RESIDENTIAL DESIGN | PERMITTING | 3D VISUALIZATION
CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL DESIGN & PERMIT SPECIALISTS
Value Propositions
PERMIT FOCUSED
EXPERIENCED. RESPONSIVE. RELIABLE.
PERMIT FOCUSED
Dedicated to making the often-complex permitting process smooth and efficient. We handle all aspects of permit coordination — from initial submissions to addressing plan check comments — so you avoid costly delays and frustration. Our deep knowledge of Northern California jurisdictions means faster approvals and fewer revisions, getting your project moving forward quickly and confidently.
CODE COMPLIANT
EXPERIENCED. RESPONSIVE. RELIABLE.
PERMIT FOCUSED
Designed from the ground up to fully meet California Building Codes, Title 24 energy requirements, and all local jurisdiction standards. We proactively incorporate structural, accessibility, fire safety, and environmental regulations into every design. This attention to detail prevents expensive change orders during construction and ensures your project is approved the first time.
3D VISUALIZATION
EXPERIENCED. RESPONSIVE. RELIABLE.
EXPERIENCED. RESPONSIVE. RELIABLE.
Bring your dream home or project to life with realistic 3D models and photorealistic renderings. Walk through your future space virtually, explore different design options, and make confident decisions before breaking ground. Our advanced 3D visualization tools help clients, contractors, and planning departments clearly understand the project, reducing miscommunication and speeding up approvals.
EXPERIENCED. RESPONSIVE. RELIABLE.
EXPERIENCED. RESPONSIVE. RELIABLE.
EXPERIENCED. RESPONSIVE. RELIABLE.
With over 30 years of hands-on residential design and construction experience, Ruben Benitez and the ACE team deliver expert guidance every step of the way. We pride ourselves on clear communication, prompt responses, and a collaborative approach that keeps your project on track and within budget. You can count on us to be your trusted partner from concept through permit approval and beyond.
Services
DESIGN & PERMIT SERVICES
DESIGN & PERMIT SERVICES
DESIGN & PERMIT SERVICES
- Residential Architectural Design
- ADUs & In-Law Units
- Remodels & Additions
- Permit Coordination & Code Compliance
- Construction Documents & Details
- Site Planning & Infill Development
- 3D Modeling & Photorealistic Renderings
- Walkable Neighborhood Design
- Building Science & Envelope Design
ENGINEERING COORDINATION
DESIGN & PERMIT SERVICES
DESIGN & PERMIT SERVICES
- Structural Engineering
- MEP Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Geotechnical Coordination
- Foundation & Grading Support
- Retaining Walls & Drainage
- Fire Access & Septic Coordination
ENERGY & SUSTAINABILITY
DESIGN & PERMIT SERVICES
ENERGY & SUSTAINABILITY
- California Title 24 Energy Compliance
- California Energy Design & Certification
- Energy-Efficient Design
- Solar System Planning
- Battery Backup & Storage
- Electrification & All-Electric Homes
- High-Performance Envelopes
- HVAC, Lighting & Efficiency Strategy
Small Multifamily Expertise
Thoughtful, high-value design solutions for small multifamily and infill projects across Northern California. We specialize in creating attractive, code-compliant, and financially smart developments that maximize land use, generate rental income, and strengthen local communities.
Whether you’re a homeowner looking to add income-producing units or a developer building in growing areas, ACE delivers practical designs that balance livability, aesthetics, and long-term investment returns while navigating complex California regulations.
Our Small Multifamily Specialties Include:
Duplex
Side-by-side or stacked two-unit buildings ideal for families, first-time investors, or homeowners wanting to live in one unit while renting the other. We design duplexes that look like elegant single-family homes while optimizing privacy, parking, and energy efficiency.
Triplex
Three-unit configurations that offer excellent income potential with manageable scale. Our designs focus on efficient layouts, shared outdoor spaces, and modern amenities that attract quality tenants while maintaining neighborhood character.
4-Plex
Four-unit buildings that strike the perfect balance between density and manageability. We create well-designed 4-plexes with individual entrances, private yards or balconies, and strong curb appeal — perfect for small-scale rental portfolios or infill development.
Urban Row Houses
Modern, attached single-family-style homes built in a row. These stylish, space-efficient designs are ideal for tighter urban lots and provide excellent ownership opportunities with low-maintenance living and strong resale value.
Cottage Courts
Charming clusters of smaller detached or semi-detached cottages arranged around a shared courtyard. These create a strong sense of community while offering privacy and character. Highly popular for infill projects and walkable neighborhoods.