Business Details
38 Years
experience
Award-Winning Santa Barbara Architects | NMA Architects
At NMA Architects, we specialize in creating timeless, sustainable homes that reflect our clients' unique lifestyles and the natural beauty of the Santa Barbara environment. With over 35 years of experience, our team approaches each project with a commitment to blending modern innovation with traditional craftsmanship. We prioritize understanding our clients' needs to design spaces that foster connection between people and their surroundings. Our deep-rooted relationships with local artisans and builders ensure exceptional quality and attention to detail. We believe architecture should honor both the environment and the individuality of each homeowner.Our partners, Dave Mendro and Mary Andrulaitis, have cultivated a studio culture centered on creativity, collaboration, and community stewardship. From concept to completion, we guide clients through every phase of the design and construction process. Our portfolio demonstrates a dedication to diverse architectural styles, from modern to traditional, while maintaining sensitivity to coastal ecosystems. Recognized for our award-winning designs, we continue to evolve our practice to meet the changing needs of sustainable living. This enduring commitment to excellence has made us trusted leaders in Central Coast architecture.
Services
Modern Homes
Traditional Homes
Beach Homes
Home Remodels
Small Homes
Details
- Year established: 1988
Highlights and features
- We offer 35+ years of local architectural expertise
- Our designs prioritize sustainable, environment-sensitive construction
- We provide personalized, non-cookie-cutter design solutions
- Our team maintains deep relationships with local craftsmen
- We guarantee seamless project coordination from concept to completion
What people say
Attention to detail
Seamless project completion
Creative space utilization
Timely work process
Beautiful light integration
Services
Modern Homes
Our modern home designs balance artistic expression with functional living spaces. We create warm, inviting environments that respect challenging coastal properties while maintaining architectural precision. Each project emphasizes natural light integration and seamless indoor-outdoor transitions. Our approach combines minimalist aesthetics with practical considerations for California's climate.
Traditional Homes
We craft timeless traditional homes that incorporate modern functionality. Our designs feature honest materials and balanced proportions while adapting to contemporary lifestyles. Each project maintains nostalgic elements while optimizing for energy efficiency and modern comfort standards in Santa Barbara's unique environment.
Beach Homes
Specializing in oceanfront properties, we design beach homes that withstand harsh coastal conditions while maximizing views and natural elements. Our approach balances protective structural elements with open, airy living spaces that capture ocean breezes and panoramic vistas.
Home Remodels
We transform existing structures into sustainable, modern living spaces. Our remodeling process preserves architectural character while updating functionality and energy efficiency. Projects focus on enhancing natural light, optimizing layouts, and integrating modern amenities without compromising original design integrity.
Small Homes
Our small home designs maximize spatial efficiency without sacrificing quality. We create multifunctional layouts that optimize natural light and outdoor connections. Each project emphasizes thoughtful storage solutions and intentional design elements to create expansive-feeling compact residences.
People
Dave Mendro
Partner
With over 35 years of Santa Barbara architectural experience, Dave Mendro focuses on creating environmentally responsive designs that reflect client lifestyles while maintaining coastal ecosystem sensitivity.
Mary Andrulaitis
Partner
Mary Andrulaitis brings decades of local design expertise, specializing in integrating sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems into timeless residential architecture that complements California's coastal environment.
Andy Neumann
Partner Emeritus
As founding partner, Andy Neumann established NMA's commitment to place-based design, mentoring teams to create award-winning homes that harmonize with Santa Barbara's natural landscape and community character.
Patrick Berg
Senior Associate
Patrick Berg leads project teams with 20+ years of local architectural experience, ensuring meticulous attention to detail and seamless coordination between design vision and construction execution.
Kurt Muenzer
Associate
Kurt Muenzer specializes in modern residential design, applying innovative solutions to complex coastal site challenges while maintaining NMA's commitment to environmental stewardship and client satisfaction.
Questions
What architectural styles do you specialize in?
We work across modern, traditional, beachfront, and small home designs, tailoring each project to client preferences while maintaining environmental sensitivity.
How do you incorporate sustainability into designs?
We prioritize energy-efficient systems, local materials, and passive design strategies that reduce environmental impact while enhancing living comfort.
What's your design process like?
We begin with in-depth client consultations, followed by site analysis and iterative design development, maintaining constant communication through construction completion.
Do you work outside Santa Barbara?
While based in Santa Barbara, we've completed projects along California's Central Coast and consider select opportunities in comparable environments.
How do you handle remodel projects?
We assess existing structures for preservation potential, then develop designs that enhance functionality while maintaining architectural character and improving energy performance.
