About JDS Design Build

About Us

Design and Construction,
Perfectly Aligned

JDS Design Build is a full-service design-build firm based in Livermore, California, specializing in custom residential and boutique commercial spaces across the East Bay.

Founded by Andrea Jeffery, the studio was built on a simple idea — that great design and great construction should live under one roof. By combining creativity, technical expertise, and transparent communication, JDS creates spaces that feel effortless to experience and exceptional to live or work in.

Our mission is to bridge the gap between design and construction — redefining how clients experience the building process through collaboration, clarity, and craftsmanship.

Our Story

From Interior Design to a Seamless Design-Build Experience

What began as an interior design studio has evolved into a full design-build practice rooted in collaboration.

Andrea saw firsthand how the traditional separation between design and construction often led to delays, miscommunication, and compromised results. Determined to change that, she built JDS Design Build around an integrated team where designers and builders work together from the start.

Today, JDS continues to grow as a trusted partner for homeowners and businesses who value thoughtful design, transparent project management, and elevated craftsmanship.

Our Vision

To redefine what it means to design and build a home by creating spaces that feel as good as they look — where craftsmanship, communication, and collaboration come together to elevate everyday living.

Our Mission

At JDS Design Build, our mission is to bridge the gap between design and construction through an integrated, client-centered process. We listen first, design with intention, and build with precision — ensuring every project, residential or commercial, reflects the people who live and work within it.

Meet Our Team​

Hi, I'm Andrea!

Principal Interior Designer with deep roots in construction, a love of architectural history, and the perspective of a working mom designing spaces for real life.

Unlike most interior designers, I started in the construction industry, working with my husband and father-in-law in their family business. After learning all the ins and outs of construction, they put me in charge of selecting materials and managing project schedules.

Realizing design was my real passion, I enrolled in a three year Interior Design program. Then I honed my creative eye as Resident Chief Designer for a builder before starting my own interior design firm in 2017.

Because I show up to job sites in construction boots, understand construction terminology, and know how to read blueprints and adjust 3D drawings for the field…

Andrea Jeffery

I break down communication barriers between contractors and homeowners that often cause misunderstandings and delays, so the final product comes out the way you envisioned—and you can actually enjoy the process!

That’s why when you work with JDS Design Build, you’re getting more than fancy new floor plans and help picking things out.

From making sure the grout lines are even on one of our regular walkthroughs to getting access to exclusive custom cabinetry you never imagined you’d be able to find at your investment level…

We’re actively involved in making your entire project a success, sourcing the right contractors and materials for the job while coordinating and overseeing the whole renovation process on your behalf.

The Rest of the Crew

Dedicated, detail-driven, and passionate about their craft, our team works together to bring each JDS design to life with precision and care.

Executive Team

Executive Team

Liz Morgan

Liz Morgan

Chief Production Officer

Liz brings over a decade of experience in project management within the construction industry, demonstrating exceptional leadership and a keen eye for detail. Her expertise in coordinating complex projects, coupled with her commitment to client satisfaction, maker her a valuable addition to our team. Liz’s strategic approach and dedication to excellence will undoubtedly contribute to the success of our projects and the growth of our Construction Division. When she's not managing projects, Liz loves spending quality time with her family and exploring new destinations through her travels. Her passion for both her work and her personal life brings a balanced and vibrant energy to our team.

Mike Jeffery

Mike Jeffery

CCO & Principal Contractor

Mike has been immersed in the construction industry since he was a kid, growing up around job sites and learning the trade from a young age. His early exposure instilled in him a deep appreciation for craftsmanship and a meticulous attention to detail. Over the years, Mike has honed his skills and expertise, becoming a seasoned professional known for his precision and dedication. He brings his lifelong passion and experience to every project, ensuring the highest quality and satisfaction for every client. Mike and Andrea's journey together began with their first dates at construction sites, where they discovered their shared passion and learned to work as a team. Those early experiences laid the foundation for their strong partnership, both personally and professionally. Over the years, their collaboration has flourished, leading to the creation of JDS Design Build and the construction division. Today, their combined expertise and love for what they do continue to drive their love for design and construction, transforming spaces and bringing clients' visions to life.

Administration

Administration

Katie Sposeto

Katie Sposeto

Administrative Assistant

With a background in hospitality and a bachelor’s degree in communications, Katie brings warmth, care, and a service-minded approach to JDS. She enjoys helping others and understands how thoughtful communication and attention to detail shape the client experience. In her role supporting Andrea and the office, Katie helps keep the team organized and ensures clients feel cared for throughout their time with JDS.

