Our goal is to bring your vision to life. Doing so takes equal parts creativity and know-how. Because we only work on homes, we're experts in both the design and management of your project. Our team will guide you every step of the way. The Drafting Cafe team designed the master bedroom/bathroom addition to our house in Berkeley.
He was very responsive, helped us talk through our options, and got us everything we needed on schedule. All of our construction passed through the permitting process without a hitch and we are very happy with how everything turned out. Drafting cafe Architects helped me with my ADU project and I can't begin to express how happy I am with their service!
They were always quick to respond and even guided me through the plan submission process! They made adjustments to the plans as needed without ever hinting at any sort of inconvenience even though they were busy! Michael and Jennifer are the best and I would absolutely recommend them! Thank you guys for making this process so seemless for someone like me who felt so out of my depth!
He was very responsive, helped us talk through our options, and got us everything we needed on schedule. All of our construction passed through the permitting process without a hitch and we are very happy with how everything turned out. Drafting cafe Architects helped me with my ADU project and I can't begin to express how happy I am with their service!
They were always quick to respond and even guided me through the plan submission process! They made adjustments to the plans as needed without ever hinting at any sort of inconvenience even though they were busy! Michael and Jennifer are the best and I would absolutely recommend them! Thank you guys for making this process so seemless for someone like me who felt so out of my depth!
Services
In 2010, founder and principal architect Ethan Andersen recognized that there was demand for a different kind of architecture firm - one that could facilitate and realize the vision of all homeowners. While many architects want to design projects with their signature style, fewer architects are happy to add on a bedroom or deck, remodel a basement, or gut a bathroom.
In 2010 Ethan began Drafting Cafe out of a desire to define a new type of architecture firm with more commitment to client service and transparency. A well-rounded designer with experience working on projects ranging from wineries and restaurants to single-family homes and remodels, Ethan grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area and attended Philadelphia University where he received his Bachelor of Architecture degree.
Drafting Cafe's Integrated Project Management approach addresses design, construction, and permitting questions from the very beginning. Projects can derail when these concerns aren't addressed during the design process. Our Project Managers are the conductors of your team. You will work closely with your Project Manager, while they work behind the scenes to keep your project moving.
Our architectural design team pulls together all the facets of your project to create beautiful, functional space. We work to understand the goals you have for your final design. Where do you need storage? What area needs more natural light? How will you use the space once the design is complete? We ask these type of questions to create your perfect space.
We've learned over the years that many of our clients need assistance when selecting finish materials like cabinets and countertops. To help streamline your project, we involve our Interior Design staff to provide material selections for your project. Our Interior Design staff work closely with you and your Project Manager to craft the perfect aesthetic.
Reviews (19)
Scott M.
Feb 20, 2021
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I engaged Drafting Cafe to add a second story and a pool to my house and to remodel the existing portion. They were reasonably priced, fun to work with (thank you Ryan and Michael!), and were creative at working around the difficulties of steep hillside construction by means of referrals to engineers, surveyors, contractors, and other experts.
In the end we didn't proceed with the project as we found out it would be cheaper to buy an existing home with the amenities we wanted rather than upgrade what we have. Drafting Cafe helped us get to that conclusion earlier in the process with cost
In the end we didn't proceed with the project as we found out it would be cheaper to buy an existing home with the amenities we wanted rather than upgrade what we have. Drafting Cafe helped us get to that conclusion earlier in the process with cost
C. C.
Nov 04, 2020
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When I first met Ethan and Michael last November 2019, they were professional and very responsive. They came over to my property to conduct a survey and consultation for a renovation of my craftsman home and to reconfigure a basement for an ADU. Obviously, I was impressed by their knowledge, quick communication, and eagerness to be a part of this project, which is the main reason why I chose them over other architects.
Almost immediately after the ink dried on the contract, I was assigned to another team member, Ryan, with little access to Ethan or Michael. We had communication issues almost
Almost immediately after the ink dried on the contract, I was assigned to another team member, Ryan, with little access to Ethan or Michael. We had communication issues almost
Tory F.
