hb+a Architects: Pioneers of Sustainable Architecture
hb+a Architects is a leading design firm widely recognized for its expertise in public sector work, with a core focus on transit and aviation infrastructure. The firm’s portfolio spans major projects such as the BART extension, LA Metro wayfinding and signage for the East San Fernando Valley (ESFV) Corridor, and bus shelter upgrades for the San Joaquin Valley Transit system demonstrating robust experience in operationally complex, compliance-driven transit environments. In the aviation sector, hb+a Architects delivered critical project work at San Francisco International Airport (SFO), including the secure connector facility, and has managed stakeholder coordination in high-security, high-volume settings. Committed to sustainability and innovation, the firm’s approach fuses advanced BIM technology with deep knowledge of accessibility, energy efficiency, and public health standards, enabling the delivery of resilient, user-centered transit and aviation projects for public clients in California, Texas and Nevada.
Our Mission: Innovating for a Sustainable Tomorrow
Our mission at hb+a Architects is to lead environmental stewardship through innovative architectural designs. We are dedicated to projects that provide aesthetic, functional, and ecological benefits, enhancing the communities we serve.
Leadership in Architecture: Hafsa Burt
As the studio head at hb+a Architects, Hafsa Burt brings a unique perspective to design, characterized by a deep commitment to sustainability and innovation. Her leadership has garnered numerous initiatives and her efforts in driving eco conscious design forward has set new benchmarks in architectural practice.
hb+a Architects
hb+a Architects is a hands-on, tech-savvy interdisciplinary design studio with thriving practices in Northern California, Southern California, and Texas. Our studio’s nimble team—led by founder and design director Hafsa Burt brings decades of combined experience and a service-oriented approach to every client partnership. With a robust history of success collaborating with Planning and Building Departments across California and beyond, we excel at securing project entitlements, managing approvals, and guiding developments from concept to shovel-ready, then supporting clients through bidding, negotiation, and construction for seamless project delivery.
A recognized pioneer of healthy building and environmental sustainability long before these were industry standards, hb+a Architects played a key role in developing green building ordinances and performance standards. Our project portfolio spans from fast-casual restaurants and multifamily dwellings to transit, aviation, and site-wide urban planning, with current and completed work stretching from Sacramento and Los Altos Hills throughout the Bay Area, Greater Los Angeles, and new markets across Texas. The studio’s expanding client list features leading organizations such as San Francisco International Airport, UCSF, Lincoln Property Company, Stonebrae LLC, Warner Brothers, Superfly X, and Pacific Urban Residential.
We are trusted advisors who blend local knowledge with a global outlook, providing not just “design services” but comprehensive solutions throughout all facets of building construction and development. Our expertise spans every major construction type and methodology along with the financial acumen critical to the real-world success of complex projects. Across all our regional studios, our work is rooted in innovation, pragmatic resource reduction, and maximizing long-term urban impact.
Founded in 2006, hb+a Architects advances rigorous design research and collaborative practice, generating impactful architecture and vibrant urban landscapes. Our firm’s culturally responsive work adapts to ever-evolving social, technological, and environmental contexts, aiming to create projects that are both beautiful and high-performing. With over 100 projects delivered throughout California and new commissions in Texas, our portfolio demonstrates a steadfast commitment to regenerative, zero energy, and environmentally conscious design.
“We strive to set a high standard for Design, Indoor Environmental Quality and Environmental responsibility in all our projects driven by an overarching obligation to our Planet and its people. ”
Hafsa Burt, Studio Head at hb+a Architects
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hb+a Architects: A Legacy of Awards and Recognition
Our innovative approach to sustainable design has earned us widespread recognition and numerous awards. Visit our awards page to explore the accolades that highlight our commitment to excellence here.
ENR 40 Under 40
AD20 Woman of the Year
AIA Young Architects’ Award
Innovative Architecture Award
California Top Architecture Firms
San Francisco Business Times’ Architecture Firms’ List 2021
Metropolis Magazine Planet Positive Award
USGBC California Green Building Award Merit – Gateway to China Town
Sustainable Facilities’ Forum Leadership Award Pioneer
Sustainable Facilities’ Forum hb+a Architects Awarded *Conservation* Pioneers Award
Lectures on Indoor Air Quality, Healthy Buildings, Carbon Neutrality and Circular Building Design
Collaborations and Testimonials
Our clients and collaborators speak to the effectiveness and innovation of hb+a Architects. Their testimonials reflect our ability to deliver exceptional architectural solutions that meet the needs of today while anticipating the demands of tomorrow.
“Hafsa of HB+A has been easy to work with: she listens well, brings up pertinent design & code information, has a network of reliable subs and others in the Bay Area. The office also is very fast! It has been a pleasure to work with an excellent designer who is also cost-conscious. Plus, Hafsa seems to have good working relationships with several building departments in the Bay Area, which helps the review and approval process proceed smoothly. Her expertise is valuable. We have used her office for several projects now and have no complaints.”
Joanna Callenbach, VP of Development and Construction at Stonebrae
“Have worked with Hafsa on a very complex project with difficult permit, engineering and historical renovation considerations. A talented and creative architect and amazing, thoughtful partner. No hesitation to recommend.”
John Murray (Owner of 1801 Jones Street Condo Project in San Francisco, CA)
“Hafsa developed an innovative design for my brother’s house. I needed one on a hillside with no steps but plenty of room for dogs. She was indefatigable in her efforts to get the proposal approved by the planning commission and building department. I highly recommend her if you need to get your project approved. Edward Hirshberg (Owner of Broadway Management)
“Hafsa designed a model of my business and she did an amazing job! She understood what I wanted and she helped me with anything that I needed. The interior aspects of my business turned out beautifully. She was very professional and I would recommend her to anyone.” Bobby Meehan (PlayLive Nation)
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