Studio

2vDesign is an Architectural Design Firm that believes life is better with great architecture. We give our clients the chance to experience this by working with them to achieve their goals through design excellence. We strive for innovation and strong details. We appreciate modern, clean design. We believe buildings should harmonize with nature and connect with light. Green design means more than just green materials, it means smart and efficient design and sensitivity to the project site. We accept any design challenge and we work with all scales, scopes, budgets, and typologies of design. We love great architecture.

About UsOpen or Close

Our practice is located in San Francisco with the majority of our work in the City and throughout the Bay Area and beyond. We are a small firm where our main principals work on all aspects of the design process to ensure consistency and a high level of expertise and attention to detail. Started in 2001, 2vDesign has been producing great work and delivering successful projects at the highest level for over 15 years.
Who We AreOpen or Close

George Wesely is a principal of 2vDesign and a licensed architect in California. He has a BA of Architecture from Cal Poly, SLO and an MA of Architecture from UC Berkeley. He studied in Copenhagen and Budapest, and worked in Prague before settling in the Bay Area. In San Francisco he worked for several large renowned firms before forming 2vDesign Architectural Studio in 2001. Outside of Architecture, George spends as much time as he can traveling and exploring the high altitudes of the Sierra backcountry.

Lori Wesely is a principal of 2vDesign and a licensed architect in California. She has a BA of Architecture from Cal Poly, and studied at the Ecole De Beaux Arts in Fontainebleau, France. Before joining 2vDesign, she worked for several residential and engineering studios throughout the Bay Area as well as ran her own practice for several years. She is a certified LEED Green Building specialist. When not working, Lori loves to explore nature, travel, and conduct culinary experimentations.

George Wesely is a principal of 2vDesign and a licensed architect in California. He has a BA of Architecture from Cal Poly, SLO and an MA of Architecture from UC Berkeley. He studied in Copenhagen and Budapest, and worked in Prague before settling in the Bay Area. In San Francisco he worked for several large renowned firms before forming 2vDesign Architectural Studio in 2001. Outside of Architecture, George spends as much time as he can traveling and exploring the high altitudes of the Sierra backcountry.

Lori Wesely is a principal of 2vDesign and a licensed architect in California. She has a BA of Architecture from Cal Poly, and studied at the Ecole De Beaux Arts in Fontainebleau, France. Before joining 2vDesign, she worked for several residential and engineering studios throughout the Bay Area as well as ran her own practice for several years. She is a certified LEED Green Building specialist. When not working, Lori loves to explore nature, travel, and conduct culinary experimentations.

PurposeOpen or Close

2vDesign is an Architectural Design Firm that believes life is better with great architecture. We give our clients the chance to experience this by working with them to achieve their goals through design excellence. We strive for innovation and strong details. We appreciate modern, clean design. We believe buildings should harmonize with nature and connect with light. Green design means more than just green materials, it means smart and efficient design and sensitivity to the project site. We accept any design challenge and we work with all scales, scopes, budgets, and typologies of design. We love great architecture.
About UsOpen or Close

Our practice is located in San Francisco with the majority of our work in the City and throughout the Bay Area and beyond. We are a small firm where our main principals work on all aspects of the design process to ensure consistency and a high level of expertise and attention to detail. Started in 2001, 2vDesign has been producing great work and delivering successful projects at the highest level for over 15 years.
Who We AreOpen or Close

Services

We’re more than just architects. As problem solvers we offer strategic services beyond architectural design. Let us offer our expertise in any of the following areas of project related scopes and services. We offer stand alone service in any category, or we can provide combined and integrated design solutions across the board for a complete full service design process, from preliminary studies through all phases of design and long term planning. Click on a Service below to learn more.

ArchitectureOpen or Close

The core of our service is Architecture. We specialize in Residential Design, but have experience in all building typologies and scales: from new construction to renovations and additions, from historic preservation to multi-unit development and commercial spaces. We’re experts at the permitting process and negotiate with the City on behalf of our clients. We understand structural engineering and the construction process, and coordinate all necessary consultants for project completion.

