Syncopated Architecture

Serina & Syncopated Architecture has helped me numerous times dealing with sticky issues of City planning, zoning, use permit, change of use and conditional use permits. Working in commercial real estate I rely on her expertise all the time to assist my clients dealing with the red tape and insanely complex bureaucracy to get things done in San Francisco.
When embarking on a commercial RE project, you need to know what you are in store for in terms of timelines, cost and more importantly, likelihood of success in getting approved! In SF, NOTHING IS GUARANTEED, and everything is political and always changing. Having a professional who knows how to get things done, understands all the grey areas and ambiguity in the planning & building codes, is a great designer, works fast and is cost effective to boot, is a HUGE win for both me and my clients every time.
Want examples? Here’s one typical horror story: A client had their own architect (not Syncopated) on a restaurant deal I worked on. 45 days AFTER the lease was signed & deposits & key money paid, I got a call from my client saying that City was refusing to issue building permits for their required upgrades because the City had no record of a restaurant at the space (even tho it had operated over 20 years before closing) and restaurant use was NOT PERMITTED, requiring a CUP!!! Needless to say, this caused major drama, extensive cost overruns and the timeline to get the business open was annihilated.
My recommendation to anyone embarking on a project in SF: make Syncopated Architecture your first stop to figure out everything you need to know before moving forward.

As a contractor with close to 30 year’s expertise and experience I am acutely aware of the importance of the relationship between the architect, the client and contractor.
Doherty Restoration Inc has worked along side synocopated architecture for 9 years. During this time I have found Serina’s design solutions to her client’s ideas, goals and budget always creative, original and sustainable.
Communication plays a key role in the relationship between the architect, the client and the contractor. A key feature of Serina’s approach to architectural design is her knowledge of construction methods and techniques which she blends with her extensive design expertise to deliver on her client ideas and budgets.
synocopated architecture involve Doherty Restoration Inc early in the project to provide mutual solutions to project feasibility and costs, ultimately minimizing tension and avoiding unforeseen delays and costs at a future date for their clients’. synocopated architecture propose and deliver innovative, sustainable and practical designs for their clients and provide the contractor with clear guidance and accurate detailed drawings throughout the project.
It is without hesitation I recommend Serina and her company synocopated architecture for your next project.
Patrick Doherty
Doherty Restoration Inc
415−695−1494

I wish everyone was as available and responsive as Serina and Syncopated Architecture. They are my #1, «go-​to», call when it comes to architecture, design, and zoning questions. They are reachable and get back to me with an answer, usually within 8 hours. Being a real estate agent, I have referred a number of my clients to Serina and they have all been thrilled with her work. Add Syncopated Architecture to your vendor list. You won’t be disappointed.

Doesn’t know how the City operates

Syncopated Architecture did an excellent job of navigating and executing the building permit process for our coffee bar. Despite a couple curve balls from the city, the work was done as fast as it possibly could have been done at very reasonable rates. I would not hesitate to use this company again.

It really couldn’t get any better. Serina blows you away with detailed functionality considerations, amazing design, and a schedule that she always meets or exceeds. With the first meeting we became very excited to work with her and after a dozen meetings in our excitement still grew. We leave each step in the process more blown away and convinced that we were unbelievably lucky to stumble upon her. Our project has focussed on commercial applications but her sense of the residential is well documented as well. Her rates are MORE than reasonable. What!!! Yes, all the above exceeding of expectations AND you will see it is the best money you could every spend on your project!