Services

We are a group of architects who share the same vision: designing environments that enrich visual experiences and contribute to the enrichment of people’s lives. At DIAP, we combine our diverse knowledge of different elements and systems and unify them to create functional, unique, and well-balanced architectural designs. DIAP specializes in site-specific design, and offers a broad range of architectural and planning services, and manages and coordinates projects from inception to completion. DIAP's commitment to close communication with clients ensures an effective and flexible design process. To provide complete support for client and project needs, DIAP maintains longstanding relationships with talented consultants. Working hand-in-hand with local architects, DIAP has the proven ability to work around the world and has never had a project denied. As a team, we strive to provide innovative solutions for complex design projects.

Planning Services

Planning (Land, Space, Environmental, etc.)

The creative team at DIAP produces sophisticated designs, with innovative solutions tailored to take full advantage of the opportunities and challenges of each site.

DIAP offers a collaborative process with a diverse team of experts that yields results. DIAP first studies a place and gets to know its people, economies, politics, culture, and environment (among other factors). As an international team, with diverse cultural experience, DIAP can quickly understand the nuances of complex situations. For more detailed information, please reference Strategic Regional Planning.

At DIAP, our team can design attractive and sustainable buildings on a single site and integrate them into the existing fabric; however, our overall goals include designing urban areas (cities, towns, villages) that are functional, appealing, and sustainable. When designing these areas, DIAP focuses on public space that allows for the creation of pedestrian friendly designs. For more detailed information, please reference Urban Design.

In line with the main focus at DIAP, our team's design process is centered around development and use of land, impact on the environment, and infrastructure. For more detailed information, please reference Town Planning.

Historic Preservation

DIAP focuses on preserving the built environment by introducing designs in tune with environmental impact and preserving the traditional culture of the area. Our designs focus on protecting and maintaining historic structures linked to cultural heritage. Sustainability is an absolute objective of DIAP when designing for revitalization. It's important for our team to find effective ways to reuse significant buildings, landscapes, and communities.

Environmental Revival / Preservation

As the environment continues to be threatened, DIAP finds it imperative to establish new ways to contribute to reviving and preserving not only historic buildings, but also the environment (i.e. creeks, marshes, trails, etc.). Our overall goal is to produce viable options that work to save the plants and species that naturally inhabit the land, and also, integrate the individuals who live in the surrounding area(s). As architects, we oversee these projects and provide a vision that is inclusive of all individuals involved in the process.

Project Phase Services

Pre-Design

During this phase of the project, DIAP offers a site analysis, which will include a feasibility study (review of any existing structures). We do this to ensure that all of the limitations that may be imposed upon the project are understood prior to design. This is the research portion of the project, which means that zoning requirements and/or any other restrictions will also be addressed during this time. Our analysis will offer recommendations for incorporating the results into the site design.

Conceptual and Schematic Design

This phase allows for project goals and requirements to be determined. First, conceptual sketches will be produced, which will outline the concepts of design and include the spatial relationships and general scale. After client approval,these sketches will be further developed (functions will be added, i.e. entryways and exits) in order to produce the final schematic design.

Design Development (DD)

With approval in mind, we begin this stage by talking with the planning department and neighboring sites. By beginning the discussion early, we are usually able to speed through the approval process. This state also involves further developing the schematic designs to include building systems (mechanical, electrical, plumbing, structural). These drawings outline design elements requested by the client, which will often include exterior finishes along with other external material specifications. This phase of the project will end with a formal presentation, which will allow for client and planning department approval.

Construction Documentation (CD)

After client and planning department approval of the Design Development (DD) documents, DIAP will produce drawings that include specifications for construction details and materials. CDs will include all applicable information required for a contractor to price and build the project.

Entitlements

Our firm understands that the entitlement process is a critical aspect of any development project. At DIAP, the process includes developing a cost effective design for our clients that addresses zoning regulations, municipal codes, and any neighborhood council / community groups requirements. DIAP is able to leverage its experience and relationships to produce a desirable outcome for all parties involved. Our main goal is get your project approved in an effective and timely manner; all while staying in budget and nurturing positive relationships for future growth opportunities.

Additional Services

Expert / Professional Witness (Judicial Expert)

As a firm who has never been drawn into a lawsuit, our principal architect, Dan Ionescu, has been asked for his expertise in multiple cases regarding matters of architecture and design. Please contact our firm if you are seeking an individual with in-depth knowledge of the technical and contractual aspects of the architectural industry.

Guest Speaker / Presenter

Our principal architect, Dan Ionescu, would be pleased to share his vision as a guest lecturer. He has previously been asked to speak at Standford University and California College of the Arts. Popular presentation topics include sustainable development, strategic regional and town planning, land use, and livable communities.

Dan Ionescu presenting his vision for San Mateo

Noise and Sound Control

One of modern life’s most damaging forms of pollution is “noise pollution”. Impact and airborne noises are responsible for this day to day nuisance. Both can originate inside or outside of the working / living spaces. Noises that originate inside the working / living space are due to regular human activities in a space designed without sound control considerations. Reflection and sound amplification are the most common manifestations of interior noise pollution. Noises that originate outside the living / working space are transmitted (and sometimes amplified) through floor-ceiling assemblies, wall assemblies, doors and windows, plumbing and electrical systems. Its team of professionals use the most advanced approaches and materials in the fight against noise pollution. From technical know-how to using decorative works of art as a mean to controlling the noise, DIAP provides turn-key solutions for sound and noise problems.