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Paul Halajian Architects

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Fresno, CA
Paul Halajian Architects

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Improving the cultural, social, and physical context of the Central Valley. We use state-of-the-art tools in a way that is uniquely PHA.

We offer a variety of services to meet our clients’ needs, from consulting to planning to full project development. Our firm was founded on the notion that responsive service and client satisfaction is best delivered by a nimble, client-focused, design-forward, technically astute firm. After years of diligent work, growth, and a commitment to continual learning, we remain true to our roots. Our staff’s shared passion for high-quality design and commitment to skillful project delivery appeals to both the public and private sectors. Still, the relationships we build with our clients are our most valuable assets.

10/27/2026

Meet PHA’s newest Designer, Dwight Spencer

Dwight brings together a strong foundation in construction and a refined approach to architectural design. His background includes drafting and project management roles supporting single‑family and multi‑family residential projects, as well as select commercial work. He contributes to projects through detailed documentation, coordination with consultants, and involvement across multiple phases of design and construction.

Before entering the architectural field, Dwight gained a year of hands‑on experience as a finish carpentry installer. This early exposure to construction practices and building systems informs his technical understanding and enhances his ability to develop practical, buildable design solutions.

Outside of work, Dwight enjoys playing music at church, watching baseball, and spending time with his family. As he starts his journey at PHA, Dwight brings a balanced perspective shaped by creativity, care, and a strong sense of purpose. Welcome aboard, Dwight!

10/27/2026

Meet PHA Designer Meriah Perez

Meriah Perez’s path to architecture has been anything but conventional. An artist since childhood, she has been oil painting since age 9, with buildings and landscapes always among her favorite subjects.

After earning a bachelor’s degree in finance from San Diego State University, Meriah realized her passion was elsewhere. Following some soul-searching, she reconnected with her creative side and pursued architecture.

Today at PHA, Meriah is involved in two civic projects: Camacho Park in Reedley and the Porterville Public Library. She is especially passionate about creating spaces that serve children and the community, believing every child deserves a welcoming third place outside of home and school.

Outside of work, Meriah enjoys ice skating, snowboarding, painting, reading, and watching films with her cat, Ceviche.

10/20/2026

Design has the power to improve emergency response, support healing, and strengthen communities. We're excited to see two impactful PHA-designed projects in Tulare County nearing completion.

PHA staff recently toured two PHA-designed projects in Tulare County that are approaching completion, led by Associate Principal Architect Peter Lau. As part of our professional development commitment, these site visits let team members see how design translates into the built environment, strengthening their understanding of construction, collaboration, and project delivery.

The tour included the new Goshen Fire Station 7, which will replace the community's undersized station and improve access to major thoroughfares, helping reduce emergency response times. The facility features firefighter living quarters, a kitchen, conference room, laundry facilities, a weight room with an adjacent outdoor fitness area, and three apparatus bays designed to accommodate modern firefighting equipment.

The team also visited the new 7,000-square-foot Tulare County Behavioral Health Urgent Care facility, the first of its kind in Tulare County. Designed to support individuals experiencing behavioral health crises, the facility will provide a critical community-based alternative to emergency rooms, hospitalization, and incarceration, expanding access to timely care in a supportive and dignified environment.

The design prioritizes security, privacy, and dignity through thoughtfully planned indoor and outdoor environments, calming colors, and abundant natural light. PHA Interior Designer Shannon Adams carefully selected the facility’s furnishings, finishes, and color palette to create a welcoming environment that promotes comfort, healing, and safety for both clients and staff. Additional features such as pet kennels and bicycle storage help remove barriers to care and support the diverse needs of those served.

These projects reflect a shared commitment to strengthening community services through thoughtful, people-centered design. PHA is proud to partner with Tulare County and local stakeholders to create facilities that enhance public safety, expand access to care, and improve quality of life throughout the region.

10/14/2026

Discover the Art of Landscape: An Evening with Terry Broussard

Join fellow design professionals this Thursday, October 15, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. for the AIASJ monthly chapter meeting.

Guest speaker Terry Broussard will present The Art of Landscape, exploring how thoughtful landscape design shapes meaningful places and enhances the communities we share.

The evening will include refreshments, networking, and professional learning at the Fresno Art Museum, located at 2233 North First Street, Fresno, CA 93703.
Click link in our bio and stories to sign up! Hope to see you there!

10/06/2026

Congratulations to Peter Lau on his promotion to Associate Principal Architect!

Earlier this year, Peter celebrated an incredible milestone – 11 years with Paul Halajian Architects. Over the past decade, Peter has become much more than a talented architect. He has been a trusted colleague, a valued mentor, and an integral part of the PHA family. His steady leadership, technical expertise, and commitment to excellence have made a lasting impact on our firm, our clients, and the communities we serve.

With more than 20 years of professional experience, Peter brings thoughtful problem-solving, attention to detail, and a collaborative approach to every phase of a project, from programming and design through bidding and construction administration. He excels at coordinating with our Clients and project team to deliver a solution that balances needs, goals and budget.

Peter is a generous mentor, always setting aside time to help others develop their skills and confidence. He is calm, collaborative and humble in all areas, earning the respect of clients and coworkers. Peter leads by example and listens thoughtfully, making him a pleasure to work with every day.

