Business Details
16 Years
experience
Your Trusted Residential Architects in the Bay Area
Founded in 2010 by Ethan Andersen, Drafting Cafe Architects reimagines architectural services by prioritizing client vision over signature styles. Our team of licensed architects and consulting engineers specializes in residential and commercial projects across the Bay Area, delivering tailored designs, precise permit documentation, and integrated construction coordination. With hundreds of completed projects, we combine advanced technology like 3D scanning with personalized service to ensure seamless design-to-build processes.Our proprietary Planchx software streamlines code compliance, while our Design-to-Build methodology provides independent contractor advisory services without locking clients into single vendors. We maintain transparency through regular project updates and have earned recognition for innovative solutions like our award-winning Piedmont Renovation project.
Services
Residential Design
Interior Design
Construction Estimation
ADU Plans
Permit Drawings
As-Built Documentation
Structural Engineering
Design to Build
3D Scanning
Space Planning
Details
- Year established: 2010
Highlights and features
- We offer personalized architectural solutions tailored to your vision
- Our team has completed hundreds of Bay Area projects since 2010
- We provide transparent communication with regular project updates
- We utilize advanced 3D scanning technology for precise documentation
- Our proprietary Planchx software ensures code compliance efficiency
Associations and certifications
- American Institute of Architects (AIA)
What people say
Professional and responsive
Great options
Exceptional work
Quick final draft
Amazing remodel experience
Services
Residential Design
We specialize in creating customized residential spaces that blend functionality with aesthetic appeal. Our team works closely with homeowners to develop designs for additions, renovations, and new constructions while ensuring compliance with local building codes. With expertise in earthquake-prone regions, we deliver safe, innovative solutions that maximize property value and livability.
Interior Design
Our interior design program complements architectural projects through coordinated material selections and finish specifications. We create timeless, durable spaces by developing detailed 2D elevations and material boards that guide builders through complex design decisions while maintaining budget constraints and personal style preferences.
ADU Plans
We offer pre-designed and custom ADU solutions that meet California's evolving zoning regulations. Our services include preliminary zoning reviews, permit-ready plans, and construction documentation for backyard units ranging from 500 to 1,000 square feet with options for modern, craftsman, and farmhouse styles.
Permit Drawings
Our architects produce detailed permit drawings that meet Bay Area municipal requirements. We handle submissions and coordinate with local authorities to ensure timely approvals while maintaining design integrity and structural safety standards throughout the documentation process.
Design to Build
This service bridges design and construction phases by providing continuous builder support. We facilitate material selections, resolve technical questions, and conduct site visits to ensure implementation aligns with design intent while minimizing change orders during construction.
People
Ethan Andersen
Founder/Principal Architect
Licensed architect with 13 years of Bay Area experience. Developed Planchx code compliance software used industry-wide. Specializes in residential renovations and accessible design solutions that balance creativity with practicality.
Michael Davisson
Architectural Designer
Experienced designer focusing on spatial optimization and modern aesthetics. Skilled in translating client visions into functional floor plans while maintaining code compliance and structural integrity across diverse project types.
Norm DeVeyra
Production Coordinator
Project management specialist ensuring timely delivery of architectural documents. Coordinates between design teams and clients to maintain project schedules while upholding quality control standards throughout the design process.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialize in?
We focus on residential design, interior design, ADU development, permit documentation, and construction coordination for both new builds and renovations across the Bay Area.
Do you handle both design and construction phases?
We provide full design services and coordinate construction through our Design-to-Build methodology, working with pre-vetted builders while maintaining independent advisory roles throughout the process.
How do you handle permit applications?
Our team prepares complete permit packages and manages submissions to local municipalities, leveraging deep knowledge of Bay Area building codes to expedite approvals.
Can you help with ADU projects?
Yes, we offer pre-designed and custom ADU solutions including zoning analysis, permit drawings, and construction documentation for units ranging from 500-1,000 sq ft.
What technology do you use?
We employ 3D scanning for accurate as-built documentation and use proprietary Planchx software to enhance code compliance efficiency in all our architectural projects.
