Business Details
Trusted Architectural Design Services in Pasadena
Clerkin & Clerkin is a dedicated architectural firm committed to enhancing social and physical environments through integrated design, collaboration, and technical expertise. Since our founding, we have prioritized seamless integration of design and technical requirements, ensuring holistic project solutions. Our repeat clientele, including institutions like California State University campuses and school districts, reflects our ability to deliver tailored, user-focused designs. We emphasize close client collaboration to uncover the unique potential of each project, regardless of scale or complexity.Our work spans diverse sectors, including education, healthcare, residential, and public spaces, demonstrating adaptability and innovation. Awards and recognitions, such as AIA Merit Awards, validate our commitment to excellence. We combine deep theoretical knowledge with practical problem-solving to address evolving pedagogies and technological demands. Our principals maintain continuous involvement throughout projects, ensuring design integrity from concept to construction. This approach has solidified our reputation as trusted partners in creating functional, inspiring spaces.
Services
Architectural Design
Renovation Projects
Seismic Upgrades
ADA Compliance
Educational Facilities
Historic Preservation
Healthcare Renovations
Residential Projects
Highlights and features
- We specialize in complex educational facility renovations and seismic upgrades.
- Our principals maintain continuous project oversight from design to completion.
- We integrate Crime Prevention through Environmental Design principles into spaces.
- We have 30+ years of experience with California State University campuses.
- Our designs prioritize ADA compliance and accessibility improvements.
Services
Architectural Design
We create tailored architectural solutions that blend aesthetic vision with technical precision. Our process emphasizes client collaboration to develop spaces that meet functional needs while enhancing user experience. Projects range from new constructions to adaptive reuse of existing structures.
Seismic Upgrades
We specialize in seismic retrofitting for educational and public buildings. Our approach maintains structural integrity while modernizing facilities to meet current safety standards. Recent projects include university complex upgrades and historic school renovations.
ADA Compliance
We implement Americans with Disabilities Act requirements through thoughtful design modifications. Services include restroom upgrades, pathway improvements, and facility-wide accessibility assessments for educational and public institutions.
Educational Facilities
We design and renovate learning environments that support evolving pedagogies. Our work includes classroom modernization, laboratory upgrades, and campus master planning for K-12 schools and universities across California.
Historic Preservation
We maintain historical integrity while updating structures for modern use. Recent projects include renovations of 1950s-era homes and compliance with historic district requirements for educational and residential buildings.
People
Chiao H. Clerkin
Founder
Chiao H. Clerkin founded the firm and oversees all design and project administration. She specializes in spatial sequencing and Crime Prevention through Environmental Design, creating safe, welcoming environments. Her leadership ensures client-focused solutions across diverse project types.
Sean Clerkin
Partner
Sean Clerkin has been a partner since 1992, leading project design and management. He ensures design continuity through construction phases and brings expertise in contextual design relationships. He has directed complex projects for major California universities.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialize in?
We focus on educational facilities, seismic upgrades, ADA compliance, historic preservation, and healthcare renovations. Our expertise spans both new construction and adaptive reuse projects.
Which regions do you serve?
We primarily work across California, with extensive experience in university campuses and school districts throughout the state.
How do you handle complex renovation projects?
We employ phased approaches to minimize disruption, maintain historical integrity, and integrate modern systems while preserving architectural character.
What sets your firm apart?
Our principals maintain continuous project involvement, ensuring design integrity from concept to completion. We combine technical expertise with user-centered design principles.
Can you work with tight urban sites?
Yes, we specialize in maximizing limited spaces, as demonstrated by our efficient designs for urban educational facilities and constrained campus locations.
