Cité I Designs
Architecture · Interiors · Visualization
Designing your dreams with a balance of know-how and creativity
Explore Our WorkWelcome to Cité I Designs
Cité Designs is a one-stop shop for architectural design services to help you make your dreams come true with a savvy balance of know-how and creativity. Our approach is straightforward and collaborative, with design tools that facilitate visualization and understanding of a project throughout the process. We focus on listening and working with you to create a feasible plan. Our experience and background allow us to take on a wide range of projects and scopes. Our team is committed to delivering on budget and on time.
Services
One-stop shop design services. Click any service to learn more.
Full-service architectural design for residential projects, from early concept through permit-ready construction drawings. We work closely with our clients and technical consultants to ensure the design you envision is the one that gets built—efficiently, accurately, and within budget.
- Single-family homes, multi-family housing, and ADUs
- Custom designs tailored to site, lifestyle, and budget
- Additions, remodels, and whole-house reconfigurations
- Feasibility studies and concept development
- Schematic design through construction documents and permit submittals
- Integrated 3D modeling throughout the design process
- Coordination with structural engineers, MEP consultants, and contractors
We design interiors that improve how you live day-to-day—balancing functionality, flow, natural light, and materials that feel timeless.
- Great rooms, open-plan living spaces, and kitchen reconfigurations
- Bathroom and primary suite remodels
- Whole-home interior transformations
- MEP design coordination (mechanical, electrical & lighting, and plumbing)
- 3D visualization for design decision-making
- Detailed documentation including material selections and specifications
We specialize in ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) design across California, helping homeowners confidently navigate zoning, feasibility, and permitting.
- Attached ADUs, detached ADUs, and JADUs (junior ADUs)
- Garage and accessory structure conversions
- Zoning analysis and streamlined permit strategies
- Designs optimized for rental income, multigenerational living, or flexible home use
- Coordination with local jurisdictions and building departments
- Collaboration with experienced ADU contractors
Visualization is integral to our design process—not an add-on. We develop projects in 3D from the outset, allowing clients to understand and refine spaces before construction begins.
- Conceptual and detailed 3D models (SketchUp)
- Real-time collaborative design sessions
- High-quality interior and exterior renderings
- Context modeling using site data and geolocation tools
- Material, lighting, and furniture studies
- Shareable models for clients and consultants
We integrate structural and technical systems early in the design process to ensure projects are buildable, code-compliant, and cost-effective.
- Close coordination with licensed structural engineers
- Integration of framing, foundation, and lateral systems
- MEP coordination across all project phases
- Title 24 energy compliance strategies
- Coordination with geotechnical and fire-protection consultants
Our Process
Designing into the Future
While forward thinking, our design approach is sound with optimized tools and advanced technology to ensure work efficiency as well as lower costs. Our workflow primarily uses a single software platform to handle project deliverables from standard plan sets to 3D visualization. In the early stage of the project and all the way through the process, you will be able to fully understand the design in multi-dimensions like in real life. With Cité Designs, the visualization of the project is an integral part of the process, not an optional costly add-on service.
An Innovative and Cutting-Edge Workflow
To optimize its services, Cité Designs has adopted the SketchUp & Layout for Architecture workflow. SketchUp & Layout for Architecture has been developed by the best experts in the field. This workflow belongs to the latest generation of design tools that allow to approach design in all its dimensions from the get-go. Instead of a series of 2-dimensional drawings, your project is a virtual 3D design. At the center is a 3D model from which will be generated all standard drafting views such as floor plans, elevations, and sections. Changes to design are integrated in real time, making the process more fluid and more interactive.
ADUs
Accessory Dwelling Units
Most cities and counties in California make it easier for homeowners to consider adding units to their property. Additional square footage and expedited process are by law required for this type of project. Given the state of housing in California cities, this is a good solution to provide additional units on the market as well as helping homeowners invest in their properties, increase available floor area (e.g. to add a workspace), and long-term planning options for additional source of income. Depending on each situation, an ADU might be within an existing building or structure, an addition, or a detached structure in most cases in the rear side of the property. Overall many design options are available to adapt to a variety of conditions and owners' needs.
Attached ADUs
Conveniently, attached ADUs can be a conversion of non-habitable space (e.g. garages), or additional space allowing to increase property square footage and new unit opportunities.
What Clients Say
Contact
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Bay Area
2940 Camino Diablo Suite #112Walnut Creek, CA 94598