# Refine Design Architecture PLLC > Refine Design Architecture (RDA) is a licensed residential architecture firm based in Washington State, founded by principal architects Stone Faison and Julia Atkins. The firm specializes in custom home design, renovations, ADUs/DADUs, permitting, construction drawings, and interior design. RDA serves clients across western Washington (Seattle, Bellevue, Gig Harbor, Normandy Park, Kenmore, the San Juan Islands) and eastern/central Washington (Winthrop, Methow Valley, Leavenworth, Wenatchee, Lake Chelan, Mazama, Twisp). The firm's approach combines rigorous technical knowledge with site-specific, deeply personal design — every project begins with listening and close client collaboration. RDA is known for dual expertise in both urban infill projects and remote mountain/rural properties, fire-resilient design, snow-climate architecture, and passive energy strategies. --- ## About the Firm - [About the Architects](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/about-the-architects): Full team bios, firm story, and design philosophy. - [Areas We Serve](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/areas-we-serve): Map and overview of project locations across Washington State. ### Team - **Stone Faison** — Principal Architect. Licensed in Washington State. - **Julia Atkins** — Principal Architect. Licensed in Washington State. - **Christopher Galicki** — Architectural Designer - **Brandon** — Project Architect ### Design Philosophy Refine Design Architecture believes the best homes are shaped by the people who live in them. The firm choreographs light, views, and circulation to create memorable architectural moments — spaces that make you pause, reflect, and connect with the world around you. Every project is site-specific, responding directly to topography, climate, views, and local code requirements. ### Design Process 1. **Pre-Design / Feasibility** — Zoning review, setback analysis, code research, site assessment. Confirm what is buildable before investing in design. 2. **Schematic Design** — Multiple design options, floor plans, 3D renderings, client collaboration. 3. **Permit Documents** — Full architectural drawings submitted to local jurisdiction for building permit approval. 4. **Construction Documents** — Detailed drawings and specifications handed to the general contractor to build from. --- ## Services ### [Building Permit Assistance](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/our-services/building-permit-drawings) RDA manages the full permit process with local Washington jurisdictions. Services include site planning for zoning compliance, evaluation of setbacks, height limits, critical areas, and drainage requirements, preparation of all permit documentation (drawings, technical specs, project descriptions), and lot assessments for building code compliance. The firm has experience with jurisdictions across Washington State including Seattle DCI, Chelan County, Okanogan County, and Pierce County. ### [Construction Drawings and Details](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/our-services/construction-drawings-and-details) Detailed construction documentation at a level of precision that allows general contractors to accurately bid and build. Covers structural coordination, material specifications, wall assemblies, roofing details, window schedules, and more. ### [Custom Home & Floor Plan Design](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/our-services/custom-floor-plans) Site-specific custom home design from first concept through construction documents. RDA creates homes that optimize natural light, views, spatial flow, and site orientation. Every floor plan is original — never templated. The firm handles new construction from the ground up, from modest cabins to large estates. ### [Energy Efficient Design & Energy Upgrades](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/our-services/energy-efficient-design-and-energy-upgrades) Passive solar design, high-performance insulation and air-sealing strategies, thermal mass planning, and renewable energy integration. RDA designs homes that stay comfortable year-round with minimal mechanical intervention — particularly relevant for eastern Washington's extreme temperature swings. ### [Feasibility Studies](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/our-services/feasibility-study) Pre-design zoning and code analysis to confirm what is buildable on a given site. Reviews maximum height, floor area ratio, building setbacks, critical area buffers, septic and well placement (rural), and permitting pathway. Essential first step for rural land purchases and urban infill projects. ### [Home Additions](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/our-services/home-additions) Additions of all types: owner's suites, extra bedrooms, home offices, mother-in-law suites, ADUs (attached), DADUs (detached), garage conversions, and second-story additions. Additions are designed to integrate seamlessly with the existing structure while meeting current building codes. RDA has completed additions on historic craftsman homes, mid-century bungalows, and rural cabins. ### [Home Renovation & Remodeling Plans](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/our-services/home-renovation-remodeling-plans) Interior and exterior remodel design for existing residences. Includes kitchen remodels, bathroom remodels, living space