Emily Meraz

Emily Meraz

Production Assistant

Emily brings a strong background in residential remodeling administration and project coordination to her role as Production Assistant at JDS Design Build. With experience supporting construction projects through estimating, contracts, project documentation, and Buildertrend, she understands the organization and attention to detail needed to keep projects moving smoothly.

Working closely with the Chief Production Officer and construction team, Emily supports day-to-day production needs while helping coordinate project information, vendors, schedules, and communication. Her organized and detail-oriented approach helps create a seamless experience for both the team and JDS clients.

Fluent in both English and Spanish, Emily brings an added level of communication and accessibility to clients, trade partners, and team members. Her commitment to responsive service and an exceptional client experience makes her a valuable part of the JDS team.

Design

Design

Kaylie Nora

Kaylie Nora

Senior Designer

Meet Kaylie! With a background in architecture and interior design, Kaylie brings over seven years of diverse design experience to the team. She began her career working on high-end residences in Rhode Island before relocating to the West Coast, where she contributes a fresh perspective on style and design. Passionate about creating beautiful, functional spaces, Kaylie thrives on collaboration with clients and fellow designers to bring unique visions to life. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring creative outlets such as crocheting and graphic design, or spending time with her sister and friends.

Stephanie Hazel

Stephanie Hazel

Lead Designer

Meet our lovely Stephanie. Stephanie, our designer at JDS Design Build, brings 6 years of interior design experience to our team. Known for her extensive knowledge and collaborative spirit, she plays a crucial role in enhancing our projects with her expertise and creativity. Outside of work, Stephanie enjoys spending time with her boyfriend and her dog, balancing her professional life with her personal passions.

Wendy McDowell

Wendy McDowell

Designer

Meet Wendy! Wendy brings a diverse mix of 4 years of design experience, backed with nearly 20 years of corporate communication and project management to help keep our projects and people on track. Her residential design experience includes paint color selections & products, furniture space planning & textiles, as well as strong kitchen & bath plumbing fixture knowledge. With a keen eye for detail and a creative mindset, she brings fresh perspectives to every project. She embraces a collaborative approach, working closely with clients to understand their needs, preferences, and aspirations, then translating them into captivating designs. Wendy combines technical prowess with artistic flair to bring concepts to life. When at home, Wendy enjoys working on DIY projects, finding quiet moments with her husband, and being able to guide and support her 2 kids as they navigate their teen years and become their own people.

Liz Crivello

Liz Crivello

Designer

Her journey into interior design began as a lifelong passion, from childhood dollhouses to hand-crafted paper homes, and evolved into a career focused on creating homes that are both beautiful and livable. With many years of experience, she brings a confident, highly personable approach to every project and is known for building strong client relationships.

JDS welcomed her to the team for her natural ability to connect with clients, generate inspired ideas, and thoughtfully curate finish selections that bring spaces together seamlessly. She has a keen eye for layering materials, colors, and textures to create environments that feel intentional, polished, and welcoming. Today, she works with clients throughout Walnut Creek and the East Bay, designing homes that balance elegance and comfort. Outside of design, she enjoys spending time outdoors, gardening, reading, and traveling with her family.

April Rodrigues

April Rodrigues

Junior Designer

April brings a strong foundation in residential design, drafting, and cabinetry to the JDS Design Build team, along with a passion for continuous learning. She is always expanding her skills through advanced software training and professional development, ensuring she stays current with the latest design tools and industry best practices. With more than eight years of experience supporting custom home renovations, kitchen and bath design, permit-ready drafting, and project coordination, April combines technical precision with a thoughtful, collaborative approach. Her expertise in AutoCAD, Revit, field verification, and cabinetry planning helps transform ideas into functional, beautifully detailed spaces. She is excited to continue growing as a designer while helping deliver an exceptional client experience from concept through construction.

Carol Ruebsamen

Carol Ruebsamen

Drafter

Carol brings more than 25 years of experience in architectural drafting and residential design, contributing to hundreds of projects across California and Arizona. Her work ranges from small remodels and additions to large custom homes, including estates exceeding 22,000 square feet. JDS welcomed Carol to the team for her deep experience and genuine passion for architecture, as well as a background that aligns well with the firm’s commitment to thoughtful, well-executed residential design.

Construction

Construction

Laura Gonzalez

Laura Gonzalez

Estimator

Laura brings a thoughtful, detail-driven approach to construction operations and preconstruction planning. With experience supporting construction companies in estimating, administrative coordination, and office management, she has developed a strong understanding of project costs, subcontractor relationships, and the systems needed to keep projects organized from the very beginning.

Known for her meticulous attention to detail—especially when it comes to financial accuracy—Laura plays an important role in helping the team establish clear estimating processes and reliable project data. She has experience building estimating systems, coordinating with subcontractors, and implementing tools that improve efficiency and transparency throughout the preconstruction phase.

