A lifelong fascination with creation and building set me on the path to architecture, which eventually led me to UC Berkeley, where I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture in 2010. With over a decade of experience specializing in single-family residences, my focus has been on transforming ideas into functional, comfortable, and thoughtful spaces.
Architecture should do more than simply meet a client’s needs—it should inspire and enrich daily life. With a solid technical foundation and a passion for meaningful design, my goal is to create spaces that balance beauty with practicality, ensuring each one is not just visually appealing but also timeless.
My design approach centers around intentionality, every detail has purpose and meaning. I strive to design spaces that create connection, comfort, and a sense of belonging, while remaining responsive to both the environment and future needs.
brandon.d.crespo@gmail.com
Oakland | CA
916.698.7129
www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-crespo
75th AVENUE
JOSEPHINE STREET 27 15 7 21 11 1
SOUTH ROCKRIDGE BOULEVARD
MADERA STREET
SANTA FE AVENUE
GRIZZLY PEAK BOULEVARD
JOSEPHINE STREET GARY EARL PARSONS, ARCHITECT
NEW
PRIVATE GARAGE DEVELOPMENT
Existing Conditions Documentation | Schematic Design | Design Development | Construction Documents | Construction Administration Berkeley | CA
Completed | 2022
Project Description
Due to concrete spalling and the deteriorating condition of the existing garage, which also served as the main entry path to the single-family residence, extensive repairs were necessary. The solution was to demolish the existing structure and replace it with a new single-car concrete garage. Materials used in the rear yard landscaping, such as horizontal black cedar siding, were incorporated into the new garage design, as well as colored concrete for the retaining walls and stairway.
To take advantage of the evening sunsets along the entry path, lounge spaces were created at each landing. Timber benches, which match those in the rear yard, were incorporated into these spaces. Additionally, a living green roof was installed above the garage, complemented by a custom protective guardrail.
Project Manager | Brandon Crespo
Architect | Gary Parsons
Structural Engineer | Juri Komendant
Contractor | MN Builders
Responsibilities
• Thorough documentation of existing conditions.
• Met with Building and Zoning officials to ensure project scope was compliant with code regulations.
• Worked closely with the Architect throughout project development, contributing to all phases of design as the project manager.
• Heavily involved in the schematic design and design development phases.
• Prepared structural drawings and details based on discussions and markups provided by the Structural Engineer.
• Prepared all permit drawings and construction documents.
• Managed the permit submittal process with the Building Department and served as the point of contact during plan check review.
• Coordinated with the homeowners, consultants and general contractor to ensure smooth project execution.
• Performed construction administration duties, including regular site visits, field reviews, answering RFI’s, and prepared clarifications.
GUARDRAIL STANCHION DETAIL
75th AVENUE SOLO PROJECT IN COLLABORATION WITH iSPY DESIGN
RESIDENTIAL KITCHEN ALTERATION
Existing Conditions Documentation | Schematic Design | Construction Drawings
Oakland | CA
Completed | 2022
Project Description
In collaboration with Interior Designer Catherine Hooper of iSpy Design, this full kitchen renovation was completed for two close friends who purchased a starter home in East Oakland during the height of the pandemic. The existing kitchen layout presented constraints, lacking the flow and functionality the homeowners desired. As a result, the goal of the renovation was to create a more open feel and enhance the connection with the adjacent dining and living rooms.
To improve the transition between the kitchen and dining room, a large peaked archway was added, replicating the design of the front entryway to strengthen the connection between the spaces. To further optimize openness and organization, open shelving was installed along the north wall. Additionally, an existing secondary door on the south wall, leading to the hallway, was closed off to allow for continuous cabinetry and create a balanced layout of workspaces throughout the galley kitchen.
• Worked closely with the homeowners to understand their functional needs and design preferences, translating this information into multiple kitchen layout concepts.
• Led the schematic design phases, prepared construction drawings that were utilized by the owner-builder.
• Partnered with the Interior Designer to refine design elements, including cabinet organization, door and drawer front options, and backsplash configurations.
• Assisted in the hands-on demolition of the existing cabinetry.
GRIZZLY PEAK BOULEVARD GARY EARL
PARSONS, ARCHITECT
RESIDENTIAL ADDITION & ALTERATION
Existing Conditions Documentation | Schematic Design | Design Development | Construction Documents | Construction Administration Berkeley | CA
Completed | 2021
Project Description
Perched atop the Berkeley Hills, this multistory residence sought to utilize its expansive, unconditioned crawlspace. Due to the steep terrain of the hillside site, the space beneath the lower level was unusually tall, providing an opportunity to add usable space without altering the home’s existing footprint.
The project was divided into two phases. The first phase converted the crawlspace beneath the attached garage into a spacious room, which included a bedroom, bathroom, and laundry area. The second, larger phase created a new basement level, complete with a newly constructed staircase, a bedroom, bathroom, workspace, and family room. Additionally, the design included a rear deck built below an existing one, which featured a recessed, deck-flush hot tub offering stunning views of the Bay Area.
Project Manager | Brandon Crespo
Architect | Gary Parsons
Structural Engineer | Juri Komendant
Contractor | Luca’s Building
Responsibilities
• Thorough documentation of existing conditions.
• Met with Building and Zoning officials to ensure project scope was compliant with code regulations.
• Worked closely with the Architect throughout project development, contributing to all phases of design as the project manager.
• Heavily involved in the schematic design and design development phases.