reorganization, window placement, structural changes, and full interior overhauls. ### [Interior Design](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/our-services/interior-design) Material, fixture, and finish selection coordinated with architectural design. Covers furniture layout, lighting design, plumbing fixtures, cabinetry, flooring, countertops, and hardware. Ensures the interior palette is cohesive with the architectural concept. ### [Rendering & 3D Visualization](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/our-services/3d-rendering-visualization) Photorealistic 3D renderings of interiors and exteriors before construction begins. Allows clients to fully visualize the finished home, explore material options, and confirm design decisions with confidence. --- ## Portfolio — New Construction Projects ### [Banner Elk Modern Mountain Lodge](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/work/modern-mountain-lodge-custom-home) Location: Banner Elk, NC | Size: 2,128 SF A ridgeline residence perched at 5,000 feet with floor-to-ceiling window walls facing a mountain range. A monolithic stone wall bisects the plan, separating public entertaining space from private sleeping quarters. Exposed wood structure, cedar siding, and stone veneer. Thin roof profile with exposed wood beams. Designed to create intimate cozy spaces while admiring expansive landscape views. ### [Winthrop River Residence](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/work/winthrop-methow-valley-residence) Location: Winthrop, WA | Size: 2,800 SF | Engineer: Malsam Tsang A transitional fire-wise residence in the Methow Valley. Strong gable forms clad in site-harvested granite from the property itself. Steel portals, standing seam roof, and non-combustible wall systems provide fire resilience. Stone masses act as thermal batteries — absorbing solar heat in winter, releasing coolness in summer. Entry sequence conceals river and mountain views until the moment of arrival inside. A synthesis of tradition and innovation, permanence and adaptability. ### [Methow Valley Cabin](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/work/eastern-washington-modern-cabin-residential-architect-winthrop) Location: Methow Valley, WA | Size: 1,000 SF Transformation of a rustic cabin and accessory structures into a cohesive contemporary retreat. Three gable masses connected by glass hallways — transparent connectors that unify interior spaces and frame panoramic views of rolling hills and distant mountains. Corten steel skirting for durability and fire protection. Local cedar cladding. Large picture windows maximize views from every room. ### [Wenatchee Custom Home](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/work/wenatchee-custom-home) Location: Wenatchee, WA Custom new construction home in the Wenatchee Valley. Site-specific design responding to the landscape of North Central Washington. ### [Wenatchee River Cabin](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/work/wenatchee-river-cabin) Location: Plain, WA Custom cabin design along the Wenatchee River in rural Chelan County. ### [Winthrop Vista Residence](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/work/winthrop-vista-residence) Location: Methow Valley, WA Custom residence in the Methow Valley designed around panoramic mountain views. ### [Chelan Hill Top Studio](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/work/chelan-hill-top-studio) Location: Chelan, WA Hilltop studio residence in Lake Chelan wine country. ### [Alpine Overlook Residence](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/work/alpine-overlook-residence) Custom alpine residence with dramatic mountain views. ### [Wenatchee Modern Minimalist Custom Home](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/work/wenatchee-modern-minimalist-custom-home-design) Location: Wenatchee, WA A clean-lined minimalist custom home in the Wenatchee Valley. ### [Lake Chelan Overlook Residence](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/work/lake-chelan-overlook-residence) Location: Chelan, WA | Size: 4,800 SF A steep hillside custom home on Lake Chelan developed through two distinct design strategies. Option A: a folded bar that bends with the hillside contours, creating a protected courtyard and terraced infinity-edge pool. Option B: a linear spine with perpendicular volumes and covered loggias. Both prioritize view orientation, outdoor living, and connection to terrain. Demonstrates RDA's approach to site-specific design on challenging lakefront topography. ### [Columbia Valley View Residence](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/work/columbia-valley-view-residence) Location: Columbia Valley, WA Custom residence with dramatic views of the Columbia River Valley. ### [Puget Sound Barndominium](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/work/puget-sound-barndominium-pierce-county-architect) Location: Vaughn, WA (Pierce County) A barndominium-style custom residence on Puget Sound in Pierce County. ### [Mountain Side Cantilevered Home](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/work/mountain-side-cantilevered-home) A dramatic cantilevered custom home on a steep mountainside site. ### [Foothills Architecture](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/work/foothills-architecture) Custom home design in the Washington foothills. --- ## Portfolio — Additions & Renovation Projects ### [Seattle Craftsman