Architectural Design in Mount Lebanon, PA

In Mount Lebanon, Pennsylvania, remodeling projects often involve balancing modern functionality with the charm and structure of established homes. Many were built between the 1920s and 1960s — colonial revivals, Tudors, cape cods, and split-levels with compartmentalized floor plans that reflect a different era of living.Thoughtful architectural design helps create spaces that feel more open, connected, and practical without losing the character that makes the neighborhood distinctive.

Marvista Design + Build integrates architectural design into the remodeling process from the beginning. Our in-house architect works directly alongside designers, project managers, and construction professionals. That way, every decision reflects both design intent and real construction insight. This collaborative approach creates greater continuity throughout the project. It helps reduce uncertainty and ensures the transition from planning to construction feels organized and well-coordinated.

Working Within the Character of Mount Lebanon Homes

Homes throughout Mount Lebanon often feature traditional architecture, defined room layouts, and details homeowners want to preserve. At the same time, many were built for a different era of living and may no longer support how families use their homes today.

Closed kitchens, limited storage, undersized bathrooms, and disconnected living spaces are common concerns. Marvista Design + Build approaches these projects by identifying where improvements can create better flow and usability while maintaining the home’s original personality.

The design process begins with understanding the existing structure. Our team evaluates layout limitations, structural conditions, and opportunities for improvement before plans are finalized.

A Unified Architectural Design Process

Most remodeling companies treat architectural design as a separate phase handled by an outside firm. Plans are drawn, passed to a contractor, and problems are often discovered only after construction begins — at which point changes are expensive and disruptive.

Marvista Design + Build operates differently. Our in-house licensed Pennsylvania architect works under the same roof as our designers, project managers, and construction team from the very first conversation. There is no handoff between firms, no gap in communication, and no disconnect between what was drawn and what gets built. For older Mount Lebanon homes — where walls may conceal structural surprises and original features are worth preserving — this integration matters especially.

This process supports:

  • Clear communication across all project phases
  • Better coordination between layout and construction planning
  • Early identification of potential structural challenges
  • Greater alignment between design goals and budget expectations

Thoughtful Planning Before Construction Begins

Strong architectural design starts with understanding how your home currently works and where it falls short. Marvista Design + Build takes time to evaluate how spaces connect, where circulation can improve, and how the layout can better support daily routines.

From there, detailed drawings and documentation are developed to support permitting and construction planning. Material selections, layout decisions, and project logistics are all considered together rather than separately.

This preparation creates a more predictable remodeling experience and helps reduce the likelihood of major changes during construction.

Designing for Long-Term Living

Many homeowners in Mount Lebanon are investing in homes they plan to stay in for years. Architectural design should reflect that long-term perspective.

Marvista Design + Build considers how spaces may need to adapt over time, whether through better accessibility, more flexible layouts, or improved storage and organization. These decisions are integrated into the design early so the home continues to support your lifestyle well into the future.

Start Planning Your Project in Mount Lebanon, PA

Architectural design creates the foundation for a successful remodel. Marvista Design + Build is ready to help you explore ideas, evaluate your home, and confidently plan your next step.

Home Additions

If you’ve outgrown your home but love where you live, a well-planned addition can change everything. Whether it’s a larger kitchen, a new primary suite, a second story, or space for extended family, we handle everything from zoning and permitting to final punch list.

Our design-build model means we look at the big picture—how the addition will tie into your existing home, what systems need to be updated, and how to make the space feel like it’s always been there. No handoffs between designer and builder, and no surprises halfway through.

New Home Construction

Over the last 15+ years, our team has built dozens of homes from the ground up across Pittsburgh—from infill lots in tight city neighborhoods to new builds on wide-open land. If you’ve got a lot and a big idea, we know how to take it from dirt to done.

Our design + build process keeps everything under one roof: we handle the architecture, permitting, selections, materials, and construction—no bouncing between firms or chasing down answers. You get a clear plan, one point of contact, and a home that’s built to work beautifully for how you live.

Second Story Additions

Expand upward without compromise. Whether adding bedrooms, a private retreat, or a complete second level, our second-story additions maximize space without sacrificing design cohesion.

Thoughtfully planned and flawlessly executed, these additions feel like they were always meant to be, enhancing both function and architectural elegance.

Kitchens

The kitchen does a lot of heavy lifting in your home—it’s where people gather, where meals happen, and where the day starts and ends. We’ve remodeled everything from compact galley kitchens to wide-open spaces with massive islands and hidden storage.

Our design-build team will help you figure out what actually works for your family—whether it’s better lighting, more prep space, smarter appliance placement, or adding a pantry. We’ll walk you through layout options, cabinetry styles, and finishes that make sense for your lifestyle.

Bathrooms

Bathrooms should work well and look good—but they also need to hold up to daily life. Whether you're dealing with poor layout, dated fixtures, or lack of storage, we’ll help you reimagine the space with better function and smarter design.

We’ve built everything from sleek powder rooms to spa-style primary bathrooms. We’ll guide you through materials that hold up to moisture and wear, storage solutions that actually work, and layout changes that make a big difference. We also flag issues like water pressure, ventilation, and code—before you even start.

