California's industrial design industry focuses on creating functional, user-centered products that enhance everyday life. Companies here cover a wide spectrum, from startups to established firms, specializing in areas like automotive design, product development, and branding. As technology and consumer preferences evolve, this sector is increasingly integrating sustainability and smart solutions into designs. With the rise of AI and emerging technologies, many companies are leveraging innovation to stay relevant in a competitive market, positioning themselves for future growth and collaboration across industries.

The companies listed here showcase a blend of sizes, from small studios to larger firms, all based in California. Established between 1972 and 2018, these firms excel in various specializations, including user experience, product engineering, and branding. They represent notable hubs in cities like San Francisco, Palo Alto, and Santa Monica, contributing significantly to the industrial design sector with their innovative projects and strategic collaborations.

Read on to discover more about the top industrial design companies in California.

Top 22 Industrial Design Companies in California

1. Designworks, A BMW Group Company

• Website: bmwgroupdesignworks.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Santa Monica, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 49%, China 27%, Germany 24%
• Founded year: 1972
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: bmw-group-designworks

Designworks, A BMW Group Company, is a creative consultancy based in Santa Monica, California, with additional studios in Munich and Shanghai. Founded in 1972, the company specializes in design and innovation strategies, offering services that include user experience design, industrial design, and automotive design. With a workforce of approximately 254 employees, Designworks collaborates with a wide range of clients, from automotive giants like BMW to tech companies such as ASUS and innovative projects like Virgin Hyperloop One. Their approach combines strategic thinking with creative execution, aiming to enhance products and services through innovative design solutions. The company is known for its commitment to sustainability and forward-thinking design, making it a significant player in the industrial design sector.

2. Ammunition

• Website: ammunitiongroup.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: ammunition

Ammunition is a San Francisco-based design studio founded in 2007, specializing in product development and branding. The firm offers a comprehensive range of services, including industrial design, user experience, and packaging design. With a team of skilled designers, Ammunition collaborates closely with both startups and established brands to create innovative solutions that enhance product offerings and foster consumer connections. Their portfolio features a variety of projects, from high-performance audio products for Beats by Dr. Dre to smart kitchen appliances for Nutricook. The studio has received over 200 awards for its work, including the prestigious Cooper Hewitt National Design Award for Product Design in 2016. Ammunition's commitment to quality and creativity has made it a respected name in the design industry.

3. Hatch Duo LLC

• Website: hatchduo.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Santa Clara, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: hatch-duo

Hatch Duo LLC is a Santa Clara-based design studio founded in 2018, specializing in industrial design and product engineering. The company offers a comprehensive suite of services, including prototyping, branding, and UX/UI design, aimed at helping both startups and established companies innovate and successfully bring products to market. Hatch Duo distinguishes itself by integrating artificial intelligence into its design processes, which enhances efficiency and fosters creativity. The firm has collaborated with a variety of clients, including those in the aerospace and healthcare sectors, to develop products that not only meet market demands but also push the boundaries of design. Their portfolio includes projects like the Rizse autonomous drone and Aggregate watches, showcasing their ability to blend aesthetics with functionality. With a small team of experienced professionals, Hatch Duo is positioned as a strategic partner for companies looking to navigate the complexities of product development and design.

4. StudioRed

• Website: studiored.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Palo Alto, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 72%, Russia 28%
• Founded year: 1983
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: studio-red

StudioRed, founded in 1983 and based in Palo Alto, California, is a product development firm that specializes in industrial design, engineering, UX/UI, and prototyping services. With a team of around 29 employees, they have successfully completed over 4,000 projects, demonstrating their capability to bring innovative concepts to fruition. The firm has worked with a variety of clients, including major corporations in the biomedical, consumer products, and automation sectors. StudioRed's approach integrates technical expertise with creative design, ensuring that products are not only visually appealing but also manufacturable and user-friendly. Their commitment to quality and client satisfaction is reflected in a 90% client return rate. Additionally, they have garnered over 200 international design awards, highlighting their impact and recognition in the industry.

