At David Van Arsdell Architects, we strive to reposition spaces by crafting resilient and adaptive designs that add enduring value.

Expertise

DVA is renowned for its innovative designs, spanning an array of projects from single-family homes to office and retail spaces. A standout expertise lies in commercial adaptive re-use, closely collaborating with local developers to rejuvenate properties in vital areas like Los Angeles, Santa Monica, and Culver City. Their forte is in crafting vibrant, authentic spaces through meticulous craftsmanship and visionary design thinking, bolstered by a skilled team in architecture and related fields. 

In addition to their commercial focus, DVA provides comprehensive residential design services, showcasing their pioneering spirit with projects like a groundbreaking case study house in Joshua Tree, reshaping modern living concepts.

Featured Projects

How we can work together

Homeowner

DVAA specializes in custom residential design services, offering expertise in ground-up projects, renovations, and additions. We pride ourselves on delivering outstanding customer service, ensuring your vision is realized. Our approach involves creating thoughtfully designed spaces that are not only functional but also tailored to your unique lifestyle. We prioritize flexibility in our designs, ensuring your home can adapt to future needs. Whether your budget is multi-million dollars or more modest, we relish the challenge of working within constraints and exceeding your expectations, making your dream home a reality.

Builder

DVAA places a strong emphasis on our collaborative efforts with builders. Central to our approach is effective communication, as we view ourselves as essential team members working towards the common goals of timely project completion and budget adherence. We enthusiastically embrace the challenge of designing within budget constraints and hold a deep appreciation for the builder's perspective, fully understanding the significance of schedule considerations. Our unwavering commitment extends to streamlining processes during the construction administration phase, fostering a seamless and highly efficient project experience.

Developer

At DVAA Architects, we fully recognize the inherent risks associated with development and the imperative need to construct within budget, on schedule, and with a design that enhances value. With a long history of collaboration with developers, we possess a profound understanding of your priorities and the proven formula for success. Our expertise extends to working with both commercial and residential developers, offering comprehensive support at every stage of a project's lifecycle. We are well-equipped to engage in the due diligence phase, even before property acquisition, providing valuable pre-development services such as code analysis, massing studies, test fits, and zoning analysis. Additionally, our experience encompasses navigating the complexities of entitlements for intricate projects, including those in jurisdictions like Santa Monica, involving change of use, Coastal Zone approvals, Specific plans, Zoning Overlays, and HOAs. We stand ready to bring our knowledge and insights to your development endeavors.

Business Owner

For business owners, DVAA Architects brings a proven track record of excellence in build-to-suit tenant improvements. We recognize that opening your business on schedule and within budget is critical to your success. Whether you're embarking on an expansion, establishing a new location, or launching an entirely fresh enterprise, DVAA is your steadfast partner throughout the journey. We prioritize attentive listening to your vision and goals, translating them into a distinctive design that seamlessly combines functionality, beauty, and adherence to your budgetary constraints. Our genuine enthusiasm lies in collaborating with business owners, understanding what drives their ventures, and ensuring that our designs align seamlessly with their aspirations. Your success is our priority, and we're here to make it happen.

Commercial Landlord

Commercial building owners often face the task of modernizing outdated structures to meet current accessibility, energy, and building code standards. DVAA excels in the realm of commercial building renovations, ranging from minor restroom enhancements to comprehensive core and shell upgrades. Building owners can trust DVAA for expert guidance on the essential minimum upgrades required to align their buildings with regulatory compliance. Moreover, for those seeking to transform an antiquated property into a contemporary space that appeals to high-value tenants, DVAA can provide a bold vision. Our value proposition to building owners is twofold, encompassing visionary design sensibilities and a deeply practical approach, ensuring that your properties not only meet modern standards but also stand out in the market.

Designer

DVAA thrives in collaboration with various design professionals, including interior designers, tenant's design architects, and out-of-state architects, serving as the trusted Architect of Record. We frequently assume the role of the landlord's core and shell architect, adeptly streamlining the entitlements process for the landlord's tenants, ensuring a smooth transition from vision to reality. Additionally, our expertise shines in projects where adaptive reuse and intricate multi-phase developments demand profound technical proficiency. As adaptive reuse specialists, we work seamlessly alongside other designers, ensuring that each project benefits from our collective wealth of experience and knowledge.

Let’s Chat

Discover how we reshape spaces with resilient, value-driven designs. Explore our portfolio and let's begin the journey of redefining your space. Contact us now for a consultation.