Ellen S

Studio E Architects, USA

Founded in 1987, Studio E Architects is a San Diego- based design collaborative led by principals Eric Naslund, John Sheehan, Mathilda Bialk and Maxine Ward. Practicing throughout the Southwestern United States, the firm's varied portfolio—housing, mixed-use, civic, institutional, and urban planning projects—has been recognized with numerous design awards, including three National Honor Awards from the American Institute of Architects. The firm's projects have appeared in national and international design journals and publications. The work of Studio E Architects recognizes that the meaning and utility of architecture is grounded in the specificity of context. Unique site conditions inspire solutions that connect people to the places they inhabit. This focus on both physical and cultural context produces architecture that is responsive to the natural environment, embraces everyday phenomena and rituals, and expresses a richer understanding of place. Studio E Architects provides outstanding service to public agencies, institutional clients, non-profit organizations, private developers and individuals. The firm's efforts have been rewarded with a strong repeat client base. Recent projects include mixed-use developments, charter schools, university housing and administrative services and numerous multifamily housing developments throughout California. Much of the firm's success can be traced to its commitment to a participatory approach to problem solving. Studio E works to build consensus among stakeholder groups ensuring creative solutions that are embraced by the community while satisfying the goals of the sponsors.