Aug 02, 2019
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Ethan and his team designed the master bedroom/bathroom addition to our house in Berkeley. He was very responsive, helped us talk through our options, and got us everything we needed on schedule. All of our construction passed through the permitting process without a hitch and we are very happy with how everything turned out. Highly recommend!
Buck N.
Jul 29, 2019
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They have a form on their website for you to describe the job and they say they will respond in two days. I did that and waited a week before I received an email to schedule a meeting. Then a couple days after that I received an email saying they were too busy to meet. I emailed to see whether this was a miscommunication, but No they are just not interested in any new business. Just a horrible way of treating potential customers.
Ann N.
Jun 07, 2019
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Drafting cafe architects helped me with my ADU project and I can't begin to express how happy I am with their service! They were always quick to respond and even guided me through the plan submission process! They made adjustments to the plans as needed without ever hinting at any sort of inconvenience even though they were busy! Michael and Jennifer are the best and I would absolutely recommend them! Thank you guys for making this process so seemless for someone like me who felt so out of my depth!
Jaimie O.
Sep 25, 2018
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My husband and his parents and I bought two separate properties right next door to each other. Ethan and his staff assisted us in developing the drawings for a full remodel of each home. The timing for our first meeting, cost proposal and design drawings was excellent. The staff was responsive and helpful. Although there are a couple of things we wish had been different in hindsight, nothing glaring. The city had few comments on the submitted construction drawings and Drafting Cafe coordinated well with the structural engineer.
I would absolutely recommend Drafting Cafe to others remodeling their
I would absolutely recommend Drafting Cafe to others remodeling their
Gann B.
Jun 13, 2018
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Mary A.
Mar 09, 2018
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We hired Drafting Cafe to find a way to make our 80 year old house work for modern living. It was challenge; stairs bisect one floor of our home and cut through our dining room and kitchen. They came up with many viable solutions and were patient with our questions and concerns. They were also straightforward about pricing and what to expect. They were always on time! I was amazed at their professionalism; they were a joy to work with.
Henry C.
May 13, 2017
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Contacted this company for possible designed on additional unit. Jennifer helped schedule and confirmed appointment 2 week in advance. 1 day before the appointment, they canceled on me. I told Jennifer this appointment was confirmed 2 weeks ago, I have already taken the day off work just for this appointment. Is there a way we can keep the same day but possible different time? That was 3 days ago, till this day, still no reply. Never showed up at my door. I can't image what their service would be like once u get into contract. Stay away or be sorry!! Horrible.
Dabney L.
Feb 04, 2017
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We didn't end up using Drafting Cafe due to a timing issue but Ethan Andersen - one of their architects had been very helpful to us in the initial stages of our project. We were highly impressed with his assistance, grasp of our project, professionalism and level of knowledge. We felt the process they laid forth was very approachable and affordable. Had the timing worked out we would have hired Drafting Cafe for sure.
Yvette M.
Feb 03, 2016
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I am doing a modest kitchen remodel with a similar budget. In the current environment where a lot of money is flowing, finding good people to work on smaller projects can be challenging. Drafting Cafe has been such a pleasure to work with! I never feel like I'm a second choice job. Every single person on their staff has been professional, responsive, and FRIENDLY. I never feel like I'm putting them out with my questions (I am someone who wants to understand every little thing). They have a very clear initial explanation of how they work - timeline and expenses are outlined up front
Rm J.
Jul 17, 2015
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This review is long overdue. I contacted Drafting Cafe and worked with Ethan about remodeling our home. I had never taken on a remodel project and was apprehensive. I contacted 2 other companies (referral from the GC I was working with) before reaching out to Drafting Cafe. The experience from start to finish was great.
Ethan and his team were communicative, reasonable and easy to work with. When my plan needed a structural engineer, Ethan recommended Daniel Summerfield (Leslie Engg). Daniel was not in the Bay Area and that did not hold back any communication we needed with the home inspector.
Ethan and his team were communicative, reasonable and easy to work with. When my plan needed a structural engineer, Ethan recommended Daniel Summerfield (Leslie Engg). Daniel was not in the Bay Area and that did not hold back any communication we needed with the home inspector.
Laura E.
Jul 14, 2015
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Robin V.
Jun 11, 2014
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We hired Ethan as our architect for our kitchen and entryway remodel.
