Design With Heart

In the face of adversity, I remain steadfast in advocating for my clients while fostering mutually beneficial solutions with municipal authorities. Navigating complex regulatory frameworks, structural considerations, material selections, and functional requirements, I ensure that each client's vision is fully realized.

For a project in Glendale, my client encountered unforeseen regulatory challenges during the design phase—despite already making mortgage payments and anticipating the birth of their second child in just five months. Recognizing the urgency, I proactively engaged with city officials, emphasizing the importance of supporting residents who live in, love, and trust their city. Through collaborative efforts, the design review board and planning department demonstrated flexibility, adjusting regulations to make the project viable.

This process involved reinterpreting existing mandates, which originally required preserving 50% of both the existing roof and exterior walls, while prohibiting the conversion of exterior walls into interior spaces. I worked with officials to develop a revised approach, allowing a combined total of 50% preservation between the roof and exterior walls, while permitting the transformation of exterior walls into interior partitions. This innovative solution enabled a thoughtful redesign of the existing one-bedroom structure, minimizing new construction while maintaining both design flexibility and compliance with municipal guidelines—all while staying true to the family’s aspirations.

I am deeply grateful for the dedication of Glendale city planners, who exemplify true advocacy for their community. Their willingness to collaborate with designers and homeowners to realize visions within regulatory frameworks underscores the privilege of designing in a place where community values align with the pursuit of personal dreams.

Though the final elevation differed from my initial concept, my client's unwavering commitment to the project never wavered. This design not only meets municipal standards but also embodies the resilience and determination of a family striving to create their dream home.