5. RKS Design

• Website: rksdesign.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Thousand Oaks, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 85%, Pakistan 7%, India 7%
• Founded year: 1980
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: rks-design

RKS Design is a design consultancy based in Thousand Oaks, California, founded in 1980 by Ravi K. Sawhney. The firm specializes in product design, engineering, and innovation consulting, serving a wide range of industries including healthcare, consumer products, and industrial applications. RKS Design employs a unique Psycho-Aesthetics methodology, which focuses on creating emotional connections between products and users, thereby enhancing user experience and driving market success. The company has worked on notable projects such as medical devices, consumer electronics, and sustainable products, demonstrating their commitment to innovation and quality. With a team of skilled designers and engineers, RKS Design collaborates closely with clients to develop solutions that are not only functional but also resonate with consumers on an emotional level.

6. Whipsaw

• Website: whipsaw.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: whipsaw

Whipsaw is a San Francisco-based design consultancy that specializes in industrial design, digital experiences, and product development. Founded in 1999, the company has built a reputation for creating innovative products and enhancing user experiences across various sectors, including healthcare and consumer technology. Whipsaw collaborates closely with clients to address complex challenges, employing a user-centered design philosophy that emphasizes both creativity and practicality. Their portfolio includes notable projects such as the design of medical devices, consumer products, and digital interfaces. The firm has received multiple accolades for its work, including awards from the Australian Good Design Awards and recognition from Fast Company. With a team of around 39 employees, Whipsaw continues to push the boundaries of design, focusing on creating meaningful connections between products and users.

7. fuseproject

• Website: fuseproject.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 87%, Portugal 13%
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: fuseproject

fuseproject is a design and innovation firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 1999. The company specializes in product design, brand strategy, and digital experiences, aiming to create impactful solutions that enhance user experiences and drive business success. With a team of around 38 employees, fuseproject collaborates with a range of clients, from startups to established corporations, to bring innovative products to market. Their work spans various sectors, including technology, furniture, and transportation, showcasing their ability to adapt and innovate across different industries. The firm is led by Yves Béhar, a prominent figure in design, and has built a reputation for pushing the boundaries of industrial design through a user-centered approach. Their projects often focus on integrating technology with thoughtful design, ensuring that the end products not only meet functional needs but also resonate with users on an emotional level.

8. Speck Design

• Website: speckdesign.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: San Jose, California, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: April 2016
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: speck-design

Speck Design, founded in 1996 and based in San Jose, California, is a product design consultancy that specializes in creating innovative product experiences. With a team of 34 employees, the company has completed over 350 projects and holds more than 200 patents, showcasing its commitment to creativity and technical excellence. Speck Design offers a range of services, including strategy, industrial design, brand design, packaging design, and engineering. Their work spans multiple sectors such as consumer goods, medical technology, telecommunications, and robotics. The firm emphasizes user-centered design, aiming to address complex challenges and enhance product offerings for its clients. Speck Design's approach combines creativity with engineering, ensuring that their designs are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and user-friendly.

9. Ideo

• Website: ideo.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 70%, United Kingdom (UK) 13%, China 9%, Other 8%
• Latest funding: February 2016
• Founded year: 1978
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: ideo

IDEO is a design consulting company based in San Francisco, California, founded in 1978. With a workforce of approximately 1,354 employees, IDEO specializes in creating innovative products, services, and experiences tailored to meet the needs of businesses and organizations. Their methodology is rooted in human-centered design, which prioritizes the user experience in the development process. IDEO collaborates with various sectors, including healthcare, consumer electronics, and education, to address complex challenges and drive growth. Notable projects include the design of the first all-in-one wearable breast pump and the reimagining of the voting experience to enhance accessibility. IDEO's commitment to innovation and strategic foresight positions them as a significant player in the industrial design industry.

10. Huge Design

• Website: huge-design.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: huge-design

Huge Design is a San Francisco-based design studio founded in 2010, specializing in industrial design and user experience. With a team of 22 professionals, the firm collaborates with clients ranging from startups to Fortune 500 companies, delivering innovative product designs that prioritize user engagement. Their services include prototyping, branding, and market research, all aimed at creating effective design solutions. Huge Design has worked on a variety of high-profile projects, including the Therabody SmartGoggles and the GoPro Hero design language, which have received industry recognition. The studio's approach combines thorough research with creative ideation, ensuring that their designs are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and user-friendly. Their commitment to quality and client satisfaction positions them as a relevant player in the industrial design industry.

