Business Details
20 Years
experience
Sustainable Architecture & Urban Design Solutions
hb+a Architects is a pioneering design firm specializing in sustainable architecture and urban planning. Founded in 2006, our studio is led by Hafsa Burt, a LEED Fellow recognized for her innovative approach to environmental stewardship in architectural design. We combine advanced BIM technology with deep expertise in accessibility, energy efficiency, and public health standards to deliver resilient, user-centered projects. Our portfolio spans transit infrastructure, aviation facilities, multifamily housing, and urban planning initiatives across California, Texas, and Nevada.We have earned industry recognition through awards such as the Metropolis Magazine Planet Positive Award and USGBC California Green Building Award. Our team maintains strong relationships with planning departments to streamline project approvals from concept to construction. With a focus on regenerative design, we aim to create high-performing buildings that balance aesthetic beauty with ecological responsibility while addressing evolving social and environmental contexts.
Services
Sustainable Architecture
Urban Design
Transit Infrastructure
LEED Certification
BIM Modeling
Historic Renovation
Energy Audits
Public Space Planning
Zero Energy Design
Code Compliance
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- We specialize in sustainable transit infrastructure with 15+ years of California project experience
- Our team uses advanced BIM technology for precise, efficient architectural solutions
- LEED Fellow leadership ensures cutting-edge environmental design expertise
- We've delivered 100+ projects meeting strict energy efficiency standards
- Proven success navigating complex permitting processes with Bay Area agencies
Associations and certifications
- USGBC California Green Building Award
- Metropolis Magazine Planet Positive Award
What people say
Innovative design
Cost-conscious approach
Fast approvals
Excellent communication
Sustainable expertise
Services
Sustainable Architecture
Our sustainable architecture practice integrates environmental responsibility with functional design. We create energy-efficient buildings that reduce carbon footprints while maintaining aesthetic appeal. Our approach combines advanced BIM technology with material efficiency strategies to deliver LEED-certified projects that meet rigorous environmental standards.
Transit Infrastructure
Specializing in transit infrastructure, we design efficient, accessible transportation hubs. Our expertise includes BART extensions, airport connectors, and bus shelter upgrades that balance operational needs with passenger comfort. We ensure compliance with safety regulations while incorporating sustainable materials and energy-saving systems.
Urban Design
Our urban design solutions create vibrant, sustainable communities. We develop master plans that integrate mixed-use developments with green spaces, prioritizing walkability and public accessibility. Our designs address climate resilience while enhancing urban aesthetics through context-sensitive architectural approaches.
LEED Certification
We guide projects through LEED certification processes for new construction and major renovations. Our team provides technical expertise to achieve sustainability benchmarks in energy efficiency, water conservation, and indoor environmental quality. We help clients maximize green building incentives while meeting strict performance standards.
Historic Renovation
Our historic renovation practice combines modern functionality with architectural preservation. We specialize in adaptive reuse projects that maintain historical integrity while implementing energy-efficient systems. Our approach balances code compliance with sensitive restoration of original design elements in protected buildings.
People
Hafsa Burt
Studio Head
Hafsa Burt leads hb+a Architects with expertise in sustainable design and BIM technology. She holds architecture degrees from SCAD and has delivered award-winning projects including SFO's Secure Connector. Her leadership focuses on environmental stewardship and innovative urban solutions.
Questions
What architectural services does hb+a specialize in?
We specialize in sustainable architecture, transit infrastructure, urban design, LEED certification consulting, and historic renovations with a focus on energy-efficient solutions.
Do you work on public sector projects?
Yes, we have extensive experience with public transit projects including BART extensions, airport connectors, and municipal facilities across California and Nevada.
How do you incorporate sustainability into designs?
We use BIM technology, prioritize material efficiency, implement energy-saving systems, and pursue LEED certification to ensure environmentally responsible buildings that reduce long-term operational costs.
Can you handle complex permitting processes?
Our team has proven success navigating California's regulatory landscape, maintaining strong relationships with planning departments to streamline approvals for complex development projects.
What geographic areas do you serve?
We operate primarily in California, Texas, and Nevada with completed projects in major metropolitan areas including San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Sacramento.