Today, we are proud to recognize Peter's many contributions and celebrate his promotion to Associate Principal Architect. This achievement reflects not only his exceptional technical abilities and professional accomplishments, but also the character, leadership, and dedication he brings to our firm. Congratulations, Peter, on this well-deserved recognition. We are grateful for your 11 years of service and excited to see all that lies ahead.

10/01/2026

Celebrating 14 years of leadership, design excellence, and commitment to Paul Halajian Architects. Congratulations, Shaunt!

Every architect's career includes defining moments. For Shaunt, one of those moments came when his mentorship shifted from learning how buildings come together to exploring what a Shaunt Yemenjian-designed building looks like.

Over the past 14 years at Paul Halajian Architects, Shaunt has worked closely with Paul Halajian, developing the technical expertise, design sensibility, and project leadership skills that have become hallmarks of his work. Through projects such as State Center Warehouse, the Copeland Medical Office Building, and Terranova Ranch, he developed the art of resolving complex design and technical challenges while growing into a confident architectural leader.

As his skills matured, the challenge evolved. Rather than directing the design, Paul encouraged Shaunt to lead the creative vision and own the design process. This pivotal transition required confidence, perseverance, and years of preparation.

The result is a series of projects that reflect Shaunt's architectural voice while benefiting from the insight and mentorship of a trusted colleague and advisor. His journey is a testament to the value of patience, discipline, and embracing opportunities for growth, even when they push you beyond your comfort zone.

Today, we are proud to celebrate Shaunt Yemenjian's promotion to Associate Principal Architect at Paul Halajian Architects. This milestone recognizes not only his exceptional talent, passion, and contributions to the firm, but also the dedication, humility, and commitment to excellence that have defined his 14-year professional journey.

Congratulations, Shaunt! We look forward to seeing the continued impact of your leadership, vision, and design excellence on our firm, our clients, and our community.

09/29/2026

Celebrating Jamie Steinmetz, 15 years, and a well-deserved promotion!

Jamie first joined Paul as a summer intern at a previous firm in 2003 following a year-long study abroad program at CSU Florence, Italy. She had no intention of building her career in Fresno; however, Paul offered her a position with design opportunities that opened her eyes to the critical need for impactful design in the Valley.

Over the past 15 years at PHA, Jamie has contributed to a diverse portfolio of projects spanning civic, higher education, and affordable housing. She is currently working on the new entry experience at the Fresno Chaffee Zoo and master planning efforts for Arte Américas. She has also served as project manager for several impactful affordable housing developments, including Crossroads Village, The Dakota (currently under construction), and Rancho Colegio in Visalia.

Of his first employee, Paul Halajian noted: “Jamie possesses a rare balance of design talent, technical skill, managerial dexterity, and perhaps more importantly - the ability to communicate well. Both clients, consultants, and colleagues would probably all say she is one of the best architects around.”

Jamie brings passion, creativity, and advocacy to every project she touches. Her commitment to innovative design and thoughtful problem-solving has made a lasting impact on our clients, communities, and practice. She also plays a vital role in developing the next generation by sharing her knowledge and experience with emerging PHA designers.

Reflecting on her time at PHA, Jamie says: "It's been a wild and wonderful ride. PHA is not just a business; it’s a family, and it's such a privilege to work for a firm that is truly passionate about improving our community."

Today, we're proud to celebrate not only Jamie's 15-year tenure with PHA but also her well-earned promotion to Associate Principal Architect. Congratulations, Jamie! Thank you for your passion, dedication, and countless contributions to PHA. We can't wait to see all you'll accomplish in the years ahead.

09/28/2026

Annual Studio Retreat!

Last week, PHA went offsite to take a breather, do some fun team building at Good Dirt Pottery Studio, tour one of our new projects Trinity Community Church and then discuss who we are and who we want to be.

The hot topics of the day were: how to create our ideal studio culture, what it means to be professional and have ownership, and how each of our voices from new grad to experienced architect can be heard and valued.

Big thank you to our leadership and admin for organizing this retreat- we are excited to be a part of PHA and look forward to who we are becoming!

09/24/2026

Good Friends, New Connections, and a Stronger Design Community

It was a great evening at the AIA San Joaquin Chapter’s Plans & Pours event, seeing old friends, meeting new colleagues, and enjoying good food, drinks, and conversation at Summer Fox Brewing.

PHA Senior Architect Kari Trenhaile Kari Trenhaile , serving as AIASJ Chapter President, helped bring together members of the architecture and design community for an enjoyable evening of networking and connecting.

Thank you to everyone who joined us!

Chapter

09/24/2026

Good Friends, New Connections, and a Stronger Design Community

It was a great evening at the AIA San Joaquin Chapter's Plans & Pours event, seeing old friends, meeting new colleagues, and enjoying good food, drinks, and conversation at Summer Fox Brewing.

PHA Senior Architect Trenhaile, serving as AIASJ Chapter President, helped bring together members of the architecture and design community for an enjoyable evening of networking and connecting.

Thank you to everyone who joined us!

Chapter

Address

265 East River Park Circle, Suite 420
Fresno, CA
93720

Opening Hours

Monday	8am - 5pm
Tuesday	8am - 5pm
Wednesday	8am - 5pm
Thursday	8am - 5pm
Friday	8am - 5pm

Telephone

+15592977900

Website

http://www.halajianarch.com/

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