Our values inform our design practice
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Our architecture and interior design have always been rooted in what we believe: realizing modern and sustainable environments that connect people with spaces.
We also believe that exceptional designs flow from superior communication. As a result, we value listening to each client's perspective and aim to impart that in our designs.
An Integrated Approach
At the heart of our practice is an integrated approach to design, where architecture, interior design and technical systems work together hand in glove. The studio itself is a creative lab where designers collaborate on the best solutions for each project’s unique needs. In this day and age, we’ve come to realize that, just like a natural eco-system, almost every aspect of a building’s design affects the performance of the building. For instance the building’s orientation, landscape, placement of windows, location and type of lighting can all have an impact on the ultimate energy performance of the building.
Our integrated approach on the Shaver Green project started with an "all-team" eco-charrette at the beginning of the project.
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Always the “A” Team
Collaboration is at the heart of DECA’s practice. We champion our clients’ visions, while expertly guiding them through the design process. We set high standards and meet them, not only for must haves like quality control, but for how we listen and communicate. DECA’s principals bring over 25 years of experience to every project, and they’re on the job from day one. If you work with DECA, you work with the “A” team, start to finish.
During the TCIS project, David and team traveled frequently to South Korea to meet with staff and students for intensive week-long work sessions.
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Sustainable Design, Rooted in Place
Our designs include the use of natural, locally-sourced materials where possible and emphasize an appreciation of how people interact with built environments. Sustainability is an integral part of our approach — we help clients find sustainable strategies that make sense and provide lasting value. As evidence of our dedication, all of our architects are LEED accredited.
The CYRK project is targeting LEED Platinum certification and net-zero energy use by employing a series of simple active and passive strategies.
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No Short Cuts
Our studio environment emphasizes research, attention to detail, and commitment to excellence — a creative think-tank that’s both flexible and solutions-driven. DECA’s high standards for technical documentation are key to our work. They help us achieve sustainable, modern designs that respond to context and improve the interaction between people and the spaces they inhabit.
Through brainstorming and collaboration, the design team discovered creative ways to maximize development on the challenging site of TCIS’s New Campus. As an example, because of limited flat land, a portion of the soccer field is built over the top of the gymnasium.
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