New Construction

We design new ground up construction on empty land, infill lots, and demolished sites. With new construction the constraints are fewer and the possibilities endless.

Additions

Much of our work is expanding existing structures with new vertical or horizontal additions. Adding new space is transformative, improving livability and functionality while adding value to a property.

Renovation

Renovating existing space is the easiest way to improve functionality and quality of life. We transform unused or dysfunctional space into open, dynamic living spaces and turn problem floor plans into functional and rational layouts that flow with your lifestyle. We often combine renovations of existing space with additions of new space.

Single Family Home

The single family home is the building typology we design the most. Whether it’s a vast estate, or a modest starter home, or a vacation cabin, we design homes that are custom to our clients dreams and sensitive to the project context and site.

Multi-Unit

Designing duplexes and multi-unit housing poses a unique set of challenges that we have much experience with, from maximizing the site and integrating efficiencies within the common and private spaces, as well as working with the complex building codes and permit process.

Commercial

New commercial projects require unique design solutions that meet the criteria and requirements of the specific business model within the project program. Whether it’s a new Office Building or Warehouse, we have the experience these type of commercial projects require for success.

>> scroll horizontal for more information >>
InteriorsOpen or Close

Many of our projects are interior only renovations, both residential and commercial. We provide full interior design services for all our projects, or we can coordinate with a separate interior designer or furniture consultant. We leverage our many connections with industry reps, installers, and fabricators.

Interior Design

As an additional Design Service, we can provide full Interior Design for all of our residential projects. This includes detailed interior elevations, 3D renderings, custom interior detailing, and material, finish, fixture, color, furniture, & appliance specifications. We also are available to work with independent interior designers within a collaborative team.

Tenant Improvements

Tenant Improvements include redesigning an existing interior space for a new Tenant, whether it’s a new Office workspace, new Retail space, or a new Restaurant or Cafe. See the following individual tabs for more info on specific tenant types.

Workspace

New Office Workspace requires careful space planning of various work station and desk configurations as well as a number of auxiliary spaces such as Reception Areas, Waiting Areas, Conference Rooms, Private Offices, Libraries, Break Areas, Collaboration Spaces, Resource Centers, Data & Server Rooms, and Restrooms. We have many years experience in creating efficient and funcitional Office spaces that reflect the culture and style of the Tenant.

Retail

Successful Retail Design expresses image identity through carefully crafted spaces and display systems which highlight the products and direct the attention of the customer towards a positive, informative, and memorable sales experience.

Food Service

A successful design for a Cafe, Restaurant, or Bar requires an identity where the spatial design, cohesive materials, intimate details, and overall ambiance collectively combine to create an all encompassing experience. At it’s essence, the space created is the optimum background from which to commune with others and experience the specific food and drink offered.

Furniture & Millwork

Custom furniture and millwork can be the extension of the overall architectural space in terms of materials, proportions, details, mass, and form. Custom furniture can both draw inspiration from and enhance the space where it exists. For projects that require custom furniture, we work with numerous custom cabinet makers, wood workers, metal fabricators, and artisans. We understand the craft of detailing and connectivity as well as the science of materials.

>> scroll horizontal for more information >>
PlanningOpen or Close

We often advise clients on long term planning and programming. Many projects are developed in phases over time. We provide feasibility analysis on properties and sites prior to starting design work.

Site Analysis

Studying the specific site of a project is paramount to success. Things to consider are topography, views, solar orientation, climate, soil, vegetation, privacy, neighbors, noise, open space, site access, entry points, procession, infrastructure and utilities, as well as zoning requirements such density, lot coverage, setbacks, and height limits. Deep knowledge of the site will set forth parameters and dictate design decisions.

Development

We work with many developers who seek to maximize the potential of a site or building by adding value through thoughtful and strategic design. We understand that successful project delivery is tied to maximizing investment with schedule and budget being key components.

Feasibility Studies

The feasibility of a site or existing building is often tied to the constraints of what can be developed on the site per local zoning ordinances, how easy will it be to attain a permit, how expensive the project will be, and ultimately what sort of value will be added in terms of meeting the project goals. Ultimately all these factors contribute to whether or not the project is feasible. We offer design experience, knowledge, and knowhow that can contribute to this complex feasibility analysis.

