About us
Cove Britton, a native of Northern California, had just graduated with a five-year professional degree from USC; Martha Matson, was just finishing up her Master’s of Architecture from UCLA when they met in an office in Los Angeles. Martha, originally from Boston, has a BA in art history and sculpture from McGill University in Montreal.
After training a few years post-grad in LA, and marrying, we moved up to Santa Cruz in 1990 and founded Matson Britton Architects. Since then, we have produced over 50 notable coastal projects in the County of Santa Cruz, as well as projects throughout the Monterey and San Francisco Bay areas, southern and eastern California, Kauai, and Idaho.
Besides our education, travel to Europe and Asia has very much influenced our design sensibilities, and how climate and local materials affect the function and aesthetics of a building.
As architects, Coves’ detailing and design strengths reflect growing up around construction; for Martha, it is incorporating the insight gained as a sculptor, combined with the added complexities of a client-driven project. Our projects range from new homes, major remodels / additions, ADUS, multi-residence buildings, and a mixed-use warehouse and office building currently on the boards. We are well-versed in current State laws governing housing and believe strongly that the need for more housing is real.
Our Design Philosophy
Each site is unique with its own set of variables: light, sun, and view orientation. And each client brings their own perspective to the project. Before we start designing, we listen. We walk the site, we discuss what is important: how you live, how you entertain, what captures your imagination. We want to understand your dream; to transform these conversations into architecture.
The Process
Because of our experience and expertise, we are your front line; we work directly with the planning and building departments on your behalf, interacting with consultants and the various required jurisdictions necessary to get you to construction. We often run the bidding phase as we are familiar with many good local builders. We also offer services during the building phase: consultation with the contractor and site questions that may arise; also, interior design services, which ensure the project is consistent, allowing the interior and exterior to flow seamlessly.
Coastal Experts
Coastal properties have an extra set of variables that require additional expertise. It is a dynamic environment. An elevated study of the site is needed to understand the physical structure of the cliff edge and the strength of the soil. Due to its scenic orientation, the site is subject to heightened scrutiny by the local planning departments and the California Coastal Commission. Design and construction must incorporate strategies for dealing with driving rain, sun exposure, and high winds. We have navigated our clients through this process since 1990. We have gathered a team of coastal experts who assist us in the facilitation of passage through the complicated bureaucratic process, as well as the complexity of building along the water’s edge. We have designed over 50 coastal projects in Santa Cruz County alone, with more on the way. We are unparalleled in our experience and expertise.
Our Projects on the Map
This map highlights a selection of our work across the region, with a strong presence along the coastline. Each point marks a project that reflects our commitment to thoughtful, site-specific design.
Contact us
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