Business Details
11 Years
experience
Your Trusted Architectural Partner in San Francisco
At SF Architecture, we are dedicated to crafting sustainable structures that align with our clients' needs while minimizing environmental impact. Our approach prioritizes early project planning to define realistic scopes, ensuring cost and time efficiency. With over 20 years of experience, we offer feasibility studies, design services, and permitting assistance tailored to residential, commercial, and institutional projects. Our team, led by Principal Architect Carl Scheidenhelm, combines deep construction knowledge with a commitment to personalized service. We emphasize sustainable design through material selection, energy efficiency, and community engagement, including pro-bono work for nonprofits.Our phased design process integrates conceptual planning, detailed development, and technical documentation to deliver high-quality results. We actively collaborate with clients to simplify architectural complexities and enhance livability in educational, residential, and commercial spaces. Our expertise extends to LEED and CHPS-certified projects, reflecting our dedication to environmental and social responsibility. By focusing on rigorous detailing and client-centric solutions, we ensure each project meets functional, aesthetic, and budgetary goals.
Services
Feasibility Study
Design Services
Permitting Assistance
Sustainable Design
Residential Projects
Commercial Projects
Institutional Projects
Kitchen Renovations
Bathroom Renovations
Details
- Year established: 2015
Highlights and features
- We offer over 20 years of experience in sustainable architectural design.
- Our team provides personalized service tailored to each project's unique needs.
- We specialize in LEED and CHPS-certified projects for environmental compliance.
- Our phased design process ensures cost and time efficiency for clients.
- We actively support community development through pro-bono architectural services.
Services
Feasibility Study
Our feasibility studies define project scope, budget, and timelines early to ensure success. We analyze site conditions, zoning codes, and structural viability to provide actionable insights. Clients receive clear guidance on costs, timelines, and design possibilities before committing to purchases or construction.
Design Services
We offer phased design services from conceptual sketches to detailed construction documents. Our approach tailors design methods to each project's needs, incorporating 3D modeling and material research. This ensures functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces that align with client goals and budgets.
Permitting Assistance
Our team streamlines permitting by preparing technical drawings and coordinating with city officials. We ensure compliance with planning and building codes to expedite approvals. Post-permit support includes contractor selection and construction oversight to maintain design integrity.
Sustainable Design
We integrate eco-friendly solutions like energy-efficient systems and renewable materials into every project. Our designs prioritize occupant health, longevity, and environmental responsibility. This approach aligns with LEED and CHPS standards while delivering cost-effective, future-ready spaces.
Residential Projects
We specialize in custom residential designs, renovations, and adaptive reuse projects. Our focus is on maximizing livability, natural light, and spatial efficiency. Each project balances aesthetic appeal with practical needs, creating homes that reflect client lifestyles and site contexts.
People
Carl Scheidenhelm
Principal Architect
Carl founded SF Architecture with a commitment to sustainable design. With 25+ years of experience and degrees from the University of Florida, he specializes in residential and institutional projects. He actively supports nonprofits through pro-bono work.
Patty Haight
Architect
Patty brings 15+ years of experience in residential, educational, and civic architecture. She focuses on client collaboration and cost-effective renovations using sustainable materials. Her work emphasizes maximizing livability while managing project scope and budgets.
Mario Ochoa Villicana
Architectural Designer
Mario is a detail-oriented designer with experience in large-scale projects like the Lake Merritt Boathouse restoration. He holds degrees from UC Berkeley and Syracuse University, specializing in design documentation and site analysis for complex developments.
Questions
What types of projects does SF Architecture specialize in?
We specialize in residential, commercial, institutional, kitchen, and bathroom projects with a focus on sustainable design.
How does SF Architecture incorporate sustainability into designs?
We prioritize renewable materials, energy efficiency, and site-specific solutions to minimize environmental impact while meeting client needs.
Do you offer services for property buyers before purchase?
Yes, we provide pre-purchase real estate assessments to evaluate feasibility and potential renovations for prospective buyers.
What is your design process like?
Our phased approach includes feasibility studies, conceptual design, development, and permitting to ensure clarity and efficiency throughout the project.
Are your architects experienced with green building certifications?
Yes, our team has expertise in LEED and CHPS-certified projects, ensuring compliance with environmental standards.
Reviews (3)
Marnie M.
May 14, 2014
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I am so happy to have found Carl. In the past couple of years Carl has helped me with two build outs at my small business in Glen Park. He is very knowledgeable of the commercial building codes in SF and how to best deal with the planning department which was a huge relief to me. I also appreciate he was sensitive to my budget and how quickly he was able to get me permits to begin work. And most importantly my building looks great!
Adam M.
Feb 14, 2013
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I've been a developer for the last six years and have worked with a good handful of architects in that time. There are really two things everyone needs from their design partner: 1. Keen understanding of how to navigate the planning process to produce the best possible outome for you. 2. Client savvy to guide and improve your ideas so that the resulting spaces are not just functional but beautiful. Carl accomplishes both with aplomb. Sometimes a project as simple as a deck can run afoul of complicated rules and contentious neighbors. Having the right architect makes the difference between
Vlada M.
Feb 14, 2013
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Carl helped my husband and I to renovate and extend our home in Noe Valley (San Francisco). His guidance with the planning process was invaluable and we felt he had just the right combination of his own aesthetic and our ideas. Very highly recommended!