Project Programming

We often work with our clients to initially determine and identify their specific design needs and broad overall goals for a project. This data translates that into a detailed Project Program and Scope of Work that integrates a host of criteria, including budget, schedule, and design priorities.

Master Planning

Many projects require long term planning and incremental phasing. We work with clients to envision the long term Master Plan for a project and then determine strategically the best scenarios for phasing the work based on budget, permitting, and other criteria.

>> scroll horizontal for more information >>
SustainabilityOpen or Close

We are LEED certified and strive to highly integrate Green Design principles in all our work.

LEED Certification

We have Green Design Certification and are capable of working with clients who desire to achieve LEED status on their projects. We also work and coordinate with Green specialists and consultants as required.

Green Checklists

Many jurisdictions require Green Checklists as part of their Building Permit process. We have experience ensuring our projects meet these requirements as well as working with outside consulting agencies as required.

Material Analysis

We often research alternative and environmentally friendly materials, building components, methods, and systems as part of our design process. We encourage these Green strategies, which are now becoming more mainstream and often required as part of the permitting process.

Energy Analysis

All projects in the State of California require Title 24 Energy Analysis calculations as part of the building permit. We design our projects to comply with the requirements, and work with Title 24 consultants to provide the required data necessary for satisfying all state and local Energy Codes.

Site Analysis

Analyzing the specific site criteria is critical to Green Design. Things to consider are topography, views, solar orientation, climate, soil, vegetation, privacy, neighbors, noise, open space, site access, entry points, procession, infrastructure and utilities, as well as zoning requirements such density, lot coverage, setbacks, and height limits. Site analysis will set forth parameters and dictate design decisions.

>> scroll horizontal for more information >>
GraphicsOpen or Close

We can provide supplementary graphics associated with any Project.

Brand & Identity

We can provide basic Brand and Identity graphics associated with a project, or can work closely with a separate Graphic Designer to ensure an integrated design solution from the build environment to the print identity.

Environmental Graphics

Some projects require Environmental Graphics as part of the design solution, such as informational displays, wayfinding, wall graphics, and signage,…etc. We work with clients to design such graphics or work with outside design consultants to ensure an integrated solution that successfully communicates identity and information.

Presentation

We provide a variety of presentation materials are required per project for numerous purposes, such as sales brochures, permitting presentations, public relations outreach, funding drives,…etc.

Signage

Projects with exterior signage, awnings, marquees, and other public displays often require special permits. We can work with clients with these specific project needs.

3D Rendering

Most all projects are 3D modeled by default, but additional high quality 3D renderings can be provided for various purposes to assist in project visualization purposes.

Photo/Video

Photo and video documentation of the existing project conditions as well as the construction process can be provided, including finished project presentation documentation.

>> scroll horizontal for more information >>

What We DoOpen or Close

We’re more than just architects. As problem solvers we offer strategic services beyond architectural design. Let us offer our expertise in any of the following areas of project related scopes and services. We offer stand alone service in any category, or we can provide combined and integrated design solutions across the board for a complete full service design process, from preliminary studies through all phases of design and long term planning. Click on a Service below to learn more.
ArchitectureOpen or Close

The core of our service is Architecture. We specialize in Residential Design, but have experience in all building typologies and scales: from new construction to renovations and additions, from historic preservation to multi-unit development and commercial spaces. We’re experts at the permitting process and negotiate with the City on behalf of our clients. We understand structural engineering and the construction process, and coordinate all necessary consultants for project completion.
InteriorsOpen or Close

Many of our projects are interior only renovations, both residential and commercial. We provide full interior design services for all our projects, or we can coordinate with a separate interior designer or furniture consultant. We leverage our many connections with industry reps, installers, and fabricators.
PlanningOpen or Close

We often advise clients on long term planning and programming. Many projects are developed in phases over time. We provide feasibility analysis on properties and sites prior to starting design work.
SustainabilityOpen or Close

We are LEED certified and strive to highly integrate Green Design principles in all our work.
GraphicsOpen or Close

We can provide supplementary graphics associated with any Project.

