Sage Architecture, Inc.

We approached Sage for a remodel of our simple, plain (read: ugly) second home in the wine country. We had interviewed several firms, and Pam and Paul were the first team we met that didn't start the conversation with "Well, what I would do with this property is..." In fact, they employed an extensive assessment of our tastes, style, lifestyle, aesthetic, etc., and came back with plans that nailed what we wanted EXACTLY. They turned us on to a craftsman-level builder, and the end result was an incredible transformation of a rustic kit-house into an elegant, simple, refined, beautiful space, tailored to the landscape and view perfectly. More that two years out, I still sit inside and discover nuances--a certain sightline, a view framed, an effect of the natural light--that attests to the thought and vision that went into the design. Their seemingly straightforward, minimalistic design belies a sophisticated approach to space, lighting, relationship of space and shape, and interaction with the site. It is as if they visualized the spaces first, and then designed it's enclosure. The process was as pain-free as a remodel can be, and Sage was at all times professional and responsive, and though I know they had much grander projects ongoing, we never felt like ours was less important. Paul's flexibility and problem-solving as the project progressed was a great bonus, and Pam's eye for texture, light, color, and materials was invaluable. She was also extraordinarily tactful when I proposed things that weren't going to work aesthetically (and some of the things I proposed really would have been tacky). In summary, Sage was outstanding: personalized, thoughtful, and beautiful design; infinitely helpful with details along the way, and a joy to work with.

Pam and Paul are just incredible. From the beginning to the project, we have felt extremely fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with them. Their design process was a unique experience in its thoroughness, creativity, and inclusiveness of us. Even though, it was a Sage design, it truly represented our family. It was such an enjoyable process that we felt sad that it had to end. During the construction phase of the project, they were always available and we met regularly throughout the construction. With any build, they were always a number of "on the fly" decisions that had to be made and having them involved for the entirety of the project provided a much appreciated sense of security. As for the design itself, it is everything we wanted and more. Since moving into our new home, we really appreciate how well the house flows and how thoughtful the design is. If we ever have the opportunity to do another project, we would not hesitate to call upon Pam and Paul again to design our project. And they're just good people.

Paul and Pam are not only top-notch architects but first-rate human beings. They designed a beautiful farmhouse that brings us great joy. We liked their aesthetic and chose to work with them because they nailed our vision on the second conceptual drawing. We loved that they were game for using recycled materials we'd been collecting for years. We also appreciated their efforts at getting to know us so as to design a house that truly reflects our sensibilities. Their expertise guided us throughout and the design process was truly collaborative. We most certainly would hire them again!

I want to give extraordinary accolades to Sage Architecture! Creativity abounds along with a great understanding of how to help their clients achieve their goals. Going into a project they truly seek to understand the client and how they will use the space whether it is their home or office. I loved their insight and how knowledgeable they were on the best options for use of space including the style and design that we were looking for! Working with them was a joy!

Paul and Pam delivered in every sense of the word. We challenged them with wanting a small but quality home that was energy efficient and cost effective to build. They delivered through their great listening, a structured process, creativity and problem solving skills. They were there for us during the difficult times during the downturn in the housing market when the bank would not fully fund the project and we had to make difficult cuts. They were there to help us make the fun decisions to deliver on our contemporary and clean feel to the house from paint colors to lighting and furniture choices.

Pam and Paul of Sage Architecture were a joy to work with - professional, creative, thoughtful and easy! Their method is to really listen to their client, then help you figure out what's really important, and then have it all come together in an incredible house. They were able to work within my budget, and were very creative to deliver well more than what I paid for. They introduced me to an amazing contractor, and then proceeded to work with him through the entire job. They are not the type to walk away once the plans are drawn; Pam helped with many of the fine details - paint color, tile choices, hardware, etc. I had been warned about what a struggle/ordeal building a house would be. But I have to say, working with Sage was a pleasure through the entire process. Almost hated to see it end, other than the joy of moving into a beautiful unique home.

Incredible modern and contemporary design. They are well known in the Northern California Area, and are quite versatile in lot restrictions which makes, cantilever designs so exciting.

