Our Process

Whether you are looking to remodel your home, create an addition, or build a new accessory dwelling unit, we’re here to help guide you through the process. This is your home, let’s tailor it to your life. Together we can create the space you’ve always envisioned.

portfolio photo of ADU remodel showing a small office nook

Step by step

First meeting

You have a vision and contact us. We will help you evaluate your project and visit your home free of charge if it is a good fit.

Early design & budget

We start with preliminary designs & budget analysis. We agree upon design direction, what it costs, and a realistic timeline before you commit to a full project.

Construction documents

We move forward with full design and engineering work with the goal of permit submission.

Permitting

While permits are being processed we can start to fill in the details. This includes design as well as material selections and construction planning.

Construction

Construction can be messy and confusing. We will have a dedicated project manager on site daily and keep you informed as you move through the construction phase of your project.

Move in

Congratulations on your new home! We are still available to help with any question or issues that arise as you settle in. Enjoy!

First meeting

You are working with an architect or design professional on your home. We integrate with the team to help inform your design process, and ensure things keep moving ahead smoothly.

Cost & planning

We can provide budget & construction planning at all levels of the design process. Understanding the costs associated with your design early can avoid expensive changes later in the process.

Scope of work

As your plans move towards approval, we create a detailed scope of the entire project to complement the design. This provides additional clarity to the project and highlights elements needing selection or further detail.

Construction

While permits are processed we can start to fill in the details. This includes design as well as material selections & construction planning.

Move in

Congratulations on your new home! We are still available to help with any question or issues that arise as you settle in.

Construction

Construction can be messy and confusing. We will have a dedicated project manager on site daily and keep you informed as you move through the construction phase of your project.

Move in

Congratulations on your new home! We are still available to help with any question or issues that arise as you settle in. Enjoy!

How we work

Experienced guides

Most people don’t think about faucets and tile very often. Frankly, we can’t stop thinking about them. You will be given the guidance to make timely and educated decisions throughout the process of design and construction.

Transparent budget

No shifty numbers. Starting at the beginning of the design process you will receive a clear estimate. As the design develops, that estimate takes on further detail to include all elements of the project. This allows for full accountability and a trusting relationship throughout the construction process.

On schedule

Construction can feel unpredictable but knowing what is coming can keep your mind at ease. We're contractors with a schedule, believe it. We make every effort to stick to our timelines and provide clear information should anything change.

Every project is different, but here are some things to know before jumping in

Accessory dwelling units (ADU's)

You might be wondering “What is an ADU?” or “How do I build an ADU in the bay area?” An ADU is an additional structure on a property that is not subdivided. They can be used as a rental unit, multigenerational living space or extra space for existing homeowners. Regardless of use, current building codes are quite favorable for homeowners looking to add value to their property as Oakland, Berkeley, Marin and other communities across the Bay Area work towards providing more housing. ADUs can be built within an existing home, as a replacement for an existing garage or as an entirely new structure. We have years of experience designing and building multi-purpose ADUs. Through our streamlined process we avoid budget surprises and help get your project completed efficiently.

Large additions and new construction

Trying to figure out how to get your new construction or large remodel off the ground? Whether you’re looking for design and build or build only, we can help. At the beginning of a large project there are many roads to go down. We begin by getting to know you and your needs as they apply to your property. Together we agree upon the program, budget, and timeline of your new home, or remodel. Once designs and permits are approved, the building begins. We keep you informed each step of the way until move in day.

Kitchen and bath remodels

A remodel can introduce fresh energy into your space and help make it feel like your own. We help you discover your needs for the space, navigate your constraints, and come up with plans that hit the mark. We take the time to help you pick out the finishes and personal touches that will really bring the room to life.

Happy clients make for rave reviews

"All in all a pleasant experience, and the result stunned us--as in, how could there be so much more space than before? And not just more space, but beautiful use of that space. We are fans."

Alvy Ray Smith and Alison Gopnik
Project: Parker St. Remodel
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Happy clients make for rave reviews

"Integrated design and construction helped us to quickly resolve a number of complicated structural and electrical issues and make timely decisions that helped keep the project on track. Ben’s keen eye for finishes and penchant for integrating woodwork wherever possible helped create a modern yet warm space that complements the rest of our house and is totally in tune with the Oakland hills."

Project: Ascot Ct ADU
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Happy clients make for rave reviews

"Ben was great at helping us make critical decisions that would keep the project on track and ensure our new space was aligned with our tastes. We visited showrooms multiple times with him to look at certain materials like tile and flooring, and we valued his taste and input on the advantages and costs of some choices over others. Manzanita Design Build is very pleasant and professional to work with, we can’t recommend them more highly."

Project: Ridge Rd. ADU
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Happy clients make for rave reviews

"I am now in the midst of my third project with Ben and Manzanita Design Build. Not only are they on top of all the deadlines, budgets, permits etc. in any given project, but they make each step easily understandable and lay out thoughtful options when necessary. Their pricing is transparent and fair and they are engaged and passionate about what they do. I would highly recommend them as designers, contractors and just all around good guys :-)"

Project: Blair Ave. Remodel
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Happy clients make for rave reviews

"Ben & Manzanita Design Build created a splendid house for us. Every aspect is beyond our hopes and expectations. Ben’s design captures so much of what we asked for, both in function and feeling. And it adds so much we couldn't even have thought to ask for, in the way of grace and style and symmetry and presentation, indoor and outdoor."

Project: Harwood. ADU
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