News & Blog //

Explore insights from Ojanen Chiou Architects on residential design, architecture, construction, sustainability, building technology, and California housing and planning regulations. We share practical information for property owners considering new homes, additions, renovations, ADUs, and other development opportunities throughout the San Francisco Bay Area.

Turning Your Home Inside Out: Expanding Living Beyond Four Walls

Living in the Bay Area means experiencing a landscape where city and nature are always in dialogue. Our region’s distinctive climate and geography have inspired generations of architects to blur the boundaries between indoors and out—creating homes that feel open, light-filled, and deeply connected to their surroundings...

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SB 423: Streamlining Housing Approvals in the Bay Area

Senate Bill 423 expands streamlined, ministerial approval for qualifying housing projects in California, including many Bay Area jurisdictions. The law can reduce discretionary review for eligible projects that meet applicable housing, affordability, site, and development requirements.

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California SB 9: Exploring the Potential of Your Bay Area Property

California SB 9 creates new options for qualifying Bay Area properties, including two-unit development and urban lot splits. The law provides a streamlined, ministerial approval process that can create opportunities for additional housing and flexible multigenerational living.

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