Welcome. We are an architecture and interiors studio that believes in the power of thoughtful design to better connect us to the built environment, the landscape, and each other. Our process is equal parts creativity and pragmatism –so that our work draws out the strongest potential of any site, the resources at hand, and ultimately, the experience of our clients. Design is both a process and an adventure; we see ourselves as both your partner and guide. We look forward to hearing from you.

The Lichen House:
Draping veils of lace lichen enfold a site’s massive oaks and inspire a home>

Sometimes the distinctive feel of a site forces us to look more closely to fully understand its sway. Here, at the top of a Sonoma ridge, we found a knoll of massive oaks draped in Ramalina lace lichen, also known as Spanish Moss. Beautiful, but also inspiring to us as architects because of the deeply dappled outdoor ‘rooms’ the veils of lichen create.

Work ^ In The Landscape
Green House

The original home designed by Frank Lloyd Wright’s protégé, Aaron Green and built by Echler Homes in 1966, is a modern masterwork in Palo Alto, California. Remaining preserved in time by its original owner until 2019, its new owners, a young couple with two young children and one on the way, needed additional space and amenities. But how to update and extend Green’s low-slung complete thought for a new era and new growing family?

Work ^ In The Grid
Lichen Trellis:
The delicate shadows of lace lichen inform a sun shade>

Enamored by the atmospheric lace lichen shadows cast around this site’s mature oaks, we set out to evoke the essence of those spaces with aluminum and rivets. With help from our enthusiastic contractor, we used a series of metal fins strategically fixed with pop-rivets to create an undulating pattern. The proof of concept, however –even more than the form and beauty of the trellis itself– was in the delicacy of the shadows they cast.

Work ^ In The Studio
Lina M. Kudinar:
Associate

Lina received her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of California, Davis in 2016, majoring in Design with an emphasis in graphics and interior architecture. After working on mixed-use residential projects, she pursued a Master of Architecture from California College of the Arts. Upon completing her degree, Lina had the privilege of being the 2021 Commencement Graduate Student Speaker and received the AIA 2021 Henry Adams Award for Academic Excellence.

Practice ^ Team
We are so excited to kickoff our newest series, Team Highlights! Lina, recently promoted to Associate, is an integral part of our everyday here at S^A. Not only is she an excellent designer, she’s an absolute code weapon, and someone who’s always there to help you find the answers. As a coffee lover and music enthusiast Lina roasts her own beans and always keeps the office on vibe. #customhome #officeculture #midcenturymodern #bayarea #architecture
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