contractor-friendly solutions for the bay area
bringing design ideas to life
Complete Architectural and Structural Submittal Packages Tailored to your City's Requirements
residential design
New Homes | Additions | Remodels | Basements | Kitchen + Bath | ADUs
structural engineering
Design | Calculations | Pools | Retaining walls
site visits
Structural Inspections | Observations | Consultations
Advantages | Why we stand out
At ISE, we take pride in being a one-stop shop for all your Design and Engineering project needs. We simplify the process by offering a comprehensive suite of services that cover every aspect required for a successful project, from initial design to final city submittals. Our team handles both the architectural and structural engineering aspects, ensuring that all components are fully integrated and aligned with local regulations. This holistic approach not only streamlines the process but also minimizes the potential for delays and costly revisions, allowing us to deliver a high-quality product that meets all of your needs efficiently and effectively.
one-stop shop
With over two decades of experience, our team brings a wealth of knowledge and proficiency to every project, ensuring exceptional quality and reliability. Save time and effort by obtaining a full set of plans, ready for county/city submission, all in one firm
Seemless coordination
Benefit from streamlined communication and coordination between architectural design and structural engineering teams, ensuring a cohesive and efficient project workflow.
Expert Knowledge and Experience
Our team consists of highly skilled professionals with extensive experience in both architectural design and structural engineering, ensuring your project meets all safety and aesthetic standards.
Cost-Effective
Reduce overall project costs by consolidating services, minimizing the risk of errors, and avoiding the need for multiple consultants.
Residential design services
Whether building a new home or adding on square footage to your home, we work with your ideas and style to create the ultimate living environment. Finding out what it will take to bring your vision to life is simple. We listen to your ideas, answer your questions, and work with you to transform your concepts into reality.
- New Homes
- Addition/Remodel
- Second Story
- Kitchen + Baths
- ADU
- Basement
Additions
Remodel
New Homes
kitchen + bath Design Services
Transform your kitchen and bathroom into stunning, functional spaces with our expert design services. Specializing in space planning, design development, construction documents, and elevations, we ensure every detail is meticulously crafted to meet your needs. Whether you're looking for a complete overhaul or a few strategic upgrades, our team will work with you to bring your vision to life.- Space Planning
- Design Development
- Construction documents
- Elevations
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accesory dwelling units
Explore our portfolio of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) to see how we transform ideas into functional, stylish, and compliant living spaces. Each project showcases our expertise in architectural design and structural engineering, providing inspiration for your own ADU project. Whether you're looking to add a guest house, rental unit, or a home office, our ADU samples highlight the possibilities and quality you can expect from our services.
- Attached
- 2nd Story
- Detached
- Garage Conversion
structural engineering
We specialize in residential structural engineering, offering comprehensive services that ensure your projects are safe, stable, and compliant with all regulations. Our expertise includes design, calculations, and detailed drafting. With our experienced team, you can expect precise calculations and innovative designs, delivering robust and reliable solutions for all your residential structural needs.- New Homes
- Addition/Remodel
- Retaining walls
- Pools
- Second Story
- Basements
- ADUs
- Residential Bridges
site visits
It is the sole responsibility of the General Contractor or owner/builder to notify ISE of any CITY REQUIREMENTS for SPECIAL OBSERVATIONS. These requirements are usually indicated on the job copy's cover sheet or on the permit card.
- To ensure the highest quality inspections, please schedule your foundation structural inspection before concrete is poured and your framing inspection before sheetrock is installed. ISE cannot perform inspections once these stages are complete.
- For retrofit projects, please arrange a special inspection before epoxy bolts are installed, as we are unable to conduct this inspection afterward. This approach allows us to provide the most thorough and accurate assessments.
inspection types
Structural Inspections
Interior retro fits, partition walls, non load bearing internal walls, and hold-down/anchor bolt inspections.Special Observation
- Foundation- Framing- Shear Wall- Roof NailingVirtual Consultation
We offer convenient virtual consultations via Facetime or phone, allowing you to discuss your project from the comfort of your home or office. Whether you're exploring design ideas, seeking expert advice on engineering solutions, or discussing project feasibility, our virtual consultations provide a personalized and efficient way to address your needs. Our team will guide you through the process, answer your questions, and provide valuable insights tailored to your specific project requirements
sb 721 EEE
Ensuring Safety and Compliance for Exterior Elevated Elements
Ensure the safety and compliance of your Exterior Elevated Elements (EEE) with our comprehensive SB 721 inspection services. We provide detailed evaluations of balconies, decks, porches, stairways, walkways, and other elevated structures that are 6 feet or more above ground level.- Structural Integrity Assessment: Identify wood damage, dry rot, and other hazardous conditions
- Sampling Inspection: Examine a minimum of 15% of each EEE, including detailed photographic inspections using a BoreScope.
- Safety Feature Evaluation: Assess the condition of waterproofing, stairs, and guard rails.
- Inspection Report: Receive a comprehensive inspection report for each EEE that is 6 feet or more above ground level, including supports, railings, balconies, decks, porches, stairways, walkways, and other similar structures.
- Repair Recommendations: Get detailed structural repair recommendations, stamped and signed by a licensed California Civil Engineer.
FAQ
consultation fee
Our initial 30-minute consultation for new clients is complimentary. We discuss your design project ideas and then email you a proposal.
permit requirements
Permits vary by city and county but are generally required for any framing, mechanical, plumbing, or electrical changes.
pulling permits
Usually, your general contractor handles obtaining permits, but homeowners can also do this.
ISE offers this service for an additional fee.
city requirements
We provide services throughout the Bay Area, including (but not limited to) San Jose, Santa Clara County, Los Gatos, Los Altos, Saratoga, Gilroy, Sunnyvale, and Cupertino.
city comments
We address city planning check comments during building or planning reviews.
service fees
Each job is unique, and we can only determine the appropriate service fee after our initial consultation. Following our first consultation, we will email you a proposal based on the scope of your project.
contact us
Nothing pleases us more than bringing your home renovation ideas to life. To start implementing your project, fill out the form below. We will contact you promptly to set up an initial virtual appointment.
Address
2570 N First Street San Jose CA 95131 US