As a team of designers, we believe in collective intelligence, which is another way to define collaboration. Our studio is inclusive, bringing together designers, consultants, stakeholders, and users to build consensus around visionary solutions.

We approach each design with a unique set of values that drives us to innovate:

Expertise

We are passionate about solving problems. Our toolbox includes a range of skills essential to achieve success.

Process

Curious by nature, our process is focused on discovery, leading to an understanding of the questions design should answer. Discovery begins with interviews and observations, where we identify aspiration alongside concerns, from the top down and bottom up.

Our process is adapted to responding to the specific needs of each design assignment. In general, there are three active phases - Research, Design and Development.

The Research Phase begins by listening, allowing us to fully understand the questions that the design should answer. It leads to a Visioning workshop, which launches the Design Phase, where we explore all the reasonable alternative solutions to the design problem.

This leads to a second workshop where the best solution is selected based on comparative analysis as the decision making tool. Finally, the Development Phase fully vets and defines the design and extends through the implementation and construction phase.

Who We Are

Who we are is never a constant, but instead is always evolving. Talent doesn’t have a particular color, gender, heritage or a certain degree. Our design table is big and round where everyone has a seat. All are welcome including our consultants, clients, and members of the communities our designs serve.

We actively build partnerships with local and equitable design groups, mentor a diverse group of young professionals, and champion sustainability. VDT recognizes the historical and systemic factors that have led to a lack of diversity within the architecture industry and we are committed to learning, rectifying, and improving our firm to advocate for change within our community.