Who is Mark Thomas Architects (MTA)?

Mark Thomas Architects (MTA) is a full-service architectural firm based in San Francisco, with over 30 years of experience designing sustainable, livable homes and innovative commercial workspaces. Led by founder and principal Mark Thomas, our team combines design excellence with technical precision to create spaces that reflect each client’s vision and the character of their environment.

What regions do you serve?

Mark Thomas Architects proudly serves San Francisco and the greater Bay Area, including Marin County, Palo Alto, Sonoma, Napa Valley, Sea Ranch, and Lake Tahoe, as well as select projects throughout Northern California and Southern California. Our team has deep experience designing for a wide range of coastal, urban, and mountain environments, each with its own architectural character and planning requirements. Whether it’s a custom home overlooking the Bay, a modern retreat in Wine Country, or a creative commercial space in downtown San Francisco, MTA brings the same thoughtful, site-responsive approach to every project.

What types of projects do you handle?

Mark Thomas Architects offers comprehensive expertise in both residential and commercial architecture, bringing creativity, technical rigor, and a deep understanding of place to every project.

For residential architecture, our work includes custom homes, full-scale remodels, additions, accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and multi-family residences throughout San Francisco, Marin, Sonoma, Napa Valley, and coastal communities like Sea Ranch. We specialize in modern and timeless designs that maximize natural light, embrace indoor-outdoor living, and respond thoughtfully to each site’s unique terrain and context.

In commercial architecture, we design workplaces, adaptive reuse projects, retail environments, and mixed-use developments that support productivity, creativity, and sustainability. Whether reimagining a historic building or creating a flexible new workspace, we integrate function, brand identity, and environmental performance to help businesses thrive.

Across every project, Mark Thomas Architects focuses on collaboration, craftsmanship, and sustainable design solutions that reflect the values and vision of our clients while enhancing the communities we serve.

What sets you apart from other architects?

At Mark Thomas Architects, what truly sets us apart is our client-centered approach to architecture. We begin every project by listening first—understanding not only the physical requirements but also the values, rhythms, and aspirations of the people who will inhabit the space.

Our team integrates deep technical expertise with creative design thinking, resulting in architecture that is both timeless and highly functional. Each project—whether a modern Bay Area residence, adaptive reuse of a historic building, or a collaborative workspace—is guided by a commitment to sustainability, craftsmanship, and enduring quality.

We believe great architecture emerges through collaboration. By partnering closely with clients, builders, engineers, and artisans, we translate vision into reality with clarity and precision. From concept through construction, Mark Thomas Architects creates spaces that not only look beautiful but also enhance well-being, respect the environment, and stand the test of time.

Do you work on remodels and home additions?

Yes — Mark Thomas Architects has extensive experience with residential remodels, additions, and whole-home transformations throughout San Francisco and the Bay Area. We specialize in integrating modern functionality and sustainability into existing homes while preserving their architectural integrity. From historic renovations to contemporary expansions, our team manages design, permitting, and construction oversight to ensure a seamless and stress-free process.

How do you incorporate sustainability and energy efficiency into your designs?

Sustainability is a core principle at Mark Thomas Architects. We incorporate passive solar design, natural ventilation, daylighting, and advanced building systems to minimize energy use and enhance comfort. Our projects often include renewable energy integration (solar panels), water conservation systems, and environmentally responsible materials. We also advise clients on LEED certification, Title 24 compliance, and other California green building standards.

What’s the first step to starting a project with Mark Thomas Architects?

The first step is to schedule an initial consultation through our contact page. During this meeting, we’ll discuss your goals, site conditions, budget, and timeline. From there, we outline the scope of work, fee proposal, and project milestones. Whether you’re planning a new custom home, remodel, or commercial build, we guide you from concept to completion with transparency and collaboration at every stage.