Business Details
Your Trusted Architect in San Diego for Life-Changing Design
Skala Architecture has been delivering innovative architectural solutions since 1989, combining decades of professional expertise with a deep understanding of client needs. Our practice focuses on creating functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces that enhance daily living through thoughtful residential design, commercial projects, and historic preservation. With over 35 years of California architectural licensure, we navigate complex building codes and municipal regulations to transform concepts into reality. Our team specializes in energy-efficient design, ergonomic solutions, and diverse architectural styles tailored to individual lifestyles.Recognized for excellence in coastal permitting and historic preservation analysis, we maintain active involvement in professional organizations while leveraging our extensive experience from prestigious firms and academic institutions. Client testimonials consistently highlight our ability to crystallize abstract ideas into practical applications while maintaining exceptional communication throughout the project lifecycle.
Services
Residential Design
Home Remodeling
Historic Preservation
Energy Conservation
Commercial Architecture
Highlights and features
- 35+ years of California architectural licensure with coastal permitting expertise
- Specialized in historic preservation and energy conservation design
- Proven track record with complex municipal permitting processes
- Client-focused approach emphasizing lifestyle-specific spatial solutions
- Extensive experience across residential, commercial, and historic projects
What people say
Delightful to work with
Great listener
Problem solver
Positive relationships
Pleased with results
Services
Residential Design
Creating custom residential spaces that combine aesthetic appeal with functional living solutions. Our designs optimize natural light, airflow, and spatial efficiency while maintaining architectural integrity. Specializing in Mediterranean and coastal styles that complement California's unique environment.
Home Remodeling
Transforming existing spaces through strategic remodeling that enhances usability and value. We focus on modernizing layouts while preserving structural strengths, incorporating energy-efficient solutions and ergonomic design principles tailored to homeowners' specific lifestyle needs.
Historic Preservation
Specialized analysis and restoration of historically significant structures while meeting modern building standards. Our approach maintains architectural authenticity through meticulous research and code-compliant adaptations that honor original design elements and materials.
Energy Conservation
Implementing sustainable design solutions that reduce environmental impact without compromising aesthetics. We integrate passive solar principles, energy-efficient systems, and climate-responsive materials to create comfortable, cost-effective living environments tailored to coastal conditions.
Commercial Architecture
Developing functional commercial spaces that balance practical requirements with architectural excellence. Our approach creates welcoming environments that enhance business operations while maintaining compliance with accessibility standards and municipal regulations.
People
Sue Skala
Principal Architect
Principal architect with 35+ years California licensure, specializing in residential design and historic preservation. Holds Master's in Historic Preservation from Columbia University and BA in Architecture from UC Berkeley.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialize in?
We specialize in residential design, home remodeling, historic preservation, energy-efficient solutions, and commercial architecture tailored to California's coastal environment.
How long have you been practicing architecture?
Our principal architect has held California licensure for over 35 years with extensive experience in coastal permitting and historic preservation projects.
Can you handle complex permitting processes?
Yes, we specialize in navigating municipal regulations and building codes, particularly for coastal properties and historic structures requiring discretionary permits.
Do you work on historic buildings?
Yes, we provide comprehensive historic preservation analysis and restoration services while implementing modern energy-efficient upgrades that maintain architectural integrity.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve San Diego County including La Jolla, Point Loma, and surrounding coastal communities with architectural design and remodeling solutions.
