Business Details
29 Years
experience
Sustainable Architecture & Design Solutions in SF
At TEF Design, we believe architecture is a powerful tool for connecting people and shaping communities. Since our founding in 1997, we have combined the expertise of a large firm with the personalized care of a small practice, delivering innovative design solutions tailored to our clients' unique needs. Our team of over 50 architects and interior designers prioritizes sustainability, adaptive reuse, and environmental responsibility in every project. We champion an inclusive design process that brings stakeholders together, ensuring diverse perspectives inform our work.By blending research, engagement, and creative problem-solving, we develop spaces that balance beauty with functionality. Our commitment to social responsibility drives us to preserve cultural heritage, protect natural resources, and create meaningful places that reflect community values. With decades of collective experience, we provide clients with confident, forward-thinking solutions grounded in deep technical knowledge and collaborative partnership.
Services
Architectural Design
Interior Design
Sustainable Architecture
Adaptive Reuse
Community Planning
Healthcare Facilities
Educational Buildings
Civic Infrastructure
Preservation Projects
Urban Design
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- We combine large-firm expertise with personalized service since 1997
- Our inclusive process ensures stakeholder voices shape every project
- Specialized in adaptive reuse and sustainable building practices
- Award-winning designs balancing aesthetics with functional requirements
- Deep commitment to community impact and environmental responsibility
Associations and certifications
- Just. Organization
Services
Architectural Design
We create innovative architectural solutions that balance aesthetic vision with practical requirements. Our designs prioritize functionality, sustainability, and community impact while maintaining strict adherence to budget constraints. Each project reflects our commitment to creating meaningful spaces that enhance human experiences.
Sustainable Architecture
Our sustainable design approach integrates environmental responsibility throughout every project phase. We employ energy-efficient systems, eco-friendly materials, and adaptive reuse strategies to minimize ecological footprints while creating healthy, inspiring spaces that serve both people and the planet.
Adaptive Reuse
We specialize in transforming existing structures into modern, functional spaces while preserving historical character. Our adaptive reuse expertise extends building lifespans, reduces waste, and maintains cultural heritage through creative solutions that meet contemporary needs.
Community Planning
Our community-focused planning process engages stakeholders to create inclusive, accessible spaces. We develop comprehensive solutions that address social equity, transportation needs, and public amenities while fostering connections between people and their environments through thoughtful urban design.
Healthcare Facilities
We design healing environments that prioritize patient comfort and staff efficiency. Our healthcare projects incorporate evidence-based design principles, advanced technology integration, and calming aesthetics to create therapeutic spaces that support both medical care and emotional well-being.
People
Douglas Tom
Founding Principal
With over 25 years leading TEF Design, Douglas Tom established the firm's commitment to community-focused architecture. His visionary leadership has shaped numerous award-winning projects while maintaining the firm's core values of sustainability and social responsibility.
Bobbie Fisch
Consulting Principal
Bobbie Fisch brings decades of experience in architectural design and community engagement. Her expertise in educational facilities and sustainable practices has significantly contributed to the firm's impactful projects across various sectors.
Alyosha Verzhbinsky
Principal
Alyosha Verzhbinsky leads complex architectural projects with a focus on technical excellence. His deep understanding of construction systems and innovative problem-solving skills ensure high-quality execution of TEF's design vision across diverse project types.
Paul I. Cooper
Principal
Paul Cooper specializes in aviation and infrastructure projects. With LEED accreditation and extensive design-build experience, he leads major transportation initiatives while maintaining the firm's commitment to sustainable, user-centered design solutions.
Jennifer Tulley
Principal
Jennifer Tulley drives strategic growth while maintaining design excellence. Her leadership in healthcare and civic projects demonstrates TEF's ability to create functional, inspiring spaces that address complex programmatic requirements and community needs.
Questions
What architectural services does TEF Design offer?
We provide comprehensive architectural and interior design services across healthcare, education, housing, civic infrastructure, and urban design projects with a focus on sustainability and community impact.
How does TEF incorporate sustainability into projects?
We integrate sustainable practices through adaptive reuse, energy-efficient systems, eco-friendly materials, and designs that minimize environmental impact while creating healthy spaces for occupants.
What makes TEF's design approach unique?
Our inclusive process brings stakeholders together, combining technical expertise with community values to create meaningful spaces that balance aesthetics, functionality, and social responsibility.
Where does TEF Design operate?
While based in San Francisco, we work across Northern California and nationally on diverse projects ranging from local community spaces to major healthcare and educational facilities.
How long has TEF been in business?
TEF Design has been creating impactful architecture since 1997, combining over 25 years of experience with continuous innovation in sustainable design practices.
What project types does TEF specialize in?
We specialize in healthcare facilities, educational buildings, civic infrastructure, urban design, and adaptive reuse projects that require creative solutions balancing historical preservation with modern needs.
