Firm Statement

In striving to create an architecture of the senses, it becomes necessary to confront and engage multiple boundaries within the study and practice of architecture. Of critical importance is the process of 'making'. With our own hands, we put physical shape to our model and paper designs. Without the hand of the designer shaping the piece, the practice of architecture becomes mere direction, with the architect only suggesting a vague possibility, not 'making' a conceptual and physical connection.



We view and practice architecture with both the methodology of the designer/builder and the spirit of the inventor. By considering the practice of what is normally and jealously regarded as 'art' or 'craft' to be architecture, we open up the creative world for ourselves, and for our clients. Our work involves not only the process of architectural conceptualization and implementation, but the study and practice of public art as well.

The architect must participate in, and hold some roots in, the arts, in order to maintain the cross-stimulation that spurs on growth in other directions. As artists (an arbitrary designation), we have competed for, and won, and built several public art pieces. Public art, with its inherent responsibilities and commentaries, records the pulse of public sentiment and expectation, and provides a dialogue for us between social and personal explorations.


Public Office

The process of furniture and object-making represent another form of exploration for us. The relatively small scale allows a great deal of extension of budding concepts. We create prototype designs as well as mass produceable fixtures and furnishings. We maintain a presence in gallery exhibitions and education.The wood and metal shops that we operate out of our office in San Diego are just as important to us as the design and drafting tables nearby.

James Brown and James Gates