selected projects.

about.

Y.A. studio is a forward-thinking architectural design firm based in San Francisco, specializing in innovative and modern designs throughout California and Nevada.

Our team is a diverse collective of architects and interior designers, each bringing unique perspectives and extensive experience to every project. We excel in creating thoughtfully detailed and engaging spaces, whether crafting custom homes, designing offices, or developing large-scale multi-family residences.

Founded on the principles of social responsibility, Y.A. studio is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of skilled professionals, addressing the needs of underserved and under-housed communities, and advancing the conversation around our built environment—all while striving to reduce our ecological footprint.

As an African American-owned firm, Y.A. studio is proud to be a Certified Minority-Owned San Francisco Local Business Enterprise (LBE) and a Micro Business Enterprise (MBE). We are licensed to practice architecture in both California and Nevada.

Mission.

Y.A. studio empowers clients and communities alike, through innovative, contextually sensitive architectural solutions that harmonize with the environment, enrich the human experience, and foster social cohesion.

Vision.

We strive for high-quality design that serves both the most under-served and affluent communities. Our approach involves engaging with communities and individuals to create an open dialogue built on trust, honesty, and transparency. We listen with open minds and choreograph elegant design solutions that distill the complexity of the built form into human-centric materials, textures, and colors.

Our designs find balance in light, shadow, view, privacy, drama, intimacy, intrigue, and surprise. We support, guide, and develop the next generation of thoughtful, diverse, and talented designers and architects. Collaboration is at the heart of our practice, whether within our studio, with our clients, or through our diverse network of design professionals and contractors. We invest in a diversity of staff, strive for a diversity of ideas, and promote a cohesive design philosophy. Our commitment to sustainability is evident in our designs, which prioritize high-performance, healthy, and intelligent solutions to ensure a sustainable future.

Values.

As a Black and Woman led design studio, we are dedicated to championing meaningful change within the architecture, engineering, and construction industries, striving for greater diversity, inclusivity, and engagement. We pledge to lead by example, amplify underrepresented voices, mentor emerging talents, uplift marginalized communities, actively engage in outreach efforts, and provide unwavering support to foster a more equitable and vibrant professional landscape.

services.

Y.A. studio provides full Architectural and Interior Design services from conception to completion.

Reach out to discuss your project with us today.

For a tailored custom residential Interior Design focused experience, contact our Director of Interiors, Principal Martine Paquin and see our interior-focused portfolio.