Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Residential Construction in Berkeley
Berkeley Craftsmen is a third-generation residential construction firm founded in 1907, dedicated to transforming client visions into reality through integrity, precision, and decades of accumulated expertise. Our team combines deep knowledge of East Bay building codes with a commitment to craftsmanship, ensuring seamless integration of new construction with existing structures. We specialize in residential additions, renovations, and new homes, prioritizing clear communication, meticulous attention to detail, and adherence to budgets and timelines.Our founders, Michael and Mark Butler, bring generational experience in construction and artistry, respectively, fostering a culture of excellence and community engagement. Recognized by the Berkeley Architectural Heritage Association and trusted by clients for over a century, we deliver high-quality results while supporting environmental and humanitarian causes.
Services
Residential Additions
Home Renovations
New Home Construction
Kitchen Remodels
Bathroom Remodels
Project Management
ADU Construction
Restoration Work
Permitting Assistance
Custom Woodworking
Details
- Year established: 1907
Highlights and features
- Third-generation expertise since 1907 with a focus on residential construction.
- Award-winning craftsmanship recognized by the Berkeley Architectural Heritage Association.
- Deep knowledge of East Bay city codes and ordinances for seamless permitting.
- Consistently completes projects on time and within budget, as evidenced by client testimonials.
- Community-focused approach through environmental and humanitarian donations.
What people say
Fantastic experience
Incredible attention to detail
Finished on time and budget
Super-organized
Top quality work
Services
Residential Additions
We specialize in expanding homes with seamless additions that respect existing architecture. Our process begins with collaborative design consultations to align with client needs and budgets. With expertise in East Bay codes, we ensure efficient permitting and execution, using high-quality materials and skilled artisans to deliver durable, aesthetically cohesive results.
Kitchen Remodels
Our kitchen remodeling service focuses on enhancing functionality and aesthetics while preserving a home's character. We handle structural changes, custom cabinetry, and material installations, prioritizing client preferences and budget constraints. Our team coordinates with trusted subcontractors to ensure precision in every detail, from countertops to lighting.
Project Management
We provide end-to-end project management, overseeing timelines, budgets, and quality control. Our team collaborates with architects and designers to translate concepts into actionable plans, offering transparent communication and proactive problem-solving. This ensures projects are completed on schedule and to the highest standards of craftsmanship.
ADU Construction
We design and build custom accessory dwelling units (ADUs) that maximize property utility while adhering to local regulations. Our process includes site assessment, design development, and efficient construction, ensuring ADUs are functional, energy-efficient, and seamlessly integrated with existing structures. Clients benefit from our streamlined permitting expertise.
Restoration Work
Our restoration services focus on preserving the integrity of historic homes while modernizing systems for contemporary living. We specialize in maintaining original details like woodwork and trim, using period-appropriate materials and techniques. Recognized by heritage organizations, we balance authenticity with functional upgrades for lasting value.
People
Michael Butler
Co-Founder
Michael Butler co-founded Berkeley Craftsmen after years of hands-on construction experience, including work with his father's development company and a B.A. in Anthropology. He emphasizes client collaboration and community involvement, balancing project oversight with nonprofit volunteer work.
Mark Butler
Co-Founder
Mark Butler, a BFA graduate in painting, brings artistic precision to construction projects. With over 30 years as an exhibiting artist, he merges creativity with practical problem-solving, ensuring high-quality craftsmanship and timely project delivery while maintaining a collaborative team culture.
Questions
What services does Berkeley Craftsmen offer?
We specialize in residential additions, renovations, new homes, kitchen and bathroom remodels, ADU construction, and project management, focusing on quality craftsmanship and client collaboration.
How long has Berkeley Craftsmen been in business?
Founded in 1907, we are a third-generation contractor with over a century of experience in East Bay residential construction and restoration projects.
Do you work outside the Berkeley area?
Yes, we serve the broader East Bay, including Rockridge, Oakland, Lafayette, and El Cerrito, while maintaining deep local code expertise.
How do you ensure projects stay on budget?
We provide detailed preconstruction estimates, value engineering, and transparent change order management to maintain budget adherence without compromising quality.
Are your projects insured and licensed?
Yes, we are fully licensed (CA #867298), bonded, and insured with current workers' compensation and liability coverage for all projects.
Reviews (3)
Todd Hido
Dec 07, 2018
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They built me the studio I had always wanted right in my backyard. Mark Butler and his crew were truly amazing and we came in on target and on time. I got my house earthquake retrofitted and my basement made more spacious at the same time--due to concrete work we needed to make a foundation for my new studio. This this was a comprehensive multi-step project and Mark lead this extremely well from beginning to end. They help me save tons of money by connecting me to an architect that was in her 70s and new exactly what we needed to draw and didn't have any need to impress her genious upon the situation
Ron Rothbart
Aug 02, 2018
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We cant say enough good things about Berkeley Craftsmen. Theyve done three projects for us over the past four years; the most recent one was a kitchen remodel in spring 2018. Were still in awe over how beautiful our new kitchen looks and how functional it is. To say it exceeds our expectations is an understatement. We cant thank Berkeley Craftsmen enough. They are extremely careful, conscientious, organized, meticulous with details and friendly as well. There isnt another contractor we would want to work with. Over the years, Mark Butler has given us a tremendous amount of time,
Ajith Mascarenhas
Jul 30, 2018
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We are new homeowners and hired Berkeley Craftsmen to do the first set of big projects on our house and had a fantastic experience. They replaced a deck, installed fencing, removed an internal chimney that affected 3 levels of the house including our tenants unit on the first level, and completed a number of smaller interior projects (e.g., closed off some walls to create a bonus room, installed an attic stairway and storage space, refinished wood flooring). Throughout the entire process, the head contractors, the foreman, and all the crew were incredibly professional and friendly to work with
