Business Details
31 Years
experience
Modern Architecture & DesignBuild Services in San Francisco
Zack | De Vito has been a leader in architectural design and construction for over 25 years. Founded in 1995 by Jim Zack, a licensed architect and contractor with a background in hands-on craftsmanship, the firm combines modernist principles with meticulous attention to detail. Our collaborative approach integrates architecture, construction, and project management, ensuring seamless execution from concept to completion. We specialize in creating experiential spaces that prioritize functionality, sustainability, and aesthetic innovation, serving clients across residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments. With a team of experienced professionals, including Design Principal Lise de Vito, we deliver award-winning projects that reflect both client vision and environmental context.Our expertise in adaptive reuse and material-driven design has earned recognition, including the 2025 AIASF Firm Leadership Award. As a California General Contractor License #707355 holder, we maintain rigorous standards in craftsmanship and client collaboration. Our work spans iconic projects like the STEEL Life residential condo and the Hillside House in Marin County, demonstrating our commitment to elevating spaces through modern design. We believe in the power of architecture to transform lives, offering tailored solutions that balance creativity with practicality. This philosophy has solidified our reputation as a trusted partner in the Bay Area and beyond.
Services
Architect-Led DesignBuild
Custom Residential Architecture
Commercial Architecture
Landscape Architecture
Development Services
Details
- Year established: 1995
Highlights and features
- 25+ years of experience in modernist architectural design and construction
- Award-winning projects recognized by the American Institute of Architects
- CA General Contractor License #707355 ensures compliance and quality assurance
- Integrated DesignBuild model streamlines project timelines and accountability
- Expertise in adaptive reuse and sustainable building practices
Associations and certifications
- AIASF
Services
Architect-Led DesignBuild
Our integrated DesignBuild service combines architecture and construction under one contract. This approach ensures seamless project execution from concept to completion, reducing timelines and costs while maintaining design integrity. Clients benefit from direct collaboration with architects and builders throughout the process, guaranteeing that every detail aligns with their vision and functional needs. This method is ideal for complex residential and commercial projects requiring specialized coordination.
Custom Residential Architecture
We create bespoke living spaces that reflect individual lifestyles and environmental contexts. Our residential projects emphasize natural light integration, material authenticity, and spatial fluidity. From hillside homes to urban infill developments, we prioritize energy efficiency and modernist principles while ensuring each home remains deeply personal to its occupants. Our expertise includes historic renovations and contemporary new constructions.
Commercial Architecture
We transform commercial spaces into functional, inspiring environments that enhance business operations. Our portfolio includes tech offices, restaurants, and retail spaces designed with brand identity and user experience in mind. Projects like the SOMA-Tech office conversion demonstrate our ability to balance aesthetic innovation with practical requirements for modern enterprises.
Landscape Architecture
Our landscape architecture extends design principles to exterior spaces, creating harmonious connections between buildings and their surroundings. We specialize in urban courtyards, rooftop gardens, and naturalistic settings that complement architectural forms. The Steelhouse 1+2 project exemplifies our approach to integrating private outdoor spaces within dense urban environments.
Development Services
We offer comprehensive development services for residential and mixed-use projects, managing all aspects from land acquisition to final delivery. Our in-house expertise ensures strict quality control and adherence to market demands. This service is particularly valuable for clients seeking turnkey solutions with proven returns on investment in competitive real estate markets.
People
Jim Zack
Owner / Managing Principal
Licensed architect and contractor with 25+ years of experience. Founder of Zack | de Vito, recipient of the 2025 AIA Fellowship. Specializes in modernist design and construction integration. Holds degrees from UC Berkeley.
Lise de Vito
Owner / Design Principal
Design leader with expertise in human-centered architecture and biophilic design. Manages complex residential and commercial projects. Active in Bay Area design institutions and public speaking engagements.
Sean Baccei
Senior Project Manager
Oversees project execution with focus on technical precision and client communication. Coordinates multidisciplinary teams to ensure alignment with design intent and construction standards.
Gordon McDonald
Controller/Office Manager
Manages financial operations and office administration. Ensures fiscal responsibility and operational efficiency across all projects and business functions.
Marion Girard
Senior Designer
Design specialist with focus on material innovation and spatial optimization. Contributes to both architectural and interior design aspects of residential and commercial projects.
Questions
What architectural styles does Zack | de Vito specialize in?
We focus on modernist principles with an emphasis on material authenticity, spatial innovation, and functional design tailored to each project's unique context.
Do you handle both design and construction in-house?
Yes, our DesignBuild model integrates architecture, construction, and project management under one team for streamlined project delivery.
What geographic areas do you serve?
Primarily the San Francisco Bay Area including Marin, Napa, and Carmel, with select projects across California.
Can you work with existing contractors?
Yes, we offer full-service architecture for clients who prefer to work with their own contractors through our Architecture-Only service.
Are you experienced with historic renovations?
Yes, our portfolio includes adaptive reuse projects that preserve historical elements while integrating modern design solutions.
What certifications does your firm hold?
We are a licensed California General Contractor (#707355) and have received multiple design awards from the American Institute of Architects.
