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Lean Arch, Inc. 155 W. Washington Blvd., #1202 Los Angeles, CA 90015 ph. 213 744 9830 fx. 213 744 0123  

info@leanarch.com www.leanarch.com

Who am I and what do I believe? Those of us who might answer this question with passion and direction, with rationale and sturdiness of mind, seem to be the heroes of our day. They are the ones who act on the basis of specified imperatives, they are the universal, they are intelligible because they operate within our realm, we understand their suffering, and when they die, their resignation is final. But those who toil with the question, who lie sleepless in doubt, who do not act on specified imperatives, but see doing so as the temptation, they are the visionaries. Sometimes the unintelligible, they are the ones who get the world back after renouncing it. At LEANARCH, we believe that ‘lean’ architecture in the built environment has a profound influence on improving the human condition. Our standard of living reflects not only our physical surroundings, but our understanding of nature and climate, our appreciation for the arts, and our relationships with one another. From the concept through constuction, LEANARCH works closely with clients, consultants, and contractors  to make sure that what has been designed is what will be constructed. Objectives have always been met by keeping in mind the idea that people must work together to solve a problem. More ideas, better solutions...

Green Oak Drive Los Angeles, CA Lot size: 9925 sq. ft. Floor area (including garage): 3410 sq. ft. Project scope: 1410 sq. ft. Project status:  completed 2004 Project description:  Conceived as “the treehouse”, the primary aspect of the project program was the addition of a new master suite accompanied by an adjacent private office and “listening” room with separate bathroom.  The new second floor living area was to be “elevated into the trees, filled with natural light and offer a commanding view of the courtyard below…”  Views of the opposing hillside and neighboring trees were also an objective, as well as, the desire to employ passive heating and cooling strategies throughout the addition and existing house.  The success of the design lies in the projects uncanny ability to be both “open and airy” as well as private.  The stair tower is the connection between the new and the old, providing vertical access to the master suite and office.  The rectangular geometry of the exterior is a foil for the playful and dramatic cherry wood ceiling and stair, and the whimsical “pebble” bathroom located within.

Douville (Residence) Manhattan Beach, CA Lot size: 3360 sq. ft. Floor area (including garage): 2800 sq. ft. Project scope: 1200 sq. ft. Project status:  completed 2003 Project description: This home for a young Manhattan Beach family of four reflects their desire for an open plan and loft-style living.  The living room, dining room, kitchen and family room are neatly organized under a canopy of custom built timber trusses.  A section of the ceiling lifts away from the structure to reveal a strip of clerestory windows that bring natural light into the kitchen.  The straightforwardness of traditional architectural elements such as the structural wood trusses and the placement of the over-sized windows at the perimeter are indicative of a minimalist approach to the design.

Russell (Residence) Manhattan Beach, CA Lot size: 2700 sq. ft. Floor area (including garage): 2540 sq. ft. Project scope: 1350 sq. ft. Project status:  completed 2001 Project description:  The addition to this Manhattan Beach home includes a small private apartment located above a new garage and rear entry.  The entry corridor and stairwell serve as an atrium, allowing for natural daylighting and providing ventilation for the apartment above and the existing kitchen on the ground floor.  A hand-crafted maple and mahogany stair rises vertically through the space.  The walls and ceiling above are soft, white rectangular panels that frame multiple ocean views.

Smith (Residence) Lafayette, CA Lot size: 39440 sq. ft. Floor area (including garage): 4050 sq. ft. Project Scope: 4050 sq. ft. Project status:  design development Project description: The concept for this hilltop residence in Lafayette is based on a switchblade diagram.  A 100 year-old oak tree is the focal point at the convergence of the two building components.  The sleeping rooms and adjacent bathrooms, along with the garage, laundry room, stair tower and study make up the “handle” of the knife.  The “blade” consists of the dining room, living room, kitchen, family room and office.  The organization of the house clearly defines and separates the public and private realms within.  The massing of the structure engages the topography and landscape, wrapping the hillside, providing breath-taking views of the valley below and the neighboring hills to the northwest.

Davis-Kingsley (Residence) Manhattan Beach, CA Lot size: 2700 sq. ft. Floor area (including garage): 4500 sq. ft. Project Scope:  4500 sq. ft. Project status:  design development Project description: This Manhattan Beach duplex was designed for a couple wishing to build two units, one on top of the other, each with exactly the same floor area and program.  A four car garage, multi-purpose room and subterranean courtyard were also part of the program, to be useable by both tenants.  The large floor plates are cantilevered over the courtyard, maximizing lot coverage while maintaining a quality of “lightness” and “openness” that permeates the design.  Ocean views from the southwest corner of the top floor are framed by glass walls and an anodized aluminum clad fascia that wraps the balcony.

