About

Kurt Lavenson is an architect licensed in California, New York and Colorado. His projects consist of houses and remodels that respond to the essence of their place and their owners. His work is a balance of editing and invention, seeking the deeper transformations that go beyond style. Kurt is also experienced in all phases of construction, having spent the first 15 years of his career as a design-build general contractor. Prior to that, he received his degree in architecture and the Eisner prize for photography, while at UC Berkeley’s College of Environmental Design, where he returns occasionally as a guest lecturer and reviewer. Since 1985, Kurt has been acknowledged by peers and the press for award-winning design work and insightful writing

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Lavenson Design provides comprehensive services to clients who value personalized, creative results, problem solving and attention to detail – ranging from the latest sustainable technologies to the timeless feel of a sunlit room. The firm has grown through referrals, the trust of many repeat clients and the opportunity to collaborate with fellow designers, contractors and artisans. The firm is deliberately small, to maintain direct relationships between clients and the principal architect.

What clients say:

“We have worked with Kurt since 1995 and used his services on three residential remodel projects. He has a keen artistic sense and a superb eye for detail, which he translates into beautiful, functional designs. Kurt’s personal touch and sensitivity to our needs, including budget, is always present.”   ~Kevin M.

“Kurt didn’t start with redesigning a house. He started by developing a deep understanding of how we lived and what was important to us, including the outdoor ‘rooms’. He is passionate about ensuring that the entire experience of living in our home goes beyond just the building itself. Remodeling a home can be stressful, but Kurt is thankfully not just an architect – we think of him as an “architecture therapist”    ~Chris B.

“One of the things we liked best about working with Kurt was his willingness to collaborate and share ideas, to come up with a result that was a joint creative effort uniquely suited to us. He has a great ability to work with different kinds of clients to achieve individualized results, but there is a common theme of satisfaction with the process and the end result.”   ~ Karl M.

Even though we needed design review and two variance approvals from the Piedmont planning department, our designs were approved unanimously at the first presentation to the planning commission. Kurt’s advice and skill have served us well.” ~ Robert B.