Best of the County 2024 Readers’ Choice Home & Design

Marin Magazine Best of the County 2024 Home & Design

Looking to remodel or thinking of constructing your dream home? Here are the Best of the County 2024 readers’ choices for home and design.

Our 2024 Home & Design category sponsor is The Trono Team.

Best Architect

John Clarke Architects, Sausalito

John Clarke Architects, Sausalito, Best Architect Marin
Photo courtesy of John Clarke Architects on Facebook.

Since 2003, John Clarke Architects has been serving the Bay Area and beyond. They work across both the residential and commercial spectrum, with a focus on ensuring that the client is listened to every step of the way, from the very first time pen hits paper to when the building doors are thrown open.

Best Builder

Nestadu, Mill Valley

Best Builders, Nestadu
Photo courtesy of Nestadu.

Nestadu, founded in Mill Valley by two lifelong friends, addresses the shortcomings of the ADU market with thoughtful design and quality craftsmanship. Specializing in ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units), custom homes, and renovations across the Bay Area, their projects seamlessly blend with existing homes and neighborhood aesthetics, providing versatile, inviting spaces. Committed to delivering superior quality and a smooth, stress-free process, Nestadu is the go-to choice for those looking to maximize their property’s potential.

Best Flooring

Rafael Floors, San Rafael

Best Flooring, Rafael Flooring
Photo courtesy of Rafael Flooring.

With their wide selection of wood samples from Mullican, Mannington, Shaw and more, Rafael Floors brings some of the best in brand names to Marin. They’ve got all your trendier options like nylon carpets right alongside classic choices like bamboo flooring.

Best Home Organization Company

The Balanced Abode, Mobile

When in need of unpacking, decluttering, or donating, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Balanced Abode’s relocation management team. They offer a complimentary consultation, so you can be sure they’re right for you before committing.

Best Interior Designer

MAS Design, Tiburon

MAS Design, Tiburon, Best Interior Designer Marin
Photo Courtesy of MAS Design.

An abbreviation of “Mood and Space Design”, MAS can do everything from minimalistic modern to chaotic bohemian. Their belief is that your space should reflect you, not whatever is trendy or popular, and they tailor everything to your lifestyle and your aesthetic tastes. As they always say, “High design. Low blah.”

Best Kitchen Design

Paulina Perrault Interior Design, Sausalito

Best Interior Design, Paulina Perrault
Photo courtesy of Paulina Perrault.

At Paulina Perrault Interiors, the mission is not only to throw stylistic flair into your home, but to ensure that everything there is tailored to your personal lifestyle. Who says luxury can’t be practical?

Best Landscape Design

Christian Douglas Design, San Anselmo

Best Landscape Design, Christian Douglas Design
Photo courtesy of Christian Douglas Design.

For over 25 years, Christian Douglas has been in the landscape business. He worked in the UK for 12 years, winning numerous awards including one from the Chelsea Flower Show, before settling in Marin in 2012 and providing his expertise to landscapes across the county.

Best Lighting Services

Boyd Lighting, Sausalito

Best Lighting Services, Boyd Lighting.
Photo courtesy of Boyd Lighting Facebook.

Back in 1921, William Boyd created Boyd Lighting to combine beauty with architecture in the homes of Californians. The class and style that comes with every in-wall lamp or decorative mirror they install is second to none, and their wide range of aesthetics means that regardless of your personal tastes, they’re guaranteed to have something for you.

Best Movers Marin

Earl Farnsworth Express, San Rafael

Best Movers, Earl Farnsworth Express
Photo courtesy of Earl Farnsworth Express Facebook.

Earl Farnsworth Express is a local, family owned and operated moving and storage company that has been in business for over 50 years in San Rafael. They offer services for local, intra-California, interstate and international moves from start to finish, as well as being an agent for Mayflower Transit.

Best Nursery

Sloat Garden Center, Kentfield

Best Nursery, Sloat Garden Center
Photo courtesy of Sloat Garden Center Facebook.

In 1958, Sloat Garden Center made its start in San Francisco, and since 2000 they have been opening up stores across the Bay Area to share their passion and knowledge of plants with as many as possible. Additionally, they sell a wide variety of pottery and have a garden design department.

Best Painter

Kunst Painting, San Rafael

Bob Kunst Painting Inc, Best Painter Marin
Photo Courtesy of Bob Kunst Painting Inc.

The residential and commercial services that Bob Kunst Painting offers are designed to meet your schedule and budget, meeting you where you’re at instead. With a team of expert craftsmen on staff, they guarantee exceptional workmanship and service for each and every client.

Best Plumber

Ongaro & Sons, San Anselmo

Ongaro & Sons, San Anselmo, Best Handyman & Plumber Marin
Photo Courtesy of Ongaro & Sons on Facebook

As Ongaro & Sons proudly advertises, they do it all! Founded in 1932 by Ernest V. Ongaro, today the third and fourth family generations continue the name and legacy of Ernest, providing everything from basic faucet and water heater repair to modern HVAC systems and electrical Smart Switches.

Best Solar Service

Sun First Solar, San Rafael

Best Solar Service, Sun First Solar
Photo courtesy of Sun First Solar Facebook.

Sun First has strong roots in the local industry, giving them exclusive access and pricing to some of the best products on the market. Their goal is to build lasting relationships with their clients, avoiding subcontractors to make sure that every job is done by them, with a team you can trust.

Best Tile Showroom

Heath Ceramics, Sausalito

heath ceramics
Courtesy of Heath Ceramics Facebook.

Heath Ceramics has been a Sausalito staple since 1959. With over 30 craftspeople employed, customers will receive a robust, experienced and fulfilling selection of tile needs in this iconic Marin showroom. This expert team will identify and provide whatever tile or ceramic product you need. 

Best of the County Home & Design Sponsor

The Trono Team


In life, you want someone who is in your corner. Trono Team is just that when it comes to an exceptional real estate experience. Rick is a lifelong entrepreneur with roots in Marin County and has local knowledge that cannot be googled. Peri’s creative background in the arts make marketing strategies fun. Whether you are a buyer, seller or both, we are ready to help you make a move!

What is important for sellers to keep in mind at this time?

Mehnaz Khan, a color psychology specialist and principal at Color Conscious Living in Albany, New York, says, “Human beings have an innate desire for belonging.” (source: 7 Paint Colors That Make a House Sell for More Money, Brittany Anas). First impressions are everything. Be bold!

Need help? Ask us about Compass Concierge! tronoteam.com/concierge