Singer (Residence) Venice, CA Lot size: 2490 sq. ft. Floor area (including garage): 2863 sq. ft. Project scope: 1123 sq. ft. Project status:  completed 2005 Project description: This addition to a Venice Beach duplex was commissioned by the owner /occupant of the front unit.  The program includes the addition of a studio/living area on the ground floor with a full bathroom and separate entry, as well as, a new bathroom and exterior deck with hot tub on the second floor.  The entire unit, including the master bedroom, bathroom and kitchen, was remodeled on the interior.   

Park Oak Drive Los Angeles, CA Lot size: 10644 sq. ft. Floor area (including garage): 3610 sq. ft. Project scope: 3610 sq. ft. Project status: completed 2005 Project description: In a city as vast and as populated as Los Angeles, the experience of driving any one of the small winding roads into the Hollywood Hills is quite unexpected.  Romance and nostalgia are culled from each footpath-like street that winds up and around the hillside.  One moment you are bathed in the warm glow of the afternoon sun, the next, cooled by the breeze beneath a canopy of rustic trees.   This imagery serves as the inspiration for the design of this single family residence. Scale and composition generate spatial continuity and visual connectivity.  An organic palette of finishes blends together interior and exterior spaces.  Passing from one level to the next, or from one room to another, one is surrounded by views to the exterior - connected to the outside, energized by the natural setting.  The stainless steel mesh screen that drapes the building serves to reduce sun exposure on the south-facing elevation.  (This project was developed in partnership with Robot & Sons, LLP -  HYPERLINK "http://www.robotandsons.com" www.robotandsons.com )    

Wild Oak Drive Los Angeles, CA Lot size: 28538 sq. ft. Floor area (including garage): 3680 sq. ft. Project scope: new construction Project status:  completed 2008 Project description: Poised to take flight, this Los Feliz residence features a private bridge at the main entrance and cantilevered living spaces.  Telescoping steel decks extend beyond the building face, providing additional vantage points from which to enjoy the abundant views of the city and canyons below.  The machine-like steel structure is delicately clad with anodized aluminum and stucco panels which seem to peel away to embrace the stair and bridge.  Walls of glass on the north and west elevations visually connect the interior with the surrounding natural landscape and highlight the 'Hollywood' sign situated across the adjacent canyon.  The terraced patio, sundeck and deep blue pool are encircled by clusters of agave and forests of bamboo, punctuated by the dramatically cantilevered cabana and guesthouse...  the property is respite for the sacred, as well as, the profane. Photo by Julius Shulman and Juergen Nogai

Wittenberg (Residence) Venice, CA Lot size: 3600 sq. ft. Floor area (including garage): 2550 sq. ft. Project scope: 2200 sq. ft. Project status:  design development Project Description:  This remodel and addition to a small single family residence in Venice involves creating an open, loft-style living area on the ground floor and relocating the sleeping rooms to the new second floor.  In order to maximize exposure to the exterior landscape and benefit from the limited sun exposure on the ground floor, a small patio area was notched into the massing of the building.  The stair tower dominates this intersection, introducing verticality to the exterior living space.  A rooftop deck is accessible from a small landing at the top of the tower.

Valley Drive Manhattan Beach, CA Lot Size:  1716 sq. ft. Floor area (including garage): 2560 sq. ft. Project scope: new construction Project status:  completed 2006 Project Description: This home for a young Manhattan Beach couple translates the family’s needs directly into the architecture.  Inverted floor plates provide open spaces on the ground floor while creating a dynamic building envelope.  The project consists of four bedrooms, three and a half bathrooms, office space, and an open living room, kitchen and dining area with radiant floor heating throughout.  A large window opening with a retractable glass door opens the mid-section of the building and allows for additional ventilation and natural daylighting.  The unique characteristics of the design and rich palette of materials speak directly to the client’s participation in the design process. 

Canyon Oak Drive - I Los Angeles, CA Lot Size:  21350 sq. ft. Floor area (including garage): 5360 sq. ft. Project scope: 4480 sq. ft. Project status:  design development Project Description: Conceived as a “bridge” that connects the existing 40’s era residence and the proposed multi-level office/artist studio, the project also includes a new master suite, living room, dining room, kitchen, art gallery and gym.  The “bridge” engages the pool on the backside, where sliding glass walls are able to be opened to the pool deck.  The deconstructed gable roof is suggestive of the existing architecture, however, the exterior walls of the new addition are made up of layers of glass and polycarbonate panels that provide privacy where required.  The serpentine shape of the structure is reflective of the winding street and subsequent frontyard setback. 

