Architecture + Construction

Story

Founded in 2016, Design Build Labs is led by industry veteran William Robertson, bringing category-leading expertise in architectural planning, energy infrastructure, construction delivery, and, above all, process. Based in Los Angeles, Design Build Labs (DBL) is an end-to-end design and construction firm known for its versatility and responsiveness. Our work is grounded in Design Democracy, a methodology developed to address a common problem in the built environment: spaces designed for appearance rather than everyday use. Through Predictive Placemaking, DBL replaces top-down decision-making with a data-informed process that captures the collective intelligence of an organization before design begins. By combining structured engagement with behavioral insight, we create environments that reflect how people actually work and interact. DBL also builds proprietary analytical tools, including the Design Democracy engagement platform and the Microgrids Feasibility Tool (MFT), that help clients screen and validate decisions before they become commitments.

We believe successful buildings are defined not by how they look on Day 1, but by how they perform on Day 1,000, supporting culture, improving occupancy, and delivering lasting value.

DBL is a member of the American Institute of Architects and the U.S. Green Building Council, committed to improving the built environment through thoughtful, lasting change.

Vision

Design spaces shaped by the people who use them — environments guided by collective culture rather than individual preference. We believe design should be inclusive, measurable, and responsive, creating places that strengthen organizations while bringing clarity, beauty, and purpose to everyday experience.

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

At DBL, every service is an expression our operating philosophy: Design Democracy.
Before we design, we listen at scale, with structure, and with AI-powered analysis that uncovers the authentic needs of your entire organization. Before we build, we have consensus, not assumptions. When we are done, we measure, because an empty building, no matter how beautiful, is a failed building.

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.

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.