Our company was founded in 1959 by Karl Kardel with a focus on architectural restoration of Victorian and historical homes throughout the Bay Area. Since then we have expanded into other areas, including waterproofing & specialty coatings, roofing & deck work, and structural reconstruction. Like our founder, we are passionate about solving complex building problems.
We’ve satisfied hundreds of customers throughout the Bay Area & Northern California, providing competitive prices, prompt professional service and quality craftsmanship.
We hope to share our passion with you, and we look forward to helping you build your dream.
Karl Kardel (1940-2025)
Karl Kardel was a preservationist, designer, and builder whose life was defined by a rare blend of practical skill and deep respect for craftsmanship. Throughout his work, he championed the idea that buildings and the objects within them are not merely structures or materials, but living records of intention, community, and time. His approach to preservation was both methodical and imaginative—rooted in care for what already exists, and guided by a designer’s eye for form, detail, and lasting coherence.
As a designer and builder, Karl brought concepts into reality with a steady hand and a discerning standard of quality. He understood that true excellence shows itself not only in the initial impression, but in the durability of decisions made along the way. Whether working on restorations, shaping functional improvements, or creating new work inspired by established character, his efforts were consistently marked by thoughtful planning, respect for context, and a commitment to fine work that endures.
Those who knew Karl recognized that his dedication went beyond the job itself. He treated preservation as a responsibility and design as a craft—something to be practiced with patience, integrity, and pride. His legacy lives on in the careful work he produced and the values he modeled: stewardship, clarity of purpose, and a belief that good building is, at its core, an act of care.
We at Karl Kardel Company are honored and dedicated to preserving his legacy.
