Kenzo Handa Architect established in 1984. 

Education

• University of California, Berkeley, College of Environmental Design, B.A. in Architecture, 1977

Professional License/Credential

• Lifetime Teaching Credential, California Community College, 1979.

• Licensed Architect, State of California, No. C-14666, 1983.

Activities

• 2005;  Design Jury Judge, NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry) Awards.

• 1992;  Architecture Advisory Committee, City College of San Francisco, Department of Architecture.

• Member of the Japanese American Citizens League.
  

Teaching

• 1979-1981, 1986-1987;  Instructor, City College of San Francisco, Department of Architecture.

Lectures

• Case Study:16th Century Sukiya Style Tea House Design, San Jose State University, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992. 
  

PROJECTS

Past projects include residential, restaurants, and retail, with more recent projects being primarily residential.

My projects cover the greater Bay Area counties with many in the city of San Francisco.  Many people do not realize that San Francisco has its own amendments to the California Building Code and has specific construction requirements and methods, as well as a unique and laborious city planning process.  My experience in these areas is beneficial through all phases of the project, from schematic design through completion of construction. The majority of my work comes through referrals of previous clients and contractors.  For me there is no greater compliment.

 

WORK ETHIC

I don't necessarily take on projects merely because of their size and design opportunities.  I've taken on very small projects with small budgets merely because I liked the client and would like to help them.  I never lose sight of the fact that these small projects are very important to the owner and that they may have spent years saving and planning for it.  Therefore, I give these projects the same attention to detail as I would a much larger one.

I strive for a high level of detail and completeness in my drawings and specifications.  This leads to accurate construction costs and minimizes changes and contractors' guesswork.  This is one of the reasons general contractors enjoy working with me. The other is that, coming from three generations of builders, I understand construction and speak their language.  I make it very clear to the contractor that I represent the owner and look after their best interest at all times.  At the same time I never portray myself as a prima donna and always treat the contractors fairly and with respect...in return my clients and I are treated the same.