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.

Paradox House:
Both | And thinking and the paintings of Edward Hopper set the mood>

“How wonderful that we have met with a paradox. Now we have some hope of making progress.” ― Niels Bohr

It might have been tempting to gloss over the inherent tensions in the logically incompatible impulses of our two clients for the design of their new Sonoma home, and to deny the multitude of conflicting technical requirements for this complex site. Yet, the Paradox House attempts to find fodder in the creative power of paradoxical thinking.

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?

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.

Lina M. Kudinar:
Designer

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.

The perfect porch! Who’s coming for dinner? We just can’t resist sharing another sneak peak of this one!! More soon… Architect - @schwartzandarchitecture Contractor - @dkg_construction Landscape - @arterralandscapearchitects Pool - @oxbowpoolandlandscape Cabinetry - @millwork_mgmt #architecture #bayareadesign #midcentury #dwell #archdaily #homedesigner #view #dinnervibe #naturalmaterials #homegoals #indooroutdoorliving
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