About Us

Established in 1999, DSEA is a full service architectural and project management firm specializing in the planning, design, project management and construction project management of commercial, industrial, mixed-use and residential developments. Our firm includes professionals who are uniquely qualified to provide preparation and development of architectural and urban design plans, design services for façade improvement programs, and development of interior design plans. Our team is well experienced with the public sector having worked with Economic Development Departments, City staff, and public sector entities on most of our development projects.

We can provide design review in coordination with city ordinances and guidelines, and assist in the development of design guidelines. Douglas Ely, Principal of the firm, has been recognized for design excellence in selected projects, and has over 40 years of project management and construction project management experience.

By implementing the latest technologies and providing clients with thorough communication, DSEA has established an overall commitment to service the needs of the public and the immediate community with a focus on improving the quality of our educational, economic, institutional, commercial and residential neighborhoods. In order to accomplish this, the firm emphasizes an uncompromising commitment to quality through appropriate design solutions and thorough documentation and communication.

DSEA has demonstrated a unique ability to coordinate projects with multiple phases. Our team provides the client with design and technical experience as well as the hands-on ability to get projects completed on-time and within budget.

DSEA also specializes in historic preservation and has worked to preserve the heritage of historic architecture over the past 25 years. We have completed numerous commercial and residential historic rehabilitation projects and have implemented additions that are compliant with and respectful to the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation.