Business Details
30 Years
experience
Your Trusted Executive Architecture Partner
Founded in 1996, House & Robertson Architects (HRA) is a collaborative executive architecture firm dedicated to transforming visionary designs into reality. Our expertise lies in serving as architects of record for globally recognized design partners, combining technical precision with creative problem-solving. With offices in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Houston, we leverage over 25 years of experience in managing complex projects across entertainment, corporate, and institutional sectors. Our team of LEED-certified professionals and industry-recognized leaders prioritizes integrity, innovation, and client satisfaction. We specialize in navigating intricate code requirements, fast-track schedules, and multidisciplinary coordination to deliver high-quality results.HRAs employee-owned structure ensures direct engagement between principals and clients, fostering transparency and accountability. Our history of collaboration with award-winning firms like Kohn Pedersen Fox and Frank O. Gehry Associates underscores our commitment to architectural excellence. By balancing cost, performance, and aesthetics, we execute designs that meet both functional and artistic goals. Our technical leadership in design-build methodologies and integrated project delivery has established us as a trusted partner for high-profile developments. Through continuous adaptation and a non-hierarchical culture, we maintain agility while upholding rigorous standards of quality and service.
Services
Executive Architecture
Architect of Record
Project Management
Design-Build Delivery
Code Compliance
Technical Coordination
Collaborative Design
Fast-Track Scheduling
Multidisciplinary Integration
Client Advocacy
Details
- Year established: 1996
Highlights and features
- We offer 25+ years of experience in executive architecture for high-profile developments.
- Our principals directly manage projects with hands-on technical expertise.
- We specialize in resolving complex code and entitlement challenges.
- Our employee-owned structure ensures accountability and client focus.
- We maintain LEED-certified professionals and DBIA-qualified experts.
Associations and certifications
- LEED Accredited Professionals
- Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA)
Services
Executive Architecture
We provide executive architecture services, translating conceptual designs into buildable solutions through technical expertise and collaborative coordination. Our team ensures compliance with regulatory standards while maintaining design integrity. Clients benefit from our hands-on management of multidisciplinary teams and complex project delivery.
Design-Build Delivery
Our design-build methodology streamlines construction by unifying design and execution phases under a single contract. This approach reduces timelines and costs while enhancing accountability. We leverage 10+ years of experience managing trade coordination and fast-track schedules for high-rise developments.
Code Compliance
We specialize in resolving intricate building code and land-use entitlement issues through proactive planning and technical analysis. Our experts develop compliance strategies that minimize delays without compromising safety or design intent. This includes seismic, accessibility, and sustainability standards.
Project Management
Our project management services cover full lifecycle oversight from schematic design to construction completion. We implement quality control systems and risk mitigation protocols to ensure on-time delivery. Clients receive transparent reporting and budget management tailored to complex developments.
Collaborative Design
We facilitate seamless collaboration between design architects, contractors, and stakeholders using digital coordination tools and integrated workflows. Our process preserves design vision while optimizing constructability. This includes managing BIM models and resolving interdisciplinary conflicts during construction documentation.
People
Jim House
Founding Principal
With 40+ years of experience, Jim House leads large-scale institutional and entertainment projects. He co-founded HRA in 1996 after working with modernist architect Gin Wong and Langdon Wilson. A LEED AP and AIA Fellow, he specializes in fast-track project delivery and client relationship management.
Douglas Robertson
Founding Principal
Doug Robertson combines technical expertise with information technology innovation. He established HRA's San Francisco and Houston offices and plays key roles in technical execution for notable design firms. A LEED AP and former Pasadena Planning Commissioner, he focuses on code resolution and collaborative workflows.
Carl R. Clark
Principal
Carl Clark leads HRA's Houston office and manages high-rise developments like a 60-story mixed-use tower. With 10 years of design-build experience at Kendall Heaton Associates, he specializes in coordinating trades and disciplines. He holds a B.Arch from Iowa State University.
Alma Jauregui
Principal
Alma Jauregui heads the San Francisco office and serves as a California Building Code expert. She manages major developments in SOMA and tenant improvements. Prior to HRA, she worked on net-zero energy schools and joined as Associate Principal in 2019 after roles at Swift Lee Office and Totum Consulting.
Diana Canseco
Principal
Diana Canseco oversees HRA's financial, HR, and administrative operations. As the firm's first non-architect principal, she manages ESOP compliance, insurance, and IT infrastructure. She has grown the administrative team while maintaining operational efficiency since joining in the early 2000s.
Questions
What types of projects does House & Robertson Architects specialize in?
We focus on large-scale institutional, corporate, entertainment, and residential developments. Our expertise includes high-rise buildings, complex renovations, and fast-track projects requiring technical coordination.
How does HRA approach collaboration with design architects?
We use integrated workflows and digital coordination tools to maintain design intent while ensuring constructability. Our process includes BIM modeling, interdisciplinary conflict resolution, and regular stakeholder communication.
What sets HRA apart from other architecture firms?
Our exclusive focus on executive architecture services, hands-on principal involvement, and technical expertise in code compliance differentiate us. We combine 25+ years of experience with an employee-owned structure for accountability.
Can HRA manage projects in multiple U.S. cities?
Yes, we operate from Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Houston offices. Our teams coordinate regionally specific code requirements while maintaining consistent quality standards across all projects.
What sustainability certifications does HRA support?
We have LEED Accredited Professionals on staff and incorporate sustainable practices into code compliance strategies. Our work includes net-zero energy schools and energy-efficient commercial developments.
