Bernal Spotlight: Architect Andre Rothblatt

A Conversation with Andre Rothblatt: Architect, San Franciscan, and Community Builder.

In the heart of San Francisco’s eclectic Bernal Heights neighborhood, architect Andre Rothblatt has been leaving his mark on the City’s landscape for decades. A native San Franciscan, Rothblatt’s journey from construction laborer to esteemed architect embodies the spirit of innovation and adaptability that defines his beloved hometown.

Rothblatt’s architectural philosophy is deeply rooted in his intimate knowledge of San Francisco’s diverse neighborhoods. He understands that each district, from the slopes of Bernal Heights to the industrial charm of Dogpatch, requires a unique approach. “There is no ‘one size fits all’ design approach for working in the City,” Rothblatt affirms, emphasizing the importance of recognizing each area’s distinct character, terrain, and context.

But Rothblatt’s impact extends far beyond his architectural designs. As a founding member of Bernal Heights Preservation and the Tompkins Stairway Garden project, he has demonstrated a profound commitment to community engagement and urban renewal. His work on the Tompkins Stairs, transforming a once-blighted area into a vibrant community garden, showcases his belief in the power of architecture and design to uplift neighborhoods.

With recognition from publications like the San Francisco Chronicle and industry peers through the American Institute of Architects, Rothblatt continues to shape the City’s architectural landscape. His career, spanning several decades, offers a unique perspective on San Francisco’s evolving urban fabric and the role of architecture in fostering community connections.

In this interview, we delve into Andre Rothblatt’s experiences, insights, and vision for the future of architecture in San Francisco. From his early days as a laborer to his current status as a respected architect and community advocate, Rothblatt’s story is a testament to the enduring allure and ever-changing nature of the City by the Bay.

The Interview: Bernal Spotlight: Architect Andre Rothblatt

As a native San Franciscan, how has your deep connection to the City influenced your architectural designs and approach?

Being fortunate to have lived in San Francisco throughout my life and witnessed the many chapters of the City’s history has left an indelible mark on my career. As stated, my architectural work reflects the City’s diversity in all senses of the word. There is no “one size fits all” design approach for working in the City; successful projects recognize the differences between each neighborhood and micro region’s character, terrain, and context.

You’ve worn many hats in the industry – from laborer to contractor to architect. How has this diverse experience shaped your architectural practice?

Starting at the bottom as a construction laborer and then eventually getting my contractor’s license was the best education an architect can have. That experience gave me real-life experience of how impractical or difficult some design ideas can be. Still, it also made me aware of the hierarchy of construction jobs and the need to improve awareness and equity for all the workers involved.

Can you share more about your involvement with Bernal Heights Preservation? How does this work intersect with your architectural philosophy?

Bernal Heights Preservation was formed from a loose-knit group of Bernal neighbors fighting to save 111 Manchester St. from demolition; we succeeded in suing the City (with the help of a pro bono attorney) to comply with its own rules and regulations. After that, the group morphed into the Bernal Heights History Project. The group researched and compiled oral history and photos and published the book “Bernal Heights History” by Arcadia Publishing, which is still available on Amazon….The late great architectural critic for the SF Chronicle, Allen Temko, had a great line about architectural history; “Architecture is a dialogue between generations.” I truly believe that old buildings have a story to tell, and the structures we build today will convey our story to future generations.

What inspired you to become a founding member of the Tompkins Stairway Garden, and how does this project reflect your commitment to the community?

Tompkins Stairs in the early 2000s was scary, trashed-filled, choked with weeds, and coated with graffiti and broken glass. One day, my neighbor Vicky Rideout placed a flyer in my mailbox for a neighbor clean-up day. This started a 15-year journey to transform this blighted eyesore into its current condition- a community garden with a multi-colored tile design. I was proud to contribute my design of the tile “mural” for the stairs and then go through the cumbersome approval process; the zig-zag design was based on community input and is inspired by the “Steps of Peace” in the Syrian town Deir Ariyah. The improvements were paid for by grants that our group obtained and with the help of Supervisor Ronan.

Your firm focuses on various styles tailored to different neighborhoods. Can you elaborate on how you adapt your designs to fit the unique character of areas like Bernal Heights or Dogpatch?

Bernal Heights architecture is not monolithic- The north slope is very different from the south slope, the same as the west and east slopes, and St. Mary’s Park has a unique character. Each area has its vernacular, history, feel and look. Bernal Heights is also designated by the San Francisco Planning Department as a SUD (Special Use District), which entails specific planning code requirements for Bernal Heights, such as the “mass reduction” requirements for the size and shape of the building envelope, which requires building designers to chisel off or remove a certain portion of
it is mass or bulk, so this means that successful designs will hopefully have more articulation and be less boxy

As someone who lives and works in San Francisco, how do you see the City’s architectural landscape evolving, and what role do you hope to play?

I have lived through many booms and busts in the City and witnessed the ebbs and flows of changes, but one thing remains constant—the City somehow always evolves and pivots to reinvent itself. I also believe that each person should be the change they seek. As radio personality Scoop Nisker used to say, “If you don’t like the news, go out and make some of your own.”

Various publications and organizations have recognized your work. Is there a particular project you’re most proud of, and why?

I am equally proud of being featured on the front page of the San Francisco Chronicle with a review by architectural critic John King critiquing my unique zig-zag design of a garage/carport on Lombard St. and having my Mission District project featured on the cover of the AIA’s “Small Firms Great Project” magazine, which was special because it represents recognition from my fellow architects and peers.

How has your experience with the American Institute of Architects influenced your professional development and how you run your firm?

I was introduced to the AIA as a student. At that time, they hosted architectural competitions for high school students. Even though I lost, I wanted to be an architect and become a member of the AIA from a young age. The AIA is a great organization that creates a public-focused dialogue on architecture design and the built environment of San Francisco. They offer exhibits, lectures, and tours, among other programs.

You’ve been in the industry for several decades now. What are some of the most significant changes you’ve observed in San Francisco’s architecture and urban planning?

There is one significant change recently adopted by the planning department this year that everyone should know: they have simplified the approval process for many residential projects and increased the building envelope. They reformed the “Neighborhood Notification “process by eliminating the need for public notice for code-complying rear yard additions and expansions. For example, one can get approval for a rear yard deck quickly without public outreach, which would previously require a yearlong + review process.

As a local business owner, what advice would you give aspiring architects or entrepreneurs looking to establish themselves in San Francisco’s competitive market?

I started my practice in my early 30s, working out of my affordable one-bedroom apartment in the inner Sunset district; it took me about four years to get established. So, I advise aspiring architects to start early, keep their overhead to a bare minimum, and be patient.

You’ve completed many projects in Bernal Heights over the years. Is there a specific project that stands out or is special to you?