Sage Architecture designed our rather unusual retirement home in the Sierra Nevada mountains–a blend of Craftsman Style and traditional Japanese architecture. We could NOT be more pleased than we are with their beautiful design. 1. Pam and Paul (i.e., Sage Architecture) listened with great care to our ideas and hopes. We went to them with a list of many specific design elements (e.g., a home we could enjoy even if we became handicapped) and a 3-ring binder with loads of photographs of architectural features we like (both Craftsman and Japanese). After extensive interviews, they absolutely stunned us with an illustrated “mission statement” that captured EXACTLY the architectural style we wanted–which was very different from other homes they had designed. Their insight was phenomenal. We knew then that we had found the ideal architects for our home. 2. Before committing to Sage as our architects, we visited other homes they had designed and talked to prior clients by phone. We were always favorably impressed by what we saw and heard. 3. Sage has a remarkable relationship with the contractor who built our home (Jim Glauz). He and Sage worked closely and harmoniously through the design and construction of our home. The result of their collaboration was really amazing. We firmly believe that Pam and Paul would work well with ANY contractor who approaches the project with the professionalism that Sage brings. 4. When the basic design of our home had been approved by us, Paul constructed a scale model of the building which allowed us to see both the exterior and interior in three-dimensional form. Very reassuring. 5. Pam and Paul advised us in coordinating the interior decor: matching wall colors with the granite and slate materials we had chosen, lighting fixtures that evoked both a Craftsman and Japanese sense of aesthetics, etc. Their advice was spot on.. 5. The architectural fee was agreed upon up front, and we were never asked to pay for unexpected “extras.” (Please understand that we knew what we wanted and never asked for any changes after the county building permit had been issued.) They traveled numerous times to the building site (about 3 hours, round trip, for them), often meeting us there to make decisions during construction (e.g., interior colors and finishes). WOULD WE USE SAGE AGAIN? Absolutely!

We hired Sage due to their holistic approach which brought our lifestyle and values into their design process and reflected in their design work with us. It made sense on paper and now that we are living in the spaces they designed, the logic of their approach and design is organic and real for us every day - and we love it. We felt listened to, respected, and educated along the way. They matched the effort we could make along the process depending on how much we had vested in a particular area (e.g, colors, or electrical, or design style in the kitchen) and could sit back and evaluate our ideas or suggest ideas to help us down this complex path. A key strength is that they have a very keen eye for light and the benefits that brings. Working with them as a team, we feel like we got the best of two very good architects working in collaboration. We love the flow of our entire house remodel and feel we got excellent value from their services.

We are on our second remodel with Sage Architecture and have had wonderful experiences throughout. Pam and Paul are a great team and bring the creativity, strong architectural and green design skills that are fundamental to a successful project. They listen to their clients, are sensitive to costs and providing alternatives and choices to help you accomplish your design and budget goals. I was also impressed with how well they work with other professionals on a project--whether contractor, interior designer, landscape architect, etc. And they bring strong skills in those areas to the project as well. I highly recommend Sage Architecture.

This was our first home design project. We chose Sage Architecture because of Pam and Paul's talent and wonderful positive personalities. They can design a beautiful structure suitable to any client's needs and taste. They give their professional insight to make a beautiful dwelling for any client and location. Pam and Paul made the entire process efficient and enjoyable. From the early concept exploration to the interior design and hardware selection, they demonstrated total professionalism with great attention to detail and budget. They listened to us and understood our needs. They are ethical and trustworthy and are involved in the entire process from start to finish. Sage has made our home so comfortable we and guests enjoy it fully. When we need building or design input in the future, I will always call on them.

Working with Sage Architecture is a true pleasure. Our University has hired the firm for quite a number of jobs -- both residential and office. Pam and Paul are incredibly creative and resourceful. They listen really well to the needs and desires of their clients, and develop ideas and plans that match those client needs, rather than imposing their personal design preferences, regardless of the architectural style (though they are particularly stellar in contemporary design). They are very respectful of budgets, and develop cost-effective approaches. Their finished products are both stunning and functional. A great team to work with.