--- title: "dl-Design Studio PLLC — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/dl-design-studio-pllc-pfvwus-pf~184994014 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~184994014.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "dl-Design Studio PLLC" category: ["Architects"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/16b37b35069c57fe_3236-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "2212 Fairhill Drive, Raleigh, North Carolina 27612, United States" latitude: 35.852 longitude: -78.6841 phone: "(919) 587-8175" website: "" rating: 4.9 review_count: 15 years_in_business: 17 license_verified: true best_of_houzz_awards: 4 followers: 15 last_updated: 2026-08-29 --- # dl-Design Studio PLLC > Raleigh's Experienced Architecture & Building Firm \| Best of Houzz! Original Houzz profile: [dl-Design Studio PLLC](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/dl-design-studio-pllc-pfvwus-pf~184994014) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Architects - **Location:** Raleigh, NC - **Serves:** Raleigh, North Hills, Cary, Apex, Garner, Clayton, Knightdale, Rolesville, Five Points, Forest Hills - **Verified License:** Yes - **Houzz rating:** 4.9 out of 5 (15 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 4 awards (2021–2024), for Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Houzz Pro Software User - Recommended on Houzz - 10 Ideabook Saves - Best of Houzz winner - Locally owned - 17 years in business - Hired on Houzz - Responds Quickly ### Business highlights - Best of Houzz winner - 17 years in business - Locally owned - 22 Hires on Houzz - Responds Quickly dl-Design Studio is a small private practice ready to provide thoughtful design solutions to your design and planning challenges. After 18 years of working in the commercial markets with hospitality, retail and office designs. I discovered my passion lies in creating beautiful, functional spaces for your live and work environments. The passion is not only in finding a positive solution but also in the journey. We love the open dialogue and design process with our clients. We can provide conceptual design, planning, restoration, additions. However we are truly excited about modern design and unique creations that break the common mold of today's mass builder developments. Designing the way you live and work is our Passion ### Services Provided - Architectural Design - Building Design - Home Remodeling - Architectural Drawings - Custom Homes - House Plans - Home Additions - Home Extensions - Floor Plans - 3D Rendering - Green Building - Space Planning - Multigenerational Homes - Attic Conversion - Prefab Houses - Custom Home - Hospitality Design - Office Design - Retail Design - Shipping Container Desgin ### Areas Served - Raleigh - North Hills - Cary - Apex - Garner - Clayton - Knightdale - Rolesville - Five Points - Forest Hills ### Typical Job Cost $5,000 - 30,000 Every job is different, so it is hard to determine costs. However typically construction documents (blueprints) only; can range between $1.75 – $3.50 per square foot. Planning and schematic design will usually run hourly as this is an unknown and always subject to change. Please see the American Institute for Architects (AIA) for more information on the 5 basic services for architects. ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | dl-Design Studio PLLC | | Address | 2212 Fairhill Drive, Raleigh, North Carolina 27612, United States | | Phone | (919) 587-8175 | | License Number | 13234 | | Years in business | 17 | | Followers on Houzz | 15 | **Social profiles:** - LinkedIn — dl.mayer@live.com - Blog — https://www.dl-designstudio.com/journal ## Offers Raleigh's Trusted Architecture & Builder ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [dl-Design Studio PLLC](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/dl-design-studio-pllc-pfvwus-pf~184994014) - **Phone:** (919) 587-8175 ## Credentials **Verified License** - Number: 13234 - Type: dl-Design Studio, PLLC - Issued by: North Carolina Board of Architecture **Certifications & Awards** - NCARB Certified Architect - **Best of Houzz:** 4 awards (2021–2024), for Service. ## Reviews **Overall rating: 4.9 out of 5 — 15 reviews** *Aspect averages:* - Work Quality: 50.0 - Communication: 50.0 - Value: 48.0 ### Featured Review **★★★★★ — Bob Thompson, Jan. 2020** > My wife and I bought a home on a beautiful lake just a short distance from our offices, removed the existing home, and needed an incredible design for this unique property. We decided to retain Darrell and Liz based on some of their previous work, as well as both of them were LEED certified (an organization and green building standard I helped start in the early ‘90’s). They quickly caught our vision and desires, and made many improvements by blending in their own expertise and experience. At each iteration of the design we became more and more excited about our future home and how it seamlessly integrated into the property promising wonderful views and an incredible indoor/outdoor living experience. Sadly our plans changed and we sold the property, but have purchased 10 acres in Washington state with an even more incredible view, and will be incorporating many of the design features into our retirement home. Darrell and Liz are highly recommended if you’re wanting to do something outside the ordinary, and want architects who are easy to work with. ### All 15 reviews **★★★★★ — Sylvia P., Aug. 2026** > Lincoln is fantastic to work with. He listens closely, collaborates on options and provides plans on a timely basis. Will refer him to others! **★★★★★ — Jim Folk, June 2026** > dl-Design Studio assessed our situation quickly and crafted a plan to meet all our needs. We had a project involving our church, two tenants and the Town of Cary. He was always willing