Business Details
Your Trusted Architectural Design Partner in San Francisco
K D Architects is a San Francisco-based architecture firm dedicated to user-centered design for commercial and residential projects. Our practice focuses on creating functional, aesthetically driven spaces that address the unique needs of each client. We collaborate closely with clients to define project goals, develop design concepts, and assemble specialized consultant teams for execution. Our services span schematic design, construction documentation, bidding, and construction administration, with expertise in building code compliance, accessibility standards, and urban infill projects. We specialize in residential conversions, accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and commercial renovations, combining technical precision with creative problem-solving to deliver tailored solutions. 
Services
Residential Design
Commercial Architecture
ADU Planning
Building Permit Assistance
Code Compliance
Urban Infill Projects
Design Consultation
Highlights and features
- We specialize in San Francisco building code compliance and permitting processes.
- Our team has extensive experience with accessory dwelling unit (ADU) design and regulations.
- We provide full-service architectural solutions from concept to construction completion.
- We focus on user-centered design that balances aesthetics with functional requirements.
- Our principal architect leads personalized project teams for specialized expertise.
Services
Residential Design
We create customized residential designs that prioritize functionality, natural light, and modern living requirements. Our expertise includes single-family homes, multi-unit developments, and adaptive reuse projects. We ensure compliance with local building codes while optimizing spatial efficiency and aesthetic appeal for homeowners and developers.
Commercial Architecture
Our commercial architecture services focus on creating productive, code-compliant environments for offices, retail spaces, and institutional facilities. We specialize in tenant improvements, historical preservation, and urban infill projects that balance operational needs with sustainable design principles and regulatory requirements.
ADU Planning
We provide comprehensive ADU/JADU design and regulatory guidance for property owners seeking to add secondary housing units. Our services include feasibility analysis, code compliance review, and customized design solutions that maximize usable space while meeting California and local jurisdiction requirements.
Building Permit Assistance
We navigate complex permitting processes for renovations, expansions, and new construction projects. Our team prepares required documentation, coordinates with city officials, and ensures compliance with safety codes, zoning regulations, and accessibility standards to streamline approval timelines.
Code Compliance
We specialize in ensuring architectural designs meet all applicable building codes, including accessibility requirements, structural safety, and energy efficiency standards. Our expertise helps clients avoid costly revisions while maintaining design integrity and operational functionality across residential and commercial projects.
People
Simon Kwan
Principal Architect
Simon Kwan leads K D Architects with over 20 years of experience in residential and commercial architecture. He specializes in San Francisco building codes, adaptive reuse projects, and user-centered design solutions that balance creativity with technical compliance.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialize in?
We specialize in residential and commercial design, ADU planning, building code compliance, and permit assistance for projects in San Francisco and the Bay Area.
Can you help with accessory dwelling unit (ADU) regulations?
Yes, we provide expert guidance on ADU/JADU requirements including size limits, zoning compliance, and permitting processes across Bay Area jurisdictions.
How do you handle building permit applications?
We prepare required documentation, coordinate with city officials, and ensure code compliance to streamline permit approvals for renovations and new construction projects.
What makes your firm different from other architects?
Our focus on user-centered design combines technical expertise in local building codes with personalized service and creative problem-solving tailored to each project's unique challenges.
Do you work on historical building conversions?
Yes, we have experience converting older buildings to residential use while maintaining historical integrity and meeting modern safety standards.
