Business Details
Award-Winning Architecture Firm in Santa Monica
DFH Architects is an independent, award-winning architecture firm with over twenty years of experience and more than fifty projects completed in Santa Monica. Founded by David Forbes Hibbert, we specialize in blending artistic vision with sustainable design principles to create impactful spaces. Our team's expertise in navigating complex entitlements, zoning regulations, and building codes ensures seamless project execution. With a high percentage of licensed architects, we deliver full architectural services ranging from custom interiors to large-scale commercial and residential developments. Our work spans diverse sectors, including the Universal Music Headquarters, Skechers Headquarters, and Whole Foods on Wilshire Boulevard.We prioritize community values and project economics while maintaining a strong network of loyal clients across Southern California. Our commitment to innovation and sustainability has earned recognition through awards and certifications, including LEED Gold for multiple projects. We foster a collaborative culture that encourages continuous learning and growth, ensuring each project benefits from our team's collective expertise. Our diverse portfolio reflects our ability to adapt to varying client needs while maintaining a consistent focus on quality and client satisfaction. We remain dedicated to advancing architectural excellence through creative problem-solving and a deep understanding of local and regional contexts.
Services
Mixed-Use Development
Multi-Family Residential
Commercial Architecture
Office Design
Adaptive Reuse
Highlights and features
- We have over 20 years of experience in Southern California architecture
- Our team includes licensed architects with expertise in complex entitlements
- We offer full-service architectural solutions from concept to completion
- We hold LEED Gold certifications for multiple projects
- Our portfolio includes award-winning commercial and residential developments
Associations and certifications
- LEED Gold Certified
- American Institute of Architects
- U.S. Green Building Council
Services
Mixed-Use Development
We design mixed-use developments that integrate residential, commercial, and public spaces. Our approach prioritizes community engagement and sustainable urban planning. Projects like Wilco at 2525 Wilshire Blvd demonstrate our ability to create vibrant, multi-functional environments that enhance city living.
Multi-Family Residential
Our multi-family residential projects combine modern aesthetics with practical living solutions. From adaptive reuse of parking structures to new developments like Crosby at 685 Catalina St, we create spaces that foster community interaction while meeting diverse housing needs.
Commercial Architecture
We specialize in commercial architecture that balances functionality with striking design. Notable projects include Skechers Headquarters and Universal Music Group's corporate offices, featuring LEED-certified spaces that optimize workflow and employee well-being.
Adaptive Reuse
Our adaptive reuse expertise transforms existing structures into modern, functional spaces. We've successfully converted parking garages into residential buildings and upgraded historic structures while maintaining their architectural integrity and reducing environmental impact.
Sustainable Design
We integrate sustainable practices throughout our projects, achieving LEED certifications for multiple developments. Our approach includes energy-efficient systems, eco-friendly materials, and designs that minimize environmental impact while maximizing long-term value for clients.
People
David Forbes Hibbert
Partner Emeritus
Founder of DFH Architects with international experience and business education. Influenced by three countries' perspectives, he combines architectural expertise with strategic thinking to lead complex projects.
James Fischer
Licensed Architect
AIA and NCARB-certified architect with over a decade at DFH. Specializes in project evolution and team culture development while balancing family life and professional commitments.
Kara Block
Licensed Architect
Brings Midwest tenacity to Southern California projects. Focuses on design excellence across entitlements, luxury residential, and commercial developments while contributing to office culture.
Kate Joyce
Licensed Architect
LEED AP BD+C certified architect with experience from Tulane to Yale. Specializes in holistic project involvement and neighborhood exploration to understand environmental interactions.
Jack Feichtner
Licensed Architect
Specializes in housing and urban planning with Midwest problem-solving roots. Brings creative solutions to multi-family residential, hospitality, and entertainment projects across Southern California.
Questions
What architectural services does DFH Architects offer?
We provide full architectural services including mixed-use development, multi-family residential projects, commercial office spaces, adaptive reuse, and sustainable design solutions.
How long has DFH Architects been in business?
Our firm has over 20 years of experience with more than 50 completed projects across Southern California since our founding.
Are DFH Architects' projects environmentally certified?
Yes, we have multiple LEED Gold Certified projects including Skechers headquarters and Universal Music Group buildings.
What areas do DFH Architects serve?
We primarily work in Southern California, covering Los Angeles, Long Beach, San Diego, and surrounding regions.
Can DFH Architects handle complex zoning issues?
Our team excels at navigating complex entitlements, zoning regulations, and building codes due to our high percentage of licensed architects.