to take my calls. He went to bat for us and became our advocate along the way. He gave us recommendations on which builder to select for the project. His pro-active communication, perseverance, and attention to detail make him the right person for your next design. **★★★★★ — Toby Dickens, May 2026** > This design firm is excellent! Most professional and honest. We partner-up to do design build projects because they understand the financial parameters of the clients, yet they always seem to provide a unique design that always seems to impress. **★★★★★ — Karin Nielson, Sept. 2023** > My husband uses a wheelchair and this was a huge consideration when we decided to remodel. Darrly did a fabulous job by listening to our concerns and using his in-depth knowledge of ADA regulations. He created an innovative design which exceeded our expectations. We're thrilled with the plans and how he follows up with site visits while the contractors are working. Whether you're remodeling because you have a disability or are "aging in place", he is definitely the person to hire. **★★★★★ — Blake Interiors, May 2023** > I had a great experience working with Darrell on the upfit of our home furniture retail store. > Darrell is incredibly knowledgeable in his field and very organized, making the whole process seamless. I had many ideas that were not standard for commercial projects, but Darrell always went out of his way to come up with a solution. **★★★★★ — Chris, Jan. 2023** > Darrell was able to transform our attic into an amazing office space. I would highly recommend him to anyone looking for an architect. **★★★★★ — A R, Jan. 2023** > When we decided to embark on a long desired and much needed renovation of our house, we had many ideas and no concrete direction to go forward. We started working with Darrell Mayer and he took up the challenge of getting blueprints for our vision! We appreciated his design vision and expertise, attention to detail and follow-up immensely. He was able to take our ideas and convert it into reality. He listened to us, and successfully managed collaboration in the design phase (especially difficult during the pandemic since this was done via video calls) and was able to deliver a great product to us in the end! > He was also very accommodating and made an effort to incorporate some of our more whimsical ideas! > We have a finished design, and blueprints complete with all the details we require to start construction. > We know that Darrell will continue to be an ally and advocate for us during that phase as well. **★★★★★ — Troy Ghashghaei, Jan. 2023** > Darrell is very professional and extremely detail oriented. We were able to get a highly suitable plan for major renovations in our house and Darrell was instrumental in our satisfaction with the final plans. He made time to come to our house prepared to go over progress on a regular basis until we were happy with a final design. He is also very knowledgable on all aspects of contruction which was very helpful in our decision making. I highly recommend Darrell without any hesitation! **★★★★★ — msolufse, Jan. 2023** > We enjoyed working with dl-Design, Darell was patient and listened to all our requests and came up with excellent ideas for our project **★★★★ — JMW, Feb. 2022** > Darrell and I worked together in the last quarter of 2021 on a house project for some rural property we own in Central North Carolina. The goal was to make a single-story home, using Eco-Panel SIP panels, from a local NC supplier. > Darrell did a great job listening to my wishes and requirements, and he worked hard to make the design match my strict budget. > His communications were clear and his deliverables were timely, and it was apparent he heard all that I said with each iteration. He also educated himself on the Eco-Panels, and pro-actively communicated with the supplier, to make the house dimensions match the standard sizes. That effort paid off when we received the reasonably-costing quote from the supplier. > Through no fault of his whatsoever, this house will probably not be built after all. > However, I do recommend Darrell. **★★★★★ — kathym2000, Feb. 2022** > Darrell, drew up some initial plans, to remodel our older 60's ranch home for our downsizing. We wanted to continue with the midcentury design of the home. Darrell was spot on, as to what we wanted to accomplish with giving us stylish designs and to gain access to the backyard. Darrell was very easy to work with and presented a very informative slide show of 3 possible designs along with drawings. Unfortunately, we could not start the project due to my husband's health. I can definitely recommend Darrell for your design needs **★★★★★ — Berkie Angeles Realtor/Broker, March 2021** > Darrell is a professional in every sense of the word. > He is knowledgeable and is committed to excellence. His attention to detail is an understatement. It’s reassuring that one can find such an outstanding and reliable person devoted to customer satisfaction. Darrell will not only get your project done, but he’ll get it done right! > > -Berkie > Realtor **★★★★★ — Craigan and Judy Gray, Aug. 2020** > Darrel Meyer designed an addition to a traditional log home creating a practical, energy efficient plan that will add value and efficiency to the property. He showed flexibility in managing the interior space meeting the structural code and satisfying the owner. This approach was a good choice for us. **★★★★★ — Tanya Andrews, June 2020** > This is our second project with Darrell Mayer, and I can't recommend him enough! For this project, Darrell helped us design a renovation plan for 3 bathrooms, expanded laundry room, open concept living/kitchen, mudroom, and a play room, all while utilizing our existing footprint. His knowledge helped us think through potential problems