Our Services
K-12 Education
Higher Education
Healthcare
Interior Design
Civic
Architectural Design
With every project, Darden Architects is passionately committed to designing a quality building. This means well-crafted detailing, specification of superior building materials, and responsiveness to our clients’ needs. It is our goal to produce an attractive design that will best facilitate the client’s most efficient and cost-effective use of the facility.
Educational Facility Modernization
It is our mission to provide design solutions that will contribute to the cost-effective maintenance and update of valuable existing educational facilities. Through our extensive experience with modernization and renovation projects, we have developed a systematic approach wherein we examine essential aspects of school facility needs. This ensures the final design meets client objectives and supports ever-changing educational models.
Utilization of Design Technology
Darden Architects has always been on the forefront of technological innovation in the architectural design field. All of our projects are developed using the most advanced contract documentation software: Building Information Modeling (BIM) Software. BIM allows key stakeholders to more effectively engage in the design process, resulting in a more collaborative design effort.
Healthcare Planning
Darden Architects has walked clients from a wide range of healthcare facilities through the planning process, helping clients identify their short-term needs as well as developing a comprehensive plan for their facilities’ long-term goals. We understand every client has a unique vision for their facility, and Darden Architects can help reach these client-specific planning goals.
Construction Cost Estimating
In-house construction cost estimating enables our design teams to make more accurate empirical judgments regarding the cost of various designs, construction materials and methods. Darden Architects has maintained an excellent track record of bringing complex projects in under budget with a minimum of contract change orders.
Interior Design
Darden Architects’ Interior Design studio works closely with our architectural teams to help create spaces that are both functional and attractive. Interior Design Projects
Architectural Specifications Writing
Darden Architects has historically demonstrated comprehensive knowledge and experience in finding innovative ways to combine high-quality materials with cost-effective, energy-conscious and creative design. We are committed to specifying quality materials and writing thorough construction details in order to save our clients money in the short and long term.
Graphic Design
Darden Architects employs Graphic Design as an integral part of the design process. This collaboration with our Architectural and Interior Design team helps to enrich the built environment. We aim to create designs that are inspiring, memorable, and informative to the end-user.
Sustainable Design
Among our primary design goals for each project is the specification of quality, sustainable building materials and the incorporation of energy efficient utilities systems. With LEED Accredited Professionals on staff and a history of involvement with organizations like the US Green Building Council and the Collaborative for High Performance Schools, Darden Architects is on the leading-edge of sustainable design.
Safety by Design
Darden Architects designs spaces that cater to the end-user. Safety in design is an important part of this effort. We are familiar with those building materials and methods that will contribute to a Design product that is both attractive and secure.
Educational Planning & Programming
Darden Architects is active in educational planning and programming throughout California. We focus on how schools today are changing and what the appropriate facilities response should be. We endeavor to understand our District client’s goals and objectives and enhance them with our experience.
Construction Administration
For each project, we act as the eyes and ears for the owner on the jobsite during construction. This close connection to the build further supports our commitment to giving our clients a quality final product. We maintain excellent relationships with local contractors and work to cultivate a jobsite atmosphere of mutual respect and pride in a job well done.
State Agency Liaison
It is vitally important an architectural service provider be prepared to serve as a knowledgeable advocate for the District client in communication with the State Agencies having jurisdiction. Among others, we enjoy an excellent rapport with the Division of the State Architect (DSA) and Office of Public School Construction (OPSC).
Healthcare Design Code Compliance
Darden Architects maintains an up-to-date knowledge of code compliance in areas such as the California Building Code, California Green Standards Building Code, and the American’s with Disabilities Act requirements. Whether a facility falls under OSHPD governance, California Department of Public Health, or local jurisdiction, we strive to help clients assess their needs and find solutions.
Community College Capital Outlay Proposals
Darden Architects maintains a comprehensive understanding of the California Community College Chancellor’s office FUSION (Facilities Utilization, Space Inventory Options Net) database. We work closely with community college districts throughout California to produce and submit Future Planning Proposal’s (FPP) for state funding.