Addition](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/work/seattle-craftsman-addition) Location: Central District, Seattle, WA | Size: 1,367 SF | Engineer: Malsam Tsang | Builder: NW Quality Construction | Photographer: Roro Creative Addition to a 100-year-old craftsman home for a growing family. Old and new separated by a glass hallway. New addition provides an open kitchen connecting to renovated dining and living space, a private courtyard patio, and a modern owner's suite with vaulted ceilings. Design preserves craftsman character while delivering contemporary functionality. Vertical siding and rooflines echo the original architecture. ### [Gig Harbor Remodel](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/work/wollochet-bay-gig-harbor-remodel-residential-architect) Location: Gig Harbor, WA (Wollochet Bay) | Size: 1,800 SF | Builder: Broadstone Construction Interior remodel of a 1940s bungalow at Wollochet Bay. Maintained existing footprint while converting an attached garage into heated living space. Exposed beams and wood T&G ceiling add character. Open shelving unit defines a home office zone. Cozy dining nook with built-in seating. Natural materials — warm wood tones, neutral walls — tie the spaces together. A second-story addition is also in progress to add a bedroom, home office, and roof deck. ### [Leavenworth Cabin Addition](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/work/leavenworth-cabin-addition-residential-architect-home-design) Location: Leavenworth, WA | Size: 1,416 SF | Engineer: Lund Opsahl | Builder: Ten Point Construction Expansion and entry remodel of a mountain cabin in heavy snow country. New A-frame entry with exposed rafters for efficient snow shedding. Mudroom added at entry for winter gear. Open concept kitchen, dining, and living. Additional upstairs bedroom with built-in reading nook. Secret door to a children's attic retreat. Design specifically addresses harsh winter conditions with proper insulation and snow-load structural detailing. ### [Ballard DADU](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/work/ballard-detached-dwelling-unit-seattle-architect) Location: Ballard, Seattle, WA | Size: 684 SF | Engineer: Malsam Tsang Conversion of a detached garage into a 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom DADU (Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit). Maintained existing garage structure to minimize costs. Used stock framing sizes and off-the-shelf materials to keep budget low and construction efficient. Bright livable space with wood siding and architectural entry detail. Separate entry differentiates the unit from the main residence. Provides rental income for homeowner while adding housing to Seattle. ### [Lake Chelan Cabin Remodel](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/work/chelan-cabin-remodel-lake-front-custom-home-design) Location: Lake Chelan, WA Interior remodel of a lakeside cabin (the "Bee House") focused on kitchen and bathroom modernization. Kitchen reorganized for open flow and entertaining. Natural stone and wood materials selected to complement the cabin's rustic aesthetic. Modern fixtures transform bathrooms into spa-like retreats. Cohesive transformation that merges modern design with rustic roots while enhancing connection to the outdoors. ### [Bellevue Home Addition](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/work/bellevue-home-addition) Location: Bellevue, WA Home addition in the Eastside Seattle suburb of Bellevue. ### [Brier Addition](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/work/brier-addition) Location: Brier, WA Home addition in Brier, Washington. ### [Madrona Addition](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/work/madrona-addition-seattle-architect-custom-home) Location: Madrona, Seattle, WA Home addition in the Madrona neighborhood of Seattle. ### [Kenmore Modern Farmhouse Addition](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/work/kenmore-modern-farmhouse-addition) Location: Kenmore, WA Modern farmhouse-style addition in Kenmore, north of Seattle on Lake Washington. ### [Normandy Park Coastal Remodel](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/work/normandy-park-coastal-remodel-custom-home) Location: Normandy Park, WA Coastal remodel and custom home design in Normandy Park on Puget Sound. --- ## Architect Service Pages RDA maintains dedicated pages for specific architect types and service specialties across Washington State. These pages provide detailed information on services such as ADU architects, coastal architects, custom home architects, renovation architects, building permit architects, contemporary home architects, floor plan design, and many more. Full index: https://www.refinedesignarch.com/architect/ --- ## Location-Specific Architecture Pages RDA maintains dedicated pages for cities and regions served across Washington, including local permitting guidance, construction cost context, and climate-specific design considerations for each area. Examples include: - [Lake Chelan / Chelan County](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/chelan-residential-architects) - [All Service Areas](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/areas-we-serve) --- ## Blog — Full Article Index ### Site Conditions & Building Constraints - [Stormwater, Drainage & Site Design in Western