Design with Purpose: Inspiration from the High Line and a Look Toward the Future

When people ask what inspires me, I often come back to the High Line in New York. It’s a perfect example of how thoughtful design can completely transform the way we live and interact with our environment. What was once an abandoned railway became a beautifully repurposed space — elevated, accessible, and alive with both nature and culture. It’s proof that design, when done right, can solve problems and spark joy.

As a native Californian, I’ve always found inspiration in the landscape around me — from the wide-open trails of Mt. Diablo to the peaceful ridgelines of Briones and the redwood groves of Joaquin Miller Park. Living and designing in the East Bay gives me daily access to the kind of natural beauty that resets your perspective and sparks creativity.

Much like the High Line in New York, I believe design has the power to reimagine what’s possible. It can turn the overlooked into something extraordinary. That’s the spirit I bring to every project, whether I’m designing a modern home in Orinda, a warm and textural space in Lafayette, or a custom retreat in Danville or the Oakland Hills.

My work is rooted in the idea that great design doesn’t compete with nature — it takes cues from it. Clean lines, organic textures, and spaces that feel both functional and calming are my signature. And just like a favorite hiking trail, your home should feel restorative and full of discovery.

If you’re building a custom home or looking to reimagine your space in San Francisco or anywhere in the East Bay, I’d love to collaborate. Let’s create something beautiful, grounded, and uniquely yours — inspired by the land we love.