StudioVARA

Keeping the Bay Area Architecture Conversation Going

Chris and Rebal provide insight on riding the economic cycle.

“Villa in Palo Alto”

An aura of warm intimacy lent by the tasteful interior finishes ensures that each room allows the family a comfortable place to entertain and relax.

Hovering House

Studio VARA’s family home appears to hover over its Palo Alto Plot.    

Layers of Landscaping Soften This Modern California House

Studio VARA has designed a new modern residence in Palo Alto, California.

A New Ground-Up Residence for a Young Couple

Studio VARA recently completed a new ground-up residence for a young couple located on a petit corner lot in Palo Alto.

On a Sixth of an Acre, Studio VARA Ekes Out an Elaborate Palo Alto Home

A Revitalized Spacious Loft

The loft, which looks out to the Bay Bridge, features ample exposed concrete, white oak accents, and a luxe travertine bathroom.

Best Affordable Housing Deal of the Year

626 Missio Bay gets awarded, “Best Affordable Housing Deal of the Year” by the San Francisco Business Times.

San Francisco Architect Poll

Chris makes the cut as a finalist for Best Architect in San Francisco.

Cultural Influences in Architecture

Maura talks about how she brings her own cultural references and design philosophies to projects and how clients respond to this approach.

SoMA Loft – IIDA Award Finalist

A San Francisco remodel opens to the outdoors

An old Noe Valley cottage is transformed into a modern urban retreat with a massive wine cellar to boot.  

An Interview with Studio VARA

Chris and Maura talk design, technology, the challenges (and fun) of running an architecture firm.  

An Edward Lutyens-inspired home undergoes a contemporary redesign

From an Uninspired White Box to a Warm Two-Level Loft

A 1970’s Ranch Home Gets a Transformation

Affordable Housing Project in Mission Bay

Studio VARA teams up Paulett Taggart Architects to design an affordable housing complex in San Francisco’s Mission Bay.

Affordable Housing in Hayes Valley

Redwood Highway AIASF Merit Award

Redwood Highway wins a 2015 American Institute of Architecture San Francisco Merit Award.

Redwood Highway Athenaeum Award

Redwood Highway project wins a 2016 American Architecture Award from the Chicago Athenaeum Museum of Architecture and Design.

1060 Redwood Hwy

Adaptive reuse project transforms banal commercial box into elegant industrial office space.

Office Building Transformation

Refined renovation transforms former retail space for a discerning client.  

Noe Valley Cottage Gets An Upgrade

A discriminating client’s home is transformed by restrained but luxurious details.

A graceful and expansive San Francisco renovation

Practical problems in an old cottage lead to elegant solutions in this extensive San Francisco remodel.  

A new 3-level house in San Francisco

A disciplined and delicate design create a fluid and luxurious space for a family of four.