite #7, San Rafael, CA 94901
Castor Architecture is a small residential architecture firm specializing in single-family homes. Founded in 2007, the firm focuses on designing Craftsman, farmhouse, and Mediterranean-style homes. For 13 years, Castor Architecture has worked on various projects across Marin County, Wine Country, and the San Francisco Bay Area. Its projects range from new construction and renovations to additions.
With a tight-knit team of talented designers, Castor Architecture handles projects one at a time so the firm can stay focused on every aspect of the project. Principal Daniel Castor is a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and has comprehensive experience in working for educational institutions and non-profit organizations. Some of his notable projects include this Richardson Bay Audubon Center and the Breezeway Residence in Mill Valley. For this single-family residential project, Castor Architecture designed a cohesive and balanced environment for the homeowners. Daniel is an award-winning architect and is known for his book, Drawing Berlage’s Exchange which received a Citation for Excellence from the AIA.
Dorman Associates, Inc.
229 Flamingo Rd., Mill Valley, CA 94941
As a full-service architectural firm, Dorman Associates offers a wide range of residential and commercial design services. Specializing in custom homes, its projects range from single-family residences to entry-level home developments across the San Francisco Bay Area. Over the years, the company has worked on multi-million dollar properties.
In 2001, Chris Dorman established Dorman Associates with a strong passion for residential architecture. His dedication to providing stunning, practical, and functional spaces helped him hone his skills in designing mixed-use units and affordable housing. With his expertise, the firm delivers innovative designs at a cost-effective price point. Dorman Associates also advocates the use of sustainable materials and green building practices.
In 2018, Dorman Associates received the Best Innovative Housing Design Gold Nugget Award and the Judges Special Award of Excellence Golden Nugget Award for its work in the Flora Farms Haylofts in Baja. Dorman Architects was tasked to design an open environment for the property by maximizing the natural light.
Elida Doldan Schujman Architecture Studio
316 Sycamore Ave., Mill Valley, CA 94941
Established in 1983, Elida Doldan Schujman’s Architecture Studio offers unique design solutions tailored for the client’s personality and lifestyle. For 37 years, the firm has worked on diverse residential and commercial projects focusing on custom homes. The firm specializes in designing contemporary spaces across all building types. Its other services range from interior design, furniture design, outdoor living, and historical preservations.
Founder Elida Doldan Schujman spearheads a dynamic team of designers and professionals who are dedicated to creating a stress-free experience for clients. The firm’s design principle involves collaborating with the clients throughout the entire design-build process. As a Green Building Professional, Elida is committed to using sustainable practices and eco-friendly materials. The firm continues to use the latest technologies and techniques geared towards zero energy consumption.
Elida Doldan Schujman’s Architecture Studio has been recognized for its outstanding projects. In 2007, the firm was awarded by the City of San Rafael with the Design Award of Excellence. Besides other awards, its projects have been featured in Marin Home Magazine and California Home & Design. One of its most prominent works is the Sundial Residence featured in this article. The firm incorporated sustainable practices using natural ventilation and passive solar systems. Details of the project can be seen in Signal Magazine and the book Dream Homes of Northern California.
Holder Parlette Architecture + Landscapes
1010 Sir Francis Drake Blvd., Suite #204, Kentfield, CA 94904
Kentfield-based Holder Parlette Architecture + Landscapes provides a wide range of architectural design solutions for homeowners in Marin County. Specializing in contemporary, modern, and bungalow-style homes, the studio handles a broad range of projects across all building types and sizes.
The firm was formed through the partnership of Kenneth Holder and Chris Parlette. Kenneth gained experience working for notable firms in San Francisco. With a master’s degree in Architecture and a background in Ecological Architecture, Kenneth has a deep understanding of the architectural landscape of the San Francisco Bay Area. Chris, on the other hand, has worked on small to large projects focusing on landscape and sustainability.
Holder Parlette Architecture + Landscapes has been featured in several publications including Marin Magazine and Architectural Digest. For the Cunningham Residence, the firm was tasked to transform the property into a modern farmhouse.
Hubbell Daily Architecture + Design
469C Magnolia Ave., Larkspur, CA 94939
For 17 years, Hubbell Daily Architecture + Design (HDA) has been providing high-quality designs for residents across Larkspur, Marin County, and San Francisco Bay Area. Specializing in contemporary and modern designs, the firm has established itself as one of the top architecture firms in the area. Since its inception, HDA has worked on numerous residential projects including simple renovations and whole-house remodels to new, custom homes.
The firm was established in 2003 and is led by husband and wife, Brad Hubbell and Suzanne Daily. Brad and Suzanne have more than 25 years of industry experience. They specialize in innovative architecture that translates the language of the property while incorporating the essence of each family. Through their innovative program, they create timeless, finely-crafted, and unique homes tailored to each family and the particulars of each site. They aim to provide creative solutions to the most challenging and complex structural issues without losing the focus of reflecting the beauty of the project’s surrounding environment. Brad and Suzanne also highlight the importance of fostering strong relationships and clear communication between the clients, designers, and builders.
