Ludwig Design

Referral for Polsky Architects and David Ludwig as designers of our oceanside home on Highway 1 north of Jenner, CA We have a spectacular view-oriented site and chose to use a Japanese pole-barn kit as the basis for our project. My husband is a General Contractor and we intended to build the house ourselves. However, our ideas did not match the standard kit design, so we were looking for creative ways to improve the design within the modifications available from the manufacturer. We wanted to increase the overall floor space while keeping to large-volume high-ceiling feel of the original plan. After creative discussion with the architects, we agreed that adding a partial second level with rooms at opposite corners of the house, and a bridge connecting the spaces would be an exciting way to explore creative options for the new design. To make room for this additional upper floor space, the plate height of the outer walls at the main floor level was raised. This simple modification was within the scope available from the kit supplier and enhanced the interior spacious feeling for the entire project. David’s experience both as an architect and as a general contractor was helpful in coordinating the revisions between Paul and the kit company, as well as the suggestion of adding an interior bridge which created a theme of surprise and playfulness for the whole project. With the Master bedroom at an upper level with no windows, David suggested adding an upper deck recessed into the roof, with wide sliding patio doors to frame a sweet spot for the ocean view from the foot of the bed. Classic Japanese detailing, including a perimeter walk-around deck, exposed poles interior and exterior and a long ridge dormer and skylight were retained and included in the design. Suggestions regarding aesthetics and materials flowed easily and were smoothly incorporated in the design for the finished project. We enjoyed working with David because his experience as a builder, as well as his aesthetic ideas, made our design unique, exciting and practical. We appreciated being supported in our own process, as well as in our communication with the kit-builders. We highly recommend David as an experienced and creative design professional. Ilene & Don Paul Jenner, CA

David was our architect for a total house remodel. He was a good listener and was thoughtful in designing the house that more than exceeded our expectations. We live and use every corner of our house and love how it flows and looks. He draws on a lot of creativity and is fun to work with. Our whole team was great and he worked well with all of them. His experience allows him to come up with ideas that are novel and cost-effective. We found him forthright about costs and he was reasonable. We were highly satisfied with his work and would definitely use him again.

We completed a major home renovation in Sausalito using David's design services. His knowledge, experience and creativity enabled solutions compatible with our vision. He worked well with contractors and city planning towards implementation of the design. Quality and sustainability were priorities that we appreciated.

David is that rare combination of deep knowledge in the building trades, architecture & design, plus is very personable and a pleasure to work with. I have worked with David off and on for 20+ years and he never fails or let's one down. One cannot do better than David as a design & building professional.