Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Architectural & Forensic Consulting Services in Novato, CA
Founded in 1973, our firm has built a legacy of excellence in architectural design and forensic consulting. We specialize in addressing complex building challenges for homeowners, HOAs, and property managers while delivering innovative solutions for renovation and new construction. Our team combines decades of experience with technical expertise to reduce risk and ensure long-term building integrity. We maintain rigorous professional standards throughout every project phase, from initial programming to construction administration. Our forensic specialists provide expert analysis of structural issues, including water intrusion and construction defects, supported by detailed reporting and expert testimony.With a focus on community-centric architecture, we serve the Greater San Francisco Bay Area from our Novato headquarters. Our leadership team includes licensed architects and contractors who bring both historical perspective and modern capabilities to every engagement. We prioritize transparency in all client communications and maintain strict quality control through hands-on field inspections. Our reputation for integrity and technical precision has been consistently validated by long-term client relationships and industry recognition. Today, as Danmeier Architects, we continue evolving our capabilities while honoring the foundational principles established over five decades ago.
Services
Architectural Design
Architectural Forensics
Project Management
SB-326 Inspections
Construction Contract Administration
Details
- Year established: 1973
Highlights and features
- We offer 50+ years of combined experience in forensic architecture and construction defect analysis
- Our team includes licensed architects and contractors with specialized SB-326 inspection expertise
- We provide expert witness testimony and detailed forensic reporting for legal proceedings
- Our field inspections include drone documentation and comprehensive repair cost analysis
- We maintain active involvement throughout construction phases to ensure quality compliance
Associations and certifications
- AIA
- NCARB
- LEED AP BD+C
What people say
Constant in opinions
Competent and thorough
Highest level of service
Pragmatic and thorough approach
Excellent field reports
Services
Architectural Design
We provide comprehensive architectural design services for residential and commercial projects, focusing on functional innovation and historical preservation. Our process begins with detailed programming to align designs with client needs, budgets, and schedules. Services include component life analysis, construction documentation, and contract administration to ensure quality execution.
Architectural Forensics
Our forensic specialists investigate construction defects and building failures, including water intrusion, structural issues, and system malfunctions. We deliver expert analysis, repair recommendations, and litigation support with detailed cost estimates and expert witness testimony for legal proceedings involving condominium complexes and residential properties.
Project Management
We manage all project phases from programming to completion, ensuring timely delivery within budget constraints. Our services include permit acquisition, contractor bidding, construction inspections, and contract administration. We specialize in multi-family residential and commercial projects with particular expertise in condominium complexes.
SB-326 Inspections
We conduct structural evaluations of exterior elevated elements per California Civil Code 5551/SB-326 requirements. Our inspections identify safety issues and provide repair solutions with detailed drawings for permit acquisition. Our team combines forensic expertise with code compliance knowledge to ensure building safety and regulatory adherence.
Construction Contract Administration
We act as owner's representatives during construction phases, managing quality control and contract compliance. Services include field inspections, billing audits, and contractor coordination. Our hands-on approach ensures specifications are met while maintaining budget integrity through detailed documentation and transparent communication.
People
David Waldorf
CEO, Principal Architect
Licensed architect with LEED certification specializing in forensic architecture and community-focused design. Brings modern expertise to the firm's legacy of technical precision and client advocacy established over five decades.
Jason Baggs
Director of Architecture
Licensed California contractor and associate architect with extensive experience in residential and commercial project management. Specializes in integrating technical solutions with client needs through comprehensive design and construction oversight.
Don Danmeier
Founding Principal
AIA-certified architect who established the firm's reputation for forensic architecture excellence. Pioneered building defect analysis methods now industry standards while maintaining a commitment to community-focused design solutions for over 40 years.
Questions
What types of architectural services do you specialize in?
We specialize in forensic architecture, construction defect analysis, SB-326 inspections, and community-focused design solutions for residential and commercial properties across the San Francisco Bay Area.
How do you handle construction defect investigations?
Our process includes systematic analysis of issues like water intrusion and structural failures, followed by detailed repair recommendations, cost estimates, and expert witness testimony when required.
Are you SB-326 compliant inspection experts?
Yes, we provide exterior elevated element inspections meeting California Civil Code 5551 requirements, including detailed repair drawings and compliance documentation for condominium complexes.
What project management services do you offer?
We manage all phases from programming to completion, including permit acquisition, contractor bidding, construction oversight, and budget compliance for residential and commercial developments.
