Business Details
Your Trusted Architects for Custom, Sustainable Design in Palo Alto
Ogawa Fisher Architects is a collaborative design firm dedicated to creating custom architectural solutions tailored to each client's unique vision. With over two decades of experience, we specialize in modern, detail-oriented projects that prioritize functionality, sustainability, and aesthetic harmony. Our process begins with active listening to understand client goals, followed by a comprehensive approach that spans schematic design, development, documentation, and hands-on construction oversight.We integrate Passive House principles to deliver energy-efficient, comfortable living spaces while maintaining a deep commitment to green building practices. Our diverse team draws inspiration from global perspectives, nature, and art to craft timeless environments that enhance daily life. By balancing technical expertise with creative problem-solving, we ensure every project reflects both the client's aspirations and our dedication to excellence in architecture.
Services
Architectural Design
Interior Design
Passive House Design
Sustainable Architecture
Construction Observation
Highlights and features
- We offer 20+ years of expertise in detail-oriented architectural projects.
- Our team includes Certified Passive House Designers for energy-efficient solutions.
- We prioritize a collaborative, client-centered design process from concept to completion.
- Our work integrates sustainable practices and resilience into every project.
- We combine global perspectives with local knowledge to create contextually responsive designs.
Associations and certifications
- Certified Passive House Designer (CPHD)
What people say
Timeless designs
Exceptional attention to detail
Energy-efficient solutions
Collaborative process
Award-winning work
Services
Architectural Design
Our architectural design services create custom spaces that balance aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability. We collaborate closely with clients to develop modern, contextually responsive solutions tailored to their unique needs. By integrating Passive House principles and green building practices, we deliver energy-efficient structures that prioritize comfort and longevity while maintaining timeless appeal.
Passive House Design
Specializing in Passive House standards, we design ultra-energy-efficient buildings that reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 90%. Our certified designers employ airtight construction, thermal bridge-free designs, and advanced ventilation systems to ensure optimal indoor air quality and comfort while minimizing environmental impact through reduced carbon emissions.
Interior Design
Our interior design services focus on creating cohesive, functional spaces that reflect clients' lifestyles. We consider natural light, spatial relationships, and intuitive storage solutions while selecting materials and finishes that enhance both aesthetics and durability. Every design decision supports the overall architectural vision for harmonious living environments.
Sustainable Architecture
We incorporate resiliency and sustainability into every project through material selection, energy-efficient systems, and site-sensitive design. Our approach minimizes environmental impact while creating healthy, adaptable spaces that meet current needs without compromising future generations' ability to do the same.
Construction Observation
Our hands-on construction observation ensures design intent is maintained throughout the building process. We conduct regular site visits to verify workmanship quality, material compliance, and adherence to technical specifications. This oversight guarantees the final structure aligns perfectly with the approved plans and client expectations.
People
Hiromi Ogawa
Principal
Licensed architect and Certified Passive House Designer with over 20 years of experience. Born in Japan, fluent in English and Japanese, Hiromi combines global perspectives with technical expertise to create timeless, functional spaces that reflect clients' lifestyles.
Lynn Fisher
Principal
Certified Passive House Designer with a focus on sustainable, resilient architecture. Originally from Virginia, Lynn brings a Bay Area perspective to projects, emphasizing smart design that balances environmental responsibility with aesthetic appeal and functionality.
Olena Vodetska
Associate, Job Captain
Ukrainian-born architect with a master's degree from Kyiv National University of Construction and Architecture. Olena approaches design challenges from multiple perspectives, combining international experience with a deep understanding of California's architectural landscape and building codes.
Anna Zamora
Project Designer
Project designer with a BA in Architecture from UC Berkeley. Born in the Philippines, Anna brings cultural diversity to her work, focusing on photography-inspired spatial relationships and creating functional, aesthetically balanced environments that enhance daily living experiences.
Sharanya Shivashankar
Project Designer
Project designer from Bangalore, India, specializing in detail-oriented solutions. Sharanya combines technical precision with creative problem-solving, drawing inspiration from global design traditions and natural patterns to create unique, contextually responsive architectural elements.
Questions
What architectural styles do you specialize in?
We specialize in modern, light-filled designs that balance timeless appeal with contemporary functionality. Our work often incorporates Passive House principles and responds to site-specific contexts while maintaining a clean, joyful aesthetic.
Do you work on residential and commercial projects?
While we primarily focus on residential architecture, including single-family homes and multi-generational living spaces, our expertise in spatial planning and sustainable design principles applies across various project types.
How do you incorporate sustainability into your designs?
We integrate green building practices through material selection, energy-efficient systems, and Passive House-certified design strategies that reduce energy consumption by up to 90% while maintaining superior indoor air quality and comfort.
What is your design process timeline?
Project timelines vary based on scope, but our process typically includes 3-6 months for schematic design, 6-12 months for development and documentation, and ongoing construction observation until project completion.
Are you licensed to work outside California?
We are licensed in California and have experience working on projects in the Bay Area, including Palo Alto, San Mateo County, and surrounding regions. For out-of-state projects, we collaborate with local architects as needed.
How do you handle budget constraints?
We develop customized solutions that align with your budget through value engineering and material selection strategies. Our goal is to create exceptional spaces that maximize your investment while maintaining design integrity.
Reviews (5)
Chris Brooks
Apr 22, 2021
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Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Responsiveness,Value
I cant say enough about Ogawa Fischer, their designs are well thought out and creative. The entire staff is detail oriented, have a great sense of design and are problem solvers not creators. They are an excellent team.
I cant say enough about Ogawa Fischer, their designs are well thought out and creative. The entire staff is detail oriented, have a great sense of design and are problem solvers not creators. They are an excellent team.
Clotilde Gres
Apr 19, 2021
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Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Responsiveness
We have been working with OFA for over a year and we are thrilled with the team. We love their creativity and open mind. We are doing a full build and are so excited to be creating our dream house with OFA. We have already recommended OFA to some of our friends.
We have been working with OFA for over a year and we are thrilled with the team. We love their creativity and open mind. We are doing a full build and are so excited to be creating our dream house with OFA. We have already recommended OFA to some of our friends.
H. Cho
Apr 17, 2021
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Without hesitation, we recommend OFA for their professionalism, integrity, vision and creativity. They are wonderful with creating space that is beautiful and modern, yet feels warm and welcoming. They demonstrate an understated elegance in their style both on a professional level as well as finished design. We also appreciate that they stay with you from design to the end of construction.
Sachin Ahuja
Mar 01, 2021
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Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Responsiveness,Value
Lynn and Hiromi did a brilliant job of our remodel. They have style and pragmatism in equal measure. We love both the end result and the process that got us there.
Lynn and Hiromi did a brilliant job of our remodel. They have style and pragmatism in equal measure. We love both the end result and the process that got us there.
Kiran Joshi
Feb 26, 2021
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Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Responsiveness
Hiromi and her team did an amazing job with our home remodel! They have excellent taste, are very professional, and were a pleasure to work with. We love our new home!
Hiromi and her team did an amazing job with our home remodel! They have excellent taste, are very professional, and were a pleasure to work with. We love our new home!