11. lifestyledesign

• Website: lifestyledesign.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Santa Barbara, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: lifestyledesign-lsd-

Lifestyledesign is a Santa Barbara-based design agency founded in 2002, specializing in industrial design and strategy. With a team of 24 employees, the company has established itself as a significant player in the design industry, focusing on product design, branding, engineering, and prototyping. They have successfully delivered over 500 products to market and completed more than 25 large-scale innovation programs. Lifestyledesign collaborates with clients from various sectors, including eyewear, consumer electronics, and outdoor gear, to create innovative solutions that enhance product appeal and market performance. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in their design processes, often utilizing recycled materials and promoting eco-friendly practices. The agency's holistic approach to design ensures that they address both the functional and aesthetic needs of their clients, making them a relevant choice for businesses seeking to innovate and grow.

12. GK Design International Inc.

• Website: gkdi.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Garden Grove, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1972
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: gkdesign-international

GK Design International Inc., based in Garden Grove, California, is a design consultancy that has been operational since 1972. The firm specializes in research-based design solutions, offering a range of services that include industrial design, graphic design, package design, UI/UX design, and transportation design. With a team that blends Japanese and American design philosophies, GKDI aims to create products that resonate with users while being efficient for production. The company has worked with various clients, including Yamaha Motor Company, and has a notable history of designing packaging for Kikkoman products. Their approach emphasizes understanding cultural nuances, which informs their design strategies and helps clients connect with their target markets. GKDI operates as part of the larger GK Group, which has a global presence with multiple offices worldwide, enhancing their ability to tap into international design trends and practices.

13. Gensler

• Website: gensler.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 70%, United Kingdom (UK) 6%, China 4%, Other 20%
• Founded year: 1965
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: gensler

Gensler is a prominent global architecture and design firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 1965. With a workforce of approximately 7,480 employees, Gensler operates across 57 locations worldwide, including major cities in North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The firm specializes in creating innovative spaces tailored to various sectors such as healthcare, education, and corporate environments. Gensler offers a comprehensive range of services, including architecture, interior design, and sustainability consulting. Their product development practice focuses on enhancing user experience and commercial appeal, working closely with manufacturers to design functional and aesthetically pleasing products. Gensler's commitment to sustainability is evident in their initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and promote inclusive design practices. Their extensive portfolio includes notable projects that reflect their expertise in both architecture and industrial design.

14. Ddstudio

• Website: ddstudio.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Solana Beach, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1984
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: dd-studio

Ddstudio, founded in 1984 and based in Solana Beach, California, is a private design consultancy that specializes in industrial design, UX, and UI services. The firm focuses on creating user-friendly products through a human-centered design approach, primarily serving technology and medical sectors. Ddstudio collaborates with clients to identify unmet needs and develop innovative solutions that enhance product-market fit. Their portfolio includes notable projects for industry leaders, showcasing their ability to transform complex technologies into accessible and appealing products. The company has received accolades for its design work, including recognition in various design competitions, which underscores its commitment to quality and innovation in the industrial design space.

15. frog

• Website: frogdesign.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: frogpartofcapgeminiinvent

Frog is a design consultancy based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2014. The company specializes in innovation and strategy, offering a wide range of services that include design, technology solutions, and marketing strategies. Frog aims to enhance customer experiences and drive growth for businesses across various sectors. Their client portfolio includes notable names, and they have a strong focus on creating products and services that resonate with users. Frog's approach combines creativity with data and technology, allowing them to craft experiences that are not only functional but also emotionally engaging. As part of Capgemini Invent, frog leverages a global network to address complex challenges and deliver sustainable solutions. Their commitment to advancing both people and the planet reflects a modern understanding of design's role in society.

16. Eight Inc.

• Website: eightinc.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Singapore 36%, United States (USA) 31%, China 10%, Other 23%
• Latest funding: Series B, November 2017
• Founded year: 1989
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: eight-inc-

Eight Inc. is a design consultancy based in San Francisco, California, founded in 1989. The firm specializes in crafting human experiences through innovative design solutions. With a team of approximately 110 employees, Eight Inc. operates globally, with a significant presence in Singapore, the United States, China, the United Kingdom, and the United Arab Emirates. The company collaborates with major brands across various sectors, including technology and retail, to enhance customer engagement and create value through thoughtful design. Their services include architectural design, experience design, and sustainability, reflecting a commitment to improving human outcomes through design. Notably, Eight Inc. has worked with high-profile clients such as Apple, Lenovo, and Ghirardelli, demonstrating their expertise in industrial design and experience creation.