Canyon Oak Drive - II Los Angeles, CA Lot Size:  11675 sq. ft. Floor area (including garage): 3055 sq. ft. Project scope: 2675 sq. ft. Project status:  design development Project Description: This home in the Hollywood Hills is a modification of a 70’s era single family residence to meet both the functional and aesthetic objectives of the new owners.  The existing residence is completely remodeled to incorporate all new amenities, including three new bathrooms, a kitchen, powder room and laundry room.  The window openings have been enlarged to open the interior to the surrounding landscape and views.  The massing of the garage and kitchen above has been modified to incorporate a large expanse of glass at the corner and a roof deck above.  The use of natural materials on the exterior, including Ipe wood siding and limestone panels, serves to highlight the variety of geometries.

Kuhlhaus 01 Manhattan Beach, CA Lot Size:  1350 sq. ft. Floor area (including garage): 2200 sq. ft. Project scope: new construction Project status:  completed 2007 Project Description: A counter-attack on the developer supplied housing stock where the norm for the single family residence is driven by the mentality that “bigger is better”; Kuhlhaus 01 redefines the prototype for housing in the area.  Located on a half lot with a floor area of under 1800 SF, the three bedroom, three bath residence incorporates an open design with flexible living spaces to mitigate the smaller floor plates.  Expanses of floor to ceiling glass provide breathtaking 270-degree views of the Pacific Ocean.  The project also integrates a 2 KW array of photovoltaic modules that will supply 100% of required electricity for the home. (This project was developed in partnership with Kuhlhaus Development Company -  HYPERLINK "http://www.kuhlhaus.com" www.kuhlhaus.com )  

Kuhlhaus 02 Manhattan Beach, CA Lot Size: 3350 sq. ft. Floor area (including garage): 4080 sq. ft. Project scope: new construction Project status: completed 2008 Project Description: This single family residence located in the Gaslight District of Manhattan Beach is one in a series of homes commissioned by Kuhlhaus Development, LLC and produced by the award-winning Los Angeles based Design/Build firm Lean Arch, Inc.  Our partnership is committed to responsible development - redefining the modern home in response to concerns regarding energy consumption, land-use and the environment.  This solar powered home features 4 bedrooms with 4 bathrooms, powder room, kitchen by Valcucine, open living and dining areas, family room, recreation room with a wet bar, walk-in wine cellar, and laundry room.  The open plan and large glass sliding pocket doors create both visual and physical continuity between the interior and exterior.  Outdoor patio and deck space adjacent to the kitchen, the living and family rooms, and the master bedroom enhance the quality of each space and allow for flexibility in their use.  A perforated metal stair, metal panel siding, radiant floor heating and a 4.3 KW array of solar panels on the roof are a nod to “industrial chic”.  (This project was developed in partnership with Kuhlhaus Development Company -  HYPERLINK "http://www.kuhlhaus.com" www.kuhlhaus.com)

Park (Residence) Burbank, CA Lot Size: 6750 sq. ft. Floor area (including garage): 2700 sq. ft. Project scope: 1200 sq. ft. Project status: completed 2007 Project Description: This design of this addition for a young and growing family was inspired by the whimsical interior of the existing residence.  Although the aesthetic of the new addition is distinct, the proportion and massing are based on the layout of the original home.  A centrally located art studio has retractable walls so that it can be opened to the interior courtyard.  The master suite on the second floor has access to both a deck and balcony in order to survey the play areas within the yard.  The playful contrast between new and old, and the rich palette of materials speak directly to the client’s participation in the design process.  (Go to  HYPERLINK "http://www.parkhaus.blogspot.com" www.parkhaus.blogspot.com for more information).

Los Angeles Garage Los Angeles, CA Lot Size: 86500 sq. ft. Floor area (including garage): 150000 sq. ft. Project scope: 3700 sq. ft. Project status: completed 2007 Project Description: The main component of this project is the development of 100 feet of storefront for commercial lease space in downtown Los Angeles.  The design for the façade includes a storefront window and door system, roll-up security gates for each of the seven bays, a continuous painted steel canopy, and signage for each of the prospective tenants.  The industrial aesthetic is inspired by the parking garage from which the tenant space protrudes.

