At Rick Klepfer Design, we provide a full range of architectural services, from evaluation of a property considered for purchase, to the final inspection of a newly constructed home.  While our primary area of operations is Mid-Coast Maine, we consider the entire coast of Maine our service area.


Our design philosophy is that of creating thoughtful and functional spaces within a pleasing and efficient exterior envelope. Having a strong background in restoration architecture, our designs follow traditional forms.  This ethic has been developed over our last 36 years in the design of residential architecture. 

At Rick Klepfer Design, we have experience in working through the legal and physical complexities of projects that lie within the Shoreland Zone. This zone, established by the Maine Department of Environmental Protection, has a strict set of requirements for all land that is situated within 250 feet of any body of water in the State.  Our services include working with each Town’s Planning Board to maximize the utility that an owner is able to realize on their waterfront property.

We pride ourselves on keeping the cost of our services well below the fees of the average architectural studio in Maine.  Because we do nearly every aspect of the evaluation and design process in-house, we have reduced our overhead to a minimum.  In the March 2004 issue of Down East magazine lead article, “How to Hire the Right Maine Architect”; the author notes that architectural fees range from $50 per hour to $180 per hour and, if a percentage method is used, the total fees run from 8% to 15%.  Our fees sit solidly at the bottom of these ranges, and frequently amount to far less.  We actively seek projects with budgets that would normally preclude the use of professional design services.

In the course of our work in Mid-Coast Maine, we have developed good working relationships with many building contractors and can provide our clients with a smooth interaction between contractor, designer and owner.  We also have a long-standing relationship with all of the structural and civil engineers in the area.

Renovation of existing structures is a specialty of Rick Klepfer Design.  We are experienced in converting poorly designed structures into cozy, livable homes that are pleasant to live in.  We can also fit new spaces into areas of existing structures that might not seem possible.  We work closely with structural engineers to insure that the renovated structure performs as well as it looks.

In all projects, we strive for the best energy efficiency that can be effected within the constraints of design and budget.  We keep up on the latest developments in materials and alternative energy concepts.  We can work within the guidelines of the Maine Standards for Green Buildings, if desired.

Our goal is to assist our clients in realizing a finished project that is well-designed, efficient, functional and customized to their needs and budget; and to have some fun along the way.  We would love to have you consider us for the design of your home.