Business Details
23 Years
experience
Your Trusted Architect in Los Gatos, CA
Founded in 2003, J. Kretschmer Architecture and Art has established itself as a leader in sustainable and innovative architectural design. Our firm specializes in single-family residential projects, multifamily developments up to four units, and commercial tenant improvements, guided by principal architect Jennifer Kretschmer, AIA. With over 25 years of experience and credentials including LEED Green Associate and NCARB certification, we prioritize energy efficiency, zero net energy goals, and client-centric design. Our virtual office model reduces environmental impact while expanding our reach across the United States. Jennifers expertise in remote collaboration has positioned our firm as a pioneer in modern architectural practices. We offer comprehensive services from initial consultation to construction completion, ensuring clients avoid common project pitfalls.Our portfolio includes ADU designs, custom homes, and LEED-certified projects tailored to individual needs. Recognized for excellence in the American Institute of Architects, we combine technical mastery with artistic vision through our network of artists. Client testimonials highlight our ability to transform spaces while maintaining seamless communication and project oversight. Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond design, reflected in our operational practices and advocacy for green building standards. We empower clients with free resources like the Home Design Project Planning Pack to ensure informed decision-making from the outset.
Services
Residential Architecture
ADU Design
LEED Certification
Commercial Tenant Improvements
Feasibility Studies
Details
- Year established: 2003
Highlights and features
- We offer 25+ years of architectural expertise with LEED-certified professionals.
- Our virtual office model reduces costs and environmental impact.
- We provide comprehensive guidance from feasibility studies to construction completion.
- Clients receive access to curated resources like the Home Design Project Planning Pack.
- Our ADU designs are preapproved in major Silicon Valley cities.
Associations and certifications
- American Institute of Architects (AIA)
- LEED Green Associate
- NCARB
What people say
Great vision
Improved flow
Pleasure to work with
No budget overruns
Future-ready designs
Services
Residential Architecture
We create custom single-family and multifamily residential designs that prioritize energy efficiency and zero net energy goals. Our process includes feasibility studies, space planning, and construction oversight to ensure projects meet client needs while adhering to sustainability standards. Our LEED-certified expertise ensures homes are both environmentally responsible and tailored to modern living requirements.
ADU Design
Our preapproved ADU plans, like The 16th and Five Gables, offer cost-effective solutions for detached units or garage conversions. We specialize in customizable designs that match existing home styles while meeting local zoning regulations. Services include site analysis, material selection, and integration with primary residences for future expansions.
LEED Certification
We guide clients through achieving LEED certification and zero net energy goals by incorporating sustainable materials, energy-efficient systems, and passive design strategies. Our LEED Green Associate credentials ensure compliance with rigorous environmental standards while optimizing indoor air quality and resource conservation for residential and commercial projects.
Commercial Tenant Improvements
We design commercial spaces that balance functionality with aesthetic appeal, focusing on tenant-specific needs. Services include layout optimization, code compliance, and material selection to create productive environments. Our virtual collaboration tools streamline the renovation process for businesses across the United States.
Feasibility Studies
Our feasibility studies assess zoning restrictions, budget parameters, and construction challenges before design begins. This proactive approach prevents costly overruns by identifying site-specific constraints and regulatory requirements. Clients receive detailed reports to make informed decisions about project scope and financial planning.
People
Jennifer Kretschmer
Principal Architect
Licensed in California with 25+ years of experience, Jennifer Kretschmer is an AIA member and LEED Green Associate. She specializes in zero net energy homes and virtual office strategies, leading national training programs on remote architectural practices. Her work combines technical precision with artistic innovation.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialize in?
We focus on residential projects, ADU designs, commercial tenant improvements, and LEED-certified sustainable buildings.
Are your ADU plans preapproved in Silicon Valley cities?
Yes, our 16th ADU plan is preapproved in San Jose, with designs adaptable to local zoning requirements.
How do you support clients during the design process?
We provide free resources like the Home Design Project Planning Pack and feasibility studies to guide decision-making.
What makes your firm environmentally focused?
We prioritize zero net energy goals, LEED certification, and a virtual office model to reduce carbon footprints.
Can you help with second-story ADU conversions?
Yes, we offer customizable designs for garage-to-ADU conversions and second-story additions.
What are your office hours?
Our team is available Monday-Friday, 9AM-6PM Pacific Time for consultations.
Reviews (4)
Bianca
Aug 14, 2021
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Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Responsiveness
Experienced architect who is an industry leader. She's a great communicator, knowledgeable and professional. Highly recommend!
Experienced architect who is an industry leader. She's a great communicator, knowledgeable and professional. Highly recommend!
Katharine MacPhail
Aug 04, 2021
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I've been impressed with her professionalism and willingness to help others. She has a generous spirit.
Alan Lehman
Aug 04, 2021
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Highly professional. Great comunicator who generously shares her knowledge with the design and architecture community.
Brian Penschow Brian W. Penschow Aia
Jul 25, 2021
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Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Responsiveness,Value
Jennifer is always on point with her details, integrity, and attention to the client! One of the best architects in the country.
Jennifer is always on point with her details, integrity, and attention to the client! One of the best architects in the country.