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Business Details
33 Years
experience
Trusted Architectural Design Services in San Diego
Founded in 1993 by R. Bennett Lord Jr., our firm specializes in architectural design for institutional clients, including educational facilities, healthcare institutions, religious spaces, and commercial projects. With decades of combined experience, our principals work directly with clients to balance functional needs with innovative design. Katherine Lord, a LEED-certified architect, leads projects focusing on sustainability and code compliance, while Bennett Lord oversees master planning and historic renovations. Our teams expertise in navigating regulatory agencies like DSA and OSHPD ensures efficient project delivery. We prioritize direct client collaboration, maintaining long-term relationships through consistent quality and service excellence.

Our portfolio spans Southern California, serving school districts, dioceses, and healthcare providers with tailored solutions. By integrating sustainable practices since 1973, we align client goals with environmental responsibility. Our technical proficiency in BIM and construction documentation supports precise execution across new builds, modernizations, and renovations. Recognized for fostering early contractor collaboration, we minimize delays and optimize outcomes. This client-centric approach has solidified our reputation as a trusted partner in complex institutional projects.
Services
Educational Facilities Healthcare Design Religious Institutions Commercial Architecture Residential Projects School Renovations Community Centers Sustainable Design Historic Renovations BIM Coordination
Details
  • Year established: 1993
Highlights and features
  • We offer 30+ years of experience in institutional architectural design.
  • Our team includes LEED-certified professionals specializing in sustainable design.
  • We maintain direct client collaboration throughout all project phases.
  • Our expertise spans DSA, OSHPD, and historic renovation compliance.
  • We prioritize early contractor integration to streamline project delivery.
Associations and certifications
  • LEED AP
Services
Educational Facilities
We design K-12 and university facilities tailored to evolving educational needs. Our expertise includes DSA-compliant construction, modernizations, and master planning. Collaborating with districts like Sweetwater Union and San Marcos Unified, we integrate technology and sustainability while adhering to strict budgets and academic timelines.
Healthcare Design
Our healthcare projects, such as Sharp Coronado Hospital, prioritize patient safety and operational efficiency. We navigate OSHPD regulations and focus on healing environments through evidence-based design. Services include facility assessments, code compliance, and construction administration for new and renovated medical spaces.
Religious Institutions
We create sacred spaces for diverse faith communities, including dioceses and congregations across Southern California. Our work spans sanctuary restorations, additions, and multi-purpose buildings, balancing spiritual aesthetics with functional requirements for worship, education, and community gatherings.
Commercial Architecture
We deliver commercial projects ranging from corporate offices to mixed-use developments. Our approach emphasizes brand identity, space optimization, and compliance with zoning laws. Clients benefit from our experience in tenant improvements and ground-up constructions for businesses in dynamic markets.
Sustainable Design
Leveraging LEED-certified expertise, we incorporate energy-efficient systems and materials into every project. Our sustainable strategies reduce long-term costs while meeting client goals. From daylighting analysis to renewable energy integration, we ensure environmental responsibility aligns with functional and aesthetic priorities.
People
Katherine Lord
Principal
A LEED-certified architect with decades of experience, Katherine specializes in educational and healthcare projects. She ensures design quality and regulatory compliance while advocating for sustainable, cost-effective solutions tailored to client needs.
R. Bennett Lord Jr.
Principal
With decades in institutional architecture, Bennett focuses on educational facilities, religious institutions, and historic renovations. He oversees project phases from planning to construction administration, ensuring alignment with client visions and regulatory standards.
Pat Wada
Project Architect
Pat manages architectural projects with expertise in DSA compliance and public agency coordination. She excels in designing school facilities funded through complex budgets, balancing academic schedules with construction timelines for minimal disruption.
Luis Jaramillo
Architect
Luis coordinates K-12, healthcare, and industrial projects using BIM software. His skills include technical design, construction documentation, and compliance with DSA and OSHPD standards, ensuring precise execution from concept to completion.
Greg Golombek
Job Captain
Greg brings 23 years of experience in architectural documentation and detailing. Proficient in Revit and AutoCAD, he develops construction documents, presentation materials, and product research to support the firms diverse project portfolio.
Questions
What industries does Lord Architecture specialize in?
We focus on educational facilities, healthcare institutions, religious spaces, and commercial projects, with deep expertise in regulatory compliance for public agencies.
How does Lord Architecture handle complex regulatory requirements?
Our team has decades of experience navigating DSA, OSHPD, and historic preservation guidelines, ensuring projects meet all compliance standards efficiently.
Can you work with tight public-sector budgets?
Yes, we specialize in projects funded through bond measures and grants, optimizing designs to meet financial constraints without compromising quality.
Do you offer sustainable design services?
Yes, led by a LEED-certified principal, we integrate energy-efficient solutions that align with client goals and environmental best practices.
What geographic areas do you serve?
While based in San Diego, we serve clients across Southern California, including school districts, dioceses, and healthcare providers.