Simple Homes Studio
Architecture designed for how buildings actually get built.
Architecture aligned with manufacturing and construction - so projects move efficiently from design through delivery.
Start a Project
Simple Homes Studio
Architecture aligned with manufacturing and construction - so projects move efficiently from design through delivery.
Start a ProjectOur Approach
Simple Homes Studio is an architectural practice embedded within a construction and manufacturing platform. Our designers work alongside engineers and production teams, so every decision is informed by how it will be built—not just how it looks.
We design buildings that move cleanly from drawings to manufacturing to the jobsite—with fewer disconnects, fewer surprises, and better outcomes.
Led By
John Schwarz, AIA
Co-founder & Chief Design Officer
Licensed Architect · Colorado
20+ years architectural experience
6+ years general contractor experience
Licensed architect in Colorado with 20+ years of experience and a background in both design and construction.
John’s work is grounded in a simple principle: design should be buildable. His experience working with contractors and in the field informs a practical, execution-focused approach to architecture.
Our Work
Scroll to explore →
The Process
Every project moves through three defined phases, with clear deliverables and client sign-off at each stage.
01
Schematic Design
The brainstorming phase
Your wishlist starts becoming a real design. We explore room flow, how the building sits on your property, and confirm zoning compliance. You’ll receive concept floor plans, exterior elevations, a site plan, and 3D views.
02
Design Development
Locking in the details
Dimensions are finalized, materials are selected, and we coordinate with structural engineering. You’ll receive scaled plans, all elevations, building sections, and early structural input.
03
Construction Documents
The technical manual
The full drawing set your contractor builds from and the city reviews for permit. Includes structural engineer’s stamped plans, technical details, framing plans, and all schedules.
As Featured In
Simple Homes Studio projects have been featured in nationally published books on innovative housing design and sustainable construction.
ADUs: The Perfect Housing Solution
Simple Homes projects featured alongside 25 innovative ADU designs from across North America.
View on Amazon →
Prefabulous for Everyone
Our prefabricated designs highlighted in this comprehensive guide to modern factory-built homes.
View on Amazon →Specialty
An ADU — backyard cottage, carriage house, in-law suite — is one of the most popular additions a Denver homeowner can make. They add living space, rental income potential, and long-term property value.
But ADUs in Denver come with a unique and often complicated set of rules. Setback requirements, height limits, lot coverage, owner-occupancy provisions, and design standards all vary by zone district — and the code evolves regularly.
This is a deep area of expertise. We’ve worked extensively within the Denver Zoning Code to design and permit ADUs across a wide range of lot types and neighborhoods.
If you’re thinking about an ADU, the first question I’ll help you answer is: ‘what’s actuallypossible on your property?’ Getting that clarity before design begins saves time, money,and frustration.
What We Do
Custom Homes
Single-family residences designed for panelized wall and truss construction — from schematic design through construction documents.
ADUs & Cottages
Accessory dwelling units and guest homes optimized for factory-built components. Compact design, maximum livability.
Renovations & Additions
Thoughtful upgrades and expansions that integrate modern construction methods with existing structures.
Get Started
The first step is a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll talk through your goals, timeline, budget, and site — and you’ll leave with a clear sense of what the path forward looks like.
01
Free Initial Consultation
A relaxed conversation — in person or virtual — to hear about your project and answer your questions. No commitment required.
02
Proposal & Agreement
If we’re a good fit, we’ll put together a tailored proposal with a clear scope and fee. No surprises.
03
Design Begins
Once the agreement is signed and the initial retainer is received, we get to work. First deliverable: a concept design.
Tell us more about your project.
Or reach out directly: sh_studio@simplehomes.com