Business Details
37 Years
experience
Your Trusted Architect for Custom Home Designs
Braver Designs was founded in 1989 by Nelda Arras, a licensed architect with over 30 years of experience in the design and construction industry. Our firm specializes in transforming architectural ideas into functional, beautiful spaces for residential and commercial clients. We offer comprehensive services including concept development, permit documentation, and project coordination across all phases of construction. Our expertise spans new home design, remodels, ADU creation, and green building solutions tailored to individual client needs. We prioritize client collaboration, leveraging our deep understanding of local building codes and design trends to deliver customized results. Our team maintains strong relationships with contractors and tradespeople to ensure seamless project execution.We are committed to advancing sustainable design practices and accessibility solutions for diverse client applications. With a career spanning multiple decades, our founder continues to lead projects directly, ensuring consistent quality and attention to detail. Our track record includes successful completion of complex developments ranging from single-family homes to large-scale master plans. We remain dedicated to professional growth through ongoing education in emerging architectural technologies and methodologies. Our reputation for reliability and excellence has been built through consistent delivery of client-focused architectural solutions.
Services
New Homes
Remodels
ADU Designs
Green Building
Kitchen & Baths
Accessibility Plans
Outdoor Structures
Tenant Improvements
Land Planning
Pool Houses
Details
- Year established: 1989
Highlights and features
- We offer over 30 years of architectural experience.
- Our team specializes in custom home designs and remodels.
- We handle projects from concept to construction.
- We focus on green building and accessibility solutions.
- We coordinate with contractors for seamless project execution.
What people say
Outstanding architect
Consummate professional
Thoroughness and organization
Solution oriented
Highly recommend
Services
New Homes
We design custom residential properties tailored to client preferences and site conditions. Our process includes concept development, floor plan optimization, and full construction documentation. We specialize in creating energy-efficient homes that meet modern building standards while maintaining aesthetic appeal.
Remodels
Our team transforms existing spaces through comprehensive remodeling solutions. We handle kitchen and bathroom upgrades, whole-house renovations, and structural modifications. We focus on improving functionality while preserving architectural integrity. Our process includes code compliance verification and material selection guidance.
ADU Designs
We create efficient ADU plans for homeowners seeking additional living spaces. Our designs maximize space utilization while meeting local zoning requirements. We offer pre-approved plan options and custom solutions for backyard cottages or converted garages. Our expertise includes utility integration and accessibility features.
Green Building
We incorporate eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems into all project types. Our services include LEED certification guidance and passive solar design strategies. We help clients reduce environmental impact through smart material selection and construction methods. Our team stays current with the latest sustainability standards.
Kitchen & Baths
We specialize in functional and stylish kitchen and bathroom renovations. Our designs optimize workflow and storage while incorporating modern aesthetics. We assist with fixture selection and layout optimization. Our team ensures compliance with accessibility standards and building codes during all interior upgrades.
People
Nelda Arras
Architect/Owner
Licensed architect with 35+ years of experience in residential and commercial design. Specializes in custom homes, remodels, and green building solutions. Holds California license #CA18132. Graduated with honors from UC Berkeley's College of Environmental Design.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialize in?
We specialize in custom home design, residential remodels, ADU development, green building solutions, and accessibility design for both residential and commercial properties.
Do you work outside Contra Costa County?
While based in Fargo, ND, we primarily serve Contra Costa County and the San Francisco Bay Area for architectural projects.
How do you handle building permit processes?
We prepare complete permit documentation and can navigate or manage the entire county approval process for your project.
What experience do you have with green building?
We have extensive experience with sustainable materials, energy-efficient systems, and green certification processes through ongoing professional development.
Can you coordinate with my existing contractors?
Yes, we regularly collaborate with designers, contractors, and tradespeople to ensure cohesive project execution.
