Santa Barbara, California is a coastal gem renowned for its stunning Spanish colonial architecture, picturesque landscapes, and Mediterranean climate. Nestled between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Santa Barbara exudes charm and elegance, attracting residents and visitors with its enchanting beauty.
Look no further if you’re searching for architectural firms in Santa Barbara. The list below showcases the best architectural firms in the area, carefully selected based on their impressive portfolios, original designs, industry recognition, and client satisfaction. These firms deeply understand Santa Barbara’s unique architectural heritage and seamlessly blend it with contemporary styles and sustainable practices.
AB design studio, inc.
420 E Haley St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
AB design studio, inc. uses a multidisciplinary approach to address various concerns, including technical, ecological, social, cultural, and aesthetic considerations. With a focus on problem-solving, the company
brings a holistic approach to environmental design and place-making across various project types. The firm offers various services, including 3D rendering, remodeling, bathroom design, custom homes, drafting, energy-efficient homes, and construction drawings.
AB design studio, inc. has been recognized for its outstanding work, receiving the 2022 Architizer A+Awards Popular Choice Winner for Best Private House for the Quarry House project. The company is also affiliated with AIA Santa Barbara. In the press, AB design studio, inc. has been featured in Archinect, Archello, Dezeen, Dwell, Design Milk and 805 Living among other publications.
AB design studio, Inc. creates meaningful spaces that blend functionality, sustainability, and style. With a problem-solving mindset and commitment to excellence, the firm works to bring its clients’ design dreams to life. AB design studio, Inc. operates two growing studios in Santa Barbara and Los Angeles. The firm actively participates in making significant contributions to the design quality and ongoing transformation of the built world. AB design studio works toward elevating the human experience through architecture, interior design, and urban planning.
Jeff Shelton Architect
519 Fig Ave, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Jeff Shelton Architect, founded in 1994, is a Santa Barbara-based firm that offers architectural and design services. Serving Santa Barbara and surrounding communities, the firm is an esteemed member of AIA Santa Barbara. Its work has also been featured in prestigious publications such as Architectural Digest, ANTA: Archives of New Traditional Architecture, Western Art & Architecture, Voyage LA Magazine, and Print Magazine.
Led by Principal Jeff Shelton, the firm embodies a deep passion for architecture and design. Jeff Shelton himself has a personal connection to the Santa Barbara area, having grown up at the base of the Santa Ynez mountains. Influenced by the creative approaches of local architects, including his mentor Frank Robinson, Jeff Shelton Architect brings a unique perspective to each project. With a rich background and a commitment to creating extraordinary spaces, Jeff Shelton Architect transforms architectural dreams into vibrant realities.
Kevin Moore Architect
530 Santa Barbara St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Kevin Moore Architect is a full-service architecture and interior design firm in Santa Barbara. The team is led by licensed architect Kevin Moore, who brings 18 years of experience creating warm, modern, and contemporary designs in the area. Kevin Moore, a Southern California Institute of Architecture graduate, has established himself as a trusted architect in Santa Barbara. His extensive knowledge and passion for design led to his appointment by the City Council to the City of Santa Barbara Architectural Board of Review (ABR). This role involves reviewing commercial and large-scale residential projects within the city limits, showcasing Kevin’s commitment to the local architectural community.
Kevin Moore Architect specializes in crafting personalized spaces that blend functionality, aesthetics, and a sense of warmth. While it focuses on residential design, its expertise extends to interior design projects throughout California. Kevin Moore Architect is affiliated with AIA Santa Barbara, a testament to its commitment to professional excellence and industry standards.
Sherry & Associates, Architects
608 Anacapa St, Ste B, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Sherry and Associates, Architects, Inc., based in Santa Barbara, California, has been a trusted name in architecture since 1990. The firm is led by principal architect Dawn Sherry and creates a vital connection between nature and society through conscientious design practices. Recognizing the profound impact of the built environment on people’s daily lives, Sherry and Associates approach each project with a deep sense of responsibility.
With a diverse portfolio encompassing custom residential, commercial, restaurant, hospitality, and interior design, Sherry and Associates tackles projects of all sizes. Its expertise, honed through years of experience, allows them to deliver original and remarkable spaces. Dawn Sherry, AIA, serves as the principal architect, bringing extensive knowledge and leadership to the firm. With a Bachelor of Architecture from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and additional studies in Washington, Alexandria, and Florence, Dawn’s expertise is rooted in a strong educational foundation. Under her watch, Sherry and Associates, Architects, Inc. values the balance between nature, society, and exceptional design, offering clients in Santa Barbara and beyond a collaborative and thoughtful approach to architectural excellence.
