Business Details
Custom Residential Architecture in Seattle
CTA Design Builders has been a trusted architect-led design-build practice in the Pacific Northwest for over two decades. Based in Seattle, we specialize in creating custom residential homes, additions, and remodels that reflect our clients' unique lifestyles and values. Our approach combines deep practical expertise with a holistic design philosophy, prioritizing functional layouts, natural light integration, and seamless indoor-outdoor connections. We believe every home should be a sanctuary that evolves with its occupants' needs while maintaining timeless aesthetic appeal. Our team excels at translating client visions into personalized spaces that balance beauty with everyday usability.With extensive experience in both contemporary and traditional styles, we navigate complex design challenges while maintaining strict budget adherence. Our commitment to sustainability informs every project, whether preserving existing structures or crafting new builds. As both designers and former builders, we uniquely anticipate construction challenges and coordinate with trusted contractors to ensure flawless execution. We serve as your dedicated advocate throughout the entire process, from initial concept to final realization. Our portfolio demonstrates a consistent ability to transform diverse properties across urban and rural settings into deeply personal living spaces.
Services
New Home Design
Additions
Remodels
DADUs
ADUs
Highlights and features
- 20+ years of Pacific Northwest residential design expertise
- Architect-led process with former construction team integration
- Sustainable approach prioritizing adaptive reuse of existing structures
- Proven ability to translate client lifestyles into personalized spaces
- Deep understanding of Seattle area zoning and building codes
Services
New Home Design
We create bespoke residential designs tailored to client preferences and site characteristics. Our process emphasizes indoor-outdoor connectivity, natural light optimization, and functional layouts that adapt to modern living needs. Each home integrates sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems while maintaining architectural integrity across various styles from mid-century modern to traditional craftsman.
Additions
Our addition specialists enhance existing properties through thoughtful expansions that respect original architecture. We address structural challenges and spatial flow while creating seamless transitions between old and new spaces. Projects range from second-story additions to accessory dwelling units that increase property functionality and value while maintaining neighborhood context.
Remodels
We transform existing homes through comprehensive remodeling that improves functionality and aesthetic appeal. Our approach preserves architectural character while modernizing systems and layouts. Services include kitchen/bathroom upgrades, whole-house renovations, and universal design adaptations for aging-in-place solutions that extend a home's useful life.
DADUs
We design detached accessory dwelling units that maximize property potential. These standalone structures provide flexible living spaces for family, rental income opportunities, or work-from-home solutions. Our DADU designs prioritize compact efficiency, code compliance, and aesthetic harmony with primary residences while meeting Seattle's specific zoning requirements.
ADUs
Our attached accessory dwelling unit solutions create multi-generational living arrangements within existing home structures. We optimize space usage through innovative layouts that maintain separate living areas while sharing core infrastructure. These units provide practical solutions for housing elderly relatives or generating rental income within Seattle's regulatory framework.
Questions
What architectural styles do you specialize in?
We work across all styles from modern to traditional, focusing on creating timeless designs that reflect client preferences while respecting neighborhood context and site characteristics.
Do you handle both design and construction?
While we now focus on architectural design, our former construction experience informs every project, ensuring practical solutions that anticipate buildability challenges and contractor coordination requirements.
Can you work with historic properties?
Yes, we have extensive experience with historic renovations and preservation projects, including Craftsman, Queen Anne, and mid-century modern homes across Seattle's older neighborhoods.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve Seattle and surrounding areas including Bainbridge Island, San Juan Islands, and Kitsap Peninsula, with select projects in Eastern Washington and Chelan.
How do you approach sustainable design?
We prioritize adaptive reuse of existing structures, energy-efficient systems, and locally sourced materials. Our designs maximize natural light and ventilation while incorporating green building practices tailored to each project's needs.
What's your design process like?
Our collaborative process begins with understanding client lifestyle needs and site constraints, followed by concept development, detailed design, and construction documentation. We maintain involvement throughout construction to ensure design intent is preserved.