Hessler Drive Portland, OR Lot Size: 5432 sq. ft. Floor area (including garage): 6000 sq. ft. Project scope: remodel to existing family residence Project status: completed 2006 Project Description: This single family residence sits on a hillside above downtown Portland and has expansive views of Ross Island, the Willamette River and Mt. Hood.  Designed and constructed in the 1950’s by a well-known homebuilder, the home has many features that were considered state-of-the-art at the time, including radiant floor heating.  The extensive use of cedar paneling on both the interior and exterior wall surfaces gives the home a distinctive look that fits perfectly with the natural characteristic of the hillside neighborhoods.  The project scope was limited to a complete renovation of the entire house.  There was no new floor area added. The design concept was to contrast and complement the inherent ‘ruggedness’ of the natural finishes that existed in the house with refined and contemporary cabinetry, casework, finishes and fixtures. 

Bonder (Residence) Pacific Palisades, CA Lot Size: 13149 sq. ft. Floor area (including garage): 3700 sq. ft. Project scope: 1232 sq. ft. Project status: design development Project Description: This second floor addition for a young family of five includes a new master suite, private study and library, and a guest bedroom with private bathroom.  The west facing elevation of the new rectangular form is floor to ceiling glass, optimizing ocean views and connecting the interior spaces with the adjacent exterior roof deck space.  The new addition cantilevers over the old entry to form a new glass enclosed entry and atrium space.  The project also includes a complete kitchen remodel and reorganization of the existing bedroom spaces to provide for a flexible living area on the ground floor.

Hermosa Beach (Residence) Hermosa Beach, CA Lot Size: 4500 sq. ft. Floor area (including garage): 2800 sq. ft. Project scope: 1050 sq. ft. Project status: design development Project Description: This project is conceived as a totally sustainable and “green” home.  It will meet the standards of the Green Point Rating System and LEED Certification program.  A variety of integrated alternative energy systems which include solar panels and a wind turbine are combined with passive heating and cooling strategies to produce a uniquely sustainable home which will serve as a model for home design and development in the South Bay.

Casa Mondo Rosemead, CA Lot Size: 8247 sq. ft. Floor area (including garage): 2792 sq. ft. Project scope: 1274 sq. ft. Project status: design development Project Description: This small home features an experimental pre-fabricated second floor.  The structure was designed in partnership with MBMI Metal Buildings and consists of a light-gauge steel frame clad with pre-fabricated corrugated metal panels.  All window and door openings are included as part of the specifications making the entire building easy to construct on site.   Insulation panels fit into the wall and roof cavities and finish panels are screwed to the structure from the interior.  The frame is engineered to support solar panels for both electricity and hot water.

Guzman (Residence) Redondo Beach, CA Lot Size: 7380 sq. ft. Floor area (including garage): 3900 sq. ft. Project scope: 1650 sq. ft. Project status: design development Project Description: The design concept for this single family residence in Redondo Beach was derived from the need to achieve three different objectives.  The first was to change the program of the existing house so that common areas such as the kitchen, dining room and living room were located on the second floor to take advantage of the expansive coastline and basin views.  The second was to create continuity between indoor and outdoor spaces on the ground floor, and the third was to reduce the bulk of the home as it relates to the site and the surrounding homes in the neighborhood.  The result is a “U” shaped plan which features an entry court that expands to the interior entry/recreation room and continues through to the exterior of the backyard.  The linear connection of these spaces provides a separation between the master suite and guest bedroom and the children’s rooms and laundry room on the ground floor.  On the second floor, the living room bridges the entry/recreation room below and opens to a south facing roof deck and garden.  The kitchen and dining room are located in the north wing of the second floor and cantilever to capture the view.  The home features a variety of alternative energy systems and eco-friendly finishes, as well as, passive strategies for heating and cooling.

Libera (Residence) Manhattan Beach, CA Lot Size: 2700 sq. ft. Floor area (including garage): 2860 sq. ft. Project scope: 690 sq. ft. Project status: design development Project Description: This project is both an addition to and a remodel of an existing single family residence in Manhattan Beach.  The addition includes a new master suite on the second floor that will feature a small loft area with views to the ocean.  On the ground floor there is a recreation room, guest room and bathroom.  The aesthetic of the new addition is inspired by the lifeguard stations located along the beach, and the dynamic juxtaposition of the interior spaces is resonant of a playful beach lifestyle. 

