Erica Severns

As a licensed architect specializing primarily on Northern California residential architecture, my greatest joy is imagining how a home will be experienced. Many firms offer a multitude of services on many building types as if they were interchangeable. I see a distinct difference between the practice of residential and commercial design, and I focus on asking questions that are crucial for success.

I strive to provide designs that are fresh yet timeless. Most people will recount how light filtered through a certain window in a childhood home, where they like to work in their kitchen, and which floor surface feels best on their feet in the morning. Residential architecture is about designing those poetic moments.

A client once told me, "a house is like an old friend" and that thought drives the process most days. Most architects, including myself, define their work as the combination of client, site, and budget. I am focused on a client-based approach to the design process. I also believe that a strong skillfully coordinated relationship between the owner and contractor is vital.