Product design companies in California play a pivotal role in shaping products that enhance daily life. This industry includes firms of varying scales, from boutique agencies to large corporations, which often specialize in areas like industrial design, digital experiences, and branding. These companies embrace innovation, leveraging emerging technologies to create user-centered solutions. As consumer preferences shift towards enhanced experiences and eco-friendly designs, product design firms are evolving their offerings, focusing on sustainability and interactive technologies. With a combination of creativity and strategic thinking, these companies are positioned to redefine market standards in the years to come.

The companies featured here are essential players in California's product design scene, showcasing a mix of size and specialization. Ranging from larger firms like Gensler to nimble studios such as hatch duo LLC, they vary in years of establishment, with origins stretching from 1972 to as recent as 2018. Their services cover an array of design needs including product development, branding, and user experience design. Operating primarily out of urban centers like San Francisco and Santa Barbara, these firms cater to both established brands and innovative startups.

Continue reading to explore the top product design companies in California.

Top 24 Product Design Companies in California

1. Akqa

• Website: akqa.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 27%, Australia 12%, United Kingdom (UK) 10%, Other 51%
• Latest funding: June 2012
• Founded year: 1994
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: akqa

Akqa, founded in 1994 and headquartered in San Francisco, California, is a corporate digital design agency with a workforce of approximately 2,100 employees. The company specializes in technology and communications, offering a range of services that include digital product design, brand storytelling, and creative technology. Akqa works with a variety of clients, from startups to established multinational corporations, helping them navigate their digital transformation journeys. Their commitment to innovation is reflected in their extensive portfolio, which showcases projects across multiple industries. Akqa has received significant recognition for its work, winning numerous awards, including over 600 Cannes Lions in the past decade, highlighting their influence in the product design space.

2. 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 Fortune 100 companies, to bring innovative products to market. Their work spans various sectors, including technology, healthcare, and consumer goods, showcasing their ability to adapt to different industry needs. Notable projects include the TELO EV Urban Adventure Truck and the L’Oréal My Skin Track UV, reflecting their expertise in both product design and user-centered solutions. The firm is led by Yves Béhar, a prominent figure in the design community, further solidifying its position in the industry.

3. 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 clients to transform innovative ideas into tangible products that enhance user experiences. Their client roster includes a mix of startups and established brands, reflecting their versatility and ability to cater to various market needs. Noteworthy projects include the design of the Beats by Dr. Dre headphones, which have had a significant cultural impact, and the Terra Kaffe TK-02 espresso machine, recognized for its thoughtful design and user interface. Ammunition has received over 200 awards for its work, underscoring its influence and standing in the product design industry.

4. 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 product 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 such as 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 market success. The company has a team of skilled designers, engineers, and strategists who collaborate closely with clients to develop tailored solutions that address specific needs. Their portfolio includes notable projects like medical devices, consumer electronics, and sustainable products, reflecting their commitment to innovation and quality. RKS Design operates from a solar-powered studio, underscoring their dedication to sustainability and responsible design practices.

5. 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 for a variety of businesses and organizations. Their focus on human-centered design allows them to address complex challenges and drive growth for their clients. IDEO collaborates with industries such as healthcare, consumer electronics, and education, delivering tailored solutions that meet specific needs. They have been involved in high-profile projects, including the design of the first Apple computer and the development of the stand-up toothpaste tube. IDEO's approach combines strategic foresight with creative capabilities, helping organizations navigate the future of design and innovation.

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. Established in 1999, the company has worked with a range of clients across multiple sectors, including healthcare, consumer technology, and wellness. Whipsaw emphasizes a user-centered design approach, collaborating closely with clients to tackle complex challenges and create innovative products. Their portfolio features a variety of successful projects, such as the Aescape fully-automated massage experience and the award-winning Ancient Ritual sauna, which integrates advanced technology for personalized wellness. With a team of around 39 employees, Whipsaw has consistently been recognized for its impactful designs, earning numerous awards in the process. The firm has successfully bridged the gap between creativity and practicality, making it a significant player in the product design field.

7. 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 has built a reputation for its innovative approach to design and strategy. They offer a wide range of services, including user experience design, industrial design, and automotive design. Their client base spans multiple industries, reflecting their ability to adapt and provide tailored solutions that enhance products and services. Designworks collaborates with high-profile clients such as BMW, ASUS, and Virgin Hyperloop One, focusing on creating impactful designs that address contemporary challenges. Their commitment to innovation is evident in their projects, which often explore the intersection of technology and design, aiming to improve user experiences and drive forward-thinking solutions.

8. 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 operates as a private entity with a workforce of approximately 1,070 employees. Frog specializes in innovation and strategy, providing a broad spectrum of services that include design, technology solutions, and marketing strategies. Their mission is to enhance customer experiences and drive growth for businesses across various sectors. Frog has worked with a range of clients, leveraging their expertise to create products and services that resonate with consumers. Their approach combines strategy, creativity, and technology, aiming to craft experiences that not only meet market demands but also foster loyalty and engagement. As part of Capgemini Invent, frog benefits from a global reach and a collaborative environment that enhances their design capabilities.

