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.

Work ^ In The Landscape
Light Box | Dark Box: RayKo Photography Center:
A scrim of light wraps a darkroom>

RayKo has had a long history as a community hub for photographers in the Bay Area. Their new facility, in a 12,000 sq ft former warehouse, offers digital imaging and scanning tools, rental darkrooms and studios, as well as a retail space and gallery promoting the work of regional artists. We used a translucent stretched scrim as a parapet to hide the proliferation of snaking mechanical ducts above the space that are essential to the darkrooms below. Not only did this function as a shield, but it also created a softly glowing light that serves as both a backdrop to the gallery space and an illuminated beacon from the busy street outside.

Work ^ In The Grid
Dovecote Details:
A personal space inspires bespoke details>

This highly personal and customized project by the architect-owner became a site for exploration and play. We followed every intuition about details that might contribute to the space, hoping to stay just this side of ‘too-much.’ What unites the disparate details of this addition is a sense of movement, craft, and nature.

Work ^ In The Studio
Lulu Wang:
Designer

Lulu, aka Ziyun, completed her Master of Architecture at the California College of the Arts in 2022 where she was honored with multiple Jury prizes for design. In addition, her thesis work –OXYTOCIN: A Continuum of Maternal Health Care– received the top thesis award. Lulu joined S^A shortly after graduation. Before CCA, Lulu completed her Bachelor of Fine Arts at the Kansas City Art Institute, focusing on graphic design, illustration, and photography work –all disciplines which contribute to her architecture work and interests. Lulu is a long way from her home in China, where her parents live alongside her self-described ’baby sister’ Lexi –a sweet golden Labrador who enjoys any and all snacks.

Practice ^ Team
Hydeaway Home Architect - S^A | Schwartz and Architecture Photography - @matthewmillmanphoto Contractor - @eamesconstruction Lighting - @pritchardpeck #modernhome #moderndesign #modernarchitecture #customhome #bayarea #bayareahomes #architecturedesign #modernhouses #architecturephotography #moodboard #photooftheday #design #designinspiration #view #design_only #architect #exterior #californiahomes #indooroutdoorliving #material #homedesign #homedesignideas
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