California Architects Board

The California Architects Board was created by the Legislature in 1901. The Board has a strong history of creative problem solving and collaboration with key constituencies, such as local building officials, educators and students, related professions, and collateral organizations. The Board is committed to a strong enforcement program as a…

One of the first Black women to earn an architecture license in the state of California Norma Merrick Sklarek was a pioneer in the field of architecture. In the1960’s, she became one of the first Black women to be licensed in California. Her brilliance, passion, and perseverance allowed her to…

People and groups behind the places The place names might be well-known—Hearst Castle, Ahwahnee Hotel, Union Station—but do you know the architects behind the buildings? Get to know 25 of California’s must-see structures and their architects, as compiled by USA Today and the American Institute of Architects (AIA) California Council:…

Shipping containers are a creative housing option Your new home could be on the back of a big rig, chugging by on a freight train, flying in a cargo plane, or cruising into port. People are increasingly upcycling shipping containers into new housing, and you could be one of them.…

Learn more and contact a licensed professional for assistance They’ve got their own TV shows, websites, and Instagram accounts: Tiny homes have reached celebrity status. Find out what they are, what’s involved, and if one might be right for you. SEVEN BIG BENEFITS TO GOING SMALL What exactly is a…

Want to incorporate them into your home or yard? Contact a licensed professional They were elemental in the midcentury modern design movement, but they’re making a major comeback in the new millennium: breeze blocks, the pierced cement blocks that circulate air, soften light, and offer structural security and patterned privacy.…

Study: Engaging with surroundings while out and about makes a positive difference A just-published study by the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), finds that engaging with surroundings while on walks, instead of focusing on thoughts, made a positive difference in study participants’ well-being. As outlined in the journal Emotion,…

The field of architecture has lots of associations and organizations for students and professionals. It also has a camp. Hip-Hop Architecture Camp to be exact. The camp is the brainchild of Mike Ford who grew up with hip-hop. Ford holds a master’s degree in architecture and uses his academic training…

The winter 2018 issue of Consumer Connection magazine is out now! In our last issue of the year, we cover the modifications that can help seniors stay in their homes longer, the best time of year to have solar installed on your home, treating children with concussions, how to reduce…