Darden Architects has provided comprehensive Architectural, Planning and Interior Design services throughout California since 1959. We are committed to serving our client’s needs through open collaboration and quality design.
“Darden is an excellent partner that has established familiarity with our district. They are very responsive to the needs of the district, and are professional and assertive when assisting the district in working through any challenges that arise during the course of a project.”
— Jeff Percell
Our Services
Sustainable Design
Staying on the leading-edge of sustainable design, Darden Architects’ work includes the specification of quality, sustainable building materials and the incorporation of energy efficient systems into every project.
Our Services
Architectural Design
Darden Architects is committed to thoughtful planning and design excellence with a focus on quality detailing and timeless architecture.
Our Services
Interior Design
Darden Architects’ Interior Design studio works closely with our architectural teams to help create spaces that are both functional and attractive.
Leadership
Phil Dietz
Phil Dietz is the marketing manager and contract specialist for the firm. He is a graduate of the University of California Santa Barbara, and has been with the firm for 10 years. Phil is a licensed drone pilot and a graduate of both the leadership Fresno Program and CASH School Facilities Leadership Academy.
Leadership
Grant E. Dodson
Mr. Dodson holds a Bachelor of Architecture Degree from the University of Oregon, and has been with the firm for 39 years.
Leadership
Sean P. Mendoza
Mr. Mendoza holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Architecture from California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo and has been with the firm for 25 years. Mr. Mendoza has 29 total years experience in the profession.
Leadership
William Brandle
Mr. Brandle holds a Bachelor of Architecture from California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo, and has been with the firm for 9 years. William is a graduate of the Coalition for Adequate School Housing’s School Facilities Leadership Academy and a US Army veteran.
Leadership
Leslie Rau
Mrs. Leslie Rau holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Interior Design from California State University Fresno, and has been with the firm for 21 years. Mrs. Rau has 22 total years experience in the profession. Leslie is a past “Rotarian of the Year” and “40 Under 40” honoree.
Leadership
Antonio J. Avila
Mr. Antonio “Tony” Avila holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Architecture from California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo and has been with the firm for 28 years. Mr. Avila has 30 total years experience in the profession. He is the Director of Design for the firm.
Leadership
DeDe Darnell
Mrs. Darnell holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Industrial Technology (Interior Design) from California State University Fresno, and has been with the firm for 29 years. Mrs. Darnell has 39 total years experience in the profession.
Leadership
Michael J. Nelson
Mr. Nelson holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Architecture and Construction Management from California State University Fresno, and has been with the firm for 25 years. Mr. Nelson has 28 total years experience in the profession.
Leadership
Martin A. Ilic
Mr. Ilic holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Graphic Design from California State University Fresno, attended the Art Center in Pasadena and has been with the firm for 18 years. Martin is a Graduate of the Coalition for Adequate School Housing’s School Facility Leadership Academy.
Leadership
Matthew R. Heiss
Mr. Matthew “Matt” Heiss holds a Bachelor of Architecture from California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo and has been with the firm for 10 years. Matt is a Graduate of the Coalition for Adequate School Housing’s School Facility Leadership Academy.
Leadership
Gerardo Padron
Mr. Padron holds an Associate’s Degree from the Phoenix Institute of Technology, and has been with the firm for 21 years. Mr. Padron has 36 total years experience in the profession.
Leadership
Robert L. Petithomme
Robert “Bob” Petithomme holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Architecture from California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo and has been with the firm for 24 years. Mr. Petithomme has 38 total years experience in the profession.
Leadership
Michael K. Fennacy
Mr. Michael “Mike” Fennacy holds a Bachelor of Architecture Degree from the University of Southern California, and has been with the firm for 27 years. Mr. Fennacy has 34 total years experience in the profession. Mike has presented multiple times on “NextGen” school design.
Leadership
Andrew A. Corral
Mr. Corral holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Construction Management with an Emphasis in Architecture from the California State University Fresno. Andrew has been with the firm for 18 years and is a Graduate of the Coalition for Adequate School Housing’s School Facility Leadership Academy.
Careers
If you are ready to become part of an innovative team of Architects, Planners and Interior Designers, then reach out to Darden Architects.
Careers
If you are ready to become part of an innovative team of Architects, Planners and Interior Designers, then reach out to Darden Architects.