
Expertise in Regional Planning Codes and Policies
California is home to a vast number of cities and counties, each with its own unique planning and municipal codes. At MK Design, we have extensive experience navigating these regulations and have built lasting relationships with key personnel in local agencies. Every project begins with a detailed analysis of applicable codes to ensure full compliance while avoiding unnecessary regulatory burdens.
Our Areas of Expertise
Residential Projects
MK Design has experience designing a wide range of single-family homes, from compact 500-square-foot guest quarters to expansive 20,000-square-foot estates. Whether it’s mass-produced housing or historically inspired designs, we tailor our work to fit any style or preference.
Multi-Family Residential
We specialize in apartment buildings, condo conversions, student housing, and senior living communities, all of which require meticulous planning and adherence to unique regulations. Whether it’s a 14-story high-rise or a structure built five stories below ground, we collaborate with developers to deliver cost-effective, high-value projects.
Senior Care Facilities
Senior care facilities must balance the functionality of medical spaces with the comfort of home. Additionally, with the increasing demand for senior care, many projects require expansion capabilities. Our clients consistently return to us for additions and modifications to these specialized facilities.
Commercial Projects
From strip malls and tenant improvements to gas stations, restaurants, and car washes, MK Design has tackled a diverse array of commercial projects. We ensure that every space is thoughtfully designed to align with your business operations, branding, and customer experience.
Medical Offices & Facilities
We have extensive experience designing both OSHPD-regulated and OSHPD-exempt medical facilities, including offices, exam rooms, and radiology suites. Many medical spaces prioritize efficiency over comfort, but we take a different approach—introducing subtle design improvements that create a more welcoming and less stressful environment for patients and staff.
Hillside Projects
Many firms avoid hillside projects or rely on excessive grading to create artificial flat sites. At MK Design, hillside architecture is one of our specialties. We embrace the natural landscape, designing structures that follow the terrain rather than forcing it into submission. The result? Buildings that are both functional and visually striking.
Biologically Sensitive Areas
Developing raw land often comes with environmental challenges, including protected plant and animal species. We work closely with biological survey teams and conservationists to create solutions that balance development goals with ecological responsibility.
Corporate Franchise Projects
Franchise projects present unique challenges, from strict branding requirements to complex equipment integration. These projects often involve evolving design specifications and last-minute changes. At MK Design, we have the expertise to navigate these complexities and deliver seamless franchise locations.
Master Planning
When multiple buildings or projects are part of a larger development, careful master planning is essential. We’ve worked on large-scale projects, including multi-acre truck stops with dining and lodging facilities, as well as remote residential communities requiring independent water and waste infrastructure.
Project Data Analysis
Our expertise includes a wide range of specialized analyses, including sound studies, lighting assessments, utility planning, view impact analysis, shade and shadow studies, photometric reports, VOC and heat audits, egress planning, and more. If a new challenge arises, we’re ready to tackle it.
Additional Governmental Agency Approvals
Beyond standard building permits and Conditional Use Permits (CUPs), many projects require approvals from multiple agencies. We regularly coordinate with environmental health departments, water and sanitation districts, air quality management boards, fire councils, community organizations, the Federal Aviation Administration, and even unique stakeholders—once, we had to consult with Knott’s Berry Farm. We handle these complexities so you don’t have to.
Our Services
Core Services
- Programming – Defining the project concept and functional needs.
- Schematic & Design Development – Developing floor plans, site plans, and elevations. Renderings and models may be created for client review or regulatory approvals.
- Construction Documents – Preparing comprehensive plans for permitting and construction.
- Intergovernmental & Community Group Coordination – Addressing requirements from outside agencies and community organizations.
Additional Services
- Construction administration & site observation
- Detailed landscape & hardscape design
- Interior design
- Physical & digital presentation models
- Computer modeling & visualization
- Master planning
- Site analysis & feasibility studies
- Utility infrastructure development
- Green building & LEED consulting
- Photovoltaic & wind turbine integration
- Signage & monument design
- Historic preservation & restoration
- General & specialized consulting
