Business Details
17 Years
experience
Your Trusted Architectural Partner in San Francisco
Founded in 2009 by architect Serina Calhoun, we have completed over 350 projects in the Bay Area, specializing in single-family homes, commercial improvements, ADA upgrades, multi-family buildings, legalizations, and ADU projects. Our practice is guided by core principles: working only with clients we genuinely connect with, creating high-quality spaces, maintaining a healthy team environment, delivering meticulously detailed drawings, and conducting rigorous quality control. We pride ourselves on our deep code expertise, often surpassing building officials' knowledge, and our relentless advocacy for clients against bureaucratic challenges.Our small team ensures personalized attention to every project, with Serina directly involved in all work. We maintain a fixed-fee structure to foster transparent, harmonious client relationships and utilize Property Atlas to expedite permitting processes. Our reputation for creative problem-solving and code navigation has earned us trust among city staff and repeat business from 85% of our clients.
Services
ADU Design
Legalizations
New Construction
Adaptive Reuse
Commercial Design
Custom Homes
Permit Expediting
Historic Studies
ADA Upgrades
Office Conversions
Details
- Year established: 2009
Highlights and features
- We have 15+ years of experience in San Francisco's complex building codes
- Our principal architect directly oversees every project from start to finish
- We pioneered ADU permitting streamlining with local officials
- 85% of our work comes from repeat clients due to our proven track record
- We offer fixed-fee pricing with no hidden costs for all project phases
What people say
Creative solutions
Excellent service
Code compliance experts
Personalized approach
Repeat clients
Services
ADU Design
We specialize in creating rent-controlled accessory dwelling units through San Francisco's ADU program. Our team has completed over 300 units, focusing on maximizing natural light, privacy, and security while navigating complex zoning regulations. Our designs incorporate strategic landscaping and outdoor space connections to enhance livability.
Adaptive Reuse
Our experts transform historic structures, warehouses, and office buildings into modern housing solutions. We handle fire rating upgrades, code compliance, and historic preservation requirements while maintaining original architectural character. Recent projects include converting a landmark bakery and SRO buildings into unique residential spaces.
New Construction
We design site-specific buildings that meet neighborhood character needs while maximizing development potential. Our experience includes multi-family housing and commercial structures, with expertise in anticipating code changes to prevent redesign costs during permitting processes.
Commercial Design
We create branded commercial environments for restaurants, salons, and retail businesses. Our team handles health department requirements and material selections that reflect client identities. Notable clients include 4505 Meats and Re-Boot float spa locations across San Francisco.
Legalizations
We help property owners resolve illegal unit violations through proper permitting channels. Our team prepares documentation for city approvals and streamlines fire safety reviews, transforming non-compliant spaces into legal, high-quality rental units while maintaining client privacy.
People
Serina Calhoun
Principal Architect
Founded Syncopated Architecture in 2009 after working at Levy Design Partners. Specializes in multi-family housing and code compliance. Personally oversees all projects and developed streamlined ADU permitting processes with city officials.
Juan Cerda
Senior Associate
Brings extensive project management experience to complex architectural projects. Works closely with clients on design implementation and code compliance issues throughout the permitting process.
Bethany Diehl
Office Manager
Coordinates office operations and project logistics. Ensures smooth communication between design teams and clients during all project phases.
Jason Gates
Senior Associate
Handles technical aspects of architectural design and permitting. Provides expertise on structural requirements and code exceptions for complex projects.
Keegan Clark
Junior Associate
Supports design teams with documentation and code research. Assists in developing creative solutions for challenging architectural problems.
Questions
What ADU programs do you specialize in?
We specialize in San Francisco's Accessory Dwelling Unit program, having created over 300 units since 2015 with expertise in maximizing space while meeting code requirements.
How do you handle complex permitting processes?
We use Property Atlas for real-time permit tracking and maintain direct relationships with city staff to resolve code issues efficiently while advocating for client interests.
Can you work on historic building conversions?
Yes, we have extensive experience converting historic structures while maintaining architectural integrity and meeting modern code requirements through creative solutions.
What commercial project types do you handle?
We design restaurants, retail spaces, and salons with expertise in health department compliance and branded environments for businesses like 4505 Meats and Re-Boot Spa.
Do you offer fixed-fee pricing?
Yes, we operate on a fixed-fee structure for most project phases to ensure transparent budgeting and avoid unexpected costs for our clients.
How are projects staffed?
Every project includes Principal Serina Calhoun, a senior project manager, and junior associate for comprehensive expertise at all design stages.
