THE CREATIVE ARCHITECT CASTS aside preconceived notions and questions established concepts. The design process becomes visionary rather than reactionary, and innovation takes the place of conventional interpretations. problems turn into solutions.

One of today's toughest problems is housing that is both livable and affordable. Donald MacDonald Architects have consistently explored the options and found ground-breaking, workable solutions-for projects from three units to hundreds.

A row of homes in San Francisco illustrates this success. Within a 12-wide plot, each has three bedrooms, two baths, a garage, and a small garden. The plan accommodates varied life patterns with multi-purpose rooms and convertible spaces.

Large bay windows whimsically redefine a San Francisco idiom; brightly painted steel frames brace against earthquakes. The facade reflects the neighborhood's mix of residential and light industrial properties.