James Hill Architect

Specialties

James Hill Architect provides architecture and interior services to the Bay Area and West Coast from its San Francisco location. Our work includes custom homes, additions and renovations, frequently providing modern living spaces within a historical building or sensitive urban or natural setting. The range of experience includes multi-​unit and single-​family residences, restaurants and cafes.

Our clients respond to our common sense approach to complex issues, which allows them to engage effectively in the design process as a joyful exploration of the opportunties inherent in the project. Through an appreciation of comfort, context, and the client’s personality, the design solution grows naturally as the thoughtful expression of the individuality of our client and the specific character of the environment.

History

Established in 1991.

American thought has always found the spirit at home in the commonplace. The direct and practical allow for an unconscious appreciation of life’s simple pleasures in harmony with our daily life. Underlying our work is the ambition to create environments for good living that connect us with our place in a community, both global and local, built and natural, future and past.

With our approach sustainabilty becomes basic to design, as obvious as the natural flow of air. Our predilection for natural, locally sourced products reflects the beauty inherent in the goals of sustainabilty and results in living spaces rooted in their environment. We promote urbanism and adaptive re-​use as a means to create communities sustainable, socially committed, and historically grounded.

Located at the geographical center of San Francisco, our office relies on bicycle, carshare and public transportation. We are certified as a San Francisco Green Business.

Meet the Business Owner

James H.

Business Owner

Raised in mid-​century suburban LA, James Hill enjoyed its enthusiasm for casual living and the outdoors. He also witnessed there a serious social need for structures that support, nurture and connect the human condition with its community and environment.

Transplanted to the urban environment of San Francisco in 1973, his experience in writing and construction led him to UC Berkeley, a Masters of Architecture in 1981 and a California Architectural license in 1985. His enthusiasm for education continues with active support for local schools.

Awards and publications have included Small Firms/​Great Projects, Piedmont Merit Awards, San Francisco Magazine, Metropolitan Home, Better Homes and Gardens, SF Chronicle, Archetype Magazine, Sunset Magazine, houzz​.com, fvf​.com.

Pastimes include sketching, back-​packing, urban exploration, bicycling, guitar, reading, and blogging at talk​ing​build​ing​.com.