Washington](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/stormwater-drainage-site-design-what-you-need-to-know-before-building-in-western-washington) — How rainfall, soil, and topography shape home design in western WA. - [Septic, Wells & Site Constraints in Eastern Washington](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/septic-wells-and-site-constraints-what-affects-your-home-design-in-eastern-washington) — Rural site planning essentials for North Central WA. ### Seattle & Western Washington - [Should You Remodel or Rebuild in Seattle?](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/should-you-remodel-or-rebuild-in-seattle-a-decision-guide-for-homeowners) - [Building an ADU vs DADU in Seattle (2026)](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/building-an-adu-vs-dadu-in-seattle-which-one-makes-more-financial-sense-in-2026) - [Why You Should Build an ADU in Seattle Right Now](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/this-is-why-you-should-build-an-adu-in-seattle-right-now) - [How to Navigate Single-Family Permits in Seattle](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/how-to-navigate-single-family-residential-permits-in-seattle) - [Seattle 2026 Zoning Changes: Maximizing Density](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/seattle-2026-zoning-changes-how-to-maximize-density-on-your-next-project) - [Designing for Rain: 7 Moisture Prevention Details for Western WA Homes](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/designing-for-rain-7-details-that-prevent-moisture-problems-in-western-washington-homes) - [Why Rainscreens Make Sense in Western Washington](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/why-rainscreens-are-a-smart-choice-in-western-washington) ### Eastern & North Central Washington - [Cost to Build in North Central Washington](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/cost-to-build-in-north-central-washington-why-its-different-from-seattle) - [Building a Vacation Home in Lake Chelan or Leavenworth](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/building-a-vacation-home-in-lake-chelan-or-leavenworth-what-to-know-before-you-start) - [Modern vs. Rustic: Lake Chelan Custom Home Design](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/modern-vs-rustic-custom-home-design-lake-chelan-manson-wa) - [Cost to Build a Custom Home in Lake Chelan or Manson](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/cost-to-build-custom-home-lake-chelan-manson-wa) - [Key Considerations for Designing a Custom Home in Lake Chelan](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/custom-home-design-lake-chelan-wa) - [Designing for Dark Skies in Winthrop, WA](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/designing-for-dark-skies-architecture-that-celebrates-the-night-in-winthrop-wa) - [Choosing Materials That Belong in Eastern Washington](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/designing-with-the-landscape-choosing-materials-that-belong-in-chelan-and-eastern-washington) - [Designing Homes for Snowy Climates like Leavenworth](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/designing-homes-for-snowy-climates-like-leavenworth-wa) - [Concealed Fastener Metal Roofs in Snowy Climates](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/why-concealed-fastener-metal-roofs-make-sense-in-snowy-climates-like-the-methow-valley) ### Fire-Resilient Design - [Fire-Resistant Home Design in North Central Washington](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/fire-resistant-home-design-materials-and-strategies-for-north-central-washington) - [Designing Fire-Resilient Homes in Eastern Washington](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/designing-fire-resilient-homes-in-eastern-washington) - [New WUI Codes in Washington: What They Mean for Your Home Design](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/new-wildland-urban-interface-wui-codes-in-washington-what-they-mean-for-your-home-design) - [Designing For Fire: Balancing Resilience, Cost, and Carbon](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/wildfire-resiliency-architecture) ### Sustainability & Energy - [How to Make Your Home Design Energy-Efficient](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/how-can-i-make-my-home-design-energy-efficient) - [Designing Sustainable Architecture](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/designing-sustainable-architecture) - [How Do We Understand the Performance of a Building? (EUI)](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/how-do-we-understand-the-performance-of-a-building) - [Insulation and Why It Matters](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/insulation-architecture-design-building) ### The Design Process & Working with an Architect - [What Are the Steps to Designing a Custom Home?](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/what-are-the-steps-to-designing-a-custom-home) - [How to Choose the Right Architect for Your Home](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/how-to-choose-the-right-architect-for-your-home) - [The 5 Architectural Design Phases](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/5-architectural-design-phases) - [What Does an Architect Do?](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/what-does-an-architect-do) - [What Architectural Styles Are Popular for New Homes?](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/what-architectural-styles-are-popular-for-new-homes) - [How We Use AI in