WHO WE ARE

We are a full-service architecture firm specializing in modern design, seamlessly integrating architecture, interiors, and outdoor spaces. From custom single-family homes and residential developments to commercial interiors and outdoor environments, we create spaces that elevate the way people live, work, and connect. Based in Southern California and licensed in both California and Washington states, we transform bold visions into refined, purposeful designs.

 

OUR PURPOSE

We elevate everyday living with modern indoor-outdoor architecture that fosters ease and tranquility. Our designs blend clean lines and natural elements, creating effortless flow and harmony. We craft spaces that enhance well-being, making life feel as peaceful and inspiring as a retreat.

DESIGN PHILOSOPHY

IMMERSIVE ENVIROMENT

Great architecture begins from within. We design spaces that are more than just structures—they are immersive environments shaped by materials, textures, lighting, and views. Every element is meticulously considered to create a cohesive and harmonious whole, where beauty meets functionality.

 

SEAMLESS INDOOR-OUTDOOR LIVING

The outdoors isn’t just a backdrop—it’s an essential part of well-being. Our designs erase the boundary between inside and out, ensuring outdoor areas feel like a natural extension of the home or workspace. By embracing natural light, maximizing views, and responding to the surrounding landscape, we create spaces that invite you to live more openly and comfortably year-round.

 

MINDFUL & INTELLIGENT DESIGN

We believe in designing with intention. Efficiency, flexibility, and sustainability guide our process, from material selection to structural systems and glazing choices. Every decision considers cost, comfort, and climate, ensuring our designs are not only stunning but also practical and responsive to their environment.

 

 

Kate Callan, NCARB

Principal/ Owner

Kate is a licensed architect with extensive experience across a diverse range of projects, including single-family homes, multi-family developments, mixed-use buildings, hotels, interiors, and landscape design. With a professional background spanning Southern California, the Pacific Northwest, and Chicago, she brings a well-rounded, global perspective to every project. A graduate of the Illinois Institute of Technology with a Bachelor of Architecture and a minor in Business, Kate’s foundation in both design and strategy allows her to lead with insight and precision. 

 

Kate has a clear vision for modern architecture and approaches each project with rigor, creativity, and an unwavering focus on detail. She is dedicated to crafting spaces that are not only visually compelling but also deeply functional and connected to nature. Her designs are thoughtfully composed, inviting, and tailored to enhance the quality of life for those who inhabit them.

 

Outside of the office, Kate enjoys visting art galleries and museums, spending time outdoors, yoga, and traveling, always seeking new sources of inspiration to bring to her work.

 

Architecture for Developers & Investors

 

CALLAN Architects works with developers and investors on residential projects throughout Los Angeles. We specialize in single-family homes (often with ADUs) and townhouse/ multi-family projects within the City of Los Angeles and currently take on work located within LADBS jurisdiction.

In addition to working with developers, we also pursue our own residential projects targeted for sale. This experience provides a practical understanding of construction costs, financial decision-making, and the local housing market trends.

We are highly familiar with the Los Angeles regulatory landscape, including local zoning regulations (LAMC), permitting through LADBS, and opportunities such as ADUs, SB9 projects, and lot splits.

Our goal is to design residential projects that are highly marketable, appealing to the higher-end Los Angeles market while remaining efficient to build and financially sound.

 

Our Approach

 

Our design approach focuses on maximizing Residential Floor Area (RFA), creating strong architectural identity, and maintaining construction efficiency.

• Efficient layouts that maximize square footage

• Clean building forms with strong composition and proportions that remain straightforward to construct

• Modern architecture that resonates with the Los Angeles market

• Cost-conscious structural and material decisions

The goal is to create projects that feel architecturally refined without unnecessary construction cost.

 

Our Process

 

1. Feasibility & Site Evaluation
We begin by analyzing the site’s potential, applicable zoning regulations and opportunities (LAMC), and identifying the most effective strategy for the property. A site visit is performed to document existing conditions.

 

2. Schematic Design
Based on the site analysis, project program, and client objectives, we develop architectural concepts that maximize the site’s potential while creating strong market appeal.

 

3. Design Development
The selected concept is further refined through coordination with structural engineers and other consultants while maintaining clarity of form and construction efficiency.

 

4. Permitting
We prepare and submit the permit drawings to LADBS and coordinate with the city throughout the plan check process.

 

5. Construction Support
During construction, we remain available to assist the contractor and respond to design or documentation questions as they arise.

 

Collaboration

 

If you are planning a residential project in Los Angeles, we welcome the opportunity to collaborate!

OUR PROCESS

PRE-DESIGN

This is the initial phase where we study the project in great detail, perform the site analysis, define zoning and building code requirements and constraints, develop a detailed program based on your needs and aesthetic vision, and define a target project schedule and budget.

SCHEMATIC DESIGN

This is an exciting phase where the project starts to take shape. We combine the site analysis research, the program, and your vision to create multiple architectural concepts exploring a variety of approaches. We use different mediums from sketching to 3D modeling to generate and communicate ideas. By the end of this phase the project's overall form and general layout are defined.

DESIGN DEVELOPMENT

In this phase, we build on the approved schematic design delving into the details: defining interior & exterior features and materials, designing kitchens, bathrooms, interiors, outdoor spaces and any other elements while also working closely with the engineers and consultants to further develop the project. We build a detailed 3D model that includes all the design features and materials that you can experience in a virtual walk-through. Photo-realistic renderings of the final design can be produced per your request.

CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS

The goal of this phase is to produce a set of detailed architectural drawings and specifications that summarize all the design decisions made in the previous phase so a general contractor can accurately price and then construct the project. Also throughout this and the previous phases, we work closely with the local jurisdiction to help you obtain the required permits for construction.

BIDDING

During this phase we aid in the process of finding a general contractor (if you do not already have someone in mind) and negotiating the construction cost and schedule.

CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION

This is where we all get to watch the project get built! During this phase, we perform occasional site visits and evaluate whether the project is being built according to the drawings and any unforeseen conditions are addressed in a way that does not adversely affect the quality of the final product.

POST-CONSTRUCTION

Congratulations! Now you can finally enjoy your new space! Even though our services end here we hope to have built a long-lasting relationship with our clients and are always interested in keeping in touch and hearing your feedback.

LET'S BUILD SOMETHING EXTRAORDINARY!

 

Interested in working together? We’d love to hear about your vision. Whether you're planning a project in California, Oregon, or Washington, CALLAN Architects is here to bring your ideas to life.

 

Connect with us:

P: 206.591.8439           

info@callanarchitects.com         

535 Anton Blvd, Costa Mesa, CA 92626         

 

Connect with us on Instagram @callan.architects