A Message to Our Clients and Partners...

After nearly 30 years, ZŌN Architects, Inc. will be closing its doors on June 14, 2026.

Founded in 1997 as a small design partnership in San Francisco, California and incorporated in 2004, we grew into a full-service architectural and engineering firm serving clients across California and the western United States in residential, commercial, and telecommunications work. Over nearly three decades we had the privilege of working on thousands of projects and building lasting relationships with our clients, consultants, and partners — none of which would have been possible without the dedication and talent of our remarkable team, past and present.

This was not an easy decision, and it comes after careful consideration by all three principals. We are proud of everything we built together and deeply grateful for the trust our clients, partners, and team placed in us over the years.

Thank you.

The Principals of ZŌN Architects, Inc.

ZŌN Architects, Inc.

Founded in 1997 and incorporated in 2004, ZŌN Architects® is a full-service design firm committed to delivering thoughtful, high-quality architectural solutions.

With deep experience across a wide range of project types, we provide end-to-end services—from conceptual design and planning to permitting and development support—guided by clarity, creativity, and precision. We are a California-licensed architectural practice (CA Architect License #C26338) and a licensed California real estate broker (DRE #01866184), enabling us to bring a well-rounded, strategic perspective to every project.

At ZŌN, we’re not just designers—we’re collaborators, advocates, and problem solvers. We help our clients navigate complexity with confidence, turning ideas into purposeful, enduring spaces that meet today’s needs while anticipating tomorrow’s possibilities.

Design Services

ZŌN Architects delivers innovative and responsive design solutions tailored to a variety of needs:

Residential: Remodels, additions, and ADUs that emphasize livability, sustainability, and seamless indoor-outdoor flow. We specialize in maximizing existing homes and properties to meet evolving household needs.

Civic & Commercial: Municipal facilities, government agency projects, office buildings, retail spaces, healthcare facilities, telecommunications sites, and cannabis distribution centers designed to enhance functionality and reinforce client brands.

Our collaborative, team-based approach ensures clear communication and client involvement throughout the design process, drawing on diverse expertise to achieve exceptional results.

Innovative New Home Design ©ZŌN Architects, Inc.

©ZŌN Architects, Inc.

Our Focus: Reimagining What’s Possible at Home

At ZŌN Architects, we specialize in helping Bay Area homeowners make the most of their existing spaces.

Whether you’re navigating structural limitations, changing family needs, or simply seeking a more functional and beautiful home, our team brings clarity, creativity, and deep technical expertise to every remodel.

From kitchen transformations and whole-home renovations to ADUs that support evolving lifestyles, we’re here to help you reimagine what’s possible—without starting from scratch.

To discuss your project and how we can assist you, contact us at

📞 415.287.0596 • ✉️ support@zonarchitects.com

Or complete our follow-up form to start the conversation.

photo credit: ©ZŌN Architects, Inc.

©ZŌN Architects, Inc.

Our Expertise

Residential Remodels: Whether you’re looking to update a few rooms or undertake a complete transformation, our team ensures every detail reflects your vision and needs.
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs): From rental units to guest houses, we design and permit space-efficient ADUs that blend beautifully with your existing home and serve your long-term needs—like multi-generational living or added income.
Commercial Design & Tenant Improvements: From office remodels to restaurants and retail spaces, we create functional, inviting environments tailored to your needs and brand. We redesign interiors to improve flow, functionality, and aesthetics—whether for new tenants or growing teams.
Design Excellence: Our designers bring creativity and precision to every project, crafting spaces that are both beautiful and functional.
Structural Engineering: Our experts excel in structural engineering, ensuring that every project is not only aesthetically pleasing but also structurally sound. We specialize in residential structural work, providing robust solutions to meet the specific needs of your home.
Permitting Process: Permits can be complicated—but we’ve got it covered. Our experienced team manages the process from start to finish, helping you avoid delays and keep your project moving forward.

