Architecture & Construction · San Miguel de Allende
Architecture & Construction
in San Miguel de Allende
Custom design, renovation, and construction — all managed by Architect Gustavo Jiménez. From concept to completion, we bring your vision to life while honoring San Miguel's colonial character.
Your Architect
Every Project, Architect-Managed
Unlike most contractors in San Miguel, every project at SMA Home Services is personally managed by Architect Gustavo Jiménez — from the first concept sketch to the final walk-through. This means professional oversight, clear communication in English, and a level of quality control that's rare in the region.
Gustavo coordinates a team of master artisans — blacksmiths, carpenters, muralists, cantera specialists, and more — each one personally vetted and trusted through years of collaboration.
Design & Construction Services
From Vision to Finished Masterpiece
Whether you're restoring a colonial gem, building from scratch, or adding custom artisan details — we offer the full spectrum of architectural and construction services in San Miguel de Allende.
Architectural Design & Concept Plans
Custom architectural design for new homes, additions, and reimagined spaces. We create concept plans — space layouts, style direction, and design sketches — so you can see your project's potential before committing to full construction drawings.
Discuss Your ProjectRenovations & Remodeling
Full renovation and remodeling for colonial and contemporary homes — kitchens, bathrooms, structural changes, and whole-house transformations, managed by the architect from demolition to final finish.
Discuss Your ProjectConstruction Documents & Blueprints
Complete construction documents and blueprints — architectural plans, specifications, and technical drawings that give contractors exactly what they need to build correctly and price honestly.
Discuss Your ProjectStructural Planning & Calculations
Structural planning and coordination for every project, with structural calculations performed with a licensed civil engineer — so what gets built is as sound as it is beautiful.
Discuss Your ProjectPermits, INAH & Perito de Obra
We handle construction permits, municipal approvals, and INAH permit coordination when your property falls within the historic zone — including Building Surveyor (Perito Responsable de Obra) coordination, so your project stays legal and on schedule.
Discuss Your ProjectProject Management & Supervision
Day-to-day project management, on-site construction supervision, and contractor and vendor management — one accountable professional coordinating every trade on your project.
Discuss Your ProjectPre-Construction Planning & Budgeting
Realistic budgets, timelines, and phasing before construction begins — so you know what your project will cost and how long it will take before the first wall comes down.
Discuss Your Project3D Visualization & Architectural Renders
See your project before it's built. We create photorealistic 3D renders of every room and exterior — so you can refine colors, materials, and layouts with total confidence. No guessing.
Discuss Your ProjectRooftop Additions & Expansions
Need to repair a damaged roof, add a terrace, or build a rooftop palapa? We handle all structural roof work — from waterproofing and drainage to full additions and expansions — with respect for your home's character.
Discuss Your ProjectInterior Design & Space Planning
Full interior design service for homes and commercial spaces — space planning, materials, colors, textures, and furniture curated to create environments that feel both authentically Mexican and personally yours.
Explore Interior DesignArtisan Crafts
The Craftsmanship That Sets San Miguel Apart
Beyond professional services, our master artisans — blacksmiths, carpenters, muralists, and cantera specialists — create the custom details that make a home unforgettable.
Furniture Design & Construction
Custom furniture crafted from Mexican hardwoods by master artisans — designed to fit your space perfectly. Tables, shelving, cabinetry, bedroom sets — built to last, built to your taste.
Discuss Your Project
Iron & Blacksmithing
San Miguel is famous for its ironwork — and our master blacksmiths carry on that tradition. Custom gates, railings, window guards, decorative fixtures, and structural ironwork, all forged locally.
Discuss Your Project
Lighting Design & Manufacturing
From hand-forged iron chandeliers to modern ambient systems — we design and manufacture custom lighting fixtures that transform your spaces. Every piece is made locally in San Miguel.
Discuss Your Project
Fountain Design
A courtyard fountain is the heart of a Mexican colonial home. We design and build custom cantera and stone fountains — from intimate wall-mounted pieces to grand courtyard centerpieces.
Discuss Your Project
Mural Design & Painting
Commission a unique work of art for your home. Our muralists create stunning pieces — from traditional Mexican motifs to contemporary designs — that transform walls into conversation starters.
Discuss Your ProjectNeed Home Maintenance Services?
