I am an apartment owner/investor and want to let other apartment owners know about my experience…read morewith Reverence Engineering. Last year, I obtained an inspection of the deck and balcony at my family's 10 unit apartment complex in order to comply with Senate Bill 721. After learning that our cantilevered balcony needed structural work, I began calling engineering firms. I chose Reverence Engineering because I wanted to work with a smaller firm and I was impressed with my initial call with principal engineer Brett Sauers. During that conversation, he explained in simple terms how he would approach creating plans and seeking permits for a major retrofit of our balcony walkway. From there, I was kept well informed by email at every step of the way. Because I live out of state and was not able to be present for any site visits, Brett prepared an explanatory video for me so that I could see exactly what he was seeing and understand how we could solve the structural challenges. The draft plans were ready more quickly than I expected and Brett personally addressed all my questions with patience and precision. The City took longer than I had hoped to do its plan review, but Brett's staff sent me weekly updates. In addition, they walked me through all the forms that I needed to sign so it ended up being a pain-free process from start to finish. I really couldn't be happier with the attentiveness of Brett and his team, as well as the outcome. They deserve accolades for exceptional structural engineering work, at a very reasonable cost.

I submitted a request to Reverence for an Architect in early January 2026, I received a call back…read morefrom Brett to go over the services Reverence provides and their approach to support the clients. At the end of the call, Brett stated he would work on the contract and send over for review. The following week, I called Reverence to better understand the timeline for contract creation so I could maintain realistic expectations; I was told I should have the contract that day (January 13) or the following day (January 14). I contacted Reverence on January 20, after not receiving a response and was advised a message would be sent to Brett for an update. I again did not receive a response (no callback nor email) and contacted Reverence on January 22 and again on February 2, and was provided a similar response (that I should receive the contract soon if not today or the next). I subsequently left a message on February 4, indicating that I no longer wished to proceed with their services and would look elsewhere. I have no doubt that Reverence provides customers with solid service once contracted, however, I find it is equally important to effectively communicate with prospective clients to ensure transparency. I would have gladly waited a few more weeks if that was the standard and was communicated to me. Hopefully future clients will have a better experience.

Benjamin was incredible at helping us manage our project. His sense of design, excellent project…read moremanagement and knowledge of construction made us feel comfortable making decisions and accepting his help as he partnered with all of the design, planning/permitting and construction crews on our project. He helped us manage overhead while still creating exciting and relevant upgrades to our remodel. We highly recommend this architect and his team!

From the owner: We draw inspiration from each client’s personal story, goals, and desires. Our process unites their…read morepersonalities with architectural possibilities that are artful, inventive, and engaging. The result is more than a house; it becomes a testament to the unique spirit and identity of the people it serves. Founded by 20-year licensed architect, Benjamin Schaefer, LittleBig Design is a full-service architecture studio focused on contemporary residential design. Launched in San Francisco and now headquartered in Carlsbad, California, LittleBig Design serves the greater San Diego and San Francisco Bay Areas. Benjamin and his team offer a unique approach: personalized service from a boutique design firm complemented by extensive experience in managing large and complex projects. This combination equips them with the skills needed to navigate the intricacies often encountered in coastal and urban residential development. They excel in creating innovative design solutions for constrained spaces, managing diverse stakeholders, fostering collaboration with regulatory agencies, and gaining support from the local community.

I was introduced to Deborah through a friend for a new construction project that we were…read moreconsidering. We were hiring her to work with us on our architectural plans for twin homes in the Cardiff beach community. I have to say, Deborah is such an amazing architect with a very detailed eye. We came in with a wish list of how we wanted this project to turn out and she put together to most amazing plans that not only met my expectations but exceeded them. Her extraordinary suggestions & ideas to maximize the space and usage of the floor plan was appreciated and made it exciting to visualize the possibilities of this home. Deborah's knowledge of the city's permitting & building process was extremely helpful too. She is very educated on the building & planning requirements and created our plans to the inch of what was allowed. Not only am I a client, but I am also a Realtor® and have referred clients to Deborah because I personally know that they are in the best hands when it comes to a building project. I would highly recommend Deborah Shewaga's services. Her guidance, knowledge and vision are definitely top notch. If you are looking for an architect to bring your vision to life, Deborah is your person!

It was a pleasure to work with Deborah Shewaga. She listened to our concepts, made excellent…read moresuggestions and helped us accomplish what we set out to do -- update our home yet maintain the existing style. I especially appreciated Deborah's quick response to all our questions and her professionalism. I highly recommend Deborah for architectural services. The Wands of Carlsbad

I've had the pleasure of working with Devin on one of my projects. His knowledge of the design and…read morepermitting world is exemplary. I have been in a few bad situations over the years. Devin was understanding, patient, and had great communication with me throughout the process. I really appreciate him taking the time to walk me through the design phase and explain things in detail. I highly recommend Devin and Streamline for your design and permitting needs.

