Recognized by many as one of the best places to live in California, the city of Walnut Creek has much to offer. It is a leading cultural and commercial center in Contra Costa County and is a nature lover’s paradise because of its miles of hiking trails and scenic vistas. Homes in Walnut Creek reflect its urban-suburban feel with home styles such as farmhouse, cottage, Craftsman, Mediterranean, and contemporary.
This list presents the top architects that serve Walnut Creek and the surrounding areas. We carefully selected them based on their accreditations, certifications, professional affiliations, and the recognition each firm has received in the form of industry awards, client reviews, and features in the press. We have also laid out the range of services the firms offer, their specializations, and the length of time they have been in the industry.
BKBC Architects Inc
1371 Oakland Blvd, Suite 101, Walnut Creek, CA 94598
BKBC Architects Inc is an internationally recognized architecture and planning firm based in Walnut Creek. Its extensive work experience spans over 25 states within the US and over ten countries. This award-winning firm offers a full range of architectural services for retail, mixed-use, and residential projects. It is notable for developing distinctive concepts and designs as well as incorporating sustainable design principles in all its projects.
Heading this powerhouse firm is Sanjiv Bhandari, AIA, FIIA. With over 40 years of experience in architecture, urban design, and master planning, Bhandari’s innovative solutions consistently achieve high levels of client satisfaction. He has also contributed greatly to various trade organizations in multiple cities in California. He has served on the Board of Directors of Urban Land Institute (ULI) San Francisco, as Chairman of the Architectural Review Board for the City of San Ramon, as Director of American Institute of Architects (AIA) San Francisco.
The firm’s residential projects can be found across neighborhoods in the San Francisco Bay Area. An example of its grand work is this two-story custom estate. The 9,000-square-foot Italianate home features large, double-height, open, and engaging spaces. Its grand main entry portal is flanked by contemporary versions of bay windows.
CB Architecture + Design
89 Orinda Way, Suite 6, Orinda, CA 94563
CB Architecture + Design is a California-based firm specializing in boutique commercial, single, and multifamily residential projects. From refreshed Midcentury Modern homes to new custom contemporary residences, the firm creates open and light-filled spaces that balance aesthetics and function. Its custom homes, renovations, and additions are also responsive to their environment, maximizing energy efficiency through passive design and sustainable methods. The firm and its projects have been featured in Dwell, The San Francisco Chronicle, and California Home + Design.
Firm founder Megan Carter is joined by a team of accomplished architects and interior designers: Jenny Carson, Yulia Korneeva, and Anna Misharina. They have years of experience in practicing architecture and interior design in the US and abroad. As a team, they operate on the principles of open communication and collaboration with clients as well as builders and contractors. The firm itself is also an active member of the AIA.
Featured here is one of the firm’s projects: Lagom Residence. Named after the Swedish word for “not too much, not too little, but just right”, this single-family renovation and addition to a 1948 suburban ranch-style house resulted in just the right home for its family. It is emblematic of modern California living, with a daylight-filled interior that connects seamlessly to a private outdoor living space filled with drought-tolerant vegetation.
Dotter & Solfjeld Architecture + Design
4801 Park Blvd., Oakland, CA 94602
California-based architects Russ Dotter and Wencke Solfjeld are the pair behind Oakland firm Dotter & Solfjeld Architecture + Design. The two possess local and international experience in conceptual design, architecture, and interior design, making them some of the top architects serving the San Francisco Bay Area. Clients have praised the firm for its collaborative process and creative design solutions. Clients also appreciate Russ and Wencke for their hassle-free approach and smooth design process, from expertly navigating stringent building requirements in various areas of California to working closely with trusted contractors to ensure projects stay on time and on budget.
The firm’s portfolio shows unique homes in both traditional and contemporary styles. These can be in the San Francisco Bay area, throughout California, several other states, and even Europe. The firm is capable of designing in a variety of styles.
Harriman Kinyon Architects
1801 Oakland Blvd #320, Walnut Creek, CA 94596
From complex commercial projects to bespoke residences, Harriman Kinyon Architects has proven itself to be one of the most trusted architecture firms in Western California and Nevada. It has forged long-lasting relationships with business and corporate clients, helping them expand their footprint across the state and beyond. Residential clients also trust the firm for its attention to detail, focus on craftsmanship, and outstanding customer service. The firm is also notable for its projects in affordable housing and healthcare.
Founder Stephen Harriman established the firm with over 40 years of experience in architecture and design. His extensive career includes serving on Design Review consulting services for the City of Martinez, the Planning Commission for the City of Walnut Creek, and as an oral examiner for the State of California’s architectural exam for candidates to be a California licensed architect. He is joined by principal architects Donald Kinyon and David Kim. Kinyon serves as Principal-In-Charge, while Kim is one of the managing principals of the firm.