9. 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 approximately 29 employees, the company has successfully completed over 4,000 projects, demonstrating a robust capability in bringing concepts to life. StudioRed's approach integrates innovation with usability, manufacturability, and cost-effectiveness, ensuring that their designs not only meet aesthetic standards but also function effectively in the market. Their portfolio includes notable projects such as the world’s first automated wet cat food feeder and advanced solutions for medical and consumer products. The firm has garnered over 200 international design awards, reflecting its commitment to excellence in product design. StudioRed serves a wide range of industries, including biomedical, automation, consumer products, and smart home technologies, positioning itself as a versatile player in the product design sector.

10. 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 is a design consultancy based in Palo Alto, California, founded in 2006. The company specializes in creating emotionally relevant products and digital experiences, serving clients across various industries. Their services include product design, user experience design, brand experience, and environmental design. Nonobject employs a unique methodology called Experience Essence™, which captures the elements that convey meaning in a product experience. This approach helps align design efforts with the client's vision and consumer expectations. The firm has worked on notable projects, including designs for audio products, VR controllers, and innovative packaging solutions. With a team that operates both in the United States and Brazil, Nonobject is well-positioned to address global design challenges and trends.

11. Punchcut

• Website: punchcut.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: punchcut

Punchcut is a San Francisco-based design consulting firm that specializes in user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) design. Established in 2002, the company has built a reputation for partnering with businesses and organizations to enhance their digital products through innovative design strategies and thorough user research. Punchcut's services include prototyping, design strategy, and brand identity design, all aimed at creating meaningful and engaging digital experiences. The firm has worked with various industries, helping clients navigate the complexities of digital transformation and improve user interactions with their products. Punchcut's commitment to ethical design and its focus on emerging technologies, such as generative AI and spatial computing, further demonstrate its relevance and adaptability in the fast-evolving design landscape.

12. 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, founded in 2018 and based in Santa Clara, California, is a design studio that specializes in industrial design and product engineering. The company offers a range of services including prototyping, branding, UX/UI design, and strategic consulting. They focus on helping both startups and established companies innovate and bring products to market. Hatch Duo is notable for its integration of artificial intelligence into the design process, which enhances efficiency and effectiveness. Their portfolio includes projects for various industries, demonstrating their capability to handle complex design challenges. The firm operates with a hybrid model, allowing them to tap into global talent while maintaining a local presence for rapid prototyping. Their commitment to understanding client needs and delivering tailored solutions has earned them a solid reputation in the product design sector.

13. Zurb

• Website: zurb.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Campbell, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: zurb

Zurb is a product design agency based in Campbell, California, founded in 1998. With a team of designers, researchers, and engineers, Zurb specializes in creating innovative digital products, websites, and integrated services. They focus on leveraging user data to drive design decisions, ensuring that their solutions are not only visually appealing but also effective in meeting user needs. Zurb has successfully completed around 100 design projects annually, providing insights that help businesses transform their offerings. Their services include growth design, experience design, and product innovation, catering to a wide range of clients from small startups to large corporations. Zurb is also known for developing tools like Foundation, a responsive front-end framework that has gained significant traction in the industry, further solidifying their role as a key player in product design.

14. 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 is a product design consultancy and industrial design agency based in San Jose, California. Founded in 1996, the company specializes in creating innovative product experiences for clients across multiple sectors, including consumer goods, medical technology, telecommunications, and robotics. With a team of 34 employees, Speck Design has completed over 350 projects and holds more than 200 patents, reflecting their commitment to innovation and design excellence. Their services range from strategy and user research to industrial design and engineering, ensuring a comprehensive approach to product development. Speck Design's focus on user-centered solutions allows them to tackle complex design challenges effectively, making them a notable player in the product design industry.

15. Daylight

• Website: daylightdesign.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 42%, Germany 26%, South Korea 16%, Other 16%
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: daylight

Daylight is a design agency based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2007. With a team size of 11-50 employees, they focus on human-centered UX and product design. Their services range from strategy development to digital and physical design, as well as brand identity creation. Daylight collaborates with organizations and businesses to enhance their product offerings and user experiences. They have worked on various projects, including those for Lunar Energy and the Blue Shield of California Foundation, showcasing their ability to tackle both commercial and social impact challenges. Their commitment to human-centered design is evident in their approach, which combines research, strategy, and design expertise to create meaningful solutions.

16. 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 studio collaborates with a wide range of clients, from emerging startups to established Fortune 500 companies. Their services include prototyping, branding, and market research, all aimed at creating innovative product designs that enhance user engagement. Huge Design has worked on notable projects such as the Therabody SmartGoggles and the GoPro Hero design language, demonstrating their capability to deliver effective design solutions across various industries. The firm is recognized for its user-centered approach, which involves thorough research and iterative design processes to ensure that the final products resonate with consumers. Their commitment to quality and creativity has earned them several awards, further establishing their presence in the product design industry.

