Business Details
Expert Web Design & Development Services
At Studio 678, we are a collaborative team of designers, developers, and strategists dedicated to creating functional, user-centric websites for creative professionals. With over 15 years of experience in the web development industry, we specialize in crafting responsive, WordPress-based websites that enhance our clients' digital presence. Our team includes experts like Michael Waters, a seasoned developer with a background in biotech web projects, and Kern Toy, a graphic designer with decades of branding experience.We prioritize intuitive design, technical excellence, and seamless client collaboration, ensuring websites reflect each business's unique identity while meeting modern web standards. Our commitment to ongoing maintenance and security services guarantees long-term performance and protection for our clients' digital assets.
Services
Web Design
Website Development
Website Maintenance
eCommerce Store Setup
Online Learning Platforms
Highlights and features
- We specialize in web solutions for creative industries and professionals.
- Our team combines 15+ years of WordPress development expertise with design excellence.
- We offer transparent, collaborative processes tailored to client needs.
- 24/7 monitoring and maintenance plans protect your website's performance and security.
- Proven track record with clients in architecture, design, and creative fields.
What people say
Professional expertise
Responsive and collaborative
Fast website performance
Security issue resolution
Highly recommend
Services
Web Design
We create visually engaging websites tailored to creative professionals. Our designs combine aesthetic appeal with intuitive navigation, ensuring seamless user experiences across devices while reflecting brand identity.
Website Development
Using WordPress as our platform, we build scalable, functional websites with content management systems. Our development includes responsive frameworks, SEO optimization, and integration of client-specific features for optimal performance.
Website Maintenance
Our maintenance plans include security monitoring, software updates, database optimization, and backups. We ensure websites remain fast, secure, and fully operational with proactive technical support and performance enhancements.
eCommerce Store Setup
We implement secure eCommerce platforms for selling products or courses. Services include payment gateway integration, inventory management setup, and tax reporting tools to streamline online transactions for creative businesses.
Online Learning Platforms
We develop eLearning systems for hosting digital courses, including video content management, quiz creation, and certification features. Our solutions help educators deliver engaging educational experiences online.
People
Michael Waters
Founder, Web Developer
With 15+ years of experience, Michael Waters combines technical expertise and design sensibility. He has built hundreds of custom websites, specializing in WordPress development for creative industries and biotech clients.
Kern Toy
Graphic Designer
Kern Toy brings 32 years of high-end design experience. A former Autodesk art director, he partners with national design firms to create visual identities that align with clients' brand strategies and digital presence.
Hilary Zaid
Information Architect
Hilary Zaid, PhD, specializes in content strategy for complex websites. With 25+ years in information architecture, she has helped organizations like Visa International and Amnesty International develop user-centered digital platforms.
Questions
What types of businesses do you specialize in?
Studio 678 focuses on creative professionals, including architects, interior designers, and branding agencies.
How quickly can you build a website?
Our Website in a Week service launches professional sites in seven days with flexible payment options.
Do you offer ongoing website maintenance?
Yes, we provide security monitoring, updates, backups, and performance optimization through our maintenance plans.
Can you help with eCommerce functionality?
We integrate shopping carts, payment processors, and tax reporting tools for online sales platforms.
How do you ensure website security?
Our maintenance includes 24/7 monitoring, malware protection, and regular security updates to safeguard your site.
Do you work with clients outside the local area?
Yes, we collaborate remotely with creative professionals nationwide while maintaining Oakland, CA as our base.
Videos
Reviews (6)
Matt G.
Apr 14, 2021
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Can't believe it's taken me so long to post a review for Mr. Mike Waters and Studio 678. Mike has done 3 major websites for me. One while I was an associate at Ashby Chiropractic, my first website as a business owner and then a complete overhaul of that website again. All three times were very positive experiences. Mike is a master at using absolutely no computer jargon with me and explaining things in a very simple, to-the-point way.
I really appreciate that. And yet, I get the sense that he could talk computer jargon with the best of 'em. He also has a very professional referral network. He has referred me to excellent graphic designers and other professionals that I have needed along the way. Mike has a good sense humor, an easy way about him and always wears really nice shoes! And, he's an amazing saxophone player, to boot!
I really appreciate that. And yet, I get the sense that he could talk computer jargon with the best of 'em. He also has a very professional referral network. He has referred me to excellent graphic designers and other professionals that I have needed along the way. Mike has a good sense humor, an easy way about him and always wears really nice shoes! And, he's an amazing saxophone player, to boot!
Jonathan I.
Sep 15, 2020
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Before working with Studio 678, I didn't have much of a website. I needed a place online that people could go to get a good idea of how my services would help them, and make it easy for them to sign up for a free 15 min call to learn more. When I heard that Studio 678 was now building One Page Websites, I knew it was just what I was looking for. Working with Mike was easy, fast, and fun. He went above and beyond to make my one page website beautiful, simple to navigate, and effective! I've already had people sign up for calls and classes through the site, which never happened with my old site. And he takes care of all the performance and security stuff behind the scenes to keep my site up, running fast, and secure. Need a new website, hire Studio 678!
Delaine H.
Mar 30, 2016
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Mike created a website that exceed my expectations. He took my vision with its many intricacies and created a clearly presented, artful site. Mike took the time to show me how to use Wordpress so that I can update my own site in the future. I really appreciated his patience, perseverance and overall knowledge. This guy is great!
Dianne C.
Jan 15, 2016
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Mike Waters is the fifth and best Web designer that I have worked with. He is attentive, clear, accessible and creative. He also taught a staff member how to handle some of the word press tasks, giving us independence for many things and saving us money. But he really impressed me when he made time on Christmas Eve to swiftly edit and revise the web site due to a change in my work situation that impacted my client base. He also is truly kind and helpful interacting with others in my team regarding social media. I feel fortunate to have Mike as my Web designer and highly recommend him.
Agi B.
Jan 28, 2014
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Mike designed my first website about 7 years ago. It was great then, but was looking a bit old-fashioned for 2014. I don't know that I could have re-vamped my website with anyone else. My desire would be to make a website and never have to do it again. As it turns out, I really enjoyed doing the update even though it felt like a necessary chore to me. I have total faith in Mike's expertise and artistic sense. He's able to inspire me to be a better marketer and has great patience with me.
And everyone gives me outrageously good feedback about the new design. It's pretty unique for my industry. That's how I like to think about my business. The new website expresses that intention. We are launching it this week. Dr. Ban Ashby Chiropractic and Health Center, Berkeley www.ashbychiro.com
And everyone gives me outrageously good feedback about the new design. It's pretty unique for my industry. That's how I like to think about my business. The new website expresses that intention. We are launching it this week. Dr. Ban Ashby Chiropractic and Health Center, Berkeley www.ashbychiro.com
Heather P.
Nov 28, 2012
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Mike did my entire website www.rawbayarea.com and I was incredibly happy. He was super professional and efficient. When it came time to do my next website www.adelineyogastudio.com, I couldn't afford anyone. My husband volunteered to the site, and Mike was willing to come in and help on the parts we couldn't figure out. It was great to have a savior willing to do the hard coding work we couldn't do. I would highly recommend Mike on all projects.
