Business Details
Sustainable Architecture & Net-Zero Building Design in Berkeley
Daniel G Smith & Associates Archs 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, with recognition through LEED awards and AIA Sustainability Awards for innovative sustainable architecture. We specialize in cutting-edge building systems, including straw bale construction, living roofs, and gray water systems, while prioritizing affordability in projects ranging from custom homes to accessory dwelling units.Our team brings decades of experience in sustainable design, having pioneered modular net-zero prefab construction and low-carbon building methods. We collaborate closely with clients to deliver site-responsive solutions that balance environmental goals with functional needs, ensuring architecturally integrated results across residential, commercial, and community projects.
Services
Residential Design
Commercial Design
LEED Certification
Net-Zero Energy Design
Straw Bale Construction
Highlights and features
- We have decades of experience in sustainable design and straw bale construction.
- Our firm pioneered net-zero prefab construction with Zeta-Communities.
- We balance environmental goals with affordability in all project types.
- Our team includes founding members of the California Strawbuilding Association.
- We deliver site-responsive designs with LEED-certified and award-winning expertise.
Associations and certifications
- LEED
- AIA Sustainability Awards
Services
Residential Design
We create custom sustainable homes optimized for energy efficiency and environmental harmony. Our designs incorporate net-zero energy systems, natural materials, and site-specific layouts. Clients benefit from decades of expertise in crafting durable, healthy living spaces.
Net-Zero Energy Design
Our net-zero energy designs produce as much energy as they consume through solar integration and super-insulated construction. We've pioneered award-winning prototypes for modular and custom applications. This approach reduces long-term costs while minimizing environmental impact.
Straw Bale Construction
We specialize in straw bale construction, a high-performance building method offering superior insulation and carbon sequestration. Our team has completed over 40 projects using this technique. This system supports both residential and commercial net-zero goals.
LEED Certification
We guide projects through LEED certification at Platinum and Gold levels. Our designs meet rigorous sustainability benchmarks for energy, water, and material efficiency. This expertise ensures compliance with the highest environmental standards.
Commercial Design
We design sustainable commercial spaces tailored to business needs while maintaining environmental responsibility. Our portfolio includes net-zero offices and eco-friendly retail spaces. Each project integrates energy-efficient systems with functional aesthetics.
People
Dan Smith
Principal
Dan Smith leads Daniel G Smith & Associates Archs with decades of sustainable design experience. He pioneered net-zero prefab construction and straw bale building methods. His work balances environmental goals with architectural elegance across award-winning residential and community projects.
Dietmar Lorenz
Architect
Dietmar Lorenz brings 20+ years of Bay Area green building expertise. He specializes in zero-energy designs and alternative construction materials. His approach focuses on site-responsive architecture that integrates sustainability with occupant health and resource conservation.
Sabrina Ali
Designer
Sabrina Ali combines architectural design with construction and lighting expertise. A UC Berkeley graduate, she focuses on sustainable environments while preparing for architectural licensure. Her work emphasizes the intersection of art and engineering in green design.
Ian Ashenfelter
Architect
Ian Ashenfelter holds a Master's in Architecture and specializes in historic preservation and sustainable renovations. His diverse background includes railcar restoration and tradeshow construction. He applies practical building knowledge to client-focused design solutions.
Ben Wolfgang
Designer
Ben Wolfgang focuses on balancing sustainability with aesthetics through his Northeastern University training. His experience includes home renovations and vehicle conversions. He emphasizes functional, environmentally conscious design in both professional and personal projects.
Questions
What types of architectural services do you offer?
We specialize in residential, commercial, and community design with a focus on sustainable methods like net-zero energy systems and straw bale construction.
Are you experienced with LEED-certified projects?
Yes, we've completed multiple LEED Platinum and Gold certified buildings, incorporating energy-efficient systems and sustainable materials throughout our designs.
Can you work on small-scale green projects?
Absolutely. We prioritize affordability in projects like accessory dwelling units while maintaining environmental standards through innovative design solutions.
Do you handle both design and construction phases?
We provide full architectural services including design, permitting, and construction oversight to ensure sustainable goals are met throughout the building process.
What makes your firm unique in sustainable architecture?
Our team pioneered net-zero prefab construction and has completed over 40 straw bale projects, combining decades of experience with cutting-edge building systems.
