(650) 255-2655

Trusted Partner for Residential and Commercial Architectural Services in the San Francisco Peninsula

John Matthews Architects offers comprehensive residential and commercial architectural services in the San Francisco Peninsula. Since our founding in 1986 by Principal Jack Matthews, AIA, we have enjoyed collaborating with a diverse clientele, including homeowners, businesses, nonprofits, developers, and local municipalities. Our creative and inclusive approach allows us to craft spaces that reflect our clients' visions while enhancing the community.

Our Diverse Portfolio

Our extensive range of projects showcases a variety of building types, scales, and complexities. We prioritize our clients' needs and aspirations, demonstrating a consistent commitment to quality and collaboration in design and construction. We actively listen and adapt to our clients' schedules, programs, and budgets, ensuring a seamless experience throughout the design process.

Our Services

You can be confident our design-oriented, full-service architectural firm in downtown San Mateo to handle the following:
Single-Family Residential
Multi-Family Residential
Commercial

Leadership Team

John A. Matthews, AIA – Principal
Jack Matthews founded John Matthews Architects in San Mateo and has an extensive background in architectural design. He became a registered architect in California in 1976.
Educational Background
  • Bachelor of Architecture from California State Polytechnic University in San Luis Obispo (1972)
  • One-Year Architecture Program in Florence, Italy (1970-1971)
Work Experience
  • Inspector for the California State Office of Emergency Services (Handled post-earthquake assessments in the City of Oakland on November 17, 1989, and Northridge, Southern California, on January 17, 1994.)
  • Registered Disaster Service Worker
  • Earthquake Damage Assessment Instructor
  • Planning Commissioner, City of San Mateo (1995-2003)
  • City Council Member, City of San Mateo (2003-2015)
  • Mayor, City of San Mateo (2007, 2011)
  • Project Architect with Petersen Architects in Menlo Park (1976-1986)
  • George Cody, Architect in Palo Alto
  • Milton Johnson, Architect in Palo Alto
  • Whisler-Patri Architects in San Francisco
Affiliations
  • Corporate Member of the American Institute of Architects Since 1976
  • Past President of San Mateo County Chapter AIA (1992)
  • Board Member for the AIA California Council (1994-1996)
  • Member of the AIA California Council Legislative Committee (1994-1997)
  • Board Member for the AIA Center for Civic Leadership
  • Former Board Member for Human Investment Project Inc. (including three years as President)
  • Board Member for the Pacific Skyline Council of the Boy Scouts of America