Business Details
23 Years
experience
Residential Architects in Clearwater, FL
Design Freedom is a full-service boutique architectural firm dedicated to creating sustainable, Florida-friendly residential designs with universal accessibility. Founded in 2003 by Cathy Svercl, a registered architect with over 20 years of experience, we specialize in new homes, ADUs, townhouses, and small-scale multifamily projects. Our firm values quality materials, modern details, and vernacular design, serving Tampa Bay, Central Florida, Southwest Florida, and Northern Virginia. We have completed award-winning green-certified home remodels, custom homes, and accessible bathroom remodels, with expertise in navigating zoning regulations and FEMA floodplain requirements.Our services include consultation, pre-design research, conceptual and construction drawings, and construction phase observation. We hold memberships in professional organizations such as the Florida Green Building Coalition and EntreArchitect, and our work has been recognized through client testimonials highlighting our professionalism, attention to detail, and collaborative approach. We prioritize client satisfaction through transparent communication, tailored design solutions, and adherence to industry best practices.
Services
Residential Architectural Design
ADU Planning
Floodplain Compliance
Zoning Variances
Construction Documentation
Details
- Year established: 2003
Highlights and features
- We offer 20+ years of experience in residential architectural design.
- Our focus on sustainable, Florida-friendly, and accessible designs ensures compliance with modern standards.
- We provide personalized consultation and construction oversight for client satisfaction.
- Licensed in six states, with specialized expertise in floodplain and zoning regulations.
- Client testimonials highlight our professionalism, attention to detail, and collaborative approach.
Associations and certifications
- LEED Green Associate
- Florida Green Building Coalition
What people say
Detailed oriented
Reliable and professional
Creative projects
Strong knowledge
Happy owners
Services
Residential Architectural Design
We create custom residential designs for new homes, ADUs, and multifamily projects, focusing on sustainability and accessibility. Our process includes client consultation, conceptual drawings, and construction documentation. Services ensure compliance with zoning and floodplain regulations.
Floodplain Compliance
Our firm specializes in navigating FEMA regulations, including the 50% Rule for substantial improvements. We provide elevation certificates, floodproofing strategies, and permit assistance to ensure projects meet federal standards.
Zoning Variances
We assist clients in obtaining zoning variances and HOA approvals through detailed documentation and advocacy. Our expertise includes addressing setbacks, height restrictions, and land-use requirements.
Construction Documentation
We produce detailed construction drawings for permitting and bidding, including site plans, floor plans, and elevations. Our documents ensure clarity for contractors and adherence to building codes.
ADU Planning
We design ADUs that maximize space efficiency while meeting local regulations. Services include site analysis, layout optimization, and integration with existing structures.
People
Cathy Svercl
Registered Architect
Cathy Svercl, RA, has over 20 years of experience in residential architecture. Licensed in six states, she specializes in sustainable design and floodplain compliance. A LEED Green Associate, she founded Design Freedom in 2003.
Questions
What areas do you serve?
We serve Tampa Bay, Central Florida, Southwest Florida, and Northern Virginia.
What services do you offer?
We provide architectural design, zoning variances, floodplain compliance, and construction documentation for residential projects.
How long have you been in business?
Design Freedom was founded in 2003 by Cathy Svercl, with over 20 years of architectural experience.
Are you licensed in my state?
We are licensed in Florida, Virginia, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia, but offer services primarily in Florida and Virginia.
How do you handle floodplain regulations?
We specialize in FEMA compliance, including elevation certificates and floodproofing strategies to meet federal standards.
Can you assist with ADU design?
Yes, we design ADUs optimized for space efficiency and regulatory compliance, integrating seamlessly with existing properties.
