A licensed San Diego architect for new homes, ADUs, additions, and remodels
Twenty years of designs that get approved and get built.
Architect
I’m Micah Winkelstein, a licensed California architect (C32069) working with San Diego homeowners on ADUs, additions, remodels, and custom homes. Twenty years in, I’ve learned that the interesting part of residential architecture isn’t the first sketch. It’s whether the thing can actually be permitted and built on your lot, for a number you can live with.
I learned that the direct way. Before starting this practice I designed custom homes at firms across Southern California, then spent five years as Director of Design and Senior Architect at Murray Lampert Design, Build, Remodel here in San Diego, serving as Architect of Record on remodels, additions, and design-build projects. Working inside a builder teaches you quickly which drawings survive contact with a job site and which ones generate change orders.
I’d rather tell you in week one that your idea needs to change than in month six, after you’ve paid for drawings.
It starts with your parcel
Most projects go wrong at the property line, not the drafting table. Base zone, overlays, setbacks, height limits, coverage, fire access, slope, coastal, TPA status. I check all of it in week one, before design begins.
A full team, one point of contact
Design, permit drawings, plan check, and corrections. I also coordinate the structural engineer, civil engineer, surveyor, and Title 24 consultant so you’re not managing five professionals yourself.
Design only, on your side
I don’t build. When I tell you something about your project, I have nothing to sell you but honest advice. When you need a contractor, I’ll introduce you to builders I’ve worked alongside for years.
What clients and trade partners say
Kyle Fitzgerald, Homeowner ★★★★★
“My wife and I met with five architects before meeting Micah, all none of which met our high expectations. Micah had thoughtful insights, creative ideas, and was great to work with.”
EJ Ochoa, ADU, Fletcher Hills ★★★★★
“Micah was outstanding in his communication, follow up and professionalism. He is very knowledgeable and open to customization in requests and really thinks through the options for his clients.”
Bryan Bushaw, General Contractor ★★★★★
“I am a contractor in San Diego and have worked with Micah on numerous projects. He is extremely knowledgeable, hardworking, and easy to work with. Whenever I need plans or permits pulled for projects he is my first stop by far!”
Nicole Gouthro, Interior Designer ★★★★★
“As an interior designer, I love partnering with architects who are easy to work with, talented, creative and genuinely collaborative. If you’re building in San Diego, I highly recommend reaching out to Micah about your project!”
Jennifer Moeckel, Whole-Home Remodel ★★★★★
“We couldn’t be happier with our experience working with Micah on the design of our dream home remodel. From the very beginning, he has been incredibly talented, professional, and easy to work with.”
★★★★★ 5.0 on Google & Houzz
Rated 5.0 on Google and Houzz, with recommendations from homeowners, contractors, and design partners across San Diego County and Nextdoor. Licensed California Architect C32069 · NCARB · LEED AP · AIA.
Selected Work
Residential projects across San Diego County: ADUs, additions, remodels, and custom homes.
* Includes projects designed while Director of Design at Murray Lampert Design, Build, Remodel, San Diego.
Contact
Send me your project address and what you’re hoping to do. I’ll look at your zoning before we talk. Consultations by appointment, throughout San Diego County.
Micah Winkelstein Architect
San Diego, California
(805) 403-5701 · micah@w-arc.com
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8 AM – 5 PM
MICAH WINKELSTEIN ARCHITECT A.P.C. · Licensed California Architect C32069 · NCARB · LEED AP · AIA
* Certain projects shown were completed while Micah Winkelstein was employed at Murray Lampert Design, Build, Remodel, San Diego, California.
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