architect residential near me

What can we do for you?

01. Pre-Design

This is where we get on a first name basis. Our team collaborates with you to understand your project vision and goals, while verifying and navigating the legal requirements to build your home.

02. Design

This is the good stuff. With your ideas and our design expertise, we put together several design options—exploring floor plans and reviewing 3D renderings of your home.

03. Permits

At this point, the design is ready to be submitted to your local jurisdiction to obtain the necessary building permits. We can lead this effort, or assist you through the process.

04. Construction

We provide you with construction drawings detailed enough to hand directly to a general contractor. We can also help vet builders and coordinate during construction to keep your project aligned.

Don't just take our word for it.

Here's what our clients have to say.

"RD's team provided us with a very special creative process designing our home...If you are seriously looking to elevate your next project, work with Refine Design!"

Shy F.

Mountain Lodge

"Stone and Julia were very professional and extremely helpful in designing our project. Their patience and attention to detail were integral in configuring a change of use building."

Dustin D.

Ballard DADU

"They not only helped bring our vision to life, but offered a point of view we had not thought of. I highly recommend this duo - they are incredibly easy to work with."

Kendall F.

Gig Harbor Remodel

"No words can describe how exceptional Julia and Stone are at their work...Not only did they research extensively into the building codes but they poured so much thought into the design."

Yu Chi S.

Seattle Bathroom Remodel

"It was great working with Refine Design Architecture for our cabin expansion. They listened to our requirements, offered feedback and produced designs that fulfilled our vision"

Antonio G.

Leavenworth Cabin Addition

"Their work was on schedule, on budget, and their ideas were very helpful. If you're searching for an architectural team that can fit the bill, look no further."

James M.

Accessibility Retrofit

Have questions?
We have answers.

At Refine Design Architecture, we believe that building or renovating a home is never a one-size-fits-all process—and finding the right architect residential near me should feel straightforward.

What is the process when working with a residential architect near me?

Working with a residential architect typically follows a clear, step-by-step journey: idea generation, schematic design, securing financing, permitting, and finally finding a builder to begin construction. At Refine Design Architecture, we guide you through each of these phases so nothing falls through the cracks. Our process is hands-on, transparent, and built around open dialogue between our team and yours. By the time a contractor breaks ground, you can feel confident that every detail has been thoughtfully considered and documented.

Do I need a licensed architect residential near me for my project?

In Washington State, a licensed architect is not always legally required for every residential project, but it is highly recommended—especially for new custom homes, complex renovations, or additions with structural or zoning considerations. A licensed architect brings code knowledge, design expertise, and permitting experience that can save you time, money, and costly mistakes. At Refine Design Architecture, our principals Stone Faison and Julia Atkins are both licensed architects who understand the nuances of residential permitting and design. Partnering with a qualified professional gives you peace of mind and a smoother path from concept to completion.

What does construction cost when hiring a residential architect near me?

Construction costs for custom residential projects vary widely depending on the scope of work, the complexity of the design, the materials selected, and current market conditions. A smaller remodel or addition will carry a very different budget than a ground-up custom home. At Refine Design Architecture, we work with you during the pre-design and feasibility phases to help establish realistic budget parameters early in the process. Having a clear picture of costs before design begins helps ensure the project you envision is the project you can build.

How long does it take to work with a residential architect near me?

Timelines depend on the size and complexity of your project, but as a general guide, the design phase typically takes two to four months, while construction can range from six to eighteen months or more. Permitting timelines vary by jurisdiction and can add additional time to the overall schedule. At Refine Design Architecture, we set clear expectations at the start of every project and keep you informed at every milestone. Our goal is to move efficiently without ever sacrificing the quality and care your home deserves.

How much does a residential architect near me charge?

Architect fees for residential projects typically range from 8 to 15 percent of total construction cost, though the exact fee structure depends on the scope of services, the complexity of the project, and how involved the architect will be during construction. Some architects charge a flat fee, while others bill hourly or as a percentage of construction. At Refine Design Architecture, we tailor our fee proposals to your specific project needs so you understand exactly what you are getting and what it costs. Transparent, upfront pricing is a core part of how we build trust with every client.

Why hire a residential architect near me instead of a draftsperson or designer?

A licensed residential architect brings a combination of design vision, technical knowledge, and regulatory expertise that a draftsperson or unlicensed designer simply cannot replicate. From choreographing natural light and optimizing circulation to navigating complex permitting requirements and coordinating with contractors, an architect adds value at every stage of the project. At Refine Design Architecture, we go beyond producing drawings—we craft spaces that elevate daily living and reflect who you are. Hiring a licensed architect means investing in a home that is beautiful, functional, code-compliant, and built to endure for generations.