Architecture + Construction

Story

Founded in 2016, Design Build Labs is led by industry veteran, William Robertson, with category-leading expertise in architectural design planning, energy storage, construction and, more than anything, process. Design Build Labs (DBL) is an end-to-end design and construction firm known for our versatility and responsiveness based in Los Angeles, CA.  DBL specializes in listening, activating, and balancing what we have heard through our proprietary [LAB] process.  We combine your experience with our understanding of commercial and building structures, occupancy planning, and the energy needs of humanity. 

DBL is a member of the American Institute of Architects and the US Green Building Council and is committed to improving the built environment to drive positive change.

We enjoy the pretty stuff and the dirty work. We materialize your vision while doing all the little things on a project that no-one else wants to do.

Vision

Design that is beautiful, brings life and improves culture for our clients.  Enhance the resilience of our projects to make them less costly to the environment. Align buildings with the future needs of communities and enable them to support a stable energy future. 

Contact

Design Build

General Contracting

Commercial Renovations

Energy Projects

Hospitality & Retail

Industrial

Light Medical

Permitting

Architecture

Technical Drawings

Fire Rebuild

Project Management

Design Build General Contracting Commercial Renovations Energy Projects Hospitality & Retail Industrial Light Medical Permitting Architecture Technical Drawings Fire Rebuild Project Management

Services

  • We design spaces that are as functional as they are inspiring. From concept to completion, our team collaborates closely with clients to deliver custom solutions that balance vision, efficiency, and sustainability. Whether residential, commercial, or community-based, each project reflects our commitment to thoughtful design, technical precision, and enduring quality. At DBL, we don’t just create structures—we shape environments that elevate everyday life.

  • We turn ideas into actionable plans. Through needs analysis, visioning, budgeting, and scheduling, DBL develops a clear roadmap from concept to execution. Our process aligns goals, resources, and timelines to ensure each project is both visionary and achievable—bringing bold ideas to life with precision and purpose.

  • We turn strategy and design into action. DBL produces detailed schematic designs, space plans, construction documents, and permitting drawings that bring clarity and precision to every project. Our plans meet regulatory standards, streamline approvals, and guide construction with accuracy—translating vision into buildable reality.

  • We manage every phase of a project with precision and purpose. From planning and permitting to construction oversight and final delivery, our team ensures projects stay on schedule, on budget, and aligned with the client’s vision. We coordinate seamlessly with architects, engineers, and contractors to anticipate challenges and maintain momentum. At DBL, effective project management means clear communication, smart problem-solving, and results that stand the test of time.

  • We build with precision, accountability, and integrity. DBL manages every detail of the construction process with transparency and craftsmanship, fostering collaboration among clients, subcontractors, and partners. Our commitment to fairness and quality ensures projects are delivered on time, on budget, and built to last.

  • We identify, evaluate, and manage vendors to ensure every project benefits from quality, cost efficiency, and reliability. Our process creates a structured, competitive environment—offering clients multiple qualified options and transparent comparisons. By aligning vendor selection with project goals, timelines, and budgets, DBL secures the best value and performance at every stage.

  • We help clients get the most from their contractors through proactive oversight and clear communication. DBL manages schedules, budgets, and quality standards from start to finish—anticipating issues before they arise and keeping every detail aligned with project goals. By fostering accountability, collaboration, and continuous performance review, we ensure construction runs smoothly, efficiently, and to the highest standard.

  • We navigate complex permitting processes to keep projects moving forward. From conditional use permits to building approvals and scheduling, DBL manages every step with precision and foresight. Our team coordinates closely with local agencies and project stakeholders to ensure compliance, reduce delays, and maintain momentum. With a clear plan and proactive communication, we turn permitting into a seamless, predictable part of the project—not a roadblock.

  • We provide clear, objective expertise to support clients in legal proceedings and disputes. Our team combines technical knowledge with analytical precision to evaluate data, review documentation, and deliver well-founded assessments. By working closely with attorneys and stakeholders, we help clarify complex issues, strengthen arguments, and present findings with confidence and credibility.

  • We develop utility, commercial, and industrial-scale microgrids through comprehensive feasibility studies and turnkey EPC services. Our process evaluates technical, financial, and regulatory factors to ensure each system meets client goals for resilience and performance. From design and procurement to construction and commissioning, DBL delivers fully integrated energy solutions that enhance reliability, reduce costs, and lower carbon impact.

Services

Experience

  • Modern white house with a landscaped front yard, steps leading to the entrance, and a wooden privacy fence on the right side. The house has a sloped roof, multiple windows, and surrounding trees and plants.

    Residential

    At DBL, we design homes that reflect your lifestyle, personality, and aspirations—seamlessly blending design, functionality, resilience, and sustainability. Whether building new, rebuilding, or expanding, our team thoughtfully crafts every detail to bring your vision to life with beautiful, individual, and defensible spaces, from modern minimalism to timeless tradition.

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  • Interior view of a modern office space with exposed wooden beams, metal ductwork, and yellow frosted glass garage-style doors, featuring multiple workstations with computers and a railing overlooking a lower level.

    Commericial, Retail + Hospitality

    DBL specializes in transforming office and industrial spaces to enhance functionality, efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. Our renovations focus on creating modern, optimized environments tailored to meet the specific needs of your business.

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  • Aerial view of a suburban neighborhood with industrial buildings, residential homes, and a mountain range in the background on a sunny day.

    Microgrids + Energy Upgrades

    At Design Build Labs, we specialize in integrating energy efficiency into our projects through advanced solutions like microgrids, which enhance the resilience and sustainability of commercial buildings. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies, we create energy systems that reduce environmental impact while ensuring reliable power for future needs.

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Community Support

At DBL, we understand the profound impact that the recent fires in Altadena and Palisades have had on our community. As a dedicated partner in the architectural and construction industry, we are committed to supporting those affected in rebuilding their lives and homes.

Our Community Support initiative focuses on offering practical assistance, resources, and expertise to help fire victims navigate the recovery process. We provide customized architectural and construction solutions to aid in the design and reconstruction of homes, ensuring they meet not only current safety standards but also the specific needs of families as they heal and rebuild.

In these challenging times, we are here for our community. If you or someone you know has been impacted by the fires, please reach out to discuss how we can assist you in the rebuilding journey. Together, we can restore hope and resilience in Altadena and Palisades.

How Can We Help You?
Aerial view of a suburban neighborhood with houses, trees, and streets, with a city skyline and mountains in the distance under a blue sky with wispy clouds.