Business Details
17 Years
experience
Expert Architectural Design Services in San Francisco
Founded in 2009 by architect Serina Calhoun, Syncopated Architecture has completed over 350 projects across the Bay Area. Our practice is built on core principles of client advocacy, code expertise, and meticulous design quality. We specialize in Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), adaptive reuse, new construction, and commercial design, with a focus on solving complex regulatory challenges. Our team maintains direct involvement in every project, from initial concept through permitting, ensuring seamless execution. With decades of combined experience, we leverage deep knowledge of San Francisco's planning codes to maximize project value.Our fixed-fee structure and hands-on approach distinguish us from traditional architectural practices. We prioritize personal client relationships, treating each project as a unique opportunity to create meaningful spaces. Our track record includes pioneering early ADU/J-ADU density strategies and streamlining permit processes through Property Atlas integration. Over 85% of our work comes from repeat clients, reflecting our commitment to exceeding expectations while maintaining budgetary integrity.
Services
ADU Development
Adaptive Reuse Projects
New Construction Design
Commercial Tenant Improvements
Historic Building Conversions
Permit Expediting Services
Code Compliance Consulting
Residential Remodeling
Accessible Business Entry Solutions
Multi-family Housing Design
Details
- Year established: 2009
Highlights and features
- We pioneered ADU permit streamlining processes with San Francisco officials
- Our team maintains 100% project involvement from concept to completion
- We leverage proprietary Property Atlas integration for faster plancheck processes
- Our fixed-fee billing model ensures transparent project costs
- We have completed over 300 ADU/Legalization program projects since 2015
Services
ADU Development
We specialize in transforming garages and utility spaces into legal rental units. Our expertise includes maximizing natural light, ensuring security, and navigating San Francisco's ADU regulations. With over 300 completed projects, we streamline permit processes through direct city collaboration and Property Atlas integration. Our designs prioritize functional layouts and code compliance while maintaining aesthetic quality.
Adaptive Reuse
Our team converts historic structures and industrial spaces into modern housing. We address complex code requirements for fire ratings, exits, and materials while preserving architectural character. Projects include SRO buildings, live/work lofts, and landmark bakery conversions. We balance preservation with modern functionality to create unique residential spaces in challenging structures.
Commercial Design
We create branded commercial environments for restaurants, salons, and retail businesses. Our designs incorporate health department compliance, material selection, and spatial branding. Clients benefit from our experience with tenant improvement permits and our ability to translate business identity into physical space through creative material and color applications.
New Construction
We design site-specific residential and mixed-use buildings from concept through permitting. Our approach maximizes zoning potential while anticipating code changes. We specialize in multi-family housing that addresses urban density challenges. Our experience includes being first to implement ADU/J-ADU density strategies in San Francisco developments.
Custom Homes
We craft personalized living spaces through collaborative client partnerships. Our process focuses on natural light optimization, spatial flow, and functional aesthetics. Projects range from family homes to aging-in-place adaptations. We maintain strict quality control while treating client budgets with fiduciary responsibility, resulting in 85% repeat client retention.
People
Serina Calhoun
Principal Architect
Founded Syncopated Architecture in 2009 after tenure at Levy Design Partners. Specializes in multi-family housing and code compliance. Pioneered ADU permit streamlining with San Francisco officials. Maintains direct project involvement.
Juan Cerda
Senior Associate
Experienced project manager with expertise in commercial tenant improvements and regulatory navigation. Coordinates permitting processes and code compliance strategies for complex projects across multiple building types.
Bethany Diehl
Office Manager
Manages day-to-day operations while ensuring smooth client communication. Coordinates project timelines and internal resources to maintain the firm's personalized service approach for all clients.
Jason Gates
Senior Associate
Specializes in historic building conversions and adaptive reuse projects. Brings technical expertise to complex code challenges in warehouse and industrial space transformations while maintaining design integrity.
Keegan Clark
Junior Associate
Supports project teams with design development and documentation. Contributes fresh perspectives to residential and commercial projects while learning from senior staff's regulatory expertise.
Questions
What ADU services do you offer?
We handle complete ADU development from design through permitting, including garage conversions, code compliance, and Property Atlas integration for efficient plancheck processes.
Can you help with historic building conversions?
Yes, we specialize in adaptive reuse projects including historic structures, addressing fire ratings, exit requirements, and material compliance while preserving architectural character.
What commercial projects do you handle?
We design restaurants, retail spaces, and salons with health department compliance expertise, including notable clients like 4505 Meats and Re-Boot float spa.
How do you approach new construction?
We maximize zoning potential while anticipating code changes, specializing in multi-family housing and pioneering ADU/J-ADU density strategies in San Francisco developments.
What makes your firm different?
We offer hands-on principal involvement, fixed-fee billing, and proprietary permit tracking through Property Atlas integration, with 85% repeat client retention since 2009.
