At Richardson Pribuss Architects, we believe that good design is about more than just aesthetics—it’s about creating spaces that support the way you live. Whether you’re starting from the ground up or reimagining an existing home, we guide you through every step of the process.

Alexandra Oliva Examines Plans on Job Site with Table Saw in Foreground

From early concepts and permitting to construction oversight and final finishes, our team provides comprehensive architectural services tailored to your needs. We act as your advocate and collaborator throughout, ensuring the journey is as thoughtfully considered as the result.

  1. Every project begins with a conversation. We sit down with you to understand your goals, lifestyle, and design vision—then translate those ideas into a clear path forward. We explore how your needs align with your site, timeline, and budget, laying the foundation for a home that truly reflects you.

    Kristin Silmore on Phone with Drawing

  2. Next, we outline a variety of possibilities illustrating how rooms and outdoor spaces might relate to one another. These early drawings help us visualize the layout and flow of the home. You’ll be involved every step of the way, and we’ll ensure the big ideas feel right before moving forward.

    Two Workers at Desk with Computer Monitors

  3. Once the concept is defined, we guide your project through local planning requirements. Every city and county has unique processes, and we assist in navigating reviews, approvals, and submissions. This phase often requires patience and experience, and we manage it closely to keep things moving.

    Kristin Silmore on the Steps of Mill Valley City Hall

  4. With a solid layout established, we begin refining the details: materials, lighting, cabinetry, finishes, and more. We also coordinate with engineers, consultants, and landscape designers as necessary. At this stage, your home starts taking shape not only in form but also in feel.

    Jamie Amdurer at Desk with Computer Monitor

  5. We prepare detailed drawings that serve as the official instructions for building your home. These documents are used to obtain final pricing, hire the builder, and apply for your building permit. This is where the vision transforms into a clear and buildable plan.

    Alexandra Oliva Examines Plans on a Job Site

  6. Choosing the right team is essential. We can recommend trustworthy contractors and assist you in collecting bids, comparing pricing, and asking the right questions. Ultimately, you’ll select the builder—and we’ll be there to support the process from day one.

    Jamie Armdurer Working with Contractor

  7. As construction begins, we remain your partner. We conduct site visits, address contractor questions, and ensure that everything is built as designed. If issues arise (as they often do), we’re there to solve problems and advocate for your best interests—until the very last detail is complete.

    Heidi Richardson and Grace Johnson on Job Site

Added Value

Beyond full architectural services, we bring added layers of insight to every project. Over the years, we’ve developed specialized expertise in areas that many clients increasingly prioritize—resilience, flexibility, and interior continuity.

Whether navigating wildfire safety, designing efficient secondary dwellings, or curating a complete interior experience, we approach these challenges with the same level of care and creativity that defines our architecture. These focus areas reflect our commitment to creating homes that are not only beautiful but also deeply responsive to the needs of modern living.

Firesafe Design

In today’s landscape, making buildings fire-safe is no longer a luxury; it is a necessity. Richardson Pribuss Architects approaches all projects with a focus on this new reality. We understand these requirements can inspire design solutions that interlock with powerful modern architecture. We strive to create projects that are visually impressive, reduce long-term costs, and save lives. Balancing fire-safe strategies and compelling design while navigating the layers of municipal mandates, historic preservation, design review guidelines, and green building techniques presents a challenging path.

Our success in this balancing act stems from a multifaceted approach. The first step in our strategy focuses on site planning, examining how structures interact with adjacent natural areas. Managing vegetation and creating a strategy for defensible space in Wildland Urban Interfaces (WUI) is crucial. The next way we create a fire-safe property is by designing building forms that are formally less complex; this not only represents the new normal for fire protection but also aligns with the modern sensibilities of our firm. Maintaining an ongoing awareness of the latest building materials and techniques is essential for designing attractive fireproof buildings. Over the past decade, we have diligently honed our skills in this area as risks have become a reality. Currently, we have numerous fire-safe projects under construction in Sonoma and Marin Counties.

Firesafe Design Photo
Artist Studio at Dusk.

Cottages, Cabins, Tiny Houses, ADUs

California continues to expand opportunities for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), streamlining the approval process to help address housing shortages. Since the state’s legislative updates began in 2020, ADUs have become a vital solution for homeowners looking to add flexible living spaces—whether for aging parents, adult children, caregivers, or rental income.

With over twenty-five ADU projects designed in the past decade, we bring deep expertise in crafting efficient, well-integrated small homes. Our work spans freestanding units and ADUs seamlessly embedded into new residences, all designed to maximize space, natural light, and connection to their surroundings.

In collaboration with San Joaquin County, we recently developed a pattern book of pre-approved ADU designs, helping to simplify the permitting process. We are also exploring modular and prefabricated construction to further improve affordability and efficiency.

Our team-driven approach ensures that every ADU we design benefits from our collective experience, creativity, and attention to detail. Whether you’re envisioning a compact retreat or a versatile secondary home, we can help bring your vision to life.

Interior Design Services

At Richardson Pribuss Architects, we offer a seamless, integrated approach to residential design by providing both architectural and full interior design services. For clients seeking a one-stop shop, our team thoughtfully curates every detail—from spatial planning and material selections to custom furnishings and lighting—ensuring a cohesive vision throughout the home. Our holistic process enhances efficiency, streamlines decision-making, and results in beautifully crafted spaces that are as functional as they are refined. Whether building new or reimagining an existing home, we bring a meticulous eye for design and a commitment to excellence at every scale.

Materials Photo

The Company We Keep

Consultants & Contractors

Successful projects are designed to meet our clients’ programmable requirements and less tangible aspirations, as well as meet their budget and schedules. Our ability to successfully and efficiently navigate the approval process in various jurisdictions is one of the hallmarks of our practice. We have averaged over 25 client ‘Design Review’ successes annually, through the various Marin town and city municipalities. Direct and open communication with the municipalities and other stakeholders is key.

We have assembled a team of consultants with whom we meet bi-weekly to review project scheduling, client expectations, as well as taking a Team approach to problem solving. This well-oiled machine keeps project schedules on track. Our clients benefit from this seamless coordination. In addition, we have a group of builders at hand who can assist with an early budgeting exercise.

We have been in business (in one form or another) since 1984. One reason we thrive is the company we keep and their passion for building honestly and respectively.