Ultra-Unit Architectural Studio: Architecture and Construction Services
Ultra-Unit Architectural Studio is a boutique architectural and design firm based in Long Beach, California. The studio offers both full architectural design and construction services, operating across a range of project types including residential, multifamily, commercial, and accessory dwelling units (ADUs). By handling both design and build, the firm aims to maintain quality control from concept through completion.
The studio intentionally limits the number of projects it takes on at any given time. This approach allows the team to give each project focused attention, engage closely with clients, and apply advanced digital construction technology throughout the process.
Team leader Cameron Crockett AIA, LEED is both a California-licensed architect and a licensed contractor, with over 25 years of experience across single-family and multifamily residential properties, restaurants, commercial and retail spaces, and ADU projects. His dual licensure allows the firm to bridge architectural design and construction in a way that keeps budgets realistic and avoids over-design — where a design concept is not feasible given actual construction costs.
ADU and Residential Project Experience
Ultra-Unit Architectural Studio has worked on a variety of ADU and residential conversion projects throughout Southern California. Their portfolio includes:
- Multifamily ADU projects in Fullerton and Santa Monica
- A garage tuck-under ADU in Signal Hill
- Residential conversion work in Long Beach
- Low-income housing developments in Long Beach and Pomona
- Modular housing in Signal Hill
- Commercial and restaurant projects in Long Beach and Los Angeles
For property owners exploring options such as a garage conversion, a detached ADU, or a backyard cottage, Ultra-Unit brings both the architectural expertise and the construction knowledge needed to navigate local zoning requirements and permitting processes.
The firm's architectural process begins with an as-built survey, followed by three stages: Schematic Design, Design Development, and Construction Documentation. Once permits are approved, clients are encouraged to competitively bid the construction phase — including with Ultra-Unit's own construction team. If the client chooses to use Ultra-Unit for both architecture and construction, the firm offers a rebate on a portion of the architectural fees.
How the Design and Build Process Works
Construction is coordinated through a partnership with lead contractor Fernando Adame, who manages day-to-day site operations. The architectural team continues to play an active role during construction, supporting with materials research, in-field design decisions, change order documentation, permit facilitation, and custom fabricated architectural elements produced at the studio's own facility.
The firm contracts separately for architectural and construction services, maintaining transparency at each stage. This structure also allows for accurate cost discussions during the design phase, reducing the risk of designs that exceed a client's actual budget.
Ultra-Unit has received recognition from the American Institute of Architects (AIA) for its work. The studio describes its approach as hands-on problem solving, with an emphasis on responding to site conditions, zoning parameters, and client preferences rather than applying a single fixed style.
Initial consultations are offered at no charge and are intended to assess the project scope, establish a design program, and determine whether the firm is a good fit for the client's needs.