I want to start by saying that I'm genuinely grateful this long process finally ended with my…read morepermit being approved. Having the resolution was a relief, and the job captain became responsive toward the very end. Unfortunately, the overall experience with Streamline Design & Permitting was extremely difficult, and I think future clients deserve a clear and factual account of what occurred. Background I purchased a home where the previous owner had illegally converted storage space into a studio unit. When I received a code violation, I began the permitting process with another company, but their drafter became unavailable mid-project. That gave me a point of comparison for transparency, communication, and timelines. I interviewed two new companies. One said submission would take 3-4 weeks; Streamline promised submission within one week. Because I was losing rental income, I chose Streamline based on their faster timeline. In reality, the kickoff call didn't happen for a week, and the first submission went in roughly three weeks after hiring them. That slow start reflected the rest of what became a nine-month process. 1. Lack of Transparency The previous company had been clear about timelines, what the City typically requires, and how reviews worked. Streamline did not offer the same level of transparency. I repeatedly asked for City comments so I could understand progress, but I almost never received them directly. The only reason I became aware of several major issues was because the previous drafting company was still copied on City emails and forwarded them to me. This created the impression that I was not getting full visibility into City feedback or into avoidable errors being made. 2. Repeated Avoidable Mistakes Several errors added delays and extra rounds of review: * The first submission labeled the unit as a JADU, even though I explained during the kickoff call that my zoning does not allow a JADU. * When the title was corrected, the internal sheets still referenced "JADU" throughout. * After a phone call I requested with the City--where reviewers clearly stated the space must be submitted as a non-habitable owner's office unless I pursued an ADU--Streamline resubmitted it as "living space." This contradicted explicit City direction and triggered additional comments, delays, and added costs. When I asked about the error, I was given an explanation referencing terminology used on another project rather than a clear acknowledgment that a mistake had been made. None of these issues were proactively disclosed. 3. Invoicing and Lack of Clarity I repeatedly asked for a breakdown of how the billed hours were spent. The previous drafting company separated administrative coordination from drafting work. Streamline billed everything at drafting rates without itemization, including tasks like forwarding emails, coordination, and follow-ups--some of which I ultimately handled myself. When I requested clarification, the responses felt defensive rather than explanatory. 4. Communication Tone From Leadership When I expressed concerns about transparency and billing, the CEO's response felt dismissive. He stated that if I didn't like their pricing, I should have hired someone else, and noted that questioning hours could result in the project being placed on hold. This was after nine months of delays and multiple attempts on my part to express concerns constructively. 5. After the Permit Was Finally Approved Despite everything, I reached out again for the next phase (an ADU conversion) because I hoped Streamline might handle the next stage more smoothly, especially since the job captain I had worked with was no longer with the company. I requested drafting support only--not submission--so I could personally manage communication with the City. Instead of a drafting-only scope, I received a large proposal priced as if the project was starting from scratch. When I requested my CAD files so I could hire a different drafter, Streamline asked for additional fees. I ended up hiring a new drafter who is recreating the plans for less than Streamline quoted to update the existing ones. Summary Streamline presents very confidently on the sales side, but in my experience the drafting quality was inconsistent, mistakes were not acknowledged, transparency was limited, and communication lacked accountability. The job captain was pleasant and responsive at the end, but there were many avoidable errors throughout the process. The experience was far more stressful, time-consuming, and expensive than it needed to be. Final Note Streamline's contract includes a non-disparagement clause. Everything above reflects documented facts: dated emails, City correspondence, the project timeline, and written communication with Streamline. My intention is to provide an accurate account so future homeowners can make an informed decision.

I had a small problem that I had to have a architect deal with that involved the city of Carlsbad…read more I met with John and with in a few visits the plans were re- submitted and and approved...John made this quick,affordable, and no stress for me.....thanks John you get 5 stars

John Beery's expertise and creativity in Architecture is exceptional. He creates custom homes for…read morehis clients that are truly amazing.

We've worked with Al Simeone numerous times over the past decade on three different personal homes…read more He's an excellent engineer and designer.

Al helped me with a difficult situation that included an non- permitted ADU and two non-permitted…read moreout buildings that were more that 20 years old. No knowing exactly what I was up against, I really had to rely on Al's advice and experience to calmly guide me through the details of exactly what to expect. When we finally were in the construction phase of the large buildings, it moved quickly, as the inspector was familiar with Al's work, trusting his calculations with confidence. There was not even the slightest issue. I am so very pleased. We are currently ready to begin work on the ADU. I expect the same amount of ease with this project.

My fiancé and I decided to go with Poseidon Remodeling to redo our shower after living through a…read morereality nightmare, literally!! Zoran came into our house as professional as possible and was very clear and concise about our shower remodel, the cost, and the timeline. As with any project, we did arise with a couple of complications and Zoran went above and beyond to provide outstanding customer service and communication. I can't say enough great things about Zoran and Poseidon. We are truly blessed to have met and hire you for this project. If I could give more than five stars, I would in a heartbeat. Thank you so much Poseidon and Zoran for all your help and hard work, we are LOVING our new shower!!

The Before and After photos here were taken from the same spot in our house. They show the…read moreincredible transformation delivered by Poseidon. Before our remodel we had a small dark dining room and kitchen and a family room. Now we have an open space which fits our style perfectly and which we absolutely love. Poseidon worked with us every step of the way to ensure that our new room is as we dreamed. The craftsmanship of the work is excellent. Zoran Vladisavljevic's overall management kept the project within budget and to the committed timetable. Keith Tavshanjian is an artist in tile and design and great project manager. Specialists such as Kevin Shea ensured excellence in all things electrical. Keith's assistant Luis is able and willing to undertake projects of many types. We trust Poseidon. We trust Zoran and Keith. This is the second project they have done for us and it won't be the last. Five years ago they remodeled our master bathroom. We strongly recommend Poseidon to anyone looking for a project, small or large.