Grizzly Bear Architecture and Design
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One of a Kind, Hard to FInd, Architecture and Design!

about us

we help You Navigate Building Permits in California and Beyond!

Charles A. Matthews, RA, NCARB is a California-licensed architect with a rare dual background: formal training in Architecture and in Entertainment/Themed Design from Art Center College of Design — including work with Disney Imagineering, Warner Bros, and Universal Studios — paired with 15+ years running Grizzly Bear Architecture and Design, serving clients across California and 11 additional states.

Grizzly Bear Architecture and Design specializes in Tenant Improvements, Residential Design including new construction and home additions, ADU design, project management, and permitting. We help you achieve plan check success and obtain building permits throughout California, Arizona, New Mexico, Washington, Nevada, Idaho, Texas, Mississippi, Florida, Massachusetts, and Utah — with deep, hands-on experience in Santa Clarita, San Diego, Murrieta, Temecula, the Antelope Valley, Riverside, San Francisco, and beyond.

Whether you need full architectural services or a more concierge-level, hands-on approach, we’re ready to help.

1-800-745-6973

35+

Year of experience in design

our services

Architectural Services For Your real Life Needs!

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New Custom Home Design

Custom residences from concept through permit-ready construction documents.

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Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU)

Complete design, documentation, and permitting support tailored to California regulations and local AHJ requirements.

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Tenant Improve-ments (TIs) / Build-outs

Code-compliant, efficient designs for retail, office, medical, and specialty spaces.

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Residential Additions & Remodels

Thoughtful expansions that complement your home’s character while meeting current codes and your lifestyle needs

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Themed & Entertainment Environments

Drawing from Theme Park Design Experience for family entertainment centers, attractions, and immersive spaces

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Consulting Conceirge Services

As-Built Documentation, Conditional Use Permits, Minor Use Permits, Accessibility and other Jurisdc

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WHY CHOOSE US

Why Clients Choose Grizzly Bear Architecture

Beyond conventional architecture, Charles brings a background few architects can offer: formal training in themed and narrative design, and hands-on experience with Disney Imagineering, Warner Bros, and Universal Studios. If your project calls for immersive, experiential, or story-driven design — a themed retail space, hospitality concept, or entertainment venue — that expertise is available to you directly.

Founded by the Matthews family over 15 years ago, Grizzly Bear Architecture and Design delivers custom solutions for challenging situations — respecting an existing home’s character, navigating complex California codes, making a bold new statement, or stepping in as your “Architectural Pinch Hitter.” Based in California full-time, Charles is available for in-person site visits, construction administration, and closer collaboration than ever before.

  • 35+ Years design experience
  • 12 States licensed (full California practice)
  • Many successful projects and plan checks
  • Direct access to the licensed architect — no layers of project managers
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FAQS

How long does an ADU project typically take?

Timelines vary by jurisdiction and scope, but we focus on efficient documentation and proactive plan-check responses to keep projects moving.

Do you work remotely with my local contractor?

Although we work primarily remotely, we make site visits on an as-needed basis. Contact us for your specific needs.

What is your fee structure?

We provide clear proposals based on scope of work including area in Square Feet, complexity of detail, Municipality interaction, severity of difficulty to solve issues, and the like. Our prices are based on building types and situations we have encountered in the past and may or may not be consistent with your project needs, which will be assessed on a case by case basis.

Can you help with plan check corrections?

Yes — this is one of our strengths. We respond thoroughly and professionally to comments.

What jurisdictions do you commonly work in?

Extensive experience across Southern and Central California including Murrieta, Temecula, Palmdale, Corona, Union City, National City, Perris, Borrego Springs, Modesto/Stanislaus County, San Pedro, San Fransisco, branching into other cities and states including St. George, Las Vegas, Oklahoma City and others. We research specific AHJ requirements on every project.

Call for a proposal!

1-800-745-6973