Lookinglass Architecture & Design

Description of Work: We hired Emil at Lookinglass Architecture to design a sunroom and bedroom addition to our craftsman home in Santa Monica, as well as a basement bathroom. The project presented some challenges, namely the logistics surrounding a subterranean bathroom as well as maintaining the integrity of the craftsman style in a seamless addition. Emil was exceptionally competent in all areas of the process, from the general design and maintenance of aesthetic integrity, to navigating the shark-infested waters of the building and permit division of Santa Monica City Hall. He was extremely knowledgeable of the city's seemingly millions of tiny rules and regulations regarding design and construction and even helped us jump through a couple loopholes that saved us thousands of dollars. He also went out of his way to research the craftsman style to make sure the design stayed true to the original house. He provided detailed blueprints of all the work to be performed, including detailed plumbing schematics which were required by the city due to the fact that the new bathroom was underground. He took care of all submissions and communication with the city and engineers (structural, plumbing, etc) and left us with the easy and pleasant task of deciding between window styles and fixtures.