Primary Suites

Your private retreat should feel effortless, elegant, and entirely your own.

From reimagining layouts to creating spa-inspired baths and tailored dressing spaces, Marvista provides custom home remodeling solutions that transform primary suites into tranquil sanctuaries designed for comfort, luxury, and seamless living.

Whole Home Remodeling

Sometimes it’s not one room—it’s the whole house. Whether you’ve just bought a fixer-upper or your current home needs a serious update, we can rework your entire space to better suit how you live today.

We’ll help you figure out what stays, what changes, and how to prioritize your investment. From structural updates and layout changes to finishes and fixture selections, our team keeps the process clear and on track—so you're not managing ten different players or chasing down details.

Older Homes

Pittsburgh has no shortage of charm—and no shortage of surprises hiding behind the walls. We’ve spent the last 15+ years remodeling older homes all over the city, from century-old brick houses to post-war ranches.

That means we know how to work with plaster, knob-and-tube, sagging floors, oddball additions, and all the other quirks that come with age. Our goal isn’t to erase the character—it’s to make the home work better for how you live now, without losing what makes it special.

Basements

Basements can be a lot more than storage space. Whether you want a guest suite, a media room, a home gym, or a quiet place to work, we’ll help you get the most out of the square footage you already have.

We consider moisture control, ceiling height, egress, lighting, and sound—all the stuff that makes a basement feel finished and comfortable, not just renovated. And, because we handle everything from layout to construction, you don’t need to worry about chasing permits or coordinating trades.

Decks

A deck is an extension of your home, not just something tacked on. We design decks that actually work for your lifestyle—multi-levels, built-in seating, space for a grill or fire pit, whatever makes sense for how you entertain or relax.

We use durable materials and think through all the details (like lighting, drainage, or storage), and we make sure it ties into your home both structurally and visually. We also take care of permits and make sure everything is built to code, so you don’t have to second-guess anything down the line.

Aging-in-Place

A home should support every stage of life. Our aging-in-place renovations prioritize accessibility without compromising style.

Thoughtful updates—such as barrier-free showers, wider doorways, and discreet safety enhancements, as well as modern amenities such as home elevators—ensure your home remains as beautiful as it is functional, allowing you to continue living comfortably in the home you love.

Architectural Design

Thoughtful architectural design sets the direction for everything that follows. Marvista Design + Build’s architectural services are fully integrated into the design-build process, not treated as a separate handoff.

With a licensed, in-house architect, we evaluate zoning, feasibility, and existing conditions early, grounding ideas in what’s achievable. Our architect collaborates closely with designers and construction leads, ensuring plans reflect real construction insight from the start. This approach creates clear documentation, smoother approvals, and designs that balance function, aesthetics, and longevity—setting your project up for a well-executed, cohesive result.

First Floors

First-floor remodeling gives your home a fresh, functional layout without sacrificing the neighborhood you love. We listen to what isn’t working and reimagine how your first floor flows, whether that means opening up walls for a more connected living space or adding essentials like a powder room or coat closet for everyday convenience.

We balance structural needs, building codes, and lifestyle goals to create a plan that enhances how you live and entertain. From the initial assessment to thoughtful design and construction, we make sure your first-floor update feels intentional and welcoming.

Closets

Closets may be some of the smallest spaces in your home, but they matter every day. Marvista Design + Build transforms reach-in and walk-in closets into thoughtfully organized, custom storage that fits how you live.

With a design-build approach, we plan shelving, hanging space, and cabinetry that work together with your lifestyle and belongings, eliminating clutter and creating efficient storage you’ll appreciate every morning. Each solution is designed with intention—maximizing space, improving flow, and ensuring everything has a place that feels natural and easy to maintain.

Design-Build Services

Our design-build services bring every phase of your home project together under one roof—architecture, interior design, project management, and construction—so your renovation feels intentional and organized from start to finish. Our integrated team listens first, plans thoughtfully, and manages every step with clarity and care.

Whether you’re updating a single room or transforming an entire home, we guide the process with precision, clear communication, and a commitment to quality that turns your vision into a space that works beautifully for how you live.

Home Furnishings

A well-designed home comes together when furnishings are considered as part of the overall vision, not an afterthought. Marvista Design + Build helps you select home furnishings that complement the architecture, layout, and finishes of your space.

We source furniture directly from trusted wholesale manufacturers, allowing for better quality, thoughtful customization, and pieces that truly fit the home we’ve designed. From seating and dining tables to custom storage solutions, every selection is guided by proportion, material, and how the space will be used. The result is a cohesive, comfortable home that feels intentional, complete, and tailored to your lifestyle.

Hunter Douglas Window Treatments

Thoughtful window treatments play an important role in how a room looks, feels, and functions. We offer Hunter Douglas window treatments as part of a fully coordinated design approach.

Known for quality craftsmanship, precise light control, and energy-efficient performance, Hunter Douglas products balance style with everyday comfort. From soft, light-diffusing shades to clean-lined rollers and classic wood shutters, selections are made to complement your home’s architecture and interior design. Motorized and smart-home–compatible options add convenience while maintaining a clean, finished look throughout your newly remodeled space.