Business Details
Innovative Architectural Design Solutions
At DesignARC, we approach architecture as a dynamic dialogue between art, science, and human need. Our firm specializes in creating purpose-driven spaces that prioritize client ambitions over stylistic signatures, delivering custom residential, commercial, hospitality, and institutional designs. With studios in Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, our team of progressive thinkers combines research, collaboration, and technical expertise to manage projects from concept to construction.We emphasize functional beauty across genres, ensuring every project respects budgets, timelines, and the evolving needs of occupants. Our culture fosters innovation through diverse perspectives, blending material knowledge, environmental sensitivity, and emotional resonance to craft architecture that tells meaningful stories.
Services
Custom Residential Design
Commercial Architecture
Hospitality Development
Institutional Projects
Mixed-Use Planning
International Projects
Interior Design
Project Management
Highlights and features
- We specialize in cross-genre residential and commercial architecture with 20+ years of local expertise
- Our collaborative process prioritizes client ambitions over designer egos
- We manage full project lifecycles from entitlements to construction completion
- Our team maintains dual studios in Los Angeles and Santa Barbara for regional specialization
- We integrate environmental sustainability with emotional and functional design requirements
Associations and certifications
- AIA
- NCARB
Services
Custom Residential Design
We create bespoke residential spaces that balance aesthetic vision with functional requirements. Our approach considers environmental context, family needs, and long-term usability. Projects range from single-family estates to luxury multi-family developments across California and international locations.
Commercial Architecture
Our commercial design solutions integrate brand identity with operational efficiency. We specialize in office buildings, retail spaces, and mixed-use developments that enhance user experience while meeting zoning regulations and sustainability standards.
Hospitality Development
We craft immersive hospitality environments that combine local character with modern amenities. Our portfolio includes boutique hotels, resort complexes, and restaurant spaces designed to create memorable guest experiences.
Project Management
Our team provides comprehensive project management from initial concept through construction completion. Services include budget oversight, timeline coordination, and quality control to ensure successful project delivery within specified parameters.
International Projects
We extend our design expertise to international markets, adapting to diverse cultural contexts and regulatory environments. Recent projects include developments in China, Greece, and Indonesia while maintaining California-based design excellence.
People
Mark Kirkhart
Architect, Principal
Licensed architect with AIA and NCARB certifications, Mark leads design vision across both Los Angeles and Santa Barbara studios. His expertise spans residential and commercial projects with a focus on contextual integration.
Mark Shields
Senior Design Director
As Santa Barbara principal, Mark specializes in luxury residential projects with over 25 years of regional experience. He oversees project execution while maintaining strong client relationships throughout the design process.
Andy Alper
Architect, Partner
Senior project director in Los Angeles with AIA certification. Andy manages complex commercial developments and institutional projects, ensuring technical precision and regulatory compliance across all design phases.
Raymond Urruty
Interior Design Director
Leading interior design initiatives in Los Angeles, Raymond combines spatial innovation with material expertise. His work spans hospitality, residential, and commercial interiors that enhance overall architectural concepts.
Shannon Sullivan
Senior Project Designer
LEED-certified designer in Los Angeles focusing on sustainable design solutions. Shannon bridges creative concepts with technical requirements, specializing in high-end residential and mixed-use developments.
Questions
What architectural services does DesignARC offer?
We provide custom residential, commercial, hospitality, and institutional design services with expertise in mixed-use developments and international projects.
Do you work on both local and international projects?
Yes, while maintaining studios in Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, we've completed projects in locations like Santorini and China.
How does your design process prioritize client needs?
Our collaborative approach focuses on client ambitions rather than stylistic signatures, ensuring spaces serve their intended purpose and users.
What makes your firm different from other architecture practices?
We combine technical expertise with creative problem-solving, emphasizing environmental context and human experience in every design solution.
Can you handle complex project timelines and budgets?
Our team specializes in managing full project lifecycles with proven experience guiding developments from concept through construction completion.
