Questions and Answers with Steve

About Me

When I tell people I'm an architect, I get all sorts of questions: questions about my background, about what I do, and every so often just a question about me.

Here I will attempt to answer a few questions I hear a lot, and while some of these definitely fall into the category of the dreaded "Frequently Asked Questions", I've also tried to mix in a few random questions about me - just to keep things interesting ;-p !

If you have any questions about me or my practice that aren't answered here, please always feel free to send a quick email with your questions and I'll do my best to answer it.

1. What is your background in architecture?

I've been working in the field of architecture since the summer of 1982. That was my first summer internship, and I have been working continuously in the field of architecture ever since.

2. What licenses and accreditation do you hold?

Architectural Licensing:

State of California, 1992
State of Hawaii, 1995
State of Washington, 2002

Accreditation:

National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) Record #53,477

3. Describe your architectural practice?

While there's a lot of specialization in the practice of architecture, I've worked very hard to avoid any specific niche. Over the years I've completed projects with a broad range of types, complexities, sizes, and costs. This range includes custom homes, ADU's, restaurants, commercial offices, medical buildings, research labs, and community centers. And while this is quite a list, I still design a fair number of residential additions, kitchen remodels, and office tenant improvements. These days I guess I'm kinda like the old country doctor in that regardless of the task, people rely on me to get the job done, and I really like that!

4. Who is your favorite architect?

While I draw great inspiration from any number of past and current architects and their architecture, my favorite architect is a gentleman named I. M. Pei. Mr. Pei has completed wide range of high-profile and very recognizable commissions. I revel in the geometric precision and attention to detail in all his work, but what always impressed me most about Mr. Pei was his humility and understated manner. Although soft-spoken and reserved, Mr. Pei's work speaks volumes!

5. What are your primary influences?

As an architect and designer, I've always been influenced greatly by two things: 1) context and 2) my client. On every project I attempt to tailor my work to "fit" seamlessly into both the surrounding context and my client expectations. I feel you must analyze and address both in order to successfully complete any project.

6. What is your architectural style?

I get asked this question A LOT! and after years and considering hundreds of different projects, I've come to understand that I don't really have a specific "style". While I do use historical sources and precedent as a guide, I believe a large part of my job is helping my clients find and develop their own unique style. After all, the building they have commissioned is usually a very true reflection of their own values and sensibilities and by extension, a reflection of their style.

7. What's your favorite drink?

I am a life-long beer drinker, and I am currently reveling in the "Microbrew Renaissance"! There are few things better than an icy cool beer on a hot day, and with all the small breweries popping up, a high-quality hand-brewed pint is never too far away!

8. What do you like to do when you're not working?

My wife and I love to travel! The culture, the sights, the people, and the food (and of course the beer) are all so interesting! And then there's seeing the world famous architecture in-person ... after studying some of these building for years in college and viewing what seems like millions of photos, there is still nothing like walking into Sagrada Familia, the Louvre, the Parthenon or the gothic cathedral at Chartes to truly appreciate these architectural achievements!

9. Do you follow sports?

Yes I do ... I grew up playing American Football, Lacrosse, and Soccer, but now in addition to following my kids teams (hockey and field hockey), I am an avid follower of both professional hockey and European Soccer. I rarely miss a local hockey game and typically watch several Football matches per week, and thanks to our DVR, I don't have to get up at 4am to watch the early matches in England!