Our
Founders

Our management team is on a first-name basis with everyone we work with. We are hands-on managers and you’ll find us involved with all aspects of the business.

We bring together expertise in the areas of real estate development, entitlements, land use regulation, government, funds control, and operations. While we come from a wide variety of backgrounds, we share a passion for building.
Carlos Plazola
Carlos PlazolaChief Executive Officer
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Carlos is the Chief Executive Officer of BuildZig and our General Contractor. With over two decades of experience in the construction and real estate sectors, Carlos brings an extensive skill set to his role, ensuring that BuildZig meets its mission, core values, and goals with precision and integrity. 
 
Carlos’s expertise in construction extends to comprehensive project management, including managing schedules and budgets,clear communication and ensuring quality control throughout the building process. His ability to streamline operations and address challenges proactively has been pivotal in delivering successful outcomes for our projects. 
 
Carlos's background includes significant experience in lobbying, community organizing, and the technical aspects of real estate investment and development. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Biology and Anthropology from UCLA and his master’s degree in Environmental Science from Yale. His passion for environmental sustainability was sparked during his time living with the Achuar tribe in the Amazon rainforest, where he developed a deep commitment to protecting the environment.
 
Carlos is dedicated to advancing sustainable construction practices and is driven by a desire to create projects that are environmentally responsible. His leadership at BuildZig is characterized by a relentless pursuit of excellence, meticulous attention to detail, and a commitment to delivering projects to our clients that are both innovative, purpose-driven and beautiful.
Laura Blair
Laura BlairCOO, General Counsel
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After graduating from UC Berkeley, Laura began her career at the City of Oakland Attorney’s Office, where she focused on quality of life issues affecting communities in East Lake, Fruitvale, and Maxwell Park. Her work involved navigating complex regulatory frameworks and collaborating with various stakeholders, which sparked her interest in the impact of thoughtful development on neighborhoods.

Transitioning to the private sector, Laura brought her expertise in permits, design coordination, and entitlements to BuildZig. Her experience in securing necessary permits and managing the design process has been instrumental in facilitating smooth project execution for our clients. 

Laura is passionate about helping homeowners add ADUs to their properties, creating additional housing options, and fostering opportunities for homeowners to build wealth and generate passive income. Laura's dedication to enhancing flexibility in home use and contributing to local housing solutions reflects her commitment to impactful and thoughtful development.

Are you ready to work with the BuildZig ADU team? Complete this simple questionnaire and someone will contact you right away.

1 800 380 0180

Dream it. Build it. Zig it.

1 800 380 0180

Dream it. Build it. Zig it.

CLSB #970015

3007 Telegraph Ave. Oakland, CA 94609