OUR STORY 

THE CREATION OF HANDBUILT was sparked by a frustration shared by many in the design world: the frequent disconnect between the creative process and the realities of fabrication and procurement. Founded by architect and interior designer Allison Whitt, Handbuilt was envisioned as a solution—a way to unify the insight of the design studio with the technical precision of a fabrication team.

What began as a response to a lack of alignment in the industry quickly evolved into a practice rooted in collaboration, clarity, and craftsmanship. We set out to create a company where custom design could thrive without compromise—where architectural vision is respected, construction realities are understood, and every detail is scrutinized to ensure long-term performance.

Handbuilt was built to support designers and clients who care deeply about quality, integrity, and lasting impact—and to be a partner who speaks both languages: design and delivery.

HANDBUILT CREATOR + COO

Allison Whittis the founder and principal of Handbuilt, bringing a unique blend of architecture, interior design, and fabrication to every project. Her technical expertise, creative vision, and practical insight ensure each project is both functional and aesthetically aligned with client goals.

With degrees in Architecture and Interior Architecture, and California licensure, Allison bridges the gap between design intent and fabrication realities. She knows when to custom fabricate, when to procure, and how to balance functionality, aesthetics, and budget for lasting results.

Known for her calm, collaborative approach, Allison is a careful listener with a sharp eye for detail and a strong sense of integrity. She believes in the power of well-crafted spaces to shape experience and well-being.

Allison is an active member of the design community, having served on the executive board of the San Diego Architectural Foundation and as a member of both the AIA and IIDA.

Adam Whitt is the Chief Operating Officer, providing leadership to ensure operational efficiency at Handbuilt. With over 20 years of experience as a U.S. Navy Commander, Adam excels in managing complex operations and leading teams to achieve their goals.

A people-first leader, Adam is known for building long-lasting relationships with clients and team members. His disciplined approach shapes operations, ensuring seamless execution and consistently high-quality results. Adam’s extensive experience in high-stakes environments allows him to make informed, effective decisions that drive operational excellence and foster client success.

OUR SECTORS

We deliver differentiated solutions to meet our client's program, project scope and budget. Focusing on four key sectors that complement our skills, experience and industry knowledge, we are experts in these sectors. We also take on select luxury residential projects where our collaborative, detail-driven approach adds unique value.

HOTELS + RESORTS

RESTAURANTS

MULTI-FAMILY

COMMERCIAL

FAQs

  • FF+E is an acronym for furniture, fixtures and equipment and refers to the products that Interior Designers specify to furnish a project. FF+E products are typically all the loose items that are not fixed directly to the building, including products such as sofas, chairs, tables, beds, headboards, table lamps, curtains, accessories, etc. A popular explanation suggests that if you could turn the building upside down and shake it, all the FF+E items would fall out.

  • OS&E is another acronym and this one stands for operating supplies and equipment. OS&E in hotels includes all the loose operating items that enhance the guest’s stay or are used by the hotel team and include items such as bedding, towels and linen, glassware, crockery and cutlery, hairdryers and ironing boards, small kitchen appliances and cleaning supplies, amongst other items.

  • FF+E Procurement is the sourcing, budgeting, purchasing, delivery and installation of furniture, fixtures and equipment in hotel, luxury residential and workplace projects. It is a specialist discipline that requires significant furnishing industry experience, solid financial acumen, strong negotiation skills, complete with a global supply chain and logistics capability.

  • OS+E Procurement is the sourcing, budgeting, purchasing and delivery of consumable goods that require regular reordering in hotels, luxury residential and workplace interiors. OS+E includes not only items such as tableware, glassware and silverware, it also includes products such as housekeeping equipment & supplies, guest room amenities, uniforms and office supplies, amongst other items.