and do the appropriate cost analysis for how to best get what we are wanting and within our budget. He was generous with his time, and was willing to meet at our house with our young children, and during the COVID pandemic, he has called several times to just check in. I can't say enough about how much we appreciate him and the work he has done! We will continue to use Darrell for any of our future projects! ## Selected projects - [G&W Warehouse](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/gandw-warehouse-pj-vj~7850319) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 5 - [Blake Interiors](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/blake-interiors-pj-vj~7202658) - Location: Morrisville, NC - Photos: 3 - Description: Acting as record architect for the Shell and overall layout of the space. I worked closely with owner & interior designer Kelsey Thomas. I helped Kelsey provide a neutral background for her to inject her color theory, style and furniture selections. This allows the product to shine and the space / architecture to play a supporting role. Stay tuned for an update on the exterior of the storefront design. It will be the first 're-imagining' of the suburban context, and a return to the classic 20th… - [Rudran Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/rudran-residence-pj-vj~7850280) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 2 - [Syed Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/syed-residence-pj-vj~7850291) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 3 - [Chido Taco](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/chido-taco-pj-vj~7850310) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 3 - [Modern Box-House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/modern-box-house-pj-vj~6084365) - Location: Raleigh, NC - Photos: 14 - Description: Contemporary modern home, with an open plan design. Two boxes connected by a service bar. The public-house box holds living/dining/kitchen with family/guest rooms on the second floor. The private-house box holds an 800 sf accessory dwelling unit for family member. Complete with kitchenette and walk-out to the backyard garden space. The second floor houses the master suite with starlight deck overlooking the tree canopy and garden below. The connector bar holds the laundry & utilities, the elevat… - [Blotto](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/blotto-pj-vj~7850301) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 3 - [Squeeze](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/squeeze-pj-vj~7850334) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 4 - [Four Square House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/four-square-house-pj-vj~7850285) - Location: Greensboro, NC - Photos: 3 - [Itailian Restaurant](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/itailian-restaurant-pj-vj~7850294) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 3 - [Mountain Retreat](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mountain-retreat-pj-vj~7141292) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 4 - [One Room Cabin](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/one-room-cabin-pj-vj~6669961) - Location: Crumpler, NC - Photos: 4 - [Modern Ranch Reno](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/modern-ranch-reno-pj-vj~6822933) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 12 - Description: 1960's brick ranch, 1400 sf +/- floor plate on large 3/4 acre urban lot. -Design Brief- Client requested design ideas for modifying interior spaces to create a vaulted ceiling in the family room, Add a Primary Suite with Ensuite, Renovate the guest bath room and bedroom. Provide direct access to backyard and new pool. Renovate carport into a single car garage with work shop. Adding 500-700 sf of new living and sleeping spaces. - [FingerLakes Estates](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/fingerlakes-estates-pj-vj~2836907) - Location: Union Springs, NY - Photos: 3 - Description: The site is located in the rural farmlands of Central NY State, more specifically the Finger Lakes region. The farmland vernacular and the early settlers architecture was used as the inspiration for the design aesthetic at the main Building. This is in the early conceptual stage and these renderings were created to provide the client with marketing images to solicit investment partners and to create excitement for potential constituents. Project Description: Senior Living on a 12 acre site. -(4)… - [Shelby House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/shelby-house-pj-vj~6410400) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 9 - Description: Concept house design based on a 1968 Ford Shelby Mustang. Two Story open plan with 4 car garage and mechanic shop with family-in-law suite. Full eat-in kitchen with prep room and barbecue smoker pit at the patio. Owners suite overlooks ground floor with entertainment/gaming area. [See all 15 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/dl-design-studio-pllc-pfvwus-pf~184994014) ## Video - [Company video](https://player.vimeo.com/external/840391270.m3u8?s=b2c12f030a47edd1a5c5711c6161d638be23d48c&oauth2_token_id=1384357804) ## Ideabooks - [dlmayer's ideas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/15360884/list/dlmayer-s-ideas) — 11 ideas - [Farm House Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/127422748/list/farm-house-kitchen) — 16 ideas - [Shelby House](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/131292643/list/shelby-house) — 1 idea - [Modern Stairs Mao](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/27334268/list/modern-stairs-mao) — 22 ideas [See all 4 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/dlmayer73) --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-29.*