At ZŌN Architects, your home and commercial spaces are our priority. Let us help you create spaces where you can thrive. To discuss your project and how we can be of service to you, please reach out to us today at 415.287.0596 or support@zonarchitects.com

"Skipping permitting may not be worth it"
photo credit: Kaboompics

Tempted to skip permits to save time or money?

You’re not alone — but many Bay Area homeowners are surprised to learn how skipping permits can lead to costly challenges down the road.

Here’s what’s at stake:

• Demolition orders – City inspectors can require removal of unpermitted work, no matter how well it’s done. Beautiful renovations have been torn out simply because they weren’t approved first. [SF Department of Building Inspection]

• Significant penalties – In San Francisco, fines can be up to nine times the original construction cost, plus daily fees until the issue is resolved. [SF Chronicle]

• Insurance gaps – Major carriers often won’t cover damage caused by unpermitted changes, which can leave you footing the bill. [Angi Report]

• Resale headaches – Unpermitted work must be disclosed when selling, and it can delay or derail transactions. In some cases, sellers end up paying for retroactive permitting. [California Association of Realtors]

Projects that often require permits include:

Kitchen remodels (even if they seem mostly cosmetic) • Bathroom upgrades or additions • Altering walls (including non-load-bearing) • Building or expanding a deck • Converting a garage • Upgrading your electrical panel

The good news? At ZŌN Architects, we handle the complex permitting process so you can focus on your vision. Our team knows the requirements inside and out, ensuring your project moves forward smoothly and stays compliant.

Ready to start your project the right way?

Don't let permitting concerns hold back your vision. Contact ZŌN Architects today to discuss how we can streamline your project from concept to completion.

📞 Call us: (415) 287-0596

✉️ Email: support@zonarchitects.com

Specialized Telecom Experience

While our principal focus remains residential and commercial architecture, ZŌN has also provided architectural and engineering (A&E) design and consulting in the telecommunications sector for over 25 years. During that time, we've worked with virtually all of the major wireless carriers on thousands of sites across site development and infrastructure projects.

Our Telecom Services Include:

* Architectural & Engineering Design and Consulting

* Site Evaluations and Site Acquisition

* Permitting and Entitlement

* Project Coordination

Today, we primarily work with tower owners, infrastructure companies, and individual site and property owners—helping them navigate carrier requirements, streamline colocation projects, and maximize site value. Our deep understanding of carrier expectations and regulatory processes enables us to provide strategic guidance and support, allowing clients to enhance connectivity and advance their projects swiftly and efficiently. To learn more about our Wireless Telecom capabilities, please visit our Services page.

photo credit: Jonas Stolle

Technology

ZŌN leverages advanced technology to enhance project delivery and client communication. We utilize AutoDesk's AutoCAD and Revit for 2D and 3D modeling, ASANA for project management, SLACK for team communication, and are certified by AVETTA. As members of Scopeworker and the SAP ARIBA Network, we streamline processes with cutting-edge tools. Recognized by BOX as an early adopter of shared file technology, read their case study about us here. We provide regular client updates and transparent project access, ensuring clear communication every step of the way. Additionally, ZŌN’s certification in Procore's Architect platform enables us to maximize best practices in documentation and communication for future projects.

Ready to experience our streamlined approach? Contact us today: 📞 (415) 287-0596. ✉️ support@zonarchitects.com

Trademark Notice: Logos displayed above are the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. AutoCAD and Revit are registered trademarks of Autodesk, Inc.; Asana is a registered trademark of Asana, Inc.; Slack is a registered trademark of Slack Technologies, LLC; Avetta is a registered trademark of Avetta, LLC; Scopeworker is a registered trademark of Scopeworker Inc.; SAP and Ariba are registered trademarks of SAP SE; Box is a registered trademark of Box, Inc.; and Procore is a registered trademark of Procore Technologies, Inc. Use of these logos does not imply endorsement or affiliation with ZŌN Architects, Inc.

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