Business Details
26 Years
experience
Contemporary Residential Architecture Experts
Since 2000, McClean Design has established itself as a leader in contemporary residential architecture across Southern California and beyond. Our practice focuses on creating modern living spaces that harmonize with natural environments through innovative use of glazing systems, sustainable materials, and seamless indoor-outdoor integration. With expertise in navigating complex approval processes for luxury custom homes, we serve homeowners and developers nationwide while maintaining a commitment to environmentally responsible design. Our team combines decades of collective experience with a collaborative approach to deliver exceptional results tailored to each client's vision and site-specific requirements. 
Services
Contemporary Residential Design
Modern Architecture
Sustainable Design
Glazing Systems Integration
Approval Process Navigation
Details
- Year established: 2000
Highlights and features
- We have completed luxury residential projects across 20+ states and 5 countries
- Our team includes licensed architects in multiple states with AIA membership
- Specialized expertise in navigating complex approval processes for custom homes
- Proven track record with 24+ years of experience in modern residential design
- Comprehensive services from concept to completion with in-house design skills
Services
Contemporary Residential Design
Our contemporary residential design service creates innovative living spaces that integrate with natural environments. We specialize in luxury custom homes featuring open floor plans, natural materials, and seamless indoor-outdoor transitions. With expertise in complex site-specific challenges, we deliver architecturally significant residences that balance aesthetic innovation with functional practicality while maintaining environmental sustainability.
Sustainable Design
Our sustainable design approach incorporates environmentally responsible practices throughout the architectural process. We implement energy-efficient systems, locally sourced materials, and passive design strategies to minimize environmental impact. This service ensures compliance with green building standards while maintaining aesthetic excellence and functional performance in luxury residential projects across diverse climates and regulatory environments.
Glazing Systems Integration
Specialized integration of advanced glazing systems maximizes natural light and scenic views in residential projects. Our expertise includes selecting high-performance glass solutions that enhance energy efficiency while creating visually striking architectural elements. This service enables seamless connections between interior spaces and outdoor environments, fundamental to our modern design philosophy and client satisfaction.
Approval Process Navigation
We navigate complex regulatory frameworks for residential projects through strategic approval process management. Our experience with Design Review Boards, Coastal Commissions, and HOA requirements ensures smooth project progression. This service provides clients with expert guidance through bureaucratic challenges, maintaining design integrity while achieving necessary approvals for successful project implementation.
International Project Management
Our international project management service coordinates luxury residential developments across diverse regulatory and cultural contexts. With experience in projects spanning five continents, we maintain consistent design excellence while adapting to local building codes and environmental conditions. This service ensures seamless execution of complex cross-border architectural projects from concept to completion.
People
Paul McClean
Founder
Licensed architect and AIA member with 30+ years experience. Trained in Ireland, worked internationally before establishing McClean Design in 2000. Specializes in modern residential architecture with emphasis on environmental integration.
Saskia McClean
Interior Design Director
Manages office operations and leads interior design projects. German-born with California experience since 1995. Specializes in creating warm, functional spaces that complement architectural designs while maintaining international project coordination expertise.
Brett Loehmann
Principal
Licensed architect with dual masters in architecture and construction management. Focuses on creating experiential connections between people and environments through integrated design solutions that balance conceptual vision with technical precision.
Bernardo Broas
Principal
22-year architectural veteran specializing in luxury custom homes. Transforms client visions into reality through creative problem-solving while maintaining strong client relationships and collaborative studio culture.
Michael Anglisano
Principal
Experienced in translating client programs into architectural expressions that harmonize with landscapes. Manages large-scale projects with emphasis on maintaining design integrity throughout construction phases while pursuing architecture's transformative potential.
Questions
What architectural style does McClean Design specialize in?
We focus on contemporary modern design with emphasis on environmental integration, natural materials, and seamless indoor-outdoor connections tailored to each project's unique requirements.
Do you work on international projects?
Yes, we have completed projects in five countries including Germany, Italy, Switzerland, UAE, and Canada while maintaining our Southern California headquarters.
How do you handle complex building approvals?
Our team has extensive experience navigating Design Review Boards, Coastal Commissions, and HOA requirements to ensure successful project approvals while maintaining design integrity.
What services do you offer beyond architectural design?
We provide comprehensive services including interior design coordination, 3D modeling, construction documentation, and project management from concept through completion.
Can you work with existing home designs?
While we primarily focus on new construction, we do offer modernization and expansion solutions for existing properties that maintain architectural coherence and enhance functional performance.
How do you incorporate sustainability into designs?
We implement energy-efficient systems, passive solar design, locally sourced materials, and environmentally conscious construction practices to minimize ecological impact while maintaining aesthetic excellence.