Process

We work with our clients to find creative solutions to challenging problems. We explain the creative process and involve the entire team, no matter how small or large. We’re easy going and hard working. We listen to our client’s needs. We’re flexible and understand constraints, but like to push the envelope of design possibility. We work along side contractors, engineers, landscapers, artists, fabricators, woodworkers, installers, electricians, plumbers, and painters. We work with the Planning and Building Departments on your behalf. The design and construction process is non linear and constantly evolving. We’re here with you every step of the way.

How We WorkOpen or Close

We work with our clients to find creative solutions to challenging problems. We explain the creative process and involve the entire team, no matter how small or how large. We’re easy going and hard working. We’re flexible and understand constraints, but like to push the envelope of design possibility. We work along side contractors, engineers, landscapers, artists, fabricators, woodworkers, installers, electricians, plumbers, and painters. We work with the Planning and Building Departments on your behalf. The design and construction process is non linear and constantly evolving. We’re here with you every step of the way.
ListenOpen or Close

Each project starts with an initial meeting where we meet potential clients on site to listen to their needs and discuss their project goals. We analyze the site and existing conditions and discuss design strategy, project scope, and delivery process. We strive for a rational, clear, and structured design process. Yet by nature this process is a often fluid and evolving, so we successfully lead the effort by continuously listening, coordinating, and communicating with our clients and other consultants to keep all parties informed, involved, and empowered.
AnalyzeOpen or Close

Throughout the design process, from early Schematics to final Construction Documents, we continuously analyze every decision to ensure that the project goals and program requirements are met. We never stop pursuing the best possible solutions for every project phase and continuously communicate with our clients opportunities for refinement and maximizing project potential.
ExecuteOpen or Close

After listening to our clients and analyzing the project parameters, we execute design solutions that maximize the design potential and exceed expectations. We utilize the latest technologies to ensure precise and complete coordination of our drawings across all project phases. We hold ourselves to the highest standards of project execution to ensure project success.
Project PhasesOpen or Close

Every project is unique and requires individual design solutions - but all projects follow the same Design Process, which includes different Phases of Design: PreDesign, Schematic Design, Design Development, Construction Documents, Bidding/Negotiation, & Construction Administration. Additional Services can be added.
TechnologyOpen or Close

Technology is at the heart of our practice. We are constantly learning and adopting the latest and greatest systems to provide cutting edge service.

CAD - Software & Communication: We use very sophisticated CAD software to deliver accurate and thorough drawings.
3D MODEL - Integral is the 3D virtual model that is utilized to design, explore, communicate, and produce 2D and 3D documentation.
BIM - Building Information Model (BIM): 3D Models taken further, BIM’s can be leveraged to coordinate & communicate the complicated project parameters to clients and consultants.

Project ProcessOpen or Close

We start by listening, then we analyze, and finally we execute. See below for more information.

Listen

Each project starts with an initial meeting where we meet potential clients on site to listen to their needs and discuss their project goals. We analyze the site and existing conditions and discuss design strategy, project scope, and delivery process. We strive for a rational, clear, and structured design process. By nature this process is often fluid and evolving, so we successfully lead the effort by continuously listening, coordinating, and communicating with our clients and other consultants to keep all parties informed, involved, and empowered.

Analyze

Throughout the design process, from early Schematics to final Construction Documents, we continuously analyze every decision to ensure that the project goals and program requirements are met. We never stop pursuing the best possible solutions for every project phase and continuously communicate with our clients opportunities for refinement and maximizing project potential.

Execute

After listening to our clients and analyzing the project parameters, we execute design solutions that maximize the design potential and exceed expectations. We utilize the latest technologies to ensure precise and complete coordination of our drawings across all project phases. We hold ourselves to the highest standards of project execution to ensure project success.

>> scroll horizontal for more information >>
Project PhasesOpen or Close

Every project is unique and requires individual design solutions - but all projects follow the same Design Process, which includes different Phases of Design: PreDesign, Schematic Design, Design Development, Construction Documents, Bidding/Negotiation, & Construction Administration. Additional Services can be added. See below for more information.

