Business Details
20 Years
experience
Innovative Sustainable Architecture Solutions
At hb+a Architects, we lead environmental stewardship through innovative architectural designs that deliver aesthetic, functional, and ecological benefits. Founded in 2006, our studio excels in public sector work, specializing in transit and aviation infrastructure while pioneering sustainable practices long before they became industry standards. Our nimble team, led by Hafsa Burt, combines decades of experience with advanced BIM technology to deliver resilient, user-centered projects across California, Texas, and Nevada. We specialize in navigating complex regulatory environments, securing project entitlements, and guiding developments from concept to completion. Our portfolio spans zero-energy buildings, regenerative design, and transit systems that prioritize accessibility and energy efficiency.Recognized with awards like the Metropolis Magazine Planet Positive Award, we remain committed to cultural responsiveness and pragmatic resource reduction. Our clients, including San Francisco International Airport and UCSF, trust us as advisors who blend local knowledge with global insights. We focus on creating high-performing, beautiful spaces that adapt to evolving social and environmental contexts. With over 100 delivered projects, we set benchmarks for indoor environmental quality and carbon neutrality. Our mission is to innovate architectural solutions that enhance communities while fulfilling our obligation to the planet and its people.
Services
Architectural Design
Sustainable Architecture
Transit Infrastructure
Aviation Projects
BIM Consulting
Public Sector Projects
Regenerative Design
Urban Planning
Zero Energy Buildings
Wayfinding Design
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- We offer decades of experience in transit and aviation infrastructure design.
- Our team specializes in advanced BIM technology for precise project delivery.
- We pioneered sustainable building practices long before industry standards emerged.
- Our firm excels at navigating complex regulatory approvals and entitlements.
- We combine local expertise with a global perspective for comprehensive solutions.
What people say
Sustainable design expertise
Efficient regulatory navigation
Collaborative approach
Innovative solutions
Award-winning work
Services
Transit Infrastructure Design
We specialize in designing transit infrastructure that prioritizes accessibility, operational efficiency, and regulatory compliance. Our work includes BART extensions, wayfinding systems, and bus shelters that enhance urban mobility. Projects integrate sustainability measures like Envision Platinum Certification standards.
Sustainable Architecture
Our sustainable architecture services focus on zero-energy buildings, regenerative materials, and carbon-neutral designs. We incorporate circular building principles and regional construction techniques to minimize environmental impact while maximizing long-term urban benefits.
Aviation Facility Design
We deliver aviation infrastructure solutions including secure connectors, terminal expansions, and passenger facilities. Our work at San Francisco International Airport demonstrates expertise in high-security environments and design-build methodologies for complex aviation systems.
BIM Consulting
Our BIM consulting services optimize project delivery through advanced digital modeling. This technology enables precise coordination of architectural, structural, and MEP systems, reducing conflicts and improving efficiency for transit, healthcare, and commercial projects.
Public Sector Projects
We specialize in public-sector architectural solutions for municipal clients, including schools, community centers, and infrastructure projects. Our approach balances regulatory requirements with community needs, ensuring functional, durable, and aesthetically responsive public spaces.
People
Hafsa Burt
Studio Head
Hafsa Burt leads hb+a Architects with expertise in sustainable design and regulatory navigation. She pioneered green building standards and delivers innovative transit and aviation projects. Her leadership has earned industry recognition and client trust for complex developments.
Questions
What architectural services does hb+a Architects offer?
We provide transit infrastructure design, sustainable architecture, aviation facility planning, BIM consulting, and public-sector architectural solutions.
What sustainability certifications do you specialize in?
Our projects target Envision Platinum Certification and LEED standards, incorporating regenerative materials and zero-energy building practices.
Which regions do you serve?
We operate in California, Texas, and Nevada, with completed projects in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Austin, and surrounding areas.
How does hb+a Architects handle complex projects?
We use advanced BIM technology and collaborate with planning departments to navigate regulatory challenges and deliver complex developments efficiently.
What industries do you specialize in?
We focus on transit, aviation, healthcare, education, and commercial architecture with specialized expertise in public infrastructure projects.
Reviews (3)
Creative World
Mar 17, 2021
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Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Responsiveness,Value
Hafsa, and her firm are very hardworking and extremly committed to your project. They are very resourceful and knowledgeable to their scope of work. They work in a timely manner and we have truly been grateful for finding them during our difficult and trying time! Will continue to work with them on future projects! Thank You!!
Hafsa, and her firm are very hardworking and extremly committed to your project. They are very resourceful and knowledgeable to their scope of work. They work in a timely manner and we have truly been grateful for finding them during our difficult and trying time! Will continue to work with them on future projects! Thank You!!
Joanna Callenbach
Nov 15, 2019
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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.
Cali Bandits
Sep 01, 2014
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HBA+Architects is very professional and efficient firm. I couldn't imagine where to start when I first had ideas of opening my own restaurant. They are great at taking the random crazy ideas you have and finding a way to make it happen and make it profitable. Thank you H.B.