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, specializing in product design, branding, and digital experiences. With a team of 21 employees, the agency collaborates with businesses to create innovative solutions that enhance product appeal and brand identity. Their services span industrial design, packaging design, and UI/UX design, catering to a variety of clients across multiple industries. Box Clever has built a reputation for its methodical planning and bold creativity, focusing on real-life impact through mission-driven design. The agency has received numerous awards for its projects, reflecting its commitment to excellence and innovation in product design. Their work includes notable projects for clients like QuickBooks and Caraway, showcasing their ability to tackle complex design challenges and deliver effective solutions.

18. 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 design agency based in El Segundo, California, specializing in custom design and product development. Founded in 1993, the company has built a reputation for delivering high-quality, on-brand products through a comprehensive approach that includes project management and sustainability consulting. With a team of 16 employees, DKP Designs focuses on high-volume projects that are responsibly produced overseas. They pride themselves on exceptional customer service, fast sample turnaround, and competitive pricing. The company has also received recognition for its sustainability efforts, including a Silver rating from Ecovadis for its management system. DKP is committed to environmental responsibility, pledging to recycle over 2.5 million bottles worth of ocean-bound plastic, which not only addresses waste but also supports underprivileged communities globally.

19. 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 operating since 1972. The firm specializes in research-based design services, offering a range of solutions including graphic design, package design, industrial 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 notable clients, including Yamaha, showcasing their ability to deliver innovative design solutions that enhance product appeal and market presence. Their approach emphasizes understanding cultural nuances, which informs their design philosophy and helps bridge the gap between different markets. GKDI has also expanded its footprint with a branch office in Atlanta, further solidifying its role in the design industry.

20. Okapi

• Website: okapistudio.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Romania 100%
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: okapistudio

Okapi is a digital product design and development agency with offices in San Francisco and Bucharest. Founded in 2003, the company has spent over 15 years assisting startups and established brands in innovating and growing their businesses through effective design and technology solutions. They specialize in user experience design, prototyping, and consulting, helping clients navigate the complexities of product development and digital transformation. Okapi has successfully completed over 500 projects across various industries, including education, health, fintech, and consumer goods. Their work with notable clients like Zipcar, Future Finance, and the BBC showcases their capability to deliver tailored solutions that meet specific market needs. The agency prides itself on applying design thinking methodologies to ensure that user satisfaction is at the forefront of their projects, ultimately driving business success for their clients.

21. 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. With a team of 24 employees, the company specializes in industrial design and strategy, offering a comprehensive suite of services that includes product design, branding, engineering, and prototyping. Over the years, Lifestyledesign has worked with a variety of clients, helping them to create products that not only meet market demands but also resonate with consumers. Their portfolio boasts over 500 products delivered to market and more than 25 large-scale innovation programs completed. The agency prides itself on its human-centered design process, which involves deep research and collaboration with clients to ensure that the final products are both functional and appealing. Lifestyledesign has also made strides in sustainability, incorporating eco-friendly materials and practices into their design processes whenever possible.

22. Momentum Design Lab, an HTEC company

• Website: momentumdesignlab.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: San Mateo, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 71%, United Kingdom (UK) 29%
• Latest funding: November 2021
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: momentumdesignlab

Momentum Design Lab, an HTEC company, is a digital product design agency based in San Mateo, California. Established in 2002, the firm specializes in user experience (UX) and customer experience (CX) solutions. They offer a comprehensive suite of services, including innovation strategy, experience design, and product engineering, aimed at enhancing user interactions across various platforms. The agency has worked with a broad spectrum of clients, from nimble startups to established Fortune 100 companies, demonstrating their versatility and expertise in addressing complex design challenges. With a team of around 21 employees, they leverage a human-centered approach to design, focusing on creating meaningful connections between businesses and their customers. Their commitment to innovation is evident in their use of emerging technologies such as AI, machine learning, and IoT, which they incorporate into their design processes to drive transformative outcomes for their clients.

23. 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 specializes in creating innovative spaces across various sectors, including healthcare, education, and corporate environments. The firm offers a comprehensive suite of services, including architecture, interior design, and sustainability consulting. Gensler's collaborative approach allows them to tackle complex design challenges effectively. Their Product Development practice is particularly noteworthy, as it harnesses insights from their architectural expertise to drive innovation in product design. Gensler has worked on numerous projects that integrate product design with user experience, focusing on inclusivity and sustainability. Their commitment to addressing contemporary design challenges, such as climate action and social equity, further underscores their relevance in the industry.

24. johnatanuribe.com

• Website: johnatanuribe.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Daly City, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 100%
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: ju-design-agency

Johnatan Uribe is a product design agency based in Daly City, California, founded in 1998. The agency specializes in creating innovative design solutions tailored for technology companies and startups. With over ten years of experience, Johnatan Uribe, the founder, has developed a strong focus on product design, design systems, and product strategy. The agency has collaborated with various clients, including well-known companies like LinkedIn and Okta, where Johnatan has played significant roles in coaching teams and driving new initiatives. The firm is dedicated to enhancing user experiences through thoughtful design and strategic insights, making it a relevant player in the product design industry.

Product Design Insights: Key Companies in California

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