Licensed Residential Architect

Your licensed residential architect.

A black and white image of a custom home residence

At Refine Design Architecture, we are your licensed residential architect for any custom home build or renovation—guiding you from first sketch through construction. As a licensed residential architect team in Washington, we collaborate closely to craft site-specific homes that meet local permitting requirements and elevate daily living. Our work goes beyond drawings: we choreograph light, views, and circulation to create memorable architectural moments that make you pause, reflect, and connect with the world around you. Our high-caliber design, detailed documentation, and personalized service shape spaces your family will cherish for generations.

Meet our Residential Architect Team

What can we do for you?

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01. Pre-Design

This is where we get on a first name basis. Our licensed residential architect 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 licensed residential architect expertise, our team puts together several design options, exploring floor plans and renderings of your home in 3D.

03. Permits

At this point, the design is ready for submission to your local jurisdiction. As your licensed residential architect, we can lead this effort or assist you in obtaining necessary building permits.

04. Construction

Lastly, we provide construction drawings detailed to a level that can be given to a general contractor. We 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 working with a licensed residential architect isn't a "one size fits all" process.

What is the licensed residential architect process?

The licensed residential architect process follows a proven path: idea generation and feasibility studies, design development with multiple options, securing funding for your project, permit acquisition through our expertise, and finally finding a qualified builder to start construction. As your licensed residential architect, we guide you through each phase with clear communication and detailed documentation.

Do I need a licensed residential architect?

In Washington State, a licensed residential architect isn't always legally required, but is highly recommended for complex projects, custom homes, and major renovations. Working with a licensed residential architect ensures your project meets all building codes, zoning requirements, and safety standards while maximizing design potential and long-term value.

What does construction cost with a licensed residential architect?

Construction costs vary widely based on project scope, materials selection, site conditions, and level of customization. Working with a licensed residential architect actually helps control costs through efficient design, accurate documentation, and early identification of potential issues. We help you understand realistic budgets during the feasibility phase and design within your parameters.

How long does a licensed residential architect project take?

Timeline depends on project complexity and scope. Design development with your licensed residential architect typically takes 2-4 months, including revisions and permit-ready drawings. Construction duration ranges from 6-18 months depending on the project size. We coordinate closely with contractors to maintain realistic schedules throughout the process.

How much does a licensed residential architect cost?

Licensed residential architect fees typically range from 8-15% of construction cost for residential projects. This investment covers design development, construction documents, permit assistance, and construction coordination. Our transparent fee structure reflects the value of thoughtful design, permitting expertise, and the guidance that ensures your project's success.

Why hire a licensed residential architect?

A licensed residential architect brings thoughtful design that elevates daily living, expert navigation of permitting processes, and skilled contractor coordination. We create spaces that choreograph light, views, and circulation while ensuring code compliance and structural integrity. Our collaborative approach results in homes that feel authentic, intentional, and uniquely yours.