PROFILE:
Growing up in Santa Barbara, Tom began his interest in architecture through art as a sculptor with a mallet and a chisel. Now, as a practicing architect, he finds artistic expression through architectural design.
During his years at Cal Poly Tom interned with a variety of architectural firms during his summer breaks. After successfully completing a few commercial buildings and residences while still in school, Tom quickly assembled his own firm shortly after graduating.
Partnering with classmate and friend Keith Nolan, they formed Ochsner Nolan Design (ON Design Architects), which grew to over 40 employees, and eventually three more partners. Tom’s focus was predominately on design and production, which complemented the firm’s diversity of skills.
After 16 years of partnership, in 2003, Tom decided to simplify his practice of architecture, and become a sole proprietor.
From design, planning and permitting, to working drawings and structural design, he is now is able to maintain a smaller, more hands-on practice. Allowing him to maintain a close working relationship with all of his clients and with every aspect of their project.
Studying Southern California Architecture extensively throughout his practice, he is very interested in how the Mediterranean vernacular has influenced and created a regional style unique to Santa Barbara. Which has led to extensive experience in adobe construction, designing and renovating many adobe structures.
He demonstrates confidence in a variety of architectural vocabularies as well and puts an emphasis on understanding the relationship between architectural design, structural engineering, and land-use issues.
Always active in the community, Tom invested five years of service on the Santa Barbara County Board of Architectural Review, is a member NCARB, and a member of the American Institute of Architects.
Tom takes on projects of all sizes and is very comfortable with every aspect of the project.