Great architects consider the homeowner’s lifestyle and flawlessly incorporate it into every project. They also work efficiently and collaboratively with the client and everyone else involved in the project.
The following list includes architects such as these, that make up the best residential architects in Carpinteria, California. Each firm stood out for factors such as portfolio quality, company background, client feedback, and industry accolades. Most studios work exclusively on residential projects, offering a wide range of services from planning to development.
Sewall Architects
768 Ayala Ln., Montecito, CA 93108
Jock M. Sewall and Associates Architects is a trusted studio with a positive reputation amongst local homeowners. Founder Jock M. Sewall and his team of professionals consistently deliver quality service, a trait that led to its current standing. Former clients cite the company’s comprehensive approach and proficient craftsmanship as some of its best assets, rounded out by efficient work and transparent management.
The full-service practice specializes in residential architecture projects. It has two offices, one in Santa Barbara and another in Carmel. To date, most of its completed projects are in St. Malo Beach, Rancho Santa Fe, Carmel Valley, and adjacent communities.
The design firm specializes in traditional styles. Its portfolio’s stunning designs include Mediterranean, shingle, and French Country homes. Featured is the Hillside Ocean View Residence, a three-story house built on the slopes of Montecito. The Hacienda-style manor includes a master bedroom, a wine cellar, an entertainment room, and a covered terrace. A pool house cabana offers a cozy lounge pad with scenic views of the California ocean.
KAS Architect
2350 Lillie Ave., Summerland, CA 93067
KAS Seefeld Architect is a Santa Barbara firm known for its luxury residential architecture. The full-service practice upholds a comprehensive process that focuses on quality craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail.
Kermit “Kas” A. Seefeld III is the studio’s founder and principal. An industry veteran of over 17 years, Seefeld has worked with two of the most esteemed practices in California before helming his own. He is a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional (LEED AP). Sustainability is also a big part of his work.
Holroyd Design Studio
8399 Bates Rd., Carpinteria, CA 93013
Holroyd Design creates stunning and enduring residences. This boutique studio offers five core services—consultations, schematic design, limited builder’s set plans, full plans, and build-outs. Its dossier includes over 30 years of luxury homes, each one built for modern standards. Mediterranean estates and Neo-classical manors showcase the firm’s expertise. Most styles fit the Southern California landscape, a hotspot for lush and lavish living.
Principal Sam Holroyd oversees the studio’s day-to-day processes. The architect ensures that every project yields high-quality results. His team also caters to the client’s needs through cost-effective solutions and a collaborative approach from start to finish.
Featured is the Kardashian/West Residence, the home of A-list power couple Kim Kardashian and Kanye West. Dubbed the Jewel of Hidden Hills, the French Country Farmhouse stands on a large compound surrounded by tall trees. Interconnected buildings span the lot, linking up to the main house. The manor’s traditional exteriors give way to a sophisticated interior that uses a simple white palette. Each room shines with luxury, a reflection of its owner’ lifestyle.
Dylan Chappell Architects
175 S. Ventura Ave. Suite 104A, Ventura, CA 93001
Dylan Chappell Architects is a full-service firm that specializes in modern, sustainable designs for diverse architectural markets including residential, retail, and commercial. All of its work display ergonomic and energy-efficient properties that make life flow a little easier.
Architect Dylan Chappell helms the Carpinteria-based studio. The South Coast native aims to connect buildings with the environment, a signature noticeable in every project in his portfolio. His portfolio of custom homes includes Mediterranean manors, contemporary abodes, and country farmhouses.
The design company’s work spans Santa Barbara County, Ventura County, and the California Coast. This featured project, the Morada, is a Mid-Century home completed in 2016. Though it only has a single story, the home’s horizontal layout covers a lot of ground. A mix of modern and classic elements fills every space, and medium-tone wood and white walls are prevalent in most rooms. Notable features include a cozy living room, a U-shaped kitchen, and a large grassy lawn with a pool.
Gray and Gray Architects, LLP
1505 E Valley Rd., Montecito, CA 93108
Gray and Gray Architects runs a quality-driven design process that aims to deliver the best project possible to every client. The Montecito-based studio serves Sana Barbara, Santa Ynez, Carpinteria, and adjacent communities. Its project scope also includes Nevada and Nantucket island in Massachusetts. The firm’s architectural solutions provide a creative and long-lasting quality that bolsters every space.
Martha A. Gray and William Gray are seasoned architects with an extensive list of projects. To date, the co-partners have completed ground-up builds, remodels, multi-family housing, and various projects in other markets. On the residential front, their style ranges from contemporary desert houses to stunning traditional manors. Most of their projects are large luxury homes in exciting locales.
The Krischer Residence in Carpinteria has a simple yet grandiose design. Quality craftsmanship shines from the crisp wood walls to the sleek glass windows. An open layout connects the interiors to the outdoors through plenty of large sliding doors, especially as the house stands on a lot by the sea.
Neumann Mendro Andrulaitis Architects
888 Linden Avenue, Carpinteria, CA 93013
Neumann Mendro Andrulaitis Architects, also known as NMA, has over 25 years of experience working with both the best local craftspeople and designers with a large client base. Dave Mendro and Mary Andrulaitis spearhead the Central Coast practice. Both are AIA professionals and seasoned architects with over three decades of design expertise. Integrating the owner’s lifestyle into every design allows them to create houses that feel like home for the client.
The studio’s exemplary body of work won critical acclaim across California. Its list of awards includes an Honorable Mention in the 2019 Homebuilding Editor’s Choice Award from the AIA Santa Barbara, the 2018 Distinguished Design and Spirit Award, and the 2018 Luxe RED Award.
Photo By: Ciro Coelho Photography
One notable work from the firm’s portfolio is the featured Carpinteria Foothills Residence. It is a magnificent modern home with scenic views of the valley. As one side of the house faces the lush expanse, the firm opted for floor-to-ceiling glass walls for optimal perspective. Contemporary interior design with wide spaces and ergonomic decor adds to the natural beauty of the locale.