Italian Quality Trade Consortium Torrance, CA Lot Size: 49000 sq. ft. Floor area: 24000 sq. ft. Project scope: 30000 sq. ft. Project status: design development Project Description:

Bedford Drive Los Angeles, CA Lot Size: 5540 sq. ft. Floor area (including garage): 3250 sq. ft. Project scope: 665 sq. ft. Project status: under construction Project Description: 16th Street Manhattan Beach, CA Lot Size: 2700 sq. ft. Floor area (including garage): 5112 sq. ft. Project scope: remodel Project status: completed 2008 Project Description:

LeanArch Design, Build, Live… The Architectural Design/Build practice of LEAN ARCH, Inc. was established in the summer of 2000 and officially incorporated in August 2001.  Founder James Meyer describes the office as a Design/Build collaborative focusing mostly on residential, commercial and civic-oriented architecture, but as also having worked on a variety of projects ranging from furniture and product design to corporate branding, packaging and graphics.  Founded on the principles of modernism, the firm strongly believes that architecture and the built environment has the ability to improve people’s lives – their physical surroundings, their appreciation of nature, their understanding of the arts, and their relationships with one another.  The firm is committed to offering ideas that address the specific needs of a client while remaining conscious of the physical and psychological impact a work will have on both nature and the human-made environment.

LEAN ARCH is a full-service firm offering Architectural Design and Construction Services.  The office prides itself on the quality and extent of service provided to clients.  All projects, regardless of scale, are given the same level of attention – “right down to the doorknobs.”  A variety of techniques are used in the presentation of design ideas.  These may range from sketches on paper to more realistic computer generated 3D models and animations.  From the conceptual or schematic phase, through construction, LEAN ARCH works closely with clients, consultants and contractors to make sure that what has been designed is what will be constructed.  Objectives have always been met by keeping in mind the idea that people must work together to solve a problem.  More ideas, better solutions…