Plumbing, electrical, HVAC, solar, water filtration, and more — all handled by our trusted service team.
View Home ServicesOur Process
From First Idea to Final Detail
Every architecture and construction project follows a structured, transparent process — so you always know what's happening and what comes next.
Share Your Vision
Tell us about your project — whether it's a renovation, a custom build, or a design idea. We listen first.
Design & Planning
Gustavo creates concept plans, 3D renders, and a detailed proposal — so you see exactly what your project will look like.
Permits & Approvals
We handle all municipal permits and regulatory approvals — navigating Mexican bureaucracy so you don't have to.
Construction
Our vetted team of artisans and tradespeople execute the work — with Gustavo on-site coordinating every detail.
Final Reveal
We walk you through the completed project — every finish, every detail — until you're completely satisfied.
What Our Clients Say
Built on Trust & Craftsmanship
Gustavo has proven repeatedly that he knows how to manage a project by bringing the right team. They work until it is done right. He learns to understand his client's personality — he knows how important that is to a satisfied end product. Gustavo works tirelessly to design and redesign until the customer is happy in the end.
Arq. Gustavo Jiménez has completed several projects in my home. Gustavo is prompt, attentive, and communicates clearly and often during the project. His team are a pleasure to work with as they are focused on all the details to make the project successful, are punctual, reliable and polite. Gustavo has a creative and practical eye to envision the best and most beautiful results in your home or business. I was very happy.
I purchased my home in San Miguel and Gustavo completed a home inspection and assessment so I could make an offer that was fair to me and fair to the seller. After purchasing the home Gustavo developed a work plan to complete all the renovations. The project was on-time, on-budget and exceeded my expectations.
If you want a project that is both designed and executed with care and competency, Gustavo is your man.
Frequently Asked
Architecture & Construction FAQ
Do I need a permit to renovate my home in San Miguel de Allende?
Almost always, yes. Municipal construction permits are required for structural work, additions, and most renovations. If your property sits in the historic center or is a catalogued building, INAH approval is required as well. We handle the permit applications, drawings, and approvals as part of the project.
What is a Perito Responsable de Obra, and do I need one?
The Perito Responsable de Obra is the licensed building surveyor who takes legal responsibility for a construction project before the municipality. Most permitted work in San Miguel requires one. We coordinate the Perito for your project so the paperwork and the construction stay aligned.
When does a project need INAH approval?
INAH — the national institute that protects historic heritage — reviews work on catalogued buildings and properties within the protected historic zone. Facade changes, roof modifications, and structural work typically trigger review. We identify this early, because it changes both the timeline and what the design can do.
Do you provide structural calculations?
Yes. Structural planning is part of our process, and formal structural calculations are performed with a licensed civil engineer whenever the project involves new structure, removed walls, added floors, or rooftop construction.
Can you manage the project if I live outside Mexico?
Yes — most of our clients do. You get an English-speaking architect as a single point of contact, regular photo and progress updates, and on-site supervision of every trade, so the project keeps moving whether you are here or not.
What does a construction project cost in San Miguel?
It depends on scope, finish level, and the condition of the existing building — older colonial properties frequently hide surprises behind the walls. We start with pre-construction planning and budgeting so you have a realistic number and a phasing plan before committing to construction.
How long does a renovation take?
A single-room remodel may take weeks; a full colonial renovation with permits and structural work usually runs several months to over a year. Permit and INAH review time is often the largest variable, which is why we start that process early.
Do you work on both renovations and new construction?
Both. We handle renovations and remodeling of existing homes, rooftop additions and expansions, and complete new-build design and construction — all architect-managed from concept through final walk-through.
Will I see the design before construction starts?
Yes. We produce concept plans and photorealistic 3D renders of the interiors and exteriors, so you can refine layouts, colors, and materials before anything is built. Construction documents follow only once the design is settled.
Do you use your own craftsmen?
We work with a team of master artisans — blacksmiths, carpenters, muralists, and cantera specialists — vetted through years of collaboration. That is what allows custom ironwork, lighting, furniture, fountains, and murals to be part of the same project rather than separate hires.
Start Your Project
Ready to bring your vision to life?
From a courtyard fountain to a full colonial renovation — every project is architect-managed, clearly communicated, and built to last.
