Studio

Verner Architects

About Us

“Form, material, and light are the foundations of a meaningful space.”

Verner Architects is a boutique architecture firm specializing in custom residential and small-scale commercial projects. Based in Oakland, California and working across the country, we offer a complete range of services for both new construction and renovation projects, from basic conceptual ideas to detailed design. We create beautiful, livable spaces that enhance our clients’ lives and the surrounding environment.

Our creative vision is balanced with a sustainable mindset. Our designs combine functionality with artistic flair, giving life to imaginative and meaningful spaces that are light-filled and utilize a rich material palette.

Our Team

Stephen grew up with an affinity for art and architecture. After a brief detour earning an engineering undergraduate degree on the East Coast and driving a nuclear submarine, he found his way to an architecture boot camp at Harvard’s Graduate School of Design. He earned a Masters of Architecture with a minor in Historic Preservation from the University of Pennsylvania then worked on a variety of projects in Philadelphia and New York. He established his own design firm in 2006 and relocated to the Bay Area in 2011.

Amidst these various stints in academia, Stephen spent a few years working as a carpenter and architectural metal worker in addition to renovating a few houses, an activity which continues today.

Stephen lives in Oakland with his supportive wife and their two children. When Stephen can break away from work, he enjoys spending time with his family, the occasional swim, motorcycling and sailing.

David S. grew up in rural San Diego county amid horses and dirt-bikes. He attended Cal Poly San Luis Obispo where he received a Bachelors of Architecture degree. After graduating, David moved to San Francisco where he worked at an architectural model shop before joining an art/landscape studio. David is inspired by the advances in digital modelling and fabrication along with theory and craft. Much of his work focuses on the technical aspects of design including: 3d modelling and printing, renders, CNC and VR. He enjoys music ( he had a radio show in college), and making furniture by hand. When he has time off, he can be found exploring China Beach with his young son.

“ I like the craft of design and figuring out how materials are shaped and come together. That is fun and powerful stuff.”

David C. grew up in Metro Detroit and attended the University of Michigan, Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning graduating with a Masters degree in Architecture. Before joining Verner Arch, David interned at the Elliott Workgroup in Park City, Utah, working primarily on designing multi-family housing developments. He also worked as an architect for a developer/builder in Southeast Michigan, updating and modernizing plan options for tract housing developments. In his free time, David can be found grabbing his sketchbook, disappearing into the city, and finding a nice spot in the sun.

“ My love of architecture is just innate…I’ve always been fascinated by and exploring how things get put together. “

Kate grew up in Santa Barbara and graduated from California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo with a degree in Architecture. After graduating she worked on Multifamily Housing and Ecclesiastical Architecture projects before joining Verner Architects. On weekends Kate enjoys drawing, watercolor painting, Hiking and making things out of play-doh with her son.

“Programming of spaces is probably my favorite part of architecture. I also like to see how materials were used historically and find innovative ways we use them now.“

Kimberley

Kimberly grew up in West Michigan and received her Bachelors of Science in Architecture from the University of Michigan. During her time in school, she gained experience from two internships. At her first internship she focused on residential and education projects and at the second, she worked on healthcare and industrial projects. Outside of work, Kimberly enjoys hiking, classic black and white movies and is currently learning to play the piano.

“The great thing about architecture is how we get to design at many different scales – from the page to the city. There is always something new to learn and that is exciting.”

Bethy has had an affinity for numbers since childhood. While pursuing a degree in Economics at UC Berkeley, she also took extracurricular classes in accounting, which eventually became her passion and livelihood. She enjoys trail and road running and loves sharing her Lafayette home with two beautiful rescued German Shepherd dogs and a cute Chihuahua mix. She loves Classical music, with J. S. Bach as her favorite composer.

“Nature, music, babies and doggies make this world beautiful!”

Join Our Team

Full Time Designer

Position and Responsibilities

We are looking for a full-time Designer to join our team. The Designer position will have in-depth involvement coordinating the client’s vision to help ensure a successfully executed design. You will work closely with the Project Manager and Principal in all aspects of the project’s development, documentation and construction oversight. As a smaller firm, there are countless opportunities for growth.

Attributes

We value team members with an entrepreneurial spirit and a keen eye for design and detail in a creative, fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate is energetic, curious, enjoys a smaller office environment and has a willingness to get involved in all aspects of our projects, from concept design through punch list walkthroughs.

Requirements

Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Architecture from an accredited school
3-5 years of professional office experience working in Architecture; majority of experience in high end residential preferred
Strong design aesthetic
Strong proficiency in Revit, Adobe Creative Suite and hand sketching skills
Proficiency in the production of Construction Documentation
Knowledge of building codes, design standards, and permitting
Familiarity with sustainable design and building practices
Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and willingness to take on various roles typical of a small firm
Well organized and ability to multitask on several projects simultaneously

Benefits

Medical insurance
Simple IRA with employer match
Education Reimbursement
Performance bonuses
PTO

Salary: Competitive salary commensurate with experience.

Job Type: Full-time.

Location: Based in our Oakland, CA office with local travel to client meetings and job sites. Some remote work considered.

Please email your cover letter, resume, and portfolio to info@vernerarch.com with a Subject Title “Designer – your name”. Please no calls, walk-ins or recruiters.

Full Time Senior Designer