Business Details
17 Years
experience
Residential Architecture Services in St. Paul, MN
M Valdes Architects is a residential architecture firm founded in 2009, dedicated to creating enjoyable, high-quality homes while minimizing unnecessary square footage and cost. Our design philosophy, 'More Home Less House,' prioritizes quality over quantity, ensuring homes are both functional and environmentally responsible. With over 20 years of experience in residential design across the U.S., Europe, and South America, Principal Architect Marcelo Valdes leads a team recognized for award-winning projects and publications. We specialize in new home design and remodeling, offering services from schematic design to construction administration. Our approach emphasizes client collaboration, using models and digital renderings to visualize outcomes before construction.We have earned accolades such as RAVE and BLEND awards, and our work has been featured in publications like 'House in the Landscape' and Minneapolis St. Paul Magazine. Our team combines global expertise with local knowledge to deliver tailored solutions for every project. We focus on sustainable practices, reducing environmental impact through efficient design. Clients benefit from transparent communication, flexible fee structures, and a commitment to transforming homes into inviting, cohesive spaces that reflect their owners' lifestyles.
Services
Residential Design
Home Remodeling
Schematic Design
Construction Documents
Sustainable Architecture
Client Consultation
Project Visualization
Construction Administration
Details
- Year established: 2009
Highlights and features
- We have over 20 years of experience in residential design across three continents.
- Our 'More Home Less House' philosophy minimizes cost and environmental impact.
- We offer transparent communication and flexible fee structures for every project.
- Our work has won RAVE and BLEND awards and been featured in major publications.
- We use digital renderings and models to ensure clear visualization before construction.
Associations and certifications
- AIA
Services
Residential Design
We create custom residential designs focused on functionality and sustainability. Our approach prioritizes quality over quantity, reducing environmental impact while maximizing livability. Clients benefit from tailored solutions that reflect their lifestyle and budget.
Home Remodeling
Our remodeling services transform existing spaces to enhance usability and aesthetics. We specialize in updating kitchens, adding porches, and reconfiguring layouts to improve flow and efficiency for modern living needs.
Schematic Design
We develop initial design concepts through client collaboration, focusing on spatial relationships and project vision. This phase establishes the foundation for detailed planning and ensures alignment with client goals and budget.
Construction Documents
We produce detailed technical drawings and specifications required for construction. These documents ensure accurate bidding and guide builders in executing the design with precision and compliance with local regulations.
Sustainable Architecture
Our sustainable designs integrate energy-efficient materials and practices to minimize ecological footprints. We focus on passive solar strategies, natural ventilation, and locally sourced materials to create environmentally responsible homes.
People
Marcelo Valdes
Principal Architect
A registered architect in Minnesota with over 20 years of experience, Marcelo founded the firm in 2009 after a decade at SALA Architects. He holds degrees from Uruguay, the Netherlands, and the University of Minnesota.
Joe Metzler
Architect
An AIA-certified architect with expertise in residential projects, Joe contributes to design and project management. He has collaborated on award-winning homes featured in architectural publications.
Questions
What is M. Valdes Architects' design philosophy?
Our 'More Home Less House' philosophy focuses on creating functional, sustainable homes by minimizing unnecessary square footage and cost while prioritizing quality and client needs.
What services do you offer?
We provide residential design and remodeling services, including schematic design, construction documents, project visualization, and construction administration for new homes and renovations.
How experienced is your team?
Principal Architect Marcelo Valdes has over 20 years of experience across three continents. Our team has earned awards like RAVE and BLEND and been featured in major architectural publications.
Do you work on sustainable projects?
Yes, we integrate sustainable practices like energy-efficient materials, passive solar strategies, and local sourcing to reduce environmental impact in every design.
Videos
Reviews (2)
Brye Vankerk
May 29, 2021
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We have worked with Marcelo on several major projects and he is an amazing Architect and talented designer. I have loved each and every project planning session through to completion. He also has given his free time to help my son with a project as he wants to become an architect. We will be starting a new build with him I hope soon. I highly recommend him.
J. Estrada
Sep 30, 2016
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I wouldn't even bother. I called the guy offering to do a project, and he cut me off in the middle of a sentence, and said I'd better hurry, for "he was busy". If that's customer service on a 1st call, good luck getting a real project.
