about us
Raumfabrik architecture + interiors is an architecture and interior design studio with offices in Berkeley and Grass Valley. Founded in 2013 by German born architect Antje Paiz, the company's primary focus is on custom residential projects in the greater Bay Area. Completed works include ground up constructions of single family homes, residential remodels and additions, as well as several small scale commercial projects. Our approach is both client focused and collaborative, recognizing the unique requirements of each individual and every location.
We believe true beauty emerges from the harmonious balance of form, function, and light, rather than rigid adherence to any singular style. This philosophy guides our approach, resulting in thoughtfully composed spaces, where logic and elegance converge in seamless floor plans, refined compositions, and a deliberate interplay of texture and illumination.
By working with a restrained palette of warm, natural materials, we craft homes that are light-filled and inviting. A carefully defined hierarchy of scale allows for moments of both intimacy and awe, enriching the spatial experience. Our ultimate goal is to create homes that will be cherished for generations to come.
our values
Architects play a crucial role in designing homes that are both energy-efficient and fire-resistant, particularly in California’s challenging climate. By integrating passive design principles, high-performance materials, and renewable energy solutions, we strive to reduce a home’s carbon footprint. To improve wildfire resistance we work with non-combustible and ignition resistant materials, encourage strategic landscaping, and promote advanced fire protection systems. Thoughtful site planning, smart home technology, and sustainable building practices make it possible to harmonize safety, comfort, and environmental responsibility, ensuring homes are both durable and future-ready.
approach
A successful project is a testament to the seamless collaboration of every team member. We place our clients at the heart of our design process, crafting tailored solutions that meet their unique needs. We cultivate strong, lasting relationships with skilled design professionals, contractors, and manufacturers, relying on their expertise to enhance our process. These trusted partnerships enable us to deliver an efficient, transparent, and rewarding experience for our clients.
services
we offer:
pre-purchase consulting
feasibility studies
conceptual design
master planning
renderings
green building design
wildfire hardening
project management
construction documents
construction administration
cabinetry design
material & finishes selections
furniture layout & specifications
procurement
We are a full service studio, thriving to support your project at every step along the way.
One stop shop: we provide both architecture & interior design services and partner with trusted consultants.
pre-purchase services
Looking to buy but unsure if a home is the right fit? We review local zoning regulations and applicable building codes as well as develop quick 2D floor plan studies or 3D massing models to help you make the call.
master planning
Budget and timeline constraints often dictate a phased approach to construction. A master plan is an essential tool as it ensures a cohesive vision, streamlines permitting, and maintains financial viability by strategically distributing costs over time. It minimizes disruptions between phases and enhances long-term livability.
architectural design
From schematic sketches to complete sets of construction documents, all of our drawings are prepared in house using BIM modeling software. We work closely with our clients and integrate their feedback at every step.
project management
We collaborate with a network of trusted consultants, engaging them as needed based on the project's scope. Our team manages all communications with government agencies, overseeing permit applications and addressing plan check comments to ensure a seamless process.
construction administration
We conduct regular site visits to ensure the project is built according to the construction drawings, respond to contractor questions and manage changes and revisions.
interior design
Having the same design firm handle both architecture and interior design ensures a cohesive vision, streamlined communication, and a unified aesthetic throughout the entire project. This approach allows for better integration of space planning, functionality, and design elements, creating a more seamless and harmonious result.
team
Antje was born and Germany and raised in France, where as a child she spent endless days drawing floor plans and rearranging furniture. After high school, she took a detour studying economics in Konstanz, Heidelberg and Florence and graduating with a Master degree in 1996, That same year, she enrolled at the University of Oregon, graduating with an M. Arch degree in 2000. For the next decade, Antje worked for several boutique design firms in the Bay Area, refining her skills and gaining a deep understanding of the architectural profession. During that time, Antje also taught a class on "Color, Perception, and Space" at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco for one semester. In 2013 Antje founded Raumfabrik Architecture + Interiors with the vision of creating homes that are both functional and beautiful, designed to endure for generations. Having lived and studied in various countries, Antje brings a deep appreciation for connecting with people from all walks of life, blending diverse cultural insights into her work. Antje lives in Oakland with her husband and teenage son.
A native of southwestern Pennsylvania, Jonathan attended University of California, Berkeley earning a Bachelors of Arts in Architecture from the College of Environmental Design, and a minor in German. After graduation he worked in architecture for a number of years before taking a brief hiatus to explore his other passion: music. Along the way he found himself teaching math and architecture and coaching at a private high school in Berkeley, CA before coming back to architecture full time. He is excited to be back in the design world and exploring all it has to offer. When not at work, he can be found playing his guitar, working out, drinking too much coffee, and spending quality time with his partner, their young son and their dog
Rochelle Arucan, A Bay Area native, is a seasoned professional with over ten years of multifaceted experience across operations, human resources, and marketing domains. With a keen eye for detail and a penchant for efficiency, Rochelle has honed her skills in streamlining processes to optimize organizational effectiveness. Her career trajectory has traversed diverse sectors, including hospitality, logistics, education, event management, and the arts, reflecting her adaptability and versatility. Notably, Rochelle has also delved into the realm of leadership development, crafting bespoke training modules that empower individuals to unlock their full potential. Beyond her professional endeavors, Rochelle is a true artist at heart, finding solace and expression through painting and photography.
collaborators
Founder of PBSD, Peter has worked with Raumfabrik for close to 10 years and is the engineer of records on most of our projects. Peter is originally an east coaster who received his first bachelors degree in fine arts and his second in civil engineering from the University of Massachusetts. This allows him to visualize structures in a uniquely artistic way. His primary focus is safety, and he strives to balance this with constructibility and cost-effectiveness. He has been engineering homes since 2010 and has 15 years of experience in design and construction administration. Above all, he is a dog lover, and when he is not working, you can probably find him walking his three chihuahuas on Baker Beach or volunteering at SFSPCA.
A former employee of Raumfabrik. Chris is currently forging his own path as a green building consultant. Integrative Designs offers consulting services for both homeowners and architects to create more efficient and healthier spaces. We value Chris' expertise and frequently engage his services.
Jennifer attended the Architectural Association in London and spent 10 years in the UK, Malaysia, and Australia. where she practice d residential design. Upon her return to the US, she started teaching, and then directed the Undergraduate Architecture program at the Academy of Art University of San Francisco, creating a vibrant, hands-on, design focused community of students and educators. She is passionate about collaboration, effective communication and sustainable design. Jennifer and Antje have successfully collaborated on projects spanning two decades.
We couldn't do it alone - meet our trusted
collaborators & friends
A graduate of University of Oregon in Eugene and Academy of Arts University in San Francisco, Kylee worked at Raumfabrik for several years before relocating to Bozeman Montana to raise her family. Kylee has over 15 years of experience in residential design and often lends a hand to current Raumfabrik projects.