Custom Home Design in Bel Air

Bel Air is subject to LA’s Hillside Construction Regulations (HCR) and Baseline Hillside Ordinance (BHO), which impose strict grading limits (6,000 cubic yards), hauling restrictions, and construction activity rules. Additionally, most properties have challenging topography requiring specialized foundation engineering and view optimization. Our 10+ years in this area means we design with these complexities in mind from day one.

For homes under 20,000 sq ft, expect 3-6 months through LADBS. Larger estates require LA City Planning Department review, extending timelines to 6-12 months. Our experience navigating HCR requirements significantly reduces delays. We handle all submissions, revisions, and communications with the city on your behalf.

The HCR is a Los Angeles supplemental use district that regulates single-family developments in hillside areas like Bel Air. It limits grading quantities, restricts hauling operations (9 AM-3 PM weekdays only, max 4 trucks/hour), and mandates specific construction hours. Violations result in $1,000 fines and potential project shutdowns. We ensure your design complies with all HCR rules before breaking ground.

We design architectural plans that account for hillside foundations (retaining walls, piers, caissons) and coordinate with structural engineers who specialize in slope stability. While we don’t perform engineering calculations ourselves, we’ve worked with LA’s top hillside engineers for over a decade and can recommend trusted partners.

Design-build firms have inherent conflicts of interest—they profit more when construction costs increase. As design-only specialists, we serve your interests exclusively. Every material choice, every design decision prioritizes your vision and budget, not a contractor’s profit margin. You’re free to get competitive bids from multiple builders.

We design all architectural styles prevalent in Bel Air: Mid-Century Modern, Contemporary, Spanish Colonial Revival, Mediterranean, Traditional, and Postmodern. Our portfolio includes sleek glass-and-steel masterpieces as well as classic estates with old-world craftsmanship. Your aesthetic preference guides the design.

Design and permitting fees typically range from 8-12% of estimated construction costs. For a $3M home, expect $150K-$300K in architectural services. This includes all design development, permit processing, plan corrections, and construction document delivery. We provide transparent pricing during your free consultation.

Plan revisions are included in our service at no additional cost. With our HCR and BHO expertise, we rarely face significant revision requests most plans are approved on first or second submission. If adjustments are needed, we handle them promptly to keep your timeline on track.