Business Details
34 Years
experience
Trusted Architects for Educational and Public Projects
Clerkin & Clerkin is a dedicated architectural practice committed to enhancing social and physical environments through integrated design, collaboration, and technical expertise. Since our founding, we have prioritized the seamless fusion of design vision, client needs, and technical execution, ensuring every project reflects both innovation and practicality. Our teams diverse backgrounds enable us to address both aesthetic and functional requirements as a unified whole, a principle that has defined our approach for decades. We maintain close partnerships with clients and end-users to explore the unique potential of each projects context, resulting in spaces that are both purposeful and inspiring.With a portfolio spanning educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and public spaces, our work demonstrates a consistent commitment to quality, adaptability, and human-centered design. Our repeat collaborations with universities, school districts, and public agencies underscore our ability to deliver solutions that evolve with changing needs while maintaining enduring value.
Services
Educational Facility Design
Seismic Upgrades
ADA Compliance
Historic Renovations
Healthcare Architecture
Public Space Planning
Laboratory Renovations
Campus Master Planning
Details
- Year established: 1992
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years of experience in educational and public architecture.
- Our team maintains close client collaboration throughout every project phase.
- We integrate design innovation with technical expertise for holistic solutions.
- Our work has received multiple AIA and C.A.S.H. award recognitions.
- We specialize in adaptive reuse and seismic upgrades for aging infrastructure.
Associations and certifications
- AIA (American Institute of Architects)
- C.A.S.H./AIACC
What people say
Award-winning designs
Collaborative approach
Technical expertise
Adaptive reuse specialists
Services
Educational Facility Design
We create innovative learning environments tailored to evolving pedagogical needs. Our designs integrate flexible spaces, modern technology, and sustainable materials to support diverse educational programs. Projects include classroom renovations, campus master plans, and specialized facilities for STEM and arts programs.
Seismic Upgrades
Our seismic retrofitting solutions ensure structural safety while preserving architectural integrity. We specialize in upgrading historic and aging buildings to meet modern codes without compromising functionality. Techniques include base isolation, reinforced concrete, and structural steel enhancements.
ADA Compliance
We implement comprehensive accessibility solutions meeting Americans with Disabilities Act standards. Services include site accessibility studies, restroom modifications, and circulation path improvements. Our approach balances regulatory requirements with seamless integration into existing environments.
Historic Renovations
Our team preserves architectural heritage while modernizing functionality. We navigate strict historical district requirements to restore original features and adapt spaces for contemporary use. Recent projects include Craftsman-era residences and mid-century institutional buildings.
Healthcare Architecture
We design healthcare spaces prioritizing patient safety, operational efficiency, and technological integration. Our solutions accommodate strict regulatory environments while creating healing-focused environments. Projects include hospital renovations, clinical spaces, and medical research facilities.
People
Chiao H. Clerkin
Founder
Chiao H. Clerkin founded the firm with expertise in spatial sequencing and Crime Prevention through Environmental Design. She oversees project design and administration, emphasizing user-centered spaces that balance safety with welcoming aesthetics.
Sean Clerkin
Partner
Sean Clerkin leads project design and management, ensuring continuity from concept to construction. With decades of experience in educational architecture, he specializes in integrating design theory with practical solutions for complex institutional projects.
Questions
What architectural styles does Clerkin & Clerkin specialize in?
We specialize in modern adaptations of mid-century and historic structures, with expertise in educational, healthcare, and public infrastructure projects.
Do you handle both design and construction management?
We provide full design services and collaborate with construction managers to ensure design intent is maintained throughout project execution.
Can you work with historic preservation requirements?
Yes, we have extensive experience navigating historical district regulations while implementing modern upgrades and functional improvements.
What regions do you serve?
We primarily serve California, with a focus on Los Angeles, San Jose, and San Diego metropolitan areas.
Do you offer ADA compliance assessments?
Yes, we conduct comprehensive ADA evaluations and implement accessibility solutions for existing buildings and sites.
How do you approach sustainable design?
We integrate energy-efficient systems, natural lighting, and sustainable materials while prioritizing long-term building adaptability.
