Manzanita Design Build - Oakland, California

Keith J.

Before working with Ben at Manzanita Design Build we had worked for a short time with an architect I had previous experience with many years earlier working as a general contractor in Berkeley. Early on we assumed I would do our remodel/addition myself by hiring carpenters and subcontractors. It started to become apparent to both my wife and me that our architect wasn’t listening to us and didn’t seem to have much energy or enthusiasm for our project. It was difficult for us to end the relationship after having some time and money invested but we knew it would be for the best. We found Ben after doing our research and quickly it became apparent that Ben had the energy and creativity we were looking for. I personally liked that Ben was a builder having had some frustrating past experiences working as both a carpenter and contractor with architects unfamiliar with some of the realities of building. Quickly we became convinced to just let Ben design and build our whole project and we’re glad we did. Ben always listened to the ideas we had and working together we always improved upon them. Ben also had a practicality about things that made it easy to go with his suggestions. Our project was fairly involved and all of Ben’s employees and subcontractors were skilled and very easy to get along with. I’d have to guess that compared with most clients I was probably more difficult and given to micro managing because of my building background, but Ben and his crew made it feel like a collaborative experience. In the end we’re very happy we chose Ben and are extremely happy in our amazing remodeled house with our marriage intact!

Antonio D. W.

Hiring Ben was the single best decision I made for a comprehensive rebuild project.

He saw things in design I would have never considered - elements that substantially elevated the usage and flow of the space - and saw them through to seamless completion. Design, permits, build, finish, he did it all.

Every facet, from electrical placement to stair geometry to plumbing choices, Ben not only knows but could probably give a dissertation on. He could give the pro/con of every decision, grounded in countless hours of experience, and his choice would certainly be the right one. It became clear very fast that Ben’s full service design build is precisely what I wanted. This is the person you’re looking for.

Thank you so much!

Brian

Ben designed and started construction of our ADU in Oakland. Since we started working with a design/build firm, we will never go back to using a separate architect and general contractor. Everything is taken care of by Ben, and is your single-source of contact for design, zoning approval, building permit, and construction. There’s no finger pointing, communication issues, or blaming someone else for problems.

Ben has an easy communication style. He listens to your concerns and patiently walks you through your options. His deep-depth of knowledge on Oakland’s zoning and building codes, allowed us to weigh our options and make decisions efficiently. Budgets are transparent and realistic, which has minimized surprises and kept us on track, financially.

We are through the first phase of construction, which included foundation and rough framing. The construction team at Manzanita is equally amazing to work with, and their quality is excellent. I’ll plan to do a follow-up review of the finish construction as we enter the next phase of work. I’m sure we will be just as pleased.

Linda R.

Manzanita Design Build designed and built a new ADU for us, and we cannot recommend them highly enough. Ben listened carefully to what we wanted, including our budget and constraints. He designed a house that met all of our criteria and desires. Thor did a fantastic job on execution, with great craftsmanship. The whole team , including first-rate subcontractors, did excellent work, on time and on budget. And, it was truly a pleasure to work with Ben and Thor who were good communicators, fun to be around, responsive to questions, and flexible. We are thrilled with our new home - which exceeds all of our expectations - and with Manzanita Design Build.

James S.

Manzanita Design Build did a fantastic job designing and building a multifamily home for me in Oakland. Ben was easy to work with throughout the design process and provided a clear vison for beautiful, functional spaces throughout the home. I expected the project to be delayed by the pandemic but thanks to their diligence and foresight with planners, contractors and materials it was finished on time and within budget. I would recommend them to anyone looking for high quality design and craftmanship in the bay area.

Bert B.

We had a wonderful experience with Ben and Manzanita Design. The project came in on budget and on time. Ben was extremely responsive and communicative throughout the entire process. He and his team were excellent design partners, and have stayed in touch after construction. We’re very happy with our ADU and have already recommended them to several folks.

Ronja V.

Manzanita built our sweet two-bedroom ADU home and I'm very happy with the process. I showed up with drawings I had made with my kid, and Ben worked with me to figure out what was doable and how to realize it within the constraints of the city's regulations, adding in good ideas and respecting my different choices. Ben listened carefully, and took time to get an idea of our values and what we were looking for.
Throughout the process I had access to a spreadsheet with the running expenses and budget, and there was clear communication about finances throughout. The planning and construction process all stayed within the agreed timeline and budget, and I was kept in the loop with fequent updates and reminders of what was needed from me next.
Then construction itself took a little over half a year. It was surprisingly easy to live right by the building site, much of which is thanks to site manager Chris and the entire crew. Their communication was timely and clear at all times, and they took into account the sensibilities of our neighbors as well. All the subcontractors who worked on the project were excellent in their craft. There was a positive and respectful vibe at the site: it felt like everyone who came through actually cared about making this a good home for us.
After our move-in the folks at Manzanita have continued to be responsive and made time to promptly attend to the minor things I noticed that needed attention. My warmest recommendations for Manzanita!

Michelle S.

Manzanita Design Build creates thoughtful, well-crafted, and unique spaces that feel special. Ben is incredibly knowledgable and takes great pride in his craft, which is clear in every one of their projects I have gotten the pleasure to walkthrough. The designs are playful yet practical and the level of craftsmanship is top-notch.