One of the firm’s inspiring works is the Contemporary Farmhouse Estate in San Rafael. For this project, HDA designed a space that brings in natural light and outdoors while maximizing the views of the neighborhood, Mt Tam and beyond.
Markoff / Fullerton Architects
38 Miller Ave. Suite #330, Mill Valley, CA 94941
Urban design studio Markoff / Fullerton Architects is dedicated to crafting innovative and modern designs using sustainable practices. Since 1996, the architectural firm has been designing modern and contemporary properties across Marin County and the Northern Bay Area. For over two decades, the company has worked on a variety of custom homes, commercial buildings, and institutions.
Firm Partners Antonnia Markoff and Bruce Fullerton oversee the firm’s design and operations. Antonnia is Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)-certified while Bruce specializes in urban planning. Both hold a Master’s degree in Architecture from Harvard University. Their combined expertise brings a unique approach to curating creative urban designs.
The firm’s strength is in incorporating green building practices to reduce the carbon footprint. Focusing on custom homes and commercial projects, Markoff / Fullerton Architects is regarded as one of the most respected firms in the area.
Michael J. Harlock
533 Redwood Ave., Corte Madera, CA 94925
Architecture firm Michael J. Harlock offers a systematic approach to the design process. Specializing in designing new homes, renovations, and additions, the firm covers a wide scope of design styles. Green building practices also play a huge role in the firm’s design principles. The company is composed of veteran professionals with a comprehensive background in designing for all types of building styles and project scales.
The firm keeps abreast with the latest industry trends and technologies. Under Michael J. Harlock’s leadership, the design studio has developed an efficient system in terms of project management and budgeting. As a full-service architecture firm, the company provides functional and sophisticated designs that enhance the lives of its clients.
Since its inception in 1998, Michael J. Harlock has earned accreditations including the AIA and the Corte Madera Chamber of Commerce. One of the firm’s exceptional projects is the Arts and Crafts House in Corte Madera where the firm added more character to the home. By polishing the smallest details and finishes, the result is an elegant and inviting home that will last for generations.
ODS Architecture
5895 Doyle St., Emeryville, CA 94608
Ohashi Design Studio (ODS) Architecture combines the disciplines of architecture and interior design. The full-service design studio delivers seamless and efficient designs tailored to the client’s unique personality and lifestyle. Its works range from custom homes and whole-house renovations. The firm’s past projects include residential and commercial projects as well as museums and offices.
Founder and CEO Alan Ohashi established the company in 1985. As a solution-driven firm, ODS Architecture focuses on creating a smooth transition between traditional and contemporary styles. Over the years, the firm has developed an efficient system throughout the design, budget, and construction process. This process has carried the firm through three decades of partnership with reputable contractors for an extensive list of successful projects.
The Hillside Retreat located in Orinda is one of the firm’s most prominent projects. The hillside property was dramatically transformed into a contemporary open-floor home. ODS Architecture successfully took on the challenge of developing a property o a hilly landscape. The project was featured in Dwell.
PatriARCH Architecture
300 Riviera Circle, Larkspur, CA, 94939
Founded in 1992, PatriARCH Architecture offers quality design services focusing on residential properties across Marin County and the Northern Bay Area. The firm covers a broad range of designs and is known for its distinctive style in crafting coastal, craftsman, and shingle homes. In 28 years, the LEED-certified firm has worked on numerous residential projects specializing in contemporary designs.
Firm principal Eric Layton is recognized for designing unique homes and has a strong passion for sustainability. PatriARCH Architecture is anchored in delivering excellence in architecture and is composed of a dedicated team of talented designers who share the same passion for quality designs. From small renovations to whole-house transformations, the firm is fully equipped to handle all types of project scales. Since the firm was established, PatriARCH Architecture has earned a reputation as a trusted and reliable architecture firm in Larkspur.
Polsky Perlstein Architects
469 B Magnolia Ave., Larkspur, CA 94939
Polsky Perlstein Architects has designed hundreds of homes throughout Northern California over the past forty years. With a diverse portfolio of completed projects, the firm works comfortably across a range of design idioms, whether stylistically contemporary, transitional, or more traditional, while personalizing each project to fit each client’s particular lifestyle. Their design process makes extensive use of virtual modeling (three-dimensional virtual imagery) to help clients visualize the design and how they can benefit from it.
Initially established as Jared Polsky and Associates, the firm was re-named Polsky Perlstein Architects early in the millennium. Since then, the principals have been furthering the firm’s design accomplishments with a team of veteran architects and designers. With the office’s combined skills and expertise, PPA is recognized as one of the premier residential architectural firms in Marin County. The office has been featured in many publications over the years including Northern California Home and Garden, Sunset, Food and Wine, American Bungalow, Custom Home, Traditional Home and Better Homes and Gardens, as well as the Marin Independent Journal and the S.F. Chronicle. They’ve also had projects featured in and several books including “Dream Homes”, “The Art of Lighting: An International Profile”, and “Adding to a House: Planning, Design and Construction”.