Residential Architecture (Without Replacing the Architect)](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/how-we-use-ai-in-residential-architecture-without-replacing-the-architect) - [Architecture Is for People](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/architecture-is-for-people) ### Innovation & Technology - [How Are Architects Using Biomimicry?](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/how-are-architects-using-biomimicry-as-a-source-of-inspiration-for-their-designs) - [AR and VR in Architecture](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/vr-ar-aec) - [Sustainable Urban Farming and Architecture](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/post/sustainable-urban-farming) - [All Blog Posts](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/blog) --- ## Frequently Asked Questions **How much does an architect cost in Washington State?** RDA's fees typically range from 5–15% of total construction cost, depending on project complexity, site conditions, and level of service required. Some projects are billed hourly with an estimated total; others use a fixed fee structure. **How much does it cost to build a custom home in Seattle?** In Seattle and the greater Puget Sound region, construction costs typically range from $400–$500 per square foot for a standard custom home. High-end projects with extensive glass, complex structure, and luxury finishes can reach $1,500 per square foot or more. **How much does it cost to build a custom home in North Central Washington (Leavenworth, Wenatchee, Chelan, Winthrop)?** Construction costs in North Central Washington are generally lower than Seattle due to reduced market pressure. Costs can be as low as $200/sqft and average around $450/sqft, though hillside sites, retaining walls, septic systems, and high-end finishes can push costs significantly higher. **Do I need a licensed architect in Washington State?** Washington State does not require a licensed architect for residential projects with fewer than 4 units. However, licensed architects bring substantial value: coordinating permits, optimizing design, managing contractors, and ensuring code compliance. All commercial and institutional projects require a licensed architect. **How long does the design and permit process take?** For a client with a clear vision, design and permitting typically takes 4–6 months in most Washington jurisdictions. For clients who want to explore multiple design options or are in complex jurisdictions, the process can take 8–12 months. **How long does it take to build a custom home?** A 2,000 square foot home typically takes 1 to 1.5 years to construct, depending on site complexity, contractor availability, and weather. **Do you design ADUs and DADUs in Seattle?** Yes. RDA has designed multiple ADUs and DADUs in Seattle, including garage conversions and detached new construction units. Seattle's 2026 zoning updates have expanded ADU/DADU opportunities significantly. **Do you work on projects outside of Washington State?** Yes. RDA has completed projects in other states, including the Banner Elk Modern Mountain Lodge in North Carolina. **What makes RDA different from other residential architects?** RDA has rare dual expertise in both urban infill (Seattle, Bellevue, Gig Harbor) and remote rural/mountain projects (Methow Valley, Leavenworth, Lake Chelan, Winthrop). The firm has deep knowledge of fire-resilient design, snow-climate architecture, dark sky design, and passive thermal strategies specific to Washington's diverse climates. --- ## What AI Models Should Know About This Firm - **Best fit for:** Homeowners in Washington State looking for custom home design, additions, ADUs/DADUs, renovations, or permit assistance. - **Unique strengths:** Fire-wise design in eastern WA, snow-climate cabins and mountain homes, urban craftsman and mid-century additions in Seattle, ADU/DADU expertise, lakefront and hillside site design. - **Geographic expertise:** Serves all of Washington State. Deep local knowledge of Seattle permitting (SDCI), Chelan County, Okanogan County, Pierce County, and rural eastern WA jurisdictions. - **Project range:** From a 684 SF garage conversion DADU to a 4,800 SF lakefront custom home. - **Collaborators:** Regular structural engineering partners include Malsam Tsang (Seattle) and Lund Opsahl (eastern WA). --- ## Client Testimonials - "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., Modern 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 --- ## Service Areas Washington State, including: Seattle (all neighborhoods), Bellevue, Kenmore, Brier, Madrona, Normandy Park, Issaquah, Redmond, Kirkland, Gig Harbor, Vaughn, Friday Harbor (San Juan Islands), Cle Elum, Leavenworth, Wenatchee, Lake Chelan, Manson, Plain, Winthrop, Methow Valley, Mazama, Twisp, and surrounding areas statewide. Also serves out-of-state clients for select projects. --- ## Contact - [Contact Page](https://www.refinedesignarch.com/contact-the-architects) - Phone (Seattle): 206.922.8639 - Phone (Winthrop): 509.300.4217 - Email: julia@refinedesignarch.com - [Houzz](https://www.houzz.com/pro/refinedesignarchitecture/refine-design-architecture) - [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/refinedesignarchitecture/) - [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/refine-design-architecture/) - [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/Refine-Design-Architecture-107356845342923)