Business Details
29 Years
experience
Award-Winning Architectural Design in Berkeley, CA
Established in 1997, Skeels Design is an award-winning architectural practice rooted in Berkeley, California. Our expertise spans custom residential projects, new construction, remodels, additions, and specialized developments like vineyards and retreats across California. We believe architecture should elevate daily life through functional, enduring design while promoting sustainability through energy efficiency and natural materials. With over 24 years of experience, our team prioritizes client collaboration, combining creative vision with practical execution to deliver spaces that harmonize with their environments.Our process emphasizes thorough site analysis, code compliance, and construction oversight, ensuring projects meet both aesthetic and functional goals. Recognized for historic restorations and innovative design, we maintain a commitment to craftsmanship, transparency, and environmental stewardship.
Services
Custom Residential Design
Historic Restoration
Sustainable Architecture
Interior Design
Construction Management
Site Planning
Permitting Assistance
Luxury Retreat Design
Vineyard Development
Commercial Storefronts
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- We have over 24 years of experience in residential and commercial architecture.
- Our designs prioritize sustainability through energy-efficient systems and natural materials.
- We maintain a collaborative process with clients and contractors for seamless execution.
- Our team has received industry recognition for historic restoration and innovative design.
- We offer end-to-end services from site analysis to construction administration.
Associations and certifications
- California Energy Commission
- Berkeley Architectural Heritage Award
What people say
Impeccable taste
Creative solutions
Team player
Detailed plans
Sustainable design
Services
Custom Residential Design
We create tailored residential spaces that balance aesthetics and functionality. Our process begins with understanding client needs and site conditions to develop designs that enhance livability. From concept to construction, we ensure every detail aligns with the homeowner's vision and budget.
Historic Restoration
Specializing in preserving architectural heritage, we restore historic buildings while integrating modern amenities. Our approach respects original materials and design intent, ensuring compliance with local preservation guidelines and achieving timeless results.
Sustainable Design
We incorporate energy-efficient systems, renewable materials, and passive solar strategies into every project. Our sustainable designs reduce environmental impact without compromising comfort or aesthetic quality, aligning with California's environmental standards.
Interior Design
From layout to finishes, we craft interiors that reflect client preferences and optimize functionality. Our team selects materials and lighting to create cohesive, inviting spaces that complement the architectural design.
Construction Administration
We monitor construction progress to ensure adherence to design specifications and timelines. Regular site visits and communication with contractors guarantee quality control and resolution of on-site challenges.
People
Wade L. Skeels
Founder & Lead Architect
Licensed architect with over 25 years of experience in residential and commercial design. Specializes in historic restoration and sustainable architecture. Known for collaborative client relationships and award-winning projects across California.
Questions
What services does Skeels Design offer?
We specialize in custom residential design, historic restoration, sustainable architecture, interior design, and construction administration across California.
How does the design process work?
Our collaborative process includes site analysis, schematic design, permitting, and construction oversight to ensure your vision is realized efficiently.
Do you handle historic building projects?
Yes, we have award-winning experience restoring historic structures while integrating modern functionality and code compliance.
Is sustainability a priority in your designs?
Absolutely. We incorporate energy-efficient systems, natural materials, and passive solar strategies into every project.
Reviews (3)
Amy G.
Jan 22, 2021
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Wade is a great talent with mad skills and a fabulous taste level. It's fun and rewarding to brainstorm creative ideas with him and watch him turn vision into executable plans. His sense of humor also comes in handy to take the sting out of some of the stressfulness of the design, planning and building processes. We love working with Wade, and we love the end product that comes from such a great working relationship.
Vanessa W.
Jan 15, 2021
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Wade has impeccable taste and is a joy to work with. He brought creative ideas to the table, while also working collaboratively to find creative solutions to satisfy the needs of three opinionated adults in our multi-generational family! He helped us with an ADU project requiring a lot of back and forth with the City of Berkeley, for which he deftly handled the (sometimes infuriating) bureaucracy with skill and grace. Wade is an 'old school' architect -- he draws and designs by hand -- often in real time during discussions, which can be a fun and inspiring process. (He converts the designs
Clement P.
Mar 19, 2014
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I hired Wade on remodeling a Mission Revival / Arts & Craft home in Berkeley, CA. The home was owned by the same family since it was built in 1905 and the last upgrade and remodeling was sometime in the late 50's. The bones of the house were great but there were parts of the house -- like the small kitchen, a parlor room and a formal dining room -- that no longer fit 21st century style of living. Wade masterfully reworked the plans of the house creating more space, features and a flow that took advantage of the site. I've been in this house over 14 years now and loving the simplicity