17. Box Clever

• Website: bxclvr.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2012
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: box-clever-industrial-design-branding

Box Clever is a San Francisco-based design agency founded in 2012. With a team of 21 employees, the company specializes in product design, branding, and digital experiences. They collaborate with businesses to create innovative solutions that enhance product appeal and brand identity. Their services include industrial design, packaging design, and UI/UX design, catering to clients across various industries. Box Clever has developed a reputation for creating physical products and experiences that resonate with consumers, focusing on real-life applications and impactful design. Their portfolio showcases a range of projects, including work for notable brands like Caraway and QuickBooks, demonstrating their capability to deliver high-quality design solutions. The firm has received several awards for its work, further solidifying its position in the industry.

18. Enlisted Design

• Website: enlisteddesign.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Oakland, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: September 2020
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: enlisted-design

Enlisted Design is a design agency based in Oakland, California, founded in 2008. With a team of 22 employees, the company specializes in branding and product design, offering services that include brand strategy, industrial design, visual design, and experience design. They cater primarily to businesses in sectors like food and beverage and consumer electronics. Enlisted Design prides itself on its ability to create compelling brand experiences through a combination of data-driven insights and creative design solutions. Their work has led to successful product launches, such as the Feastables MrBeast Bar and the Arc Sport wake boat, showcasing their expertise in industrial design and their commitment to helping brands connect with consumers. The firm operates without reported funding, indicating a self-sustaining business model that focuses on delivering value to its clients.

19. Nonobject

• Website: nonobject.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Palo Alto, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 50%, Brazil 50%
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: nonobject

Nonobject, founded in 2006 and based in Palo Alto, California, is a design consultancy that specializes in crafting emotionally resonant products and digital experiences. With a team of 11-50 employees, they serve a variety of industries, providing services that include product design, user experience design, and brand experience. Their approach centers on helping clients innovate and effectively connect with consumers, which is crucial in today's competitive market. Nonobject's portfolio features a range of projects, from audio products to VR controllers, demonstrating their versatility and commitment to impactful design. They also emphasize the importance of storytelling and emotional relevance in their work, which enhances brand loyalty and market momentum.

20. Rapt Studio

• Website: raptstudio.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1985
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: raptstudio

Rapt Studio, founded in 1985 and based in San Francisco, California, is a family-owned design studio that focuses on architecture and branding services. The firm is dedicated to crafting emotionally engaging environments and brand experiences that help businesses connect with their audiences. Their portfolio includes a range of services such as interior design, event design, environmental graphics, and custom installations. Rapt Studio has worked with a variety of clients across sectors like technology and hospitality, creating spaces that reflect the essence of the brands they represent. Their projects, including the headquarters for Tinder and Dropbox, highlight their ability to transform workspaces into vibrant, functional environments that foster creativity and collaboration. Rapt Studio has also been recognized for its innovative approach, earning accolades such as the NYCxDESIGN Award in 2018. With a presence in major cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and New York, Rapt Studio continues to influence the design industry through its thoughtful and strategic design solutions.

21. Ernst

• Website: ernsteverything.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 88%, Brazil 12%
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: ernst

Ernst Everything is a design studio based in Los Angeles, California, founded in 2009. The company specializes in brand creation, product strategy, and innovation, primarily for the sportswear and fashion industries. With a small team of 1-10 employees, Ernst focuses on enhancing brand identity and product offerings through a variety of services, including industrial design, digital design, and graphic design. Their portfolio features collaborations with high-profile brands such as Nike, Gucci, and Puma, indicating their strong presence in the market. Ernst employs advanced technology and techniques to develop the next generation of products and digital services, particularly in footwear and apparel design. Their work reflects a commitment to innovation and quality, making them a relevant player in the industrial design sector.

22. DKP Designs, Inc.

• Website: dkpdesigns.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: El Segundo, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1993
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: dkp-designs-inc.

DKP Designs, Inc. is a private design agency based in El Segundo, California, specializing in custom design and product development. Founded in 1993, the company has built a reputation for excellence over its 30+ years in the industry. DKP focuses on high-volume projects, ensuring that products are responsibly produced overseas while maintaining strict quality control. Their services include project management, fast sample turnaround, and competitive pricing, catering to businesses looking to create on-brand products. DKP is also committed to sustainability, having received a Silver rating from Ecovadis for their sustainability management system. They actively engage in initiatives to recycle ocean-bound plastic, contributing positively to environmental efforts. With a dedicated team and a global logistics network, DKP Designs, Inc. is well-positioned to meet the needs of clients in the industrial design space.

Industrial Design Insights: Key Companies in California

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