Trachtenberg Architects

The design studio of Trachtenberg Architects, founded in 1991, is committed to excellence in architecture and design. Trachtenberg Architects seeks no stylistic label but strives for innovative and cost-effective solutions developed from a critical understanding of site conditions, program, political realities and budgetary constraints. We interpret site and context, whether a bucolic Northern California vineyard or a blighted urban block, as forces to organize program, circulation and light. The nature of materials – their means of production and connection – are made evident at all scales of the work. Employing a hands-on approach to design and construction, our best work results from active collaborations with clients and builders. We foster productive partnerships with the builders with whom we work, permitting us to integrate their field-based knowledge into our developing projects. Our body of work includes experience with the full range of project types and clients including private homes, developer driven projects, and buildings for non-profit, religious and institutional clients. From the beginning of each project, we work with clients and builders to develop realistic budgets and schedules. We proceed through each project phase measuring project development against these constraints as a way to ensure project success. Through our experience in the field, we have learned to create memorable and high quality spaces without excessive or unnecessary cost. We have extensive knowledge of and success with working with various city agencies including zoning and design review boards and the building departments. Over the years David has built relationships with various city agencies and administrators throughout the Bay Area that helps our projects move forward in a timely fashion. We design using environmentally sensitive and sustainable planning principles, equipment, materials and methods of construction. We are leaders in the Bay Area in the Adaptive Reuse of old buildings and our clients, increasingly, share our commitment to sustainable design.