• Prepared structural drawings and details based on discussions and markups provided by the Structural Engineer.
• Prepared all permit drawings and construction documents.
• Managed the permit submittal process with the Building Department and served as the point of contact during plan check review.
• Coordinated with the homeowners, consultants and general contractor to ensure smooth project execution.
• Performed construction administration duties, including regular site visits, field reviews, answering RFI’s, and prepared clarifications.
S ROCKRIDGE BOULEVARD
NEW ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT DEVELOPMENT
GARY EARL PARSONS, ARCHITECT
Schematic Design | Design Development | Construction Documents | Construction Administration
Oakland | CA
Completed | 2019
Project Description
The addition of an accessory dwelling unit presented design challenges due to the steep terrain, which limited placement options for the structure. To address these constraints, the unit was positioned along the west side of the property, adjacent to the existing residence, and partially embedded into the site at the rear. The building’s unique shape reflects the limitations imposed by required setbacks and the allowable distance from the main residence.
The homeowner requested abundant natural light, open spaces, and ample display storage for their artwork. To meet these needs, built-in storage surrounds the living area, while continuous shelving runs above the west-facing windows and kitchen cabinets, spanning the full length of the wall. Skylights, stretching across the width of the room, frame the kitchen between the living and dining areas, allowing additional light to filter through. A new concrete entry stairway provides access to both units, along with landscaping improvements integrated throughout the site.
Project Manager | Brandon Crespo
Architect | Gary Parsons
Structural Engineer | Juri Komendant
Contractor | James Terrell Construction
Responsibilities
• Met with Building and Zoning officials to ensure project scope was compliant with code regulations.
• Worked closely with the Architect throughout project development, contributing to all phases of design as the project manager.
• Heavily involved in the schematic design and design development phases.
• Prepared structural drawings and details based on discussions and markups provided by the Structural Engineer.
• Prepared all permit drawings and construction documents.
• Managed the permit submittal process with the Building Department and served as the point of contact during plan check review.
• Coordinated with the homeowners, consultants and general contractor to ensure smooth project execution.
• Performed construction administration duties, including regular site visits, field reviews, answering RFI’s, and prepared clarifications.
Existing Conditions Documentation | Schematic Design | Design Development | Construction Documents | Construction Administration Albany | CA
Completed | 2018
Project Description
After years of living in their Spanish-style bungalow, the homeowners sought more space for their growing family. The solution was to expand the existing rear split level while enhancing the flow of the space and maximizing natural light. The design incorporated a stepped house concept, creating additional volume without encroaching on the surrounding area.
To improve the home’s entrance, the living room ceiling was rebuilt with a peaked ridge, which created a sense of openness and strengthened the connection to the rear of the house. The project also included a full remodel of the kitchen and dining room, as well as a basement-level addition featuring a family room and rear patio. Above the kitchen and dining areas, a new master suite level was added.
A centrally located stair tower connects all the bedrooms, featuring corner windows and a central skylight that invites natural light and serves as a striking focal point.
Project Manager | Brandon Crespo
Architect | Gary Parsons
Structural Engineer | Juri Komendant
Contractor | Roofener & Son Construction
Responsibilities
• Thorough documentation of existing conditions.
• Met with Building and Zoning officials to ensure project scope was compliant with code regulations.
• Worked closely with the Architect throughout project development, contributing to all phases of design as the project manager.
• Heavily involved in the schematic design and design development phases.
• Prepared structural drawings and details based on discussions and markups provided by the Structural Engineer.
• Prepared all permit drawings and construction documents.
• Managed the permit submittal process with the Building Department and served as the point of contact during plan check review.
• Coordinated with the homeowners, consultants and general contractor to ensure smooth project execution.
• Performed construction administration duties, including regular site visits, field reviews, answering RFI’s, and prepared clarifications.
MADERA STREET GARY EARL PARSONS, ARCHITECT
RESIDENTIAL ADDITION & ALTERATION
Existing Conditions Documentation | Schematic Design | Design Development | Construction Documents | Construction Administration Berkeley | CA
Completed | 2017
Project Description
The homeowners requested an upgrade to their Berkeley bungalow to enhance their living quality and provide additional space for their growing needs. The original kitchen was cramped, lacked natural light, and hadn’t been updated since its construction. The homeowners also sought more space for hosting gatherings, both indoors and outdoors.
The remodel included an expanded, craftsman kitchen with ample storage and abundant natural light, thanks to a generous number of windows and a central ridge skylight. A custom built-in dining bench was designed around the corner windows, mirroring the bench at the newly constructed rear deck. Additionally, a new master suite was added at the rear of the house.
Project Manager | Brandon Crespo
Architect | Gary Parsons
Structural Engineer | Juri Komendant
Construction | DBC Builders
Responsibilities
• Thorough documentation of existing conditions.
• Met with Building and Zoning officials to ensure project scope was compliant with code regulations.
• Worked closely with the Architect throughout project development, contributing to all phases of design as the project manager.
• Heavily involved in the schematic design and design development phases.
• Prepared structural drawings and details based on discussions and markups provided by the Structural Engineer.
• Prepared all permit drawings and construction documents.
• Managed the permit submittal process with the Building Department and served as the point of contact during plan check review.
• Coordinated with the homeowners, consultants and general contractor to ensure smooth project execution.
• Performed construction administration duties, including regular site visits, field reviews, answering RFI’s, and prepared clarifications.