From the beginning, LEAN ARCH has strove to move beyond the realm of “paper architecture.”  The firm’s priority has always been to see their work through to completion.  In their words, Architecture is about people, and the realization of the project is the only way in which one may critique the effectiveness of the design.  Dealing with executed works enables the firm to assess their impact on both users and critics, and to ultimately become better and more effective designers and builders.  It is this dedication to the work and the rigor in which it is executed that has earned respect and appreciation from a growing number of clients, consultants and contractors, making LEAN ARCH a unique firm and a standout in the profession. Who am I and what do I believe? Those of us who might answer this question with passion and direction, with rationale and sturdiness of mind, seem to be heroes of our day. They are the ones who act on the basis of specified imperatives, they are for the universal, they are intelligible because they operate within our realm, we understand their suffering, and when they die, their resignation is final. But those who toil with the question, who lie sleepless in doubt, who do not act on specified imperatives, but see doing so as the temptation, they are the visionaries. Sometimes the unintelligible, they are the ones who get world the back after renouncing it. James R. Meyer, AIA Principal James Meyer founded the Architectural Design/Build practice of LEAN ARCH in the summer of 2000 and incorporated in August 2001.  As Principal he has overseen the design and execution of residential and commercial tenant improvement projects throughout the Los Angeles area.  Completed works to date include the Douville Residence in Manhattan Beach (2001), the Green Oak Residence in Los Angeles (2003) featured in the March 2005 issue of LA Architect Magazine, corporate offices for Modern Luxury Inc. in Dallas, Texas (2004) and Houston, Texas (2005), and the Park Oak Residence in Los Feliz (2005) recipient of the 2005 Meliora Award for Best Renovation presented by the Los Feliz Improvement Association.  All projects are indicative of the design principles adhered to by the firm, especially those relating to context, scale, and sustainable building concepts.   He is a member of the National Council of Architectural Registration Board and the American Institute of Architects.   Prior to founding LEAN ARCH, James worked for Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, LLP (1995-1997) in New York, and Johnson Fain Partners (1997-1999) and Lubowicki Lanier Architects (1999-2000) in Los Angeles.  During his tenure with SOM, James served as an influential member of the design teams for well-known projects including The John F. Kennedy International Arrivals Terminal in New York, Logan International Airport in Boston, and The U.S. Embassy in Ottawa, Canada.  SOM was awarded Firm of the Year (1996), by The American Institute of Architects, and all of the above-mentioned projects were featured as part of the firm portfolio deserving of the honor.  At Johnson Fain Partners in Los Angeles, he served as Senior Designer for The Department of Education and General Services East End Complex in Sacramento, the new MGM Tower at Constellation Place in Century City, as well as for several design proposals for the Robert Mondavi Wineries.  The East End Complex was certified by LEED, The Leadership in Environmental Design program of the U.S. Green Building Council.   James is dedicated to the integration of new building technologies in response to project specific needs and the environment.  He is an active educator, spending time with students at Cal Poly SLO, USC, and Santa Monica City College, and has taught Interior Design at Brooks College in Long Beach.  James has participated in urban and architectural study programs abroad.  In 1991, he attended CVUT in Prague, Czech Republic, and in 1994, the Washington Alexandria Architecture Consortium in Alexandria, Virginia.  In 1994, James received the scholarship for Professional Degree Candidates from the American Institute of Architects.  He has interned with Holt Hinshaw Jones Architects in San Francisco (1993), and STUDIOS Architecture in Washington DC (1994).  James graduated in 1995 from the College of Architecture and Environmental Design at California Polytechnic San Luis Obispo with a Bachelor of Architecture degree. Wayne G. Childs, AIA, LEED AP Director, Architectural Services Wayne Childs is one of three founding members of LEAN ARCH, joining the practice in October, 2003.  As Project Manager he has overseen the design and construction of residential and commercial projects in Los Angeles, Dallas, and Houston.  Projects include the Lost Souls Café in downtown Los Angeles (2005), corporate offices for Modern Luxury, Inc. in Dallas, Texas (2004) and Houston, Texas (2005), Villa Hermosa Flower Shop in Torrance (2005), and the Park Oak Residence in Los Angeles (2005) recipient of the 2005 Meliora Award for Best Renovation presented by the Los Feliz Improvement Association.  Wayne is instrumental in the preparation and implementation of Construction Documents, including building code compliancy and building permit related documents, as well as, detailed technical drawings. Wayne is also involved with construction administration and job site assistant superintendent responsibilities.  He is a member of the National Council of Architectural Registration Board and the American Institute of Architects. Prior to joining LEAN ARCH, Wayne worked for BBSA Architects (1995-1997) in Salt Lake City, and McClier (1998-2000) and Perkins & Will (2000-2003) in Chicago. During his tenure with McClier, Wayne worked on the design for the Loews Hotel in Santa Monica, California, and as assistant to the Construction Superintendent for construction of the 430,000 SF Chicago Sun Times printing and distribution facility.  At Perkins & Will, he served as a member of the design team for Morgan Stanley, working on several projects including a 360,000 SF headquarters building for the firm, and a 130,000 SF employee services pavilion.  Responsibilities included coordination of all interior aspects of architecture including core layout and building structure, management of structural, mechanical, electrical, fire protection, telecommunications, civil, landscaping and security consultants. In 1992, Wayne attended CVUT in Prague, Czech Republic, and in 1993, he served as intern to Heller and Manus Architects in San Francisco.  Wayne graduated in 1995 from the College of Architecture and Environmental Design at California Polytechnic San Luis Obispo with a Bachelor of Architecture degree. David Bailey Project Manager David Bailey joined the Architectural Design/Build practice of LEAN ARCH in summer 2006.  