Business Details
Sustainable Architecture Experts in Berkeley, CA
DSA Architects is an award-winning green design firm based in Berkeley, California, dedicated to creating environmentally responsible buildings that combine durability, health, and aesthetic excellence. Our expertise spans net-zero and net-positive energy designs, LEED-certified projects, and innovative sustainable systems like straw bale construction and living roofs. With decades of collective experience, our team prioritizes client collaboration to deliver site-responsive solutions that balance ecological goals with budget constraints. We specialize in residential, commercial, and community projects, including accessory dwelling units, solar-integrated homes, and energy-efficient renovations.Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in our recognition through LEED awards and AIA Sustainability Awards, as well as our leadership in low-carbon building practices. We integrate artistry with technical precision, ensuring every project achieves functional beauty while minimizing environmental impact. Our services extend to modular construction prototypes, water conservation systems, and custom designs that emphasize affordability without compromising quality. By fostering deep client partnerships and leveraging cutting-edge technologies, we transform architectural visions into tangible, sustainable realities.
Services
Residential Design
Commercial Architecture
Community Projects
LEED Certification
Net-Zero Energy Design
Highlights and features
- We have decades of experience in net-zero energy home design.
- Our firm holds multiple LEED Platinum and Gold certifications.
- We pioneered California's first net-zero prefab housing prototype.
- Our team includes founding members of the California Strawbuilding Association.
- We balance environmental goals with budget-conscious solutions.
Associations and certifications
- LEED
Services
Net-Zero Energy Design
Our net-zero energy designs produce as much energy as they consume through solar integration and advanced insulation techniques. We optimize building orientation, passive solar strategies, and high-performance materials to achieve energy independence. Clients benefit from reduced utility costs and environmental impact while maintaining modern aesthetics.
LEED Certification
We guide projects through LEED certification by implementing sustainable materials, water-efficient systems, and indoor air quality improvements. Our expertise ensures compliance with rigorous environmental standards while enhancing building performance. Clients receive third-party validation of their commitment to sustainability and occupant wellness.
Straw Bale Construction
Straw bale construction provides superior insulation and carbon sequestration benefits. Our team has completed over 40 projects using this technique, combining traditional methods with modern engineering. Clients receive durable, fire-resistant structures with unique aesthetic appeal and significant energy savings.
Accessory Dwelling Units
We design affordable, code-compliant ADUs that maximize space efficiency and neighborhood compatibility. Our solutions integrate seamlessly with existing homes while meeting strict sustainability criteria. Clients gain rental income potential or expanded living space without compromising environmental values.
Prefab Modular Homes
Our prefab homes combine factory precision with net-zero energy performance. The Zeta-Communities prototype demonstrates how modular systems reduce waste and construction timelines. Clients receive high-quality, customizable homes with guaranteed energy efficiency and rapid assembly.
People
Dan Smith
Principal
Dan has decades of sustainable design experience, specializing in net-zero homes and LEED-certified projects. He founded California Strawbuilding Association and developed Zeta-Communities' net-zero prefab system while emphasizing affordable, elegant architectural solutions.
Dietmar Lorenz
Architect
Dietmar brings 20+ years of Bay Area green building expertise, including zero-energy projects and LEED Gold/Platinum certifications. He pioneers alternative materials like straw bale and living roofs while focusing on site-responsive designs that minimize carbon footprints.
Sabrina Ali
Designer
Sabrina combines art and engineering in sustainable design, holding a UC Berkeley architecture degree. She prepares for architectural licensure while contributing to projects that balance creativity with environmental responsibility through diverse design and construction experience.
Ian Ashenfelter
Architect
Ian holds a Master's in Architecture and specializes in historic preservation and industrial design. His background in railcar restoration and steel fabrication informs innovative solutions for residential and commercial projects that merge functionality with sustainability.
Ben Wolfgang
Designer
Ben applies Northeastern University's architectural training and hands-on renovation experience to create sustainable, functional spaces. His approach integrates practical construction knowledge with aesthetic considerations, ensuring projects meet environmental goals without sacrificing usability.
Questions
What types of projects does DSA Architects specialize in?
We specialize in sustainable residential, commercial, and community projects including net-zero energy homes, LEED-certified buildings, accessory dwelling units, and innovative systems like straw bale construction.
How do you achieve net-zero energy performance?
We combine solar panel integration, super-insulated building envelopes, passive solar design, and energy-efficient mechanical systems to ensure buildings produce as much energy as they consume annually.
Can you help with LEED certification?
Yes, we guide projects through LEED certification by implementing sustainable materials, water conservation systems, and indoor air quality improvements while ensuring compliance with all program requirements.
What is straw bale construction?
Straw bale construction uses agricultural byproduct bales for insulation, providing superior thermal performance and carbon sequestration. Our team has completed over 40 projects using this low-carbon, fire-resistant building method.
Do you design affordable sustainable homes?
We prioritize affordability in deep green remodels and small projects, balancing environmental goals with budget constraints through efficient design and material selection while maintaining architectural integrity.
What is your prefab modular home system?
Our Zeta-Communities prototype demonstrates how factory-built modular homes can achieve net-zero energy performance with reduced construction waste and timelines while maintaining customizable, high-quality design.
