return
to life in sf
Over the last few weeks, I have become quite familiar with
the methods and character of Pfau Architecture. This 17
people firm creates some really innovative and interesting
architecture.
Peter Pfau, the firm's founder, still directs the designs
coming out of the office. He is often seen conversing
with project managers on specific projects, or talking
with clients in the conference room. In one instance when
the presentation boards were not ready for a meeting,
Peter joked about how similar this was to school deadlines.
His casual attitude should not be mistaken for carelessness,
however. The projects produced by the office are proof
of his concern for every detail. His character defines
the atmosphere of the office: a love of design and detail
in an overall casual work environment where everyone feels
part of "the family".
The open structure of the office allows everyone to hear
what is going on at every level. This is a really great
way for the office to function as an "extended family".
It is also a good learning environment for interns. Working
here was great because all of the employees were completely
approachable and willing to give me advice about the architecture
profession.
Cal Poly students should feel especially welcome in this
office because there is two of our own already working
as full time employees. Karen Mar, 1987 Poly grad, first
worked with Peter Pfau at Holt, Hinshaw, Pfau, Jones.
She later switched firms before returning to work with
Peter after he had opened his own practice. She has currently
worked for Pfau architecture for five years, and is project
manager on several large projects including a vacation
home in Pebble Beach, and a completed Swatch Pavilion
in Portugal. Michael Young, 1997 Poly grad, has worked
at Pfau Architecture since leaving San Luis Obispo. He
is currently managing his first project: a recording studio
for a local band. The success of these Poly grads is really
inspiring.
There is a wealth of information to be tapped into at this
firm. Several of the employees have attended such well-known
grad schools as Columbia and Harvard. Others have attended
such schools as UC Berkeley and CCAC. This is a great
resource if you are interested in attending grad school.
They are all willing to talk about the pros and cons of
the different programs as well as the different areas
of study.
The firm's portfolio and current works contain a lot of
variety in type and size. Currently, the firm is working
on a major remodel for a private high school in San Francisco.
They are also working on several private homes and office
building remodels. Their work also includes a few spec
office buildings. Pfau chooses projects based on their
design opportunity more than the financial gain. Of course
money is a nice benefit, but Pfau Architecture maintains
their emphasis on design phases. They spend a lot of time
developing the details of a building. The time spent on
these details means they may not be making money in the
budget sense, but the overall design will be more developed.
Last but not least, I must mention the softball team: Pfau
Pfux. If you work here, you must have some good ball skills
or stay off the field! They are definitely very competitive,
but it is a fun time on Wednesday nights: a little beer
and a lot of swingin'!
Pfau is a great place to work if you are looking for a
mid sized, highly design oriented, fun team!
-bridget koller