As Project Manager he is responsible for all aspects pertaining to the design and construction of residential and commercial projects.  This includes all coordination between the design team and contributing consultant engineers, designers and specialists; the drafting of construction specifications and production of project specific design manuals; and research pertaining to emerging energy efficient technologies, construction methods and finish materials.  David is instrumental in the preparation and implementation of Construction Documents, including building code compliancy and building permit related documents, as well as, detailed technical drawings. He is responsible for developing a program for “in house” educational seminars that cover a range of topics from CAD Operations and Standards to Finish Material Selection, Specification and Detailing. Prior to joining LEAN ARCH, David spent time working in several regions throughout California. In San Francisco, he was Lead Designer at Nilus Designs (1999-2002) and was responsible for varied residential projects, many of which have achieved national acclaim. His work in the Central Coast focused on larger scale projects, leading the design development of various educational projects located through the Central and Southern California areas, one being the Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum (2002-2004). Since relocating to Los Angeles, he has been involved in the leading edge of the now popular Prefab movement, working with Marmol Radziner and Associates to develop the ‘Desert House’ prototype, and has subsequently contributed to the multi-disciplinary office of Taalman Koch Architecture which seeks to bridge the intersection of the arts as they relate to the practice of architecture (2004-2006). David received his formal education from the California College of The Arts in San Francisco, California as part of the Bachelor of Architecture program and has attended design studios at the University of California Berkeley. His initial professional exposure to sustainable building technologies such as Straw Bale and Pise construction has led to his interest and participation in several design seminars relating to the use of photovoltaics within the practice of architecture. Armando Hernandez Senior Designer Armando Hernandez joined LEAN ARCH in August 2005. As Senior Designer for the firm, he is instrumental in the preparation and implementation of Design Development Documents for client and planning commission presentations, competition entries, and marketing materials. Armando is also responsible for 3-D visualization of ongoing projects. These three dimensional models and renderings are an integral part of the design process. Prior to joining LEAN ARCH Armando worked for the Department of Architecture and Planning at the Art Center College of Design, and Mark Dillon Architects. At the Art Center he constructed physical models and developed schematic program layouts and three dimensional concept models for future campus expansions. At Mark Dillon Architects he assisted in design development of various residential projects and the master planning of a future development in South Central Los Angeles. Armando graduated in 2003 with a Master of Architectural Design from the Bartlett School of Architecture at University College London, in 2002 he received his BArch from Woodbury University, Burbank California. Ka Fung Lui Senior Designer Ka Lui joined the Architectural Design/Build practice of LEAN ARCH in the winter of 2004.  As a member of the Design Staff she has participated in the design of residential and commercial projects in Los Angeles and Houston.  Projects include a corporate office for Modern Luxury Inc. in Houston, Texas (2005), the Park Oak Residence in Los Angeles (2005), and the Wittenberg Residence in Venice (2005).  Ka is instrumental in the preparation and implementation of Design Development/Construction Documents for client and general contractor review and bid submittals. Ka has used her Interior Design background as a springboard for her continued interest in exploring new construction materials and building methods to address the specific needs of client and contractor.  She is fluent in French, Japanese, and Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin dialects).  Ka graduated in 2000 from Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York with a Bachelor of Fine Art degree.  Miguel Alvarez Designer, Intern Miguel joined the Architectural Design/Build practice of LEAN ARCH as a summer intern in 2006.  As an intern he has participated in the design of both residential and commercial projects in Los Angeles, including a 30,000 sq. ft. office building in San Pedro, the Bonder Residence (2006) in the Pacific Palisades, and KDC-02 (2006) in Manhattan Beach.  Miguel has been instrumental in the preparation and implementation of conceptual renderings, and Design Development/ Construction Documents for client/general contractor review, bid submittals and construction. Miguel is currently working toward his Master of Architecture degree at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA).  He received a Bachelor of Science in Architecture and graduated Cum Laude from The Ohio State University, Knowlton School of Architecture in 2004, and has received numerous awards and recognition for his ability as a designer and scholar. His design for the 2003 HOME HOUSE Competition, sponsored by the Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art in Winston-Salem, North Carolina was selected for publication, and his entry for the 2004 James Gui Competition at Ohio State was awarded First Prize.   His dedication as a student and intern at Architecture firms in his hometown of Columbus, Ohio has  earned him respect from his peers, educators, and the staff at LEAN ARCH.  Miguel’s intellectual approach to design and construction serves as a foundation for his far-reaching ideas and expansive imagination. Melissa Kim Designer, Intern Melissa joined the Architectural Design/Build practice of LEAN ARCH as a summer intern in 2006.  As an intern she has participated in the design of both residential and commercial projects in Los Angeles, including LA Garage, a retail strip located on Main Street in Downtown LA, and a luxury residential cabin prototype for The Paws Up Resort in Greenough, Montana.  Melissa has been instrumental in the preparation and implementation of Design Development/ Construction Documents for client/general contractor review and bid submittals.  Melissa is currently working toward her Master of Architecture degree at the Southern California Institute of Architecture (SCI-ARC).  