Everyday life. Better by design.
PROCESS
Every project begins with listening.
We begin by understanding the people, place and circumstances that make each project distinct—how a space will be used, what matters most to the people who will inhabit it, and the opportunities and constraints presented by site, context, budget and schedule. We don’t begin with a predetermined answer. Through listening, questioning, research and exploration, we uncover possibilities and develop a design that is specific to each project.
HOW WE WORK
LISTEN
We listen closely to understand our clients’ needs, aspirations, priorities and challenges.
QUESTION
We ask questions, research context and examine assumptions. Constraints—whether spatial, environmental, regulatory or financial—often become catalysts for better ideas.
EXPLORE
We develop and compare possibilities through sketches, drawings, models, material studies and three-dimensional visualization.
TEST
We test ideas against space, light, material, performance, cost and the experience of the people who will use the project.
REFINE
Through an iterative and collaborative process, we refine the design as greater levels of detail, technical requirements and consultant expertise are integrated.
REALIZE
We carry the design from concept through documentation, permitting and construction, working closely with clients, consultants and builders to maintain the integrity of the design through completion.
SERVICES
Architecture
Interior Architecture + Design
Renovations + Additions
Feasibility + Planning
Entitlements + Permitting
Master Planning
Project Management
Construction Phase Services
what clients and collaborators say
"In my capacity as Executive Director of Community Corporation of Santa Monica, I have worked with Ms. Bhagat on two multi-family rental housing projects. She is the perfect fit for you if you want an architect who listens to what you want, executes the design and construction drawings flawlessly, handles the permits and approvals side with aplomb all the while with a smile on her face and soothing words for the agitated. I like her sense of style, her firm grasp of the nuts and bolts, and her ability to solve problems. She can take a complicated project from conception to certificate of occupancy. I highly recommend her for your architectural and design needs."
Joan Ling , Former Executive Director of Community Corporation of Santa Monica
"I have worked on and off with Pooja for 7 years on a very complex and complicated mixed-use project in an extremely challenging entitlement climate. She is extremely diligent, thorough and drives results. Pooja is not only hard working but is very personable and can interact well with a multitude of audiences. She has been an integral part of the team and the project would not be where it is today without her passion, commitment and diligence"
Gino Canori, Executive Vice-President, Related California
"Pooja is smart, thorough, and talented. As her client, I felt like I was in good hands. No detail was left unaddressed and, best of all, the design was beautiful.”
Sue Kientz, Former Director of Housing Development, Community Corporation of Santa Monica
"I have had the pleasure to know and work with Pooja over the past 6 years. She is a true professional in every sense, extremely talented designer, strong team leader, excellent communicator and problem solver. I very much appreciate her passion and positive demeanor she constantly displays and know that she will be a highly valuable integral part of any team she is a part of. Looking forward to having the opportunity to work with Pooja again soon."
Justin Grant, Contracting Manager at Morley Builders
"I had the great privilege of collaborating with Pooja on several large projects while she was at Moore Ruble Yudell. She is an extremely talented architect and designer, and an excellent communicator in dealing with Clients and design teams. She also happens to be a very nice person, and it was always nothing but a pleasure working with her. Pooja would be an asset to any project fortunate enough to have her involved!"
Mike Rich, AIA, LEED AP, Principal/Owner at LARGE Architecture
"I worked closely with Pooja for 6 years, and highly recommend her skills in both design and project management. She is particularly an expert in complex multifamily housing, understanding not just the nuances of user-centered design, but also the importance of schedule and budget on project success. Her management style is direct, efficient and results-oriented, without ever sacrificing top-tier design quality."
Eric Tecza, AIA, Project Manager at Sares-Regis Group