Neumann Mendro Andrulaitis Architects LLP
117 West Micheltorena St, Ste C, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Neumann Mendro Andrulaitis Architects LLP is a firm that understands the essence of the Santa Barbara lifestyle. With 30 years of experience, the firm has established strong ties with local artisans, designers, and agencies, ensuring its clients receive exceptional results. The firm prioritizes spending ample time with each client, supporting them from the initial sketches to the final stages of construction, offering comprehensive support throughout the entire journey. It is this holistic approach that distinguishes a good project from a truly outstanding one.
The firm has garnered recognition for its excellence, receiving the 2022 Merit Award from the American Institute of Architects Santa Barbara Chapter for its work on the Central Coast Guesthouse & Studio. Neumann Mendro Andrulaitis Architects LLP is an active member of the American Institute of Architects Santa Barbara and has been featured in esteemed publications such as Food + Home, California Homes, and American Farmhouse Style.
Photo by Ciro Coelho Photography.
Cearnal Collective LLP
521 1/2 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
For 35 years, Cearnal Collective LLP has grown from Brian Cearnal’s dining room into a dynamic architecture and interior design firm in Santa Barbara. The team’s commitment to collaborative and insightful design has earned it recognition for its landmark contributions to the city’s architectural legacy. With integrity and delight, it delivers high-quality design solutions that reflect its clients’ and community’s goals and aesthetic sensibilities.
Cearnal Collective’s portfolio spans many projects, from single-family residences to mixed-use developments and community-serving civic projects. It is also a recipient of the 2009 American Institute of Architects (AIA) Santa Barbara Merit Award and the 2007 AIA/HUD Secretary Award. As a member of the AIA and AIA Santa Barbara, the studio actively engages in professional affiliations. Its work has been featured in notable publications such as The Santa Barbara Independent, The Channels, and Noozhawk.
RRM Design Group
10 East Figueroa St, Ste 200, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
RRM Design Group is a firm dedicated to Creating Environments People Enjoy®. Sustainability, collaboration, creativity, and respect are at the core of its work and culture. With a unique structure that brings together over 170 architects, engineers, landscape architects, planners, and surveyors, it tackles projects throughout California from conception to completion. The studio’s designs are both cutting-edge and timeless, aiming to make a lasting and positive impact on those who encounter them. It seamlessly integrates its multidisciplinary expertise under one roof, allowing the team to deliver genuine and original solutions.
As an employee-owned company, RRM Design Group is driven by its commitment to excellence and client satisfaction. The team’s passion and dedication are reflected in its recognition, including affiliations with the American Institute of Architects and the National Association of Home Builders. Guided by Erik Justesen, president and CEO, RRM embraces a holistic approach to design. Erik, a licensed landscape architect in California, advocates for environmental issues and quality-of-life policies. His leadership has earned him the distinction of being named Citizen of the Year by the San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce in 2019.
Bildsten Architecture and Planning
30 West Figueroa St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Bildsten Architecture and Planning approaches each project with vision beyond the individual elements, believing that good architecture stands on its own while contributing to the community. It is committed to adaptive re-use of existing buildings, along with innovative construction methods such as prefabricated modules and panelized wall systems to shorten construction time, increase affordability and reduce the carbon footprint. Throughout each project phase, Bildsten Architecture and Planning remains engaged, focused, and passionate about designing appropriate solutions to a wide range of complex projects. The firm’s collaborative approach draws upon its extensive experience designing innovative spaces while navigating local regulations. It works with clients, property owners, and developers, carefully listening to their needs, goals, and budget constraints to ensure a successful project outcome.
Led by Principal Architect Ellen Bildsten, AIA, LEED AP, the team brings extensive expertise to each project. Ellen studied architecture at Cornell University before founding the firm in 2002. Her diverse architectural experience includes various commercial revitalization, elementary schools, and large-scale commercial projects. With a solid foundation, Ellen can effectively make use of the team’s expertise in commercial downtown revitalization, campus buildings, custom residences, and multifamily housing.