She received a Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture from the University of California Davis in 2005, and has participated in Architectural History and Studio courses in Copenhagen, Denmark.   Her dedication as a student and intern at Architecture firms in her hometown of San Francisco has earned her respect from her peers, educators, and the staff at LEAN ARCH.  She is active in campus environmental awareness groups, and is committed to design that is, in her words, “environmentally conscious, sustainable, and innovative with regard to its surroundings…” Ryan Upton Designer Ryan joined the Architectural Design/Build practice of LEAN ARCH in summer 2005.  As a designer for the firm he has participated in the design of both residential and commercial projects in Los Angeles and for The Paws Up Resort in Greenough, Montana.  Ryan has been instrumental in the preparation and implementation of Design Development/Construction Documents for client/general contractor review and bid submittals.  He currently manages the Marketing for the firm and has helped to produce the website, job signs, public relations materials and entries for the AIA LA Design Awards. Ryan graduated from the University of Southern California in 2007 with a Bachelor of Architecture, receiving numerous awards in his design studios.  While at USC, Ryan was chosen to accompany a small group of designers, traveling to Japan, China and Malaysia to study local Architecture.  His passion and love for design is reflected in his talents as a photographer, graphic artist, and furniture designer.  His design and construction for a steel table prototype was published in Interior Design Magazine.  Prior to joining LEAN ARCH, Ryan worked for both residential and commercial firms in his hometown of Houston, Texas. Jared Licano Senior Designer Jared Licano joined LEAN ARCH in Summer 2007. As a Senior Designer he is responsible for all aspects pertaining to the design and construction of residential and commercial projects.  This includes all coordination between the design team and contributing consultant engineers, designers and specialists; the drafting of construction specifications and production of project specific design manuals; and research pertaining to emerging energy efficient technologies, construction methods and finish materials.  Jared is instrumental in the preparation and implementation of Construction Documents, including building code compliancy and building permit related documents, as well as, detailed technical drawings. Prior to joining LEAN ARCH Jared worked for LAZAR Design/Build in Manhattan Beach, California where he served as Project Manager since 2004.  While there he contributed to the design and construction management of several single family and multi-unit residential projects including the Moore Residence and the Newman Residence.   Jared’s interest in solar technology and sustainable design for desert climates began during his college days.  Jared graduated in 2003 with a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Arizona in Tuscon. Vicky Silva De Assis Accounts Manager, Office Manager Vicky joined the Architectural Design/Build practice of LEAN ARCH in 2007.  As a member of the Construction Services Division she is responsible for all accounts payable/receivable for LEAN ARCH [BUILD], all formal correspondence with sub-contractors and suppliers, accounting and bookkeeping for active projects, and the distribution of information regarding OSHA Job Site Safety Standards.  Vicky is also instrumental in the development of Change-Orders and the distribution of RFIs to the Design Staff.  As Office Manager, she serves as Receptionist and Administrative Assistant. Chris Roberts Construction Manager ated in 2003 with a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Arizona in Tuscon. Vicky Silva De Assis Accounts Manager, Office Manager Vicky joined the Architectural Design/Build practice of LEAN ARCH in 2007.  As a member of the Construction Services Division she is responsible for all accounts payable/receivable for LEAN ARCH [BUILD], all formal correspondence with sub-contractors and suppliers, accounting and bookkeeping for active projects, and the distribution of information regarding OSHA Job Site Safety Standards.  Vicky is also instrumental in the development of Change-Orders and the distribution of RFIs to the Design Staff.  As Office Manager, she serves as Receptionist and Administrative Assistant. Chris Roberts Construction Manager Chris Roberts joined the Architectural Design/Build practice of LEAN ARCH in 2006.  As a Construction Manager his role is the coordination of field operations, including the on-site supervision of sub-contractors and construction quality control.  He has worked with LEAN ARCH on a number of projects beginning with the Klawin Residence in Manhattan Beach (2006). Prior to joining LEAN ARCH, Chris has spent over 15 years in the construction industry, working on high-end residential and commercial projects for R&M Custom Contractors in Trumbull, CT and managing the custom marine carpentry department of Captain’s Cove Seaport in Bridgeport, CT. Chris majored in Business Management and received his Bachelor of Arts Degree in 1988 from Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, CT.  He has extensive off shore sailing experience and earned his USCG Captain’s License in 2003. Jay Snyder Construction Manager, Job Superintendent Jay joined LEAN ARCH in 2005.  As a Construction Manager and Job Superintendent his role is the coordination of field operations, including the on-site supervision of sub-contractors and construction quality control.  He has worked with LEAN ARCH on a number of projects beginning with the Douville Residence in Manhattan Beach (2001).  Other projects include the Green Oak Residence in Los Angeles (2003) featured in the March 2005 issue of LA Architect Magazine, the Singer Residence in Venice Beach (2005), and the Park Oak Residence in Los Feliz (2005) recipient of the 2005 Meliora Award for Best Renovation presented by the Los Feliz Improvement Association.  As a seasoned carpenter, Jay is committed to delivering a well-built, high quality project. Prior to joining LEAN ARCH, Jay has spent over 20 years in the construction industry, working on high-end residential and commercial projects.  He has honed his skills as a builder by working as a framer and finish carpenter with JD Burgess Construction.  Jay holds a Real Estate License and is active in marketing and promoting quality properties throughout Southern California. Website design by Friend of a Friend Studios www.friendofafriendstudios.com