Outstanding job. Just exceptional.
In about 6 weeks, we went from brainstorming ideas to a final draft that I just submitted for permits. We cannot wait to see our new kitchen!
He had great ideas and helped us to refine our vision, while helping keep us on budget. He was responsive with phone and email, and his communications were crystal clear.
Bonus - his brother is a cabinet maker - so he has that expertise to rely on as well. And easy parking outside his office.
I would recommend Ethan 10/10, 5 stars, BRAVO to anyone
Outstanding job. Just exceptional.
In about 6 weeks, we went from brainstorming ideas to a final draft that I just submitted for permits. We cannot wait to see our new kitchen!
He had great ideas and helped us to refine our vision, while helping keep us on budget. He was responsive with phone and email, and his communications were crystal clear.
Bonus - his brother is a cabinet maker - so he has that expertise to rely on as well. And easy parking outside his office.
I would recommend Ethan 10/10, 5 stars, BRAVO to anyone
Robby H.
May 29, 2014
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We were very happy with our experience working with Ethan at Drafting Cafe. We had Drafting Cafe prepare plans for a major kitchen and two bathroom remodel. Ethan also managed the permitting process, which he made a breeze. He helped design and order our kitchen cabinets, answering a million questions along the way. Ethan showed a particular eye for detail when helping us figure out how to get a shower into what was previously a half-bath by moving plumbing fixtures, a door and a wall.
Ethan has great contacts in the industry. Our contractor, who was awesome, was one of the contacts provided
Ethan has great contacts in the industry. Our contractor, who was awesome, was one of the contacts provided
John L.
Nov 16, 2013
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Too bad no stars is not an option. Where to start? We inherited Ethan from the Drafting Cafe with the original contractor, who had a working relationship with him. Plans were drawn up and then the original contractor backed out of the project.
So, we went back and forth with Ethan on adding some additional details to the plans, which cost a fourth of what we had paid to begin with. When I called him to come pick up the plans and showed up during normal business hours, there was nobody home. Then I was charged an additional $25 to FedEx the plans without even asking if I needed them 2day.
So we
So, we went back and forth with Ethan on adding some additional details to the plans, which cost a fourth of what we had paid to begin with. When I called him to come pick up the plans and showed up during normal business hours, there was nobody home. Then I was charged an additional $25 to FedEx the plans without even asking if I needed them 2day.
So we
Wendy K.
Jun 07, 2013
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We remodeled the interior of our Fremont home about 8 months ago involving moving walls, laundry rooms, and adding a powder room. I hesitated to write a review because I had never worked with an architect firm before and didn't know if my experience was good, bad, or average. But after decorating, living in the space, and having a baby, I really appreciate the thought Ethan put into the design. He and his team are really cognoscent of how life flows and where doors, light switches, outlets, etc should go, as well as suggesting things that would look nice based on my ideas (since plans are
Tessa L.
Apr 01, 2013
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I am submitting this review on behalf of my parents:
We found Drafting Café highly recommended on Angie's List. They provided us with a design and plans for a remodel kitchen and two bathrooms. They were friendly, knowledgeable and prompt, and drafted a great design that was able to stay within our budget. We highly recommend Drafting Café for affordable drafting and design work! We will definitely be contacting them again for any future work.
We found Drafting Café highly recommended on Angie's List. They provided us with a design and plans for a remodel kitchen and two bathrooms. They were friendly, knowledgeable and prompt, and drafted a great design that was able to stay within our budget. We highly recommend Drafting Café for affordable drafting and design work! We will definitely be contacting them again for any future work.
Mel B.
Feb 07, 2012
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We desperately need a new garage as our current one is not-so-affectionately called "The Leaning Tower of X Street." We spoke with a few contractors and they recommended we get an architect to help us. Ethan and Chris of Drafting Cafe were such a godsend -- not only did they quickly turn our vision for a new garage/office space into an actionable design, but they were integral in getting our plans through the Berkeley permitting process.
For anyone not familiar, the permitting process along took 6 months. Chris and Ethan worked with us every step of the way -- from getting the AUP review
For anyone not familiar, the permitting process along took 6 months. Chris and Ethan worked with us every step of the way -- from getting the AUP review
