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Howard Laks Architects, Firm Profile

Howard Laks Architects (HLA) is a Santa Monica-based architecture and interior design firm specializing in mixed-use development, multi-family residential, retail, restaurant, public works/parks and recreation and hospitality design. Howard Laks, Principal, leads every project phase from conceptual design through construction administration as a collaborative process to meet project and client goals. The firm works within a contextual and architectural form to create site-specific, functional and cost-appropriate architecture. HLA promotes environmentally responsible design and assists their clients to identify opportunities to achieve sustainable, energy-efficient buildings.

Howard Laks Architects was established in 1983 and has developed long term relationships within the Southern California planning and design community. These relationships and our regional knowledge become helpful when blending specific community requirements with individual project needs. Our objective is to provide the highest quality strategic planning, design and consulting services to help our clients make the most of their real estate considerations and investments.

Howard Laks, AIA, Bio

Howard Laks, AIA, is Principal of Howard Laks Architects and has been in practice for thirty years. His work has contributed to the vibrant and ongoing movement of contemporary regional Southern Californian architecture. His signature works include The Lobster, at the entrance of the Santa Monica Pier, and The Fidelity Building, located on Wilshire Boulevard in Santa Monica. Mr. Laks has received design awards for his work, including a Merit Award for North Hills Community Park in Los Angeles and a California Construction Best Mixed-Use award for Archstone Apartments on Main Street in Santa Monica. His ability to address client needs, site-specific conditions and local building requirements results in functional, sustainable and aesthetically pleasing buildings.

Mr. Laks received his Bachelor’s of Architecture in 1977 and his Master’s of Architecture in 1980 from U.C. Berkeley School of Architecture. Mr. Laks served as an associate professor at U.C. Berkeley School of Architecture from 1978 through 1980 and has held a teaching position at the U.C.L.A. Interior and Environmental Design Program since 1981. He served as a board member on the City of Santa Monica Architectural Review Board from 1996 to 2004, and as Chairperson from 2001 to 2002. Mr. Laks has been a registered member of the American Institute of Architects’ (AIA) local, state and national chapters since 1987.