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.

Portola Valley Home:
In the end, it is all a façade>

To add a bit of surprise to what otherwise could be a standard ranch house façade, we wanted the updated ‘face’ of this home to feel as if it were suddenly coming alive and welcoming you as you approach. Driving up from the road, the façade screen appears solid and extremely private, yet as you move closer to face it, views through the screen open, giving glimpses into the hidden second floor courtyard beyond. Adding to the surprise is a subtle egg-shaped indentation carved into the interior of the screen –a bit of an architectural “Where’s Waldo?” that flickers in an out of view as you move past it.

Work ^ In The Landscape
El Pípila: Guardians of Guanajuatan Cuisine:
A trio of powerful women become the guardians of their Guanajuatan cuisine>

Our first completed restaurant won the national 2019 James Beard Award for Restaurant Design: Other Eating Establishments. Our focus was to move beyond stereotypical translations of Mexican culture and cuisine by distilling the history, textures, vibrancy, and light of the chef-owner’s home in Guanajuato, Mexico into a modern interpretation of a Mexican restaurant. The pro bono effort was our first collaboration with the non-profit La Cocina, a food-related business incubator focused on women of color and immigrant communities.

Work ^ In The Grid
Peace Industries Rugs:
A creative collaboration with traditional Iranian felt-rug artisans draws inspiration from our work>

Many are aware of how we feel about felt: our love knows no bounds. So, the opportunity to collaborate with Peace Industries on prototypes for a line of felt rugs was a natural for us. Three of our recent homes inspired the designs. In the process, we gained immense respect for the Iranian artisans who use their traditional methods to create their modern artwork.

Work ^ In The Studio
Laura P. Huylebroeck, Architect:
Associate Principal

Laura, a licensed architect in the state of California, has been with S^A since 2014. She received her Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Arizona where she graduated Cum Laude and received both the prestigious national AIA Alpha Rho Chi Medal and a Capstone Project Award, as well as an athletic soccer scholarship. Laura’s work –From Ruin to Wetland –was a critical analysis of the possible transformations of historical structures and urban ruins.

Practice ^ Team
The paradox house is almost there !! Architect - S^A | Schwartz and Architecture Contractor - @dkg_construction Landscape - @arterralandscapearchitects #modernhome #moderndesign #modernarchitecture #customhome #bayarea #bayareahomes #architecturedesign #modernhouses #architecturephotography #moodboard #photooftheday #design #designinspiration #view #design_only #architect #exterior #californiahomes #indooroutdoorliving #material #homedesign #homedesignideas #woodconstruction #underconstruction
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