John Lum Architecture, Inc.

John Lum Architecture, Inc. Since 1994, John Lum Architecture has completed over 800 custom spaces that are elegant, functional

While architects are traditionally identified by a set of physical design attributes, John Lum’s aesthetic is rooted in the experiential. Lum’s designs create accessibility that inspires active engagement with the space to enhance your lifestyle. John Lum Architecture’s approach redefines the concept of modern for his clientele. Focusing on elegance, warmth and simplicity without compromising effi

ciency or functionality, we create a sense of place that reflects our clients’ sense of self. Through creative dialogue and collaboration, JLA is able to realize the unique visions of business and residential clients alike. We guide the design process with integrity, ensuring success through open communication and realistic expectations. Respect lies at the heart of every project we undertake: respect for the client, for the vision, for the craft, and for the underlying principles that make it all possible. Each John Lum Architecture project has a distinct design aesthetic and form that reflect the personalities of our clientele through our truly creative use of materials, elegant proportions and vivid color. We consistently experiment with unusual materials, finishes, and color, to augment any budget. Concept drives our commercial design projects, allowing us to transform the simplest of spaces into authentic, experiential locations that include an extensive list of highly acclaimed restaurants and nightclubs. JLA’s reputation for creating unusual environments has led to a growing practice in innovative retail designs, especially in the culinary industry and optometric field. In residential projects, we emphasize the livability and vitality of the space. Translating the needs of each client into elegant floor plans, we create comfortable and accommodating homes that feature natural light and green technology. With an eye toward functionality, we can make the smallest of places feel spacious and inviting. Sunset Magazine often features John Lum’s ingenious insights on eco-friendly design and maximizing habitability. John Lum’s open and friendly demeanor gives collaborators the rare opportunity to get to know this award-winning architect as a person throughout the design process. When you work with John Lum, you become a part of a community that seeks to use the simplicity of thoughtful design to make the world a more beautiful and livable place.

Designed to complement the renovated Sonoma wine estate, this pool house creates a seamless destination for entertaining...
08/24/2026

Designed to complement the renovated Sonoma wine estate, this pool house creates a seamless destination for entertaining while preserving the site’s mature oak grove. A central open-air loggia connects guest and lounge spaces, balancing English Cottage influences with refined contemporary detailing.

johnlumarchitecture.com/project/stoner-pool

JLA is currently hiring a Project Designer and a Project Manager!Our studio is located in a converted laundry machine fa...
08/19/2026

JLA is currently hiring a Project Designer and a Project Manager!

Our studio is located in a converted laundry machine factory in San Francisco’s Mission District, with convenient access to public transportation. We offer a flexible hybrid work model with four days in the office and Fridays from home if desired.
JLA provides competitive compensation and benefits, including profit sharing, 401k, pension, year-end bonus programs, generous vacation and sick time, and comprehensive health benefits. We are committed to supporting our staff through mentorship, professional development, and opportunities for long-term growth within the practice.

See more at
https://johnlumarchitecture.com/jobs/ or the AIA SF Job Board

On the Boards
08/18/2026

On the Boards

This double lot carried a layered legacy: a cedar-shingled cottage, ceramic studio, heritage redwoods, and a cultural re...
08/18/2026

This double lot carried a layered legacy: a cedar-shingled cottage, ceramic studio, heritage redwoods, and a cultural resource designation tied to its former occupant, an LGBTQ advocate. We honored that history while adding a board-and-batten gabled volume that complements the original cottage, connected through a light-filled glazed entry hall.

Architect John Lum Architecture
Builder Eastwood Development & Design
Photography Tim Coy
Windows Sierra Pacific Windows

johnlumarchitecture.com/project/glen-park

On the boards.Drawing on Irving Gill’s early modernist principles of clean cubic forms, low-maintenance materials, and c...
08/12/2026

On the boards.

Drawing on Irving Gill’s early modernist principles of clean cubic forms, low-maintenance materials, and courtyard living, we designed this home to respond to its context while embracing La Jolla’s indoor-outdoor lifestyle. 

Organized as two double-story volumes, connected by a glass bridge and centered around a filtered-light outdoor foyer, we created a flexible living environment that supports aging-in-place while accommodating the client’s growing multigenerational family.

www.johnlumarchitecture.com/project/baylor

Natural light defines the primary bath, where a sculptural soaking tub is positioned beneath a strategically placed skyl...
08/10/2026

Natural light defines the primary bath, where a sculptural soaking tub is positioned beneath a strategically placed skylight and framed by a large picture window. A restrained material palette and minimalist detailing emphasize precision craftsmanship, creating a calm, spa-like retreat.

Architecture: John Lum Architecture
Interior Design: Tineke Triggs she/her
Photography: Adam Rouse

This guest suite is part of an ongoing evolution of an extensive remodel we completed years ago for the same clients in ...
08/06/2026

This guest suite is part of an ongoing evolution of an extensive remodel we completed years ago for the same clients in Upper Happy Valley, Lafayette.

Intended as a compact retreat for the owners’ parents, it combines contemporary craftsmanship with a sculptural circular form and shou sugi ban cladding. Sited above the garage, it connects visually to the main house while preserving yard space and supporting multigenerational living with privacy and independence.

Check out the initial remodel:
johnlumarchitecture.com/project/upper-happy-valley/

This guest suite is part of an ongoing evolution of an extensive remodel we completed years ago for the same clients in ...
08/05/2026

This guest suite is part of an ongoing evolution of an extensive remodel we completed years ago for the same clients in Upper Happy Valley, Lafayette.

Intended as a compact retreat for the owners’ parents, it combines contemporary craftsmanship with a sculptural circular form and shou sugi ban cladding. Sited above the garage, it connects visually to the main house while preserving yard space and supporting multigenerational living with privacy and independence.

Check out the initial remodel:
johnlumarchitecture.com/project/upper-happy-valley

This Sausalito home was transformed by reimagining the once separated kitchen, living, and dining areas into a light-fil...
07/31/2026

This Sausalito home was transformed by reimagining the once separated kitchen, living, and dining areas into a light-filled great room. The kitchen anchors the space with custom wood cabinetry and a refined color palette, complete with scullery.

Architect John Lum Architecture
Interiors NICOLEHOLLIS
Photography Douglas Friedman

Repost from Christopher Gate ConstructionOne thing we often remind homeowners: the simplest-looking details usually requ...
07/29/2026

Repost from Christopher Gate Construction

One thing we often remind homeowners: the simplest-looking details usually require the most planning.

Here, our client’s headboard is built directly into the wall, the wood paneling doubles as a nightstand ledge, and the sconces are wired through the millwork. 

Each decision had to be coordinated well before the walls were closed. Thinking through these details early is what allows the finished space to feel clean and intentional.

Architecture: John Lum Architecture
Interiors: Mansfield + ONeil
Photography: John Merkl
Stylist: YEDDA MORRISON STUDIO

Address

3246 17th Street
San Francisco, CA
94110

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

Telephone

+14155589550

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