Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Expert Architectural Design & Forensic Consulting Services
Danmeier Architects (DWA) has been a trusted name in architectural design and forensic consulting since 1973. Our firm specializes in serving homeowners, HOAs, and property managers with a focus on renovating existing structures, resolving construction defects, and ensuring building safety. With over five decades of combined experience, our team delivers innovative solutions grounded in technical integrity and community stewardship. We provide comprehensive services including architectural design, forensic investigations, project management, and SB-326 compliance inspections. Our legacy of trust is built on pragmatic problem-solving, thorough analysis, and a commitment to long-term client relationships. We pride ourselves on reducing risk for clients through expert counsel, detailed reporting, and construction oversight.Our forensic expertise addresses issues like water leaks, structural failures, and code compliance, with a track record spanning condominium complexes, retirement facilities, and private residences. As a full-service firm, we manage projects from initial programming to final construction administration, ensuring quality and adherence to budgets. Our teams dedication to excellence is reflected in client testimonials highlighting our competence, transparency, and dedication to lasting solutions. We continue to uphold the values established by our founding architect while integrating modern methodologies to serve evolving client needs.
Services
Architectural Design
Forensic Consulting
Project Management
SB-326 Inspections
Construction Defect Repairs
Reserve Studies
Waterproofing Solutions
Details
- Year established: 1973
Highlights and features
- We offer 50+ years of experience in architectural design and forensic investigations.
- Our team provides SB-326 compliant inspections for exterior elevated elements.
- We deliver construction defect analysis with expert witness testimony capabilities.
- Our project management ensures on-time, on-budget completion for complex developments.
- We maintain a legacy of client trust through transparent communication and thorough documentation.
Associations and certifications
- AIA
- NCARB
- LEED AP BD+C
What people say
Integrity
Competent and thorough
Highest level of service
Pragmatic and thorough
Fresh energy and modern capabilities
Services
Architectural Design
We specialize in residential and commercial architectural design, focusing on functional innovation and historical preservation. Our process includes project programming, component studies, and construction documentation. With expertise in new builds and renovations, we ensure designs meet client needs while adhering to technical standards.
Forensic Consulting
Our forensic services investigate construction defects, water leaks, and structural failures. We provide expert reports, repair solutions, and litigation support for attorneys and property managers. Decades of experience ensure accurate diagnosis and cost-effective remediation for long-term building integrity.
SB-326 Inspections
We conduct exterior elevated element inspections to meet California SB-326 compliance. Our team identifies structural issues in balconies, decks, and walkways, producing detailed repair plans. This ensures safety, code adherence, and permit-ready documentation for property owners.
Project Management
From budgeting to final inspections, we manage residential and commercial projects with precision. Services include permit acquisition, contractor negotiation, and quality control. Our focus on timelines and cost efficiency ensures smooth execution for apartment buildings and condominium complexes.
Reserve Studies
We analyze building component lifespans and replacement costs for HOA reserve funds. Our studies guide long-term financial planning, covering roofing, paving, and system upgrades. Accurate cost projections help communities maintain property value and avoid funding shortfalls.
People
David Waldorf
CEO, Principal Architect
With decades of experience, David leads Danmeier Architects in forensic analysis and architectural design. He specializes in construction defect resolution and SB-326 compliance, ensuring technical excellence and client satisfaction across residential and commercial projects.
Jason Baggs
Director of Architecture
Jason oversees architectural projects with a focus on design innovation and construction management. A licensed contractor, he ensures seamless execution from concept to completion, emphasizing quality control and budget adherence for complex developments.
Don Danmeier
Founding Principal
Don established the firm in 1973, pioneering forensic architecture practices in the Bay Area. His legacy of technical rigor and client trust continues to influence the firms approach to problem-solving and community-focused design solutions.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialize in?
We focus on residential/commercial design, forensic investigations, SB-326 inspections, and construction defect repairs. Our expertise includes historical renovations and HOA project management.
Do you handle forensic analysis for legal cases?
Yes, we provide expert witness testimony, defect analysis, and repair cost estimates for attorneys and property managers dealing with building failures.
Are your services SB-326 compliant?
Yes, we offer full inspection and reporting services for exterior elevated elements to meet California Civil Code 5551 requirements.
How do you manage project timelines and budgets?
Our project management includes detailed programming, contractor oversight, and cost audits to ensure timely, cost-effective delivery without compromising quality.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve the San Francisco Bay Area, including Marin County, San Rafael, and Novato, with statewide forensic consulting capabilities.
