Kaplan Architects

Very nice people
Jul 3rd, 2019

I highly recommend Ed Kaplan for architectural work. Back in 2004 we almost doubled the size of our 2/1 Berkeley bungalow by adding a large downstairs office, large upstairs master bedroom with bath, and above that (with exterior spiral staircase) a roof terrace (with elastomeric to walk on). This totally transformed our home. 14 years later we are still loving these spaces, every day. Ed helped us work out our plans with highly detailed feedback, helped us find a great contractor (not easy), and stayed with us until completion (only 6 months from construction start to finish). Having worked out all details in advance really helped keep down construction cost (we incurred only a couple of "change-orders", both cosmetic, not structural). Very satisfied with the whole process.
May 21st, 2019

We highly recommend Kaplan Architects. Their designs, their knowledge, their professionalism, their personalities exceeded our expectations. As the plans became reality, it was amazing to see their ability to foresee how different elements of the project came together into something over and above what we saw on paper. There were never any surprises or misunderstandings with them in any of our dealings. The communication was excellent. However, the best decision we made in the scope of things was requesting they be a part of the whole job and really do the hands-on project oversight in directing and helping the builder follow the plan. Even though the plans were very specific and precise, things on site can change or availability of materials can alter and having Dave and Ed involved kept the project true to design. Even though the contractors may offer suggestions, they don't grasp the significance of what changing even small details can do to the whole vision, and what a difference that will make. I realized very early on when given a choice by the contractor on anything, I deferred to and chose whatever Ed and Dave suggested. I knew if I could convey what I was looking for, Ed and Dave would know how to get there far, far better than I and my trust in them was absolute and well founded! From ideas, to plans, to bidding, to building I know having them involved from start to finish brought that vision together and we are so thrilled with our "new" home!. They are amazing and we feel very fortunate that we were able to find them and made the right choice involving them throughout the entire process. There is no doubt we never would have come close to the home we achieved without their talent and guidance and patience throughout the job in its entirety. They're knowledgeable and incredibly reasonable and did so much keeping everything in perspective. We are grateful for the opportunity to know them and work with them.
Jan 26th, 2019

Ed Kaplan, and associate David Seltzer, designed and oversaw a beautiful 600 square foot addition to our 1920’s cape cod home. The 2 story addition included a bedroom with kitchenette, a guest bath, and grand master bath, large closet and bonus room. Their attention to detail and skill in execution is evident their work. They worked tirelessly in balancing our needs with the traditional aesthetic of our home and neighborhood. From guiding us through the permitting process, negotiating with the city building department, interviewing general contractors, and providing us advice and guidance throughout the entire process, Ed was instrumental in this project. Having performed a major remodel on his own home in our neighborhood, Ed is well versed on the requirements of our Hoa aswell as changing city codes. Ed and David went above and beyond regularly. Even addressing concerns of our neighbors directly, in in-person sit downs and performing extensive daylight studies at their request. Ed was continually overseeing the work of our gc, frequently contacting him and ensuring the slightest details were not being overlooked (details my wife and I certainly would not have noticed). Ed and David also worked very closely with my wife, who is a designer, to consider material/color/texture options carefully. I was the tie breaker when it came to price ;) All in all, I couldn’t imagine having to go through this project without the level of personalization, care and direction afforded us by Ed and David.
Dec 27th, 2018