LittleBig Design is a full-service architecture studio focused on contemporary residential design.
Founded by 20-year licensed architect, Benjamin Schaefer, LittleBig Design is a full-service architecture studio focused on contemporary residential design. Launched in San Francisco and now headquartered in Carlsbad, California, LittleBig Design serves the greater San Diego and San Francisco Bay Areas.
The company's story began at Benjamin's four-year-old daughter's birthday party. As she blew out her candles, Benjamin declared that she was now a big girl. In response, she stated, "No, Daddy, I’m littlebig." The exchange gave birth to the company's name and identity: a small firm with big ideas.
Benjamin and his team offer a unique approach: personalized service from a boutique design firm complemented by extensive experience in managing large and complex projects. This combination equips them with the skills needed to navigate the intricacies often encountered in coastal and urban residential development. They excel in creating innovative design solutions for constrained spaces, managing diverse stakeholders, fostering collaboration with regulatory agencies, and gaining support from the local community.
Benjamin Schaefer
Benjamin Schaefer began his career by sweeping job sites for his father's construction company. This early experience ignited Ben’s passion for making and provided him with firsthand insight into how creativity can shape beautiful spaces.
After earning his Architecture degree with high honors from the University of California, Berkeley in 2004, Benjamin went on to work at several prestigious architecture firms in the San Francisco Bay Area. During this time, he led the design of award-winning residential, multi-family, office, and municipal projects. Through these experiences, he discovered a joy in collaborating closely with homeowners, sparking the inspiration to establish a residential design studio.
Outside of his architectural pursuits, you can find Benjamin paddleboarding, playing the drums, or, unsurprisingly, teaching his young children the art of making. He firmly believes that his engagement with the natural world and personal creative endeavors informs his work, enabling him to approach projects with fresh perspectives and innovative design solutions.
