FIRM PROFILE

Clerkin & Clerkin is dedicated to working with clients on projects that enhance the
larger social and physical environment by fusing design, collaboration, possibility,
technical expertise, communication and involvement of the principals. The diverse
backgrounds of the staff allow both the design and the technical needs of a project
to be integrated as a totality; not as discreet elements. This integration has been the
goal, and the practice, of the firm since its beginning. The success of this approach
and effort is evident in the number of repeat clients such as CSU Northridge, San
Jose State University, UCLA, UC Riverside, CSU San Bernardino, CSU Los Angeles,
Pomona USD, Norwalk La Mirada USD, and LAUSD. We believe in, and practice
a close working relationship with the client and users to explore and enhance the
uniqueness of the particular, of the specific place.
Our built projects have varied greatly in size, complexity and building type. Our portfolio
contains examples of the variety of the practice, and demonstrates our commitment
to exploring and bringing out the potential of each. It is the emphasis on
the human interaction, the human touch, while integrating the technical, which is the
hallmark of the firm.

AWARDS

• C.A.S.H./AIACC Awards of Merit 2003
  Pomona Unified School District Technology Production Center
   
• AIA/ Pasadena & Foothill Chapter
  Merit Award 2002
  California State University, San Bernardino, Coyote Drive Information
   
• AIA Pasadena & Foothill Chapter
  Merit Award 1992
  Clerkins’ Residence Modifications
   
• Alhambra Beautification Award 1996
  Hwee Office Building

TEAM

CHIAO H. CLERKIN 

Chiao is the founder of the firm. She is responsible for overall firm design and project administration. She works well with individuals and community groups. She brings an innovative and a sensitive eye for how the users perceive space sequencing in her designs.  This is combined with her training in Crime Prevention through Environmental Design to create spaces both physiologically safe and welcoming.

SEAN CLERKIN

As Partner of the firm since 1992, Sean is responsible for the design lead and management of projects. This role ensures that the project’s design is carried through to construction. He brings a strong understanding of the interplay of design, detail and context to each project. His involvement is continuous throughout the project. Sean has worked with UCLA, UC Riverside, San Jose State University, CSU Northridge, CSU Los Angeles and CSU San Bernardino on projects of widely varied needs and complexities. His interests in theory and history give him both broader perspective and depth in terms of understand issues, and to bring the unique insight in terms of problem solving aspects of design.