INSPIRATION / SELECTED PROJECTS
“I’ve never done anything that I didn’t think couldn’t end in an accident that would be the best thing to happen to me.” — Peter Beard
What changes do you anticipate when thinking about the future of office/architecture/design?
I anticipate a return to architectural fundamentals to design buildings that remain timeless and able to adapt to changing needs. In design, there has already been a shift back to using natural materials such as stone, upcycled wood, natural plaster and ceramics, which feel more timeless and “of the earth.”
Architect, living or dead with whom you would love to talk shop with and why?
John Lautner. I can’t think of anyone better to talk about indoor/outdoor space and melding buildings with landscape. A great example is his design of the Wolff Residence in Los Angeles, CA.
Name one building that has inspired you. Describe why you were inspired:
The San Francisco Federal Building by Morphosis Architects was the first building I saw growing up that made me question the status quo of architecture. I believe I was only 15-17 years old when I saw it constructed but it was one of the most exhilarating designs on the San Francisco skyline. It was bold, high-tech, and pioneered sustainability in high-rises; it was a sculpture AND a machine.
Describe how you see style and design coming together in architecture, and what three words describe your style:
Design solves problems and creates order while style articulates it in a way that speaks to the user, defining a certain attitude. If I had to describe my (current) style in three words it would be: rustic (materials), rigorous (space), and poetic (composition).
What makes really great design?
Really great design happens when there is a tension between rigor and whim: I don’t believe that all great design needs to be completely rational. Logical systems and efficiencies must be in place; however, it is the tension between a rigorous system and the spatial, material, sensorial poetics (introduced by the designer) which make a great design and a lasting impression.
What advice would you give to a new architect?
Draw, draw, draw; Like other forms of art: When designing, pay attention to your intuition as much as your rational side; Cultivate the ability to refine ideas; Reflect deeply on places that make you feel something.
Education: Bachelor of Architecture, SCI Arc, and Associate of Science: Architectural Design, Diablo Valley College
Licenses & Accreditations: Licensed Architect, California