With projects throughout the San Francisco Bay Area, shands studio practices architecture with a commitment to design integrity and expression of place. We aim to create buildings that enrich one’s experience and celebrate the inherent qualities of a site. Clarity of ideas and purpose provide a cohesive approach, evolving from the development of space to carefully resolved details.   Sustainability is integral to the design process with mindful consideration of resource conservation, energy efficiency and environmental impact.  We are dedicated to achieving thoughtful architecture through innovation and craft.

These guiding principles are applicable to projects of any scale or program.  Working collaboratively with our clients and consultants allows for informed decisions while finding opportunities within the challenges.  Similarly, we strive for open communication with the fabricators and builders to create continuity from drawings through construction. 

With over 20 years in the field and a diverse portfolio, founder Barbara Shands has extensive experience with residential, educational and commercial projects. She received her Bachelor of Design from the University of Florida where she also attended the Preservation Institute in Nantucket, MA and Vicenza Institute in Italy.  She continued her education at UC Berkeley where she completed her Master of Architecture degree.  Barbara remains involved in academics as a visiting critic for student projects and has taught undergraduate level design as an adjunct professor in the Department of Art + Architecture at University of San Francisco.  With a commitment to ensuring access to design in all communities, she has volunteered with non-profit organizations and youth mentoring programs throughout her career. Barbara currently serves on the AIASF Housing Committee and San Anselmo Arts Commission.