Design 3 Pillars of Architecture (D3PA) is a full-service Architectural design studio offering end-to-end solutions for projects ranging from Site Selection through Construction Administration. D3PA was founded by a triumvirate of visionary founders with more than 25 years of experience in the field of Architecture and Design. At D3PA, Our approach is anchored in creating not just physical structures, but dynamic spaces that foster social connections and contribute to the cultural fabric of a community.
We have experience in many different Architectural Project Types. If you can dream it, we can design it.
Lawrence DeSantis Jr.
Partner | Architect
With over twenty-eight years in architecture, Lawrence has worked on residential, hospitality, retail, and commercial projects across the Bay Area. His experience gives him insight into the challenges and opportunities unique to each project type.
Lawrence values diverse collaboration for enriching design, integrating creative perspectives with colleagues and clients. He led the Taylor Farms corporate headquarters from concept to completion, managed teams for major developments like a two-tower high-rise in Oakland Chinatown and a seven-story project in Jack London Square and handled smaller retail and residential work. He understands jurisdictional codes and strives to help clients realize their visions.
Each project starts with a challenge needing thoughtful solutions, achieved through teamwork. Lawrence coordinates stakeholders throughout design and construction, supports team members, and aims for the highest quality outcomes.
Education:
UC Irvine, Applied Mathematics (coursework); West Valley College – Architecture
Certifications:
California Architectural License #C-396963
Favorite design challenge:
The relationship between people and the built environment at the pedestrian level and how they interact positively with each other to create new and rewarding neighborhood experiences.
Jose Rama
Partner | Director of Design
Jose Rama brings over twenty-five years of architectural experience leading a wide range of residential, mixed-use, hospitality, commercial, and Class A office projects across California, Florida, and Texas. His portfolio includes boutique and large-scale hotel developments, corporate projects such as Marriott, life science facilities, and data centers.
Known for his collaborative approach, Jose integrates diverse perspectives to deliver thoughtful, efficient design solutions. He has led projects from concept through completion, with a strong understanding of building codes, jurisdictional requirements, and complex project coordination.
Jose is committed to helping clients realize their vision through innovative design and a clear, results-driven process.
Education:
M.D.C.C. Florida College
F.I.U. University Bachelor of Art
SFSU Graphic Design Extension, San Francisco Ca.
Robert Hightower
Partner | Architect
Bob has been working in the design field for most of his life and has been a licensed architect for over 30 years. He has experience in almost every type of building, including residences, multi-family residences, high-rise buildings, commercial buildings, industrial projects, and tenant improvements, including retail spaces, office spaces, restaurants and cafes. This experience makes him an expert at navigating the various approval processes in the cities and counties throughout the Bay Area.
Bob started his career working in the field as a construction project engineer. He also worked for most of his career for a design-build development corporation. This experience makes him very knowledgeable in the realities of the construction and development processes and challenges. Working with contractors, developers, building managers, and tenants to get projects completed is one of his strong points.
Bob is exceptionally responsive to clients and contractors. That is, he is very good at working with clients to fulfill their visions in a cost-effective and time-sensitive way.
Education:
Cal Poly San Luis Obispo – Bachelor of Architecture – 1985
Certifications:
California Architectural License #C-23456
Texas Architectural License #TX-32331
