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Protecting original designs is at the heart of every building designer’s work, and AIS Designs Co. has set a bold example by defending its creative vision and winning a major federal copyright case.

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The Houston-based luxury home design firm recently triumphed in court, alleging that J.J.S. Custom Built Homes, Inc. copied its distinct designs for homes built in the Grand Lake Estates development near Houston.

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The result? A jury awarded AIS Designs Co. a striking $855,997.14 in damages, alongside a permanent injunction to prevent further infringement.

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At the center of the case was AIS’s 2020 Quick Residence design, which the company claimed J.J.S. Custom Built Homes, Inc. used without permission to build four homes between 2021 and 2023. The defendants also allegedly concealed the true origins of the plans. After a two-week trial, the court ordered the following damages:

• J.J.S. Custom Built Homes, Inc.: $278,605.95 plus post-judgment interest.
• Valleri Salazar: $570,407.19 plus post-judgment interest.
• Jose de Jesus Salazar: $6,984.00 plus post-judgment interest.

Additionally, the defendants are now under a permanent injunction to prevent future copyright violations.

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Angel I. Silva, founder and president of AIS Designs Co. and a proud NCBDC councilmember, celebrated the victory:

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Attorney Califf T. Cooper highlighted the case's wider significance:

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AIS Designs Co. is also pursuing a second copyright infringement lawsuit against other companies connected to the same individuals. That case, filed in June 2025, remains pending in court.

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Lessons for Designers: How to Protect Your Work

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This case is more than a legal victory—it’s a wake-up call for building designers to safeguard their creativity. Here’s how you can protect your designs:

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1. Register Your Work

Copyright protection begins automatically upon creation, but registering your designs with the U.S. Copyright Office gives you extra legal power, including the ability to claim statutory damages in court.

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2. Document Everything

Keep thorough records of your creative process—sketches, drafts, revisions, and final designs. These can serve as proof of your originality if a dispute arises.

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3. Add Copyright Notices

Label your plans with a clear copyright notice, including your company name and the year of creation. This simple step deters infringement and establishes ownership.

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4. Monitor Competitors

Keep an eye out for potential misuse of your designs, particularly in nearby developments or by industry competitors. Collaborate with clients and property associations to spot suspicious activity.

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5. Enforce Your Rights

If you suspect infringement, act quickly. Consult an intellectual property attorney to explore your options—early action can often resolve issues before litigation is needed.

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6. Join Professional Organizations

Memberships in organizations like the American Institute of Building Design (AIBD) offer valuable resources, networking opportunities, and support for intellectual property protection.

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Such as a predesigned copyright stamp intended for use on your construction drawings. Log in to your AIBD membership account and scroll down to the "Downloads" section for the free download.

Additionally, members may download a free PDF copy of the Copyright Basics Book, also found in the downloads section of your membership account (hard copies may be purchased through Amazon).

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This case is a powerful reminder that creativity deserves respect and protection.

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By taking proactive steps to safeguard your intellectual property, you can ensure your hard work is valued and your contributions to the industry are recognized.

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Go forth and design boldly,

Steve Mickley, Executive Director

Email: steve.mickley@AIBD.org​

Let's chat: AIBD.org/meetsteve​