Richardson Pribuss Architects
447 Miller Ave. Suite D, Mill Valley, CA 94941
As one of the veteran architecture firms in Mill Valley, Richard Pribuss Architects offers an extensive range of design services. From modern and ranch to shingle-style homes, the firm has developed numerous homes throughout the Greater Bay Area. The firm was founded in 1984 by Heidi Richardson. Thirty-five years later, the company name was changed to Richardson Pribuss Architects after forming a partnership with Andrew Pribuss.
Heidi’s expertise is in historic preservation and interior design. Her works have been featured across various publications including Architectural Record and Sunset Magazine. Andrew is more focused on delivering creative design solutions integrated with sustainability practices. Together, they lead Richardson Pribuss Architects to complete many beautiful and sustainable projects that clients love.
For 36 years, the architectural and interior design studio has developed its expertise in handling zoning and permitting regulations as well as solving complicated structural issues. Having worked across residential, commercial, and institutional sectors, the firm is equipped to manage challenging projects. For the past 12 years, the firm has designed over 25 ADUs. For the Sycamore Park Residence project featured in this article, Richard Pribuss Architects transformed this 1940s cottage into a stunning, modern home with an outdoor living area.
Sutton Suzuki Architects
39 Forrest St., Mill Valley, CA 94941
Since 1990, Sutton Suzuki Architects has been creating designs anchored on sustainability. With its strong commitment to environmentally-safe practices and materials, the firm incorporates natural ventilation and passive solar gain into its designs. The firm’s team of talented architects is highly experienced in green building practices for residential projects. For three decades, Sutton Suzuki has worked on custom homes throughout Marin County, Napa, and Hawaii.
Sutton Suzuki Architects was founded by Ron Sutton and Elizabeth Suzuki. With an extensive background in designing custom homes and commercial buildings, Ron has developed his specialty in traditional and contemporary-style properties. Elizabeth, on the other hand, offers three decades of industry experience, particularly in residential and institutional projects. The firm’s projects can be seen in the pages of Dream Home Magazine, 21st Century Homes Magazine, and Marin Magazine. One of its prominent projects is a Kauai beach house where the firm was tasked to design an elegant home with traditional elements.
Tamley Architectural Design
P.O. Box 554, Woodacre, CA 94973
Offering a customized approach in every project, Tamley Architectural Design has worked on numerous remodeling projects in Marin County. The firm provides a full scope of architectural services specializing in traditional, transitional, and Mediterranean-inspired designs. Since 2000, the design studio has been using green building solutions in every design. Its designs utilize safe materials and energy-efficient methods while merging the principles of functionality and aesthetics.
As a Certified Green Building Professional, founder Theresa Tamley is committed to providing exceptional green solutions across all building types, styles, and scopes. She stays involved throughout the entire design and construction process overseeing all aspects of the project. Her extensive experience ranges from remodels, additions, interiors, and green designs. Tamley Architectural Design was tasked to work on a 1920s home. For this project, the firm restored the property highlighting the home’s original features.
THREE SIXTY ONE Architecture
1505 Bridgeway Suite #127, Sausalito, CA 94965
For a decade, THREE SIXTY ONE Architecture has been providing quality design solutions with a dedicated team of skilled architects and veteran subcontractors. As a LEED-certified firm, the design studio is committed to sustainable architecture to deliver Net Zero Energy homes. Its projects utilize energy-efficient methods that are both functional and comfortable. The firm specializes in modern and contemporary-style homes.
In 2010, Daniel Weaver established THREE SIXTY ONE Architecture as an architecture firm with a strong background in construction. Before founding the company, he ran a design-build firm offering architecture and construction services. Daniel continues to design healthy and environmentally safe homes while inspiring his clients, staff, and peers to promote sustainability.
As a Certified Advanced Building Professional, THREE SIXTY ONE has amassed a diverse portfolio. The West Lantern is one of the firm’s prominent works. For this sustainable LEED project, the firm incorporated solar panels and eco-friendly materials. This project was featured in Small Firms, Great Projects.
Wagstaff + Rogers Architects
275 Miller Ave. No. 202, Mill Valley, CA 94941
Located in Mill Valley, Wagstaff + Rogers Architects offers residential architecture, commercial architecture, planning, and design services. Since its inception in 1980, the firm has worked on prominent high-end residences, mixed-use units, commercial properties, and historic preservation across the San Francisco Bay Area. From residential remodels to rehabilitation, Wagstaff + Rogers Architects offers a full scope of design solutions. The firm also integrates green design in its design principles to help reduce the carbon footprint and protect the environment.
Principal Eric Rogers has built his career as a carpenter and a tradesman. Graduating with a Master’s in Architecture, Eric infuses new technologies and art in his designs. For four decades, the firm has developed its specialty in designing contemporary, Mediterranean, and farmhouse-style homes. Its work on a Chanticleer Avenue home features a California contemporary design incorporated with green architecture. The AIA-accredited firm is also a member of the Marin Builders Association and Build It Green.