Laura is also known for her kind, collaborative nature and her commitment to continuous learning. Her curiosity and dedication to improving processes help strengthen the team as JDS Design Build continues to grow and refine its design-build workflow.

Brad Peterson

Brad Peterson

Superintendent

Meet Brad! He comes to Jeffery Design with 20 plus years of construction experience, building and managing high end residential remodels and additions. Having been mentored by another Bay Area Contractor whose commitment to quality construction was paramount, he has always strived to continue that level of quality workmanship. His broad construction knowledge, experience and passion for making clients dream homes a reality adds a level of professionalism that is missing from most contractors today.
When not busy managing projects he is a committed family man, supporting all his kids endeavors and spending as much time together as possible. His wife and three children are what drives him to be the best he can in all aspects of life and work.

Luis Rodriguez

Luis Rodriguez

Foreman

Luis brings exceptional craftsmanship, leadership, and a client-first mindset to every project at JDS Design Build. With extensive experience leading high-end residential remodels, he oversees daily jobsite operations while ensuring every detail is completed with quality and care. From framing and finish carpentry to cabinetry installation and project coordination, Luis takes pride in doing the job right—not simply the fastest or least expensive way.

Known for his strong work ethic, collaborative approach, and eagerness to grow, Luis is always looking for opportunities to expand his skills and deliver an exceptional experience for every client. His commitment to craftsmanship, communication, and continuous improvement makes him a valued leader on the JDS Design Build team.

Steve Martinez

Steve Martinez

Foreman

Steve brings more than 25 years of hands-on construction experience to the JDS Design Build team. A licensed General Contractor and former Union Journeyman Carpenter, his background spans residential remodeling, additions, ADUs, ground-up construction, framing, concrete, finish carpentry, and a wide range of skilled trades.

As a hands-on Foreman, Steve works alongside our field team while leading day-to-day jobsite operations. He is passionate about craftsmanship, takes pride in doing things the right way, and holds a high standard for quality, organization, and jobsite cleanliness.

Steve also enjoys sharing his knowledge with the next generation of tradespeople and believes that great construction comes from a team that takes pride in its work. His extensive field experience, attention to detail, and commitment to quality make him a valuable addition to the JDS team.

Ryan Gatts

Ryan Gatts

Foreman

Ryan brings over 15 years of experience in residential construction, remodeling, and project management to the JDS Design Build team. With a strong background in both rough and finish carpentry, he combines hands-on craftsmanship with proven leadership and project coordination skills. Ryan takes pride in delivering exceptional quality, maintaining organized and efficient jobsites, and building strong relationships with clients and trade partners. His attention to detail, collaborative approach, and commitment to excellence make him a valuable addition to the JDS team.

Chris Sundin

Chris Sundin

Lead Carpenter

Chris Sundin brings decades of hands-on construction experience to his role as Lead Carpenter at JDS Design Build. With more than 20 years of experience in residential finish carpentry and 15 years working with residential and commercial HVAC systems, Chris brings a unique combination of craftsmanship, technical knowledge, and problem-solving expertise to every project.

His background also includes managing large remodeling projects, coordinating subcontractors, and keeping work progressing efficiently in the field. Chris has a strong understanding of how the many components of a remodel come together and takes pride in delivering precise, high-quality work.

Most importantly, Chris shares JDS’s commitment to thoughtful craftsmanship and an exceptional client experience. His attention to detail, leadership in the field, and dedication to doing things the right way make him a valuable addition to the JDS Design Build team.

Jack Shank

Jack Shank

Carpenter

Jack brings 10 years of hands-on remodeling experience to JDS Design Build, with a background rooted in high-end luxury residential projects. His craftsmanship and attention to detail shine through in every space he works on, especially in finish carpentry where precision and finesse matter most. Jack is eager to continue growing his skill set, learning new techniques, and supporting the Superintendent to keep jobs running smoothly.

Known for his clear communication, professionalism, and strong work ethic, Jack keeps jobsites exceptionally clean, organized, and secured at the end of each day. He is a trusted and reliable presence on any project, ensuring clients feel confident that their homes are in good hands. Jack is a valuable addition to the JDS team and plays an integral role in delivering the high level of quality the company is known for.

Office Dogs

Oreo

Oreo skipped the miniature gene and was born to tip cows. He’s a human hip-hugger, meat connoisseur, and the canine version of a wrecking ball.

Libby

Libby is a cheerful blue merle corgi with a lot of spunk, always keeping the studio lively and on their toes. Her playful energy adds an extra dose of joy to the team at JDS Design Build.

Office Pups