Experience / References
The following information has been added to the site to demonstrate the level of experience and types of projects BDS has been responsible for over the last three (3) decades.

Bruce A. Bolinger, PBD, CGBP
AIBD - Certified Professional Building Designer -
#101021321
ICC - Certified Combination Dwelling Inspector -
#10033421-C6
ICC - Certified Building Inspector -
#10033421-R5
ICC - Certified Residential Combination Inspector -
#10033421-B5
Build It Green - Certified Green Building Professional
MEET bRUCE bolinger
Your contact person at Bolinger Design Services
As principal of Bolinger Design Services, I have developed a gifted team of design professionals who have outstanding design skills in their respective fields, professional commitment and long-term project experience required for a project's success.
Bruce attended the College of Education, Ball State University, Muncie, Indiana, BS Degree 1972 and Indiana University, Graduate School of Design for Executive Courses in Residential Design, 1978. Bruce has practiced residential building design and building inspection in the San Francisco Bay Area for more than three (3) decades.
Bruce spent ten (10) years gaining experience and background with United States Steel Corporation, Gary Works, Gary, Indiana - Engineering Department - serving in the New Facilities Design and Plant Rehabilitation Department, Specifications Development and the Construction Inspection Division.
In 1983 Bruce established Bolinger Design Services (BDS) as a full service residential building design, engineering and building inspection firm dedicated to providing quality services to meet the individual requirements of the homeowner, contractor and residential developer. As residential design and energy requirements approach the California 2020 "Net Zero Energy" consumption, as well as the California Green Building Standards, BDS has the background, knowledge, details and continuing education to support the new requirements now and in the future.
With an avid passion for archaeology and historical buildings, Bruce combines his knowledge of current design techniques and building code requirements to provide a unique approach to residential design and planning with the expressed intent of blending the redesigned or newly designed dwelling and or new structures with the existing neighborhood and community.
One of Bruce's specilities is gut-renovations (Victorian or Historical Structures) where original details need to be preserved or restored, while the foundation, structural frame and lateral load resistance features have been upgraded to meet current building code and energy requirements. This is the type of project Bruce considers to be one of his best accomplishments as he feels he has saved an exisitng structure, increased it's energy efficiency, continued the dwellings life cycle and provided continued affordable housing without complete demolition of a vital structure.
Bruce is the recipient of several prestigious awards, the most recent being city of Alameda Historical Preservation Society's Award of Excellence, his second consecutive Award from the city of Alameda and seventh of his career.
HUD Projects
HUD projects are housing programs and developments supported by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to help ensure safe, stable, and affordable living options. These projects may include public housing, privately owned apartments that receive federal funding to lower rent costs, or rental assistance programs like Section 8. HUD also supports community development efforts that improve neighborhoods and expand housing access. The overall goal is to provide individuals and families with affordable homes and strengthen the communities they live in.
city projects
City projects are community improvement efforts planned and funded by local governments to benefit residents and enhance public spaces. These can include road and sidewalk repairs, park and recreation upgrades, new building or infrastructure development, and public safety improvements. City projects are designed to support growth, improve quality of life, and ensure neighborhoods remain functional and welcoming. They reflect a city’s priorities and commitment to the well-being of its community.
Tenant Improvement Plans
Tenant improvement plans are customized renovations or build-outs made within a leased commercial space to meet the specific needs of the tenant. These plans can include changes like adding offices, updating flooring or lighting, modifying layouts, or installing specialized equipment. The work is typically guided by architectural drawings and agreed upon by both the tenant and landlord. The goal is to create a functional, efficient environment that supports the tenant’s business operations while aligning with the building’s standards.
Single & Two-Story Additions
Mr. & Mrs. Steve Davidson
1245 Lerida Way
Pacifica, Ca
Robert & Kathleen Simons
51 college Avenue
Los Gatos, Ca
Dr. & Mrs. Dale Townsend
28700 Fox Hollow Drive
Hayward, Ca
Robert Grover
37543 Mission Blvd
Fremont, Ca
Mr. & Mrs. Bruce Gilliat
1245 Lerida Way
Pacifica, Ca
Keith & Linda Hidalgo
51 college Avenue
Los Gatos, Ca
Mr. & Mrs. Phil Holland
28700 Fox Hollow Drive
Hayward, Ca
Micheal Matagamo
37543 Mission Blvd
Fremont, Ca
Custom Homes
Custom homes are individually designed residences built to match the specific preferences, lifestyle, and vision of the homeowner. Instead of choosing from preset floor plans, the owner works directly with architects and builders to select layouts, materials, finishes, and unique features. This process allows for personalized details and greater control over how the space looks and functions. The result is a one-of-a-kind home tailored to the owner’s needs and style.
Investmark, Inc (Fremont Bank)
39150 Fremont Blvd
Fremont, Ca
Mr & Mrs. David Canada
553 Oak Avenue
San Bruno, Ca
Mr & Mrs Lawrence Lane
22497 Woodrow Avenue
Hayward, Ca
Gerardo & Able Jaurqui
8141 Wells Avenue
Newark, Ca
Historic Architectural & Structural Rehabilitations
Historic Architectural & Structural Rehabilitations involve restoring and preserving older buildings so they retain their original character while meeting modern safety and usability standards. This work may include repairing structural elements, restoring decorative features, and carefully updating systems like electrical, plumbing, and HVAC. The goal is to respect the building’s history and craftsmanship while ensuring it remains functional, safe, and relevant for current use. These projects help protect cultural heritage and keep historic spaces active in the community.
Dr. Danice Friend
(Best Home 1889) (5 Bldgs.)
1315 Clarke Street
San Leandro, Ca
Bruce Gilliat
(Smith Home 1878)
2067 San Jose Aveune
Alameda, Ca
Kenny Lu
(Lee Home 1877)
2369 East 23rd Street
Oakland, Ca
Jeannie Graham
(Bruton House 1880)
1240 Saint Charles
Alameda, Ca
Chris Foley
(Benson Home 1888)
632 W. 10th Avenue
Redwood City, Ca
John Christon
(Henderson Home 1864)
121 -24th Avenue
Oakland, Ca

