Crafting site-responsive, sustainable homes that inspire—where form meets function, views meet livability, and every detail endures.
I'm Valentin Ameling, a passionate residential architect dedicated to designing custom homes that truly reflect their owners' lives and landscapes. With a decade-plus of experience, I specialize in transforming unique sites—sloped mountain lots, historic urban zones, coastal flood areas, and compact backyards—into beautiful, functional spaces.
My portfolio includes standout projects like the Wisam K A-Frame Home in Cedar Glen, CA (a modern take on the classic triangular form with vaulted ceilings, expansive glazing for forest views, and passive solar efficiency), the Marcelli Residence in Charleston, SC (a luxury multi-unit compound with main house, in-law suite, workshop, pool, and garages, emphasizing flood resilience and indoor-outdoor flow), and the Jeremy Scott Medcottage (a modular ~453 sq ft ADU for elder care, featuring accessibility ramps, efficient layouts, and NEC-compliant electrical for medical needs).
I excel at full-service design: conceptual sketches to photorealistic renders, precise CAD plans (site, floor, roof, elevations, sections, schedules), material specs (e.g., red cedar, impact glazing), code compliance (IRC, energy, WUI, flood zones), and detailed contracts/general notes for smooth builds. My approach prioritizes natural light, open plans, sustainability (passive strategies, local materials), and seamless indoor-outdoor connections via decks, balconies, and porches.
Values guiding my work: Clear communication, thoroughness, respect for environment and codes, and delivering resilient, joyful homes that age gracefully. Beyond architecture, I enjoy exploring nature (fitting for mountain/coastal designs), photography for site analysis, and continuous learning in modular/sustainable building.
Work Terms
Availability: Flexible, project-based (typically 4–12 months per design phase).
Hours: Monday–Friday, 9 AM–6 PM CET (respond within 24–48 hours; urgent via phone).
Communication: Preferred via email for docs, Zoom/Meet for calls, WhatsApp for quick updates. Weekly progress reports during active phases.
Payment Terms: 30% deposit on contract signing, 40% at schematic design approval, 20% at construction documents completion, 10% on final revisions/handover. Invoices via bank transfer/PayPal; net 14 days. Reimbursable expenses (travel, printing, permits) billed with receipts.
Revisions: Up to 2 rounds included per phase; additional at hourly rate ($30/hr).
Scope Changes: Documented via written addendum with adjusted fees/timeline.
Confidentiality: All client info and designs protected; NDA available on request.