--- title: "Design Associates Inc — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/design-associates-inc-pfvwus-pf~60711342 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~60711342.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Design Associates Inc" category: ["Architects"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/c0c38c3f073dcef3_8469-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "Cambridge, Massachusetts 02141, United States" latitude: 42.3687 longitude: -71.0836 phone: "(617) 661-9082" website: http://www.design-associates.com/ rating: 5 review_count: 7 best_of_houzz_awards: 2 followers: 94 last_updated: 2026-09-03 --- # Design Associates Inc Original Houzz profile: [Design Associates Inc](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/design-associates-inc-pfvwus-pf~60711342) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Architects - **Location:** Cambridge, MA - **Serves:** Cambridge - **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (7 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 2 awards (2018–2019), for Design. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Star Houzzer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 1,000 Ideabook Saves Whether new construction, historic restoration, or renovation/adaptive reuse, Design Associates’ approach frees each client and project from dogmatic formulas and lets architectural design excellence thrive. Practical, workable, and buildable alternatives are set forth in response to client input at every step of project development. Design Associates’ guidance and understanding lead to the best use solutions. Long considered the preeminent architectural firm on Nantucket Island, Design Associates began exporting its refined expertise throughout New England with the establishment of the firm’s second office in Cambridge, Massachusetts in 1983. Clients include private real estate owners and developers, municipalities and institutions who seek out Design Associates both for its demonstrated sensitivity to New England’s historic fabric and this energetic team’s ability to create new buildings worthy of future preservation. Hundreds of well-designed, custom single-family homes, hotels, inns, and country clubs, restaurants, recreational facilities, day-care centers, and many other institutional, commercial, and mixed-use projects are the firm’s distinctive, classic New England style--a signature which deftly balances history, architecture, and modern context. In recognition of Design Associates’ creativity and technical competency, since 1980 the firm has provided architectural services and consulting for “This Old House”, a nationally syndicated production of WGBH-TV/Boston. The firm’s work has also been published in Historic Preservation, Cape Cod Home and Garden, Cape Cod Life, House and Garden, House Beautiful, Boston Magazine, Home, Traditional Home, Martha’s Vineyard Magazine, Nantucket Journal, This Old House Magazine and included in books such as The Timber Frame House, Nantucket Gardens & Houses, This Old House Kitchens, This Old House Bathrooms and Shingle Style Houses, Past and Present. ### Services Provided - Architectural Design - Building Design - Home Remodeling - Architectural Drawings - Custom Homes - House Plans - New Home Construction - Home Additions - Kitchen Design - Kitchen Remodeling - Floor Plans - Bathroom Design - Pool House Design & Construction - Home Restoration - Project Management - Barn Design & Construction - Basement Remodeling - Basement Design - Staircase Design - Deck Design ### Areas Served - Cambridge ### Typical Job Cost $250,000 - 3.5 million ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Design Associates Inc | | Address | Cambridge, Massachusetts 02141, United States | | Phone | (617) 661-9082 | | Website | http://www.design-associates.com/ | | Followers on Houzz | 94 | ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Design Associates Inc](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/design-associates-inc-pfvwus-pf~60711342) - **Website:** http://www.design-associates.com/ - **Phone:** (617) 661-9082 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - Prism Gold Award 2011-Best Affordable CommunityPrism Silver Award 2011-Best Kitchen Remodel over $150,000Preservation Award From the Cambridge Historical CommissionBest of Boston Home 2015 BSA Honor Award for Design Excellence 1996 Preservation Award From the Cambridge Historical Commission - **Best of Houzz:** 2 awards (2018–2019), for Design. **Affiliations** - [The American Institute of Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/the-american-institute-of-architects-pfvwus-pf~1350720471) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 7 reviews** ### All 7 reviews **★★★★★ — KISTLER & KNAPP BUILDERS, Jan. 2018** > Terrific architecture, awesome people, wonderful collaborations. > Chris Dallmus and his team at Design Associates are superb. We at Kistler and Knapp Builders have enjoyed a very successful working relationship with DA for over 20 years. Our projects together include over a dozen major renovation / addition projects in the Greater Boston area. We can always count on Design Associates to be team players, working cooperatively with us, other designers and the owners. They provide excellent plans and detailed specifications for all aspects of the project. > We look forward to partnering with Design Associates in the years to come. **★★★★★ — R. P. Marzilli & Company Landscape Contractor, Aug. 2017** > We worked with Design Associates and LANDD International to build the landscape of a significant estate on the North Shore of Massachusetts, which included architectural elements and hardscape to seamlessly transition the home and other buildings to the outdoor areas. The combination of Design Associates excellent communication, planning and coordination with trust in our company’s skills achieved the result of delivering the design intent to the client – and a happy client is always the goal! It is a pleasure working with such a talented team. **★★★★★ — Eric Roth Photography, Aug. 2016** > As a photographer, I have seen several projects by Design Associates. Besides the fact that they are clearly very beautiful and well planned, employing wonderful materials and attention to detail, I have noticed that they have developed a very nice rapport with their homeowners. The feeling was happiness by all. **★★★★★ — builder2, June 2016** > Having been in the construction industry for over forty years you get pretty good at spotting quality. Design Associates Inc. fits the bill.The projects that I have worked with them on have been well thought out and fit the clients needs. Communications and information travel smoothly between Architect, Owner & Builder. Based on my experiences I would not hesitate to recommend Design Associates to someone looking for an Architect. **★★★★★ — Beck Building Company, June 2016** > Working with Design Associates was a complete pleasure. They are professionals who are resourceful, and respectful. They take pride in developing their plans and understand the building process well. Developing a strong set of construction documents is the first step in managing a project’s costs and Design Associates does an excellent job at leading this task while managing creative design concepts for homeowners to appreciate and be proud of. **★★★★★ — jfoscaldo, June 2016** > Most recently, I had the pleasure of working with Chris Dallmus and his team at Design Associates on a historic residential renovation project in Cambridge. The house was an early 20th century Dutch Colonial and was recognized by the Cambridge Historical Commission with the 2014 Preservation Award. Throughout the project Chris championed the spirit of bringing this home back to its original charm; this including the installation of a cedar roof with copper trim as well as restoring the existing double hung windows. He was a true professional, working with the owners, the builder, and making himself available to the trades with any questions or concerns that may arise. Chris was a strong advocate of the neighborhood, the home, and the clients; always striving for excellence. Without hesitation, I would strongly endorse Design Associates. > Jim Foscaldo, F.H. Perry Builder **★★★★★ — Daily Construction, May 2016** > I was fortunate to have my firm, Daily Construction (dailyconstruction.net) work with Chris Dallmus on this project. A historic cottage with difficult site conditions, restrictive historic guidelines and an existing structure that evolved over time set the stage for a challenging design process. Chris' creativity is incredible and the process and collaboration fluid and seamless. > Honored to work with Design Associates. ## Selected projects - [Wellesley Kitchen and Supper Room](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/wellesley-kitchen-and-supper-room-pj-vj~2057539) - Location: Wellesley, MA - Photos: 15 - Description: SILVER WINNER 2016 PRISM AWARDS Best Kitchen Remodel Over $200,000 Designed in 1918 by Boston Architect Benjamin Proctor for Roger W. Babson, founder of Babson College in Wellesley, this house has a strong Georgian Colonial Revival aesthetic. The client asked Design Associates Inc. to create a functional, open feeling 21st century kitchen with casual living and dining space, and a modern mudroom entry. All done while respecting the historical relevance of their home. The space was rearranged to… - [Nantucket Small Cottage](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/nantucket-small-cottage-pj-vj~1769285) - Location: Nantucket, MA - Photos: 9 - Description: Completely renovated, this circa 1848 cottage near the Nantucket Downtown Historic District has been reimagined with all the qualities of a classic summer cottage. Weathered white cedar shingles and simple trim, complimented by trellised roses and colorful flower boxes clad this compact in-town dwelling. The cleverly expansive interior is finely, and simply detailed by Kristin Paton of Kristin Paton Interiors. Traditional, white painted shiplap walls and ceilings compliment the dark wide plank f… - [Manchester-By-The-Sea](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/manchester-by-the-sea-pj-vj~2649951) - Location: Manchester-by-the-Sea, MA - Photos: 9 - Description: Designed in 1915 by the Boston architectural firm of Bigelow and Wadsworth for the Thomas B. Gannett Family, this residence bears many of the architectural features of an English Country house. Design Associates restored the house to its former elegance. A single story Kitchen, Mudroom, Breakfast Room and Family Room addition, several awkward and ungainly alterations from the 1980's were replaced with a well scaled and period-appropriate addition, complete with conservatory-quality skylights bri… - [Cambridge Historic Preservation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/cambridge-historic-preservation-pj-vj~1769381) - Location: Cambridge, MA - Photos: 12 - Description: Built in 1823 on Brattle Street and later moved to its present location on Ash Street in 1858, this five bay, center entrance three-story Federal style house has been altered in a restorative manner. Listed in the Ash Street National Register District, the proposed addition and alterations received favorable review from the Cambridge Historical Commission. - [The Corbin Norton House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/the-corbin-norton-house-pj-vj~1755193) - Location: Oak Bluffs, MA - Photos: 11 - Description: Restoration of the Philip Corbin Mansion, originally built in the Queen Anne style in 1891 on the island of Martha’s Vineyard. The restoration brings back much lost ornament, detail and color, returning the residence to its original appearance, a “Grand Lady of Ocean Park”. This project was honored by the Boston Society of Architects “Excellence in Architecture” award program in 1996. In February 2001, the home was totally destroyed by fire and was reconstructed to match the original Queen Anne… - [Concord House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/concord-house-pj-vj~2393832) - Location: Concord, MA - Photos: 10 - Description: Adjacent to conservation lands and overlooking the Sudbury River from bucolic Nashawtuc Hill, this Shingle Style house was built circa 1900. Design Associates was asked to renovate the interior as well as design period-appropriate additions, giving this residence restrained prominence fitting for the property. The interior organization was carefully arranged serving and served spaces throughout the four levels of the house. The serving spaces emphasize circulation and back of house activities, w… - [Nantucket Cottage](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/nantucket-cottage-pj-vj~1769212) - Location: Nantucket, MA - Photos: 9 - Description: “A one story cottage in the woods." This was the fundamental request of our client. This succinct design directive resulted in a simple array of gable cottages and sheds with all of the primary living spaces at one level. Mudroom, Kitchen, Guest Suite, Living Room, Dining Room and Master Suite and Study, the primary living spaces, were all at one level with easy access to the exterior. Designed in collaboration with the late Herb Seigle of Seigle, Solow and Horne for the architecture and with Jo… - [Acton House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/acton-house-pj-vj~1950814) - Location: Acton, MA - Photos: 10 - Description: Originally an 1830’s barn attached to the main house volume, the client’s explicitly requested the use of 21st century design and materials in its renovation. In accord with the owner’s wish, Design Associates left the heavy timber wooden structure exposed, but opened the interior volume to create an expansive double height ceiling living space. Modern insertions were made with contemporary materials - stainless steel for new stairs and railings and, concrete for countertops. This bold combinati… - [Colorado Dude Ranch](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/colorado-dude-ranch-pj-vj~1755257) - Location: Granby, CO - Photos: 11 - Description: GOLD WINNER 2016 PRISM AWARDS Best Detached Home: 2,500 to 5,000 Square Feet At the initial design presentation to the Design Review Committee for the ranch, one member stated that it “looks like it’s been there for 100 years." Built upon a moss rock foundation, with weathered timber logs, weathered vertical board siding and a corrugated metal roof, the ranch house design takes its cues from the historic buildings of the Rocky Mountains, reflecting the traditions of ranching in the west. A futur… - [Denver House 101](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/denver-house-101-pj-vj~2096084) - Location: Denver, CO - Photos: 8 - Description: This new residence is located within the city's urban residential area and references both, the Art Déco and International Styles, but its stone exterior takes cues from local building traditions. The street façade is very geometrical and regular, punctuated by the metal clad entry. Two rearward wings embrace a courtyard and pool. The primary living spaces have tall windows that stretch to the ceiling, capturing views of the Rocky Mountain to the west. Living space extends to the outdoors at man… [See all 10 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/design-associates-inc-pfvwus-pf~60711342) ## Ideabooks - [Living and Dining by Design Associates](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/86047859/list/living-and-dining-by-design-associates) — 20 ideas - [Vineyard Vibes](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/87449629/list/vineyard-vibes) — 22 ideas - [Summer Spaces](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/85698055/list/summer-spaces) — 23 ideas - [Bathrooms by Design Associates](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/85317306/list/bathrooms-by-design-associates) — 13 ideas - [How to make a great first impression](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/68949440/list/how-to-make-a-great-first-impression) — 8 ideas - [Holiday Ready Kitchens and Living rooms](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/76889686/list/holiday-ready-kitchens-and-living-rooms) — 37 ideas - [A Small Cottage with a Big Impact](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/71715589/list/a-small-cottage-with-a-big-impact) — 11 ideas - [Nautical Vibrations](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/68204669/list/nautical-vibrations) — 12 ideas - [Wish List](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/66955403/list/wish-list) — 1 idea [See all 9 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/design-associates) ## Community Q&A **Q: What is the siding on this home** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Sorry. Just now seeing this question.... The siding is Pine Beetle Kill with a Hand-Hewn texture with White Log Jam Chinking. If you're looking to source this, best to contact Beck Builders, the General Contractor for the project. https://beckbuilds.com/ **Q: Paint color on the walls?** *(in Photo Questions)* Specifically, the far wall on the right. A: You'll need to contact the interior designer, Kristin Paton of Kristin Paton Interiors, for that information. Sincerely, Chris Dallmus **Q: Are the beds custom made? Love them. If so, can you tell me the cost** *(in Photo Questions)* A: You'll need to contact the interior designer, Kristin Paton of Kristin Paton Interiors on that question. **Q: Whale pillow** *(in Photo Questions)* Where can I purchase the pillow? A: That's the domain of the interior designer. Feel free to reach out to the interior designer noted in the project description. **Q: Great bathroom!** *(in Photo Questions)* Could you please share where ou found the lights and the manufacturer? Thank you! A: I have asked the Interior Designer for info on these lights......once I hear from her, I'll pass it along. Chris Dallmus **Q: Who makes the bedding?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: I have asked the Interior Designer and, once I hear back, I'll let you know. Chris Dallmus --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-09-03.*