Pre Design

Existing Conditions / As Builts:
Site Measure and Document on CAD existing buildings and site data.
Programming:
Review initial plan ideas, verify program requirements, and discuss potential options regarding space requirements.
Design Approach:
Discuss design aesthetic as a direction for exterior design, interior detailing, and overall spatial quality.
Coordination:
As necessary, coordinate a PreDesign site meeting with a contractor and structural engineer to discuss feasibility.

Schematic Design

Schemes:
Based on program, several schematic floor & site plan schemes are developed.
Design Goal:
Schematic Design schemes illustrate the scale and relationship of the project components.
SD Drawings:
Schematic Design drawings are produced that convey the intent of the Design.
Coordination:
As necessary, coordinate preliminary Planning/Building Dept review and schematic contractor pricing.

Design Development

Consolodate:
Based on approved Schematic Design, a fully developed and working design is developed with all major components of the design finalized.
Design Goal:
Design Development successfully combines the programmatic and aesthetic requirements of the project.
DD Drawings:
Design Development drawings are produced that accurately describe the program, size, character of the project.
Coordination:
Submit Planning Dept review, as nec., coordinate preliminary contractor pricing, begin consultant coordination.

Construction Documents

Document:
Based on approved Design Deleopment, Construction Documents set forth in detail the requirements for the construction of the project.
Coordinate:
Construction Documents coordinate and integrate required consultant documents, such as the structural engineering drawings.
Permit:
Construction Documents are used to submit and procure the Building Permit.
Pricing:
Construction Documents form the basis for the Pricing Set which is used for final contractor pricing.

Bidding / Negotiations

Preliminary Estimates:
We prepare preliminary pricing packages to distribute to potential contractors after Schematic Design and Design Development Phases to ensure the project scope is aligned with the project budget before moving forward to the next phase.
Contractor:
Contractor selection is recommended after Schematic Design or Design Development phase in order to take advantage of further pricing and coordination throughout the project.
Bid Documents:
If the Contractor is not pre-selected, Bid Documents and a final Pricing Set can assist in obtaining final bids or negotiated proposals from various contractors after Construction Documents are completed.

Construction Administration

Advisor:
During Construction, 2vDesign acts as the Owner’s representative, resolving design issues or clarifications requested by Owner, Contractor, or Building Official.
Design Intent:
As necessary, attend site construction meetings to coordinate issues and ensure the construction meets the design intent in accordance with the general contract.
Review:
Review and process all submittals and shop drawings issued by the Contractor
Coordinate:
Coordinate any Change Orders, RFIs, Clarifications, Certificates of Payment, and Punchlists

Additional Services

Special Permits & Approvals:
We coordinate additional permit approvals as required - such as Planning Neighborhood Notifications, Variances, Sidewalk Permits, Special Use District Approvals, Discretionary Reviews, CEQA approvals, LEED Certifications,…etc.
Interior Design:
Generally after permit approval, we can provide and coordinate full interior design services, including custom millwork, material and finish specs, fixture selection, furniture design, custom detailing, interior elevations, 3D images,…etc.
Design Beyond Permit:
Additional design services beyond permit can include ongoing design consultancy, 3D visualizations and renderings, graphics, promotional materials, post occupancy studies,…etc.

>> scroll horizontal for more information >>
TechnologyOpen or Close

Technology is at the heart of our practice. We are constantly learning and adopting the latest and greatest systems to provide cutting edge service. See below for more information.

CAD

Software & Communication
We use very sophisticated CAD software to deliver accurate and thorough drawings that communicate the design intent and describe the project scope.

3D Model

Virtual 3D Building Model:
Integral to the process is the 3D virtual building model that is utilized to design, explore, communicate, and produce 2D and 3D documentation.

BIM

Building Information Model (BIM):
3D Models taken further, BIM’s can be leveraged to coordinate & communicate the complicated project parameters to clients and consultants.

>> scroll horizontal for more information >>