Architectural Design That Maximizes Beauty, Function & Budget.

Vista Foundry creates smart, investment-driven designs that balance aesthetics, function, and cost.

Whether you're starting fresh, refining plans, or recovering from setbacks, we ensure your project is optimized for success.

Get Expert Design & Planning Insights – Schedule Your Free Consultation →

Meet John Fraine: Architect of Smarter, Cost-Driven Design

With 47 years of expertise in architectural design, cost control, permitting, and construction, John Fraine helps homeowners and property owners achieve beautiful, budget-aligned designs while avoiding costly mistakes.

His transparent, client-first approach ensures that every design is financially sound, structurally optimized, and built to last.

Learn More About John →

Starting a Project? Design Smarter from the Start.

Start right to end right. Most projects go off track when design decisions are made without a clear understanding of budget or feasibility. Our process ensures you make informed choices upfront so your project stays aligned with your vision and financial goals.

How We Help:

  • Architectural Design

    Create functional, cost-conscious designs that bring your vision to life.

  • Project Viability & Budget Alignment

    Establish feasibility upfront to prevent costly mistakes.

  • 3D Modeling & Visualization

    See your space before construction to refine layouts and costs.

  • Permitting & Compliance

    Navigate regulations and approvals seamlessly.
    Project Jumpstart & Team Selection – Make a plan, define scope, and find the right professionals.

→ Get Expert Design & Planning Insights – Schedule Your Free Consultation

Recovering from a Disaster or Stalled Project?

We understand how overwhelming it can be to restart a failed project or rebuild after a disaster. The challenges are often financial, bureaucratic, and logistical—but you don’t have to navigate them alone.

How We Help:

  • Project Funding & Insurance Strategies

    Ensure design and funding goals are in alignment.

  • Design Refinement & Scope Adjustments

    Modify or create new designs to fit your project needs.

  • Rebuild Cost Consulting

    Develop a viable plan when insurance falls short.
    Hiring the Right Providers – Get the right professionals on board for a seamless process.

  • Project Recovery & Management

    Resolve delays, realign scope, and get back on track.

→ Get Your Project Back on Track – Book a Consultation Today

Why Choose Vista Foundry?

Expert Design. Smart Planning. Cost-Driven Execution.

Unmatched Experience & Insight

With 47 years in architectural design, engineering, permitting, and construction, John Fraine provides the strategic guidance needed to navigate complex projects with confidence.

Architectural Design with Cost Precision

We blend beautiful, investment-driven design with proprietary cost-control tools to ensure every decision is budget-aligned—helping you maximize value while avoiding costly surprises.

Client Advocacy & Transparency

Your vision and financial goals come first. We safeguard your investment, prevent unnecessary expenses, and ensure every step of the process is clear and efficient.
Tailored Solutions for Any Project Stage

Tailored Solutions for Any Project Stage

Whether you’re starting fresh, refining plans, or recovering from setbacks, our approach is customized to meet your needs, control costs, and keep your project on track.

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Let’s design smarter, build better, and maximize your investment. Schedule a Consultation Today

CLIENT TESTIMONIALS

John’s firm did two major projects for us in Tiburon and San Francisco, CA. His unique Value Engineering (costing) process helped us “stop the dominoes from falling”, as he puts it, making sure we hit our target budget. His costing systems guided the design process all along, which made both projects big wins for us.

Laurence G.
Establishing and keeping a budget

Since our first project together 20 years ago, John and his team have been invaluable. John’s incredible breadth of knowledge and tactful guidance have helped me avoid many problems and pitfalls. I simply could not have done it without him.

Vic C.
Project Development Strategies

My project hit some serious snags resulting in a complete work stoppage. With no idea what to do next and many sleepless nights, I engaged John for assistance. He quickly identified the issues, provided new ways to think about the project and put together a plan to get us back on track. His process was straightforward and he used 3D technology to eliminate guesswork and save considerable time and money. I actually started sleeping again and the project was a success!

Allan L.
Going from crash to completion

John's breadth and depth of knowledge is incredible, as is his capacity for identifying all the most important factors and giving us timely advice in our decisions. I especially appreciate how he helped us prioritize projects based on investment value. Thank you, John!

Ford P.
Investment advice for home renovations

John has helped me buy many properties in CA, NC, and GA. His ability to spot opportunities, name the challenges, and guide me through the many reports was far beyond any help I ever received from an architect, contractor or home inspector. I walk away with a detailed spreadsheet of must-do, should-do, and nice-to-have repairs and improvements. His knowledge and expertise is unparalleled–I know I can count on him.

Amy P.
Investment property purchase decisions

John tirelessly seeks out ways to provide efficiency, transparency and advocacy for our clients. I work with the systems he designs and roll out the software he develops. As the primary end user for all those years, I can tell you–they just work.

Shawn B.
Working the systems for 30 years

Ready to Design Smarter & Build with Confidence?

Schedule a free 45-minute consultation with John Fraine to get expert guidance on your project. Whether you're starting fresh, refining plans, or recovering from setbacks, you'll gain clarity, cost-saving insights, and a clear action plan to move forward with confidence.

Book Your Free Consultation Today!

Schedule a 45-minute zoom call with founder John Fraine to discover how smart design, cost-effective planning, and expert guidance can help you save money, time, and stress on your project.

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