The DIG Studio
Design Initiative Group (DIG) was founded in the fall of 2020. Like all great bro-mances turned architectural start-up, this one has a magical backstory.
Josh and Luke first met in 2008 while working at an Architecture and Engineering firm in Columbia SC. Josh had just graduated with a Master’s Degree from Clemson University and Luke had just become a licensed Architect. Their first major project together as team leaders in 2008 was a $40 million addition and renovation to a local high school. A perfect example of the phrase “trial by fire”. (link to that project here)
Josh and Luke successfully completed that first project, and over the next 10 years, many more. In 2017, they moved to separate firms but always kept in touch, discussing the challenges of mixing design with a traditional business model. This merger often forced Senior Architects into management and further away from the design process and Clients. The traditional model led to experienced architects eventually no longer being able to create and deliver a design on their own.
In September of 2020 Josh and Luke took advantage of an opportunity to work together again. Instead of pursuing jobs with other firms, they said, “Why not start something ourselves”, and soon thereafter, Design Initiative Group (DIG) was created. In 2021 DIG added Erica Laroche as a Senior Interior Designer. Erica worked with Josh and Luke for over 10 years and is now our Client’s resource for branding, materials, colors, and furniture
The core values of DIG are simple. Provide a responsive, knowledgeable and personalized design experience for our Clients. Josh and Luke will be your point of contact, designers, drafters and detailers throughout the project. DIG listens from day one of the design and personally integrate the Client’s thoughts, ideas, and dreams into the design. By keeping their overhead low and efficiency high, years of expertise and experience aren’t just used in marketing pitches but are utilized in every phase of your project.
With over 40 years of experience, Josh, Luke and Erica have designed and managed a myriad of project types and sizes, ranging from $100,000 tenant upfit to $40,000,000 high school addition and renovation. We offer expertise in complex renovation projects as well as new construction projects. Now with 5 years and over 180 projects under their belts as a company, DIG has established itself as one of the most responsive and innovative design firms in the Columbia area.
Project Types
Renovation
Healthcare
Education
Religious
Commercial
Corporate
Industrial
Residential
Check out this short video to learn more about the DIG Studio
