Architectural Design & Permit-Ready Drawings

From residential remodels and additions to ADUs and small commercial improvements, Emerald City Architects provides thoughtful design, clear documentation, and practical guidance from early planning through permit review.

We work with homeowners, property owners, contractors, and small-business owners throughout Seattle and surrounding communities.

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Services for Every Project Stage

Explore the services below, from existing-condition documentation and design through permit and construction drawings. Not sure where to begin? We can help define the right next step.

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  • We design interior and exterior remodels that improve the function, layout, and comfort of existing homes.

    Whether you are updating a kitchen, reconfiguring spaces, or renovating multiple rooms, we develop clear design drawings that can be used for permits and construction.

    Services may include:

    • Layout design

    • Wall modifications

    • Structural coordination

    • Permit drawings

    • Construction drawings

  • We provide architectural design for home additions, including new bedrooms, expanded living areas, second stories, and dormers.

    Our goal is to create additions that fit naturally with the existing house while meeting zoning and building code requirements.

    Services may include:

    • Feasibility review

    • Existing conditions drawings

    • Addition design

    • Permit drawings

    • Coordination with structural engineer

  • We design Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Detached Accessory Dwelling Units (DADUs) for homeowners looking to add living space or rental units.

    We help guide the project from early planning through permit drawings.

    Services may include:

    • Site review and feasibility

    • Zoning review

    • Layout design

    • Permit drawings

    • Coordination with consultants

  • We provide field measurements and as-built drawings of existing homes and buildings.

    These drawings are often required before starting a remodel, addition, or permit application.

    Services may include:

    • Site visit and measurements

    • Floor plans

    • Elevations

    • Existing condition documentation

  • We prepare architectural drawings required for building permits and construction.

    Our drawings are prepared to meet local jurisdiction requirements and to help contractors clearly understand the design.

    Services may include:

    • Permit sets

    • Construction drawings

    • Code review

    • Coordination with engineers

    • Response to permit comments

  • We provide architectural drawings for small commercial projects, including tenant improvements, office remodels, retail spaces, and change-of-use permits.

    We work with property owners, tenants, and contractors to prepare drawings required for permit approval.

    Services may include:

    • Tenant improvement drawings

    • Layout changes

    • Permit drawings

    • Coordination with consultants

    • Code compliance review

    • Consultation & Feasibility Studies

  • Not sure whether your project is possible—or what to do first? We review your goals, existing conditions, and available project information to help clarify scope, likely permitting needs, and practical next steps.

    Services may include:

    • Initial consultation

    • Site and project review

    • Zoning and code research

    • Feasibility guidance

    • Recommended next steps