Following last week’s visit to the Design Trust for Public Space in New York City, we are moving our Meet Your Next Employer series back to Los Angeles this week where we meet Fearon Hay Architects.

Founded in 1998 by Tim Hay and Jeff Fearon, the practice has since grown to operate studios in Los Angeles and Auckland, New Zealand. The firm’s projects, which span the globe, are united by what the studio calls a "commitment to design excellence, a thoughtful consideration of site and place, and a sensitive creativity."

From their studio in Venice Beach, the firm is currently hiring for several positions over on Archinect Jobs. For candidates interested in applying for a position, or anybody interested in learning more about life at an architecture studio, we spoke with the Fearon Hay team for a behind-the-scenes look at their firm.

How did Fearon Hay get started?

Fearon Hay architects is a design-led studio undertaking a broad range of projects in diverse environments. With studios in Auckland and Los Angeles, the firm is engaged in projects on sites around the world.

Tim Hay and Jeff Fearon founded the practice in 1998 as a way to enable their combined involvement in the design and delivery of each project alongside. In 2018 Olivia Williams came on board to head Fearon Hay Los Angeles. Together, they lead an international team of experienced professionals.

How big is your team?

Currently FHLA is a satellite studio with 1 full time member (OW) and primarily remote designers. We will be adding to the team in the near future. 

Is your Los Angeles office an open-plan space, or subdivided?

We enjoy a spacious open-plan creative studio space in Venice Beach.

Describe the area of Los Angeles your office is located in.

In a quiet area of Venice Beach, just off Abbott Kinney.

What is your favorite thing about working in Los Angeles?

The Weather is always pleasant, especially on the westside. We are within walking distance of world-class cafés, restaurants and general amenities that make it an appealing area to work and enjoy. 

Is there much collaboration between your LA and Auckland studios?

Yes, we enjoy regular contact by video conferences, email and phone.

Where is the most popular lunch spot in or around the office?

We are often hanging out at Erewhon and/or the local coffee shop across the street.

What is the most popular design tool in the office?

Our computers! We enjoy meeting and presenting ideas and materials on our long black desk at the front of the office.

Is there a particular typology or sector you enjoy engaging with most?

We specialize in high-end residential but are in discussion around numerous possible projects.

Meet Your Next Employer is one of a number of ongoing weekly series showcasing the opportunities available on our industry-leading job board. Our Job Highlights series looks at intriguing and topical employment opportunities currently available on Archinect Jobs, while our weekly roundups curate job opportunities by location, career level, and job description.