Sweet ADU: Framing Review with Owner, Architect, Contractor | Bonus Scenes

ConstructionWood FramingBonus ScenesSweet ADU
Written By Howard Chu

Sharing some cut shots from Sweet ADU - Framing 103.

We love bringing high-end residential design and build expertise to every dream home—no matter the size. To us, great architecture isn’t about budget or luxury materials; it’s about people and consideration. It’s about building trust, creating something meaningful, and distilling design down to what truly matters. When we get that right, we back it up with best-in-class design and service, and connect with like-minded builders who share our commitment to serving others.

A big thank you to our client for allowing us to share her design journey so openly. It takes a team to create something good, I can not emphasize enough how lucky we are to work with such an amazing client, our very own design lead (Lukas Peter), structural engineer (Joseph Liu), and builder (Archwood Builders).

Howard Chu

Howard Chu grew up in Texas, where his appreciation for design and craftsmanship began. After studying architecture at the University of Houston and earning his Master of Architecture from Columbia University in 1994, he moved to New York City to pursue his vision of creating poetic and meaningful spaces.

Howard’s passion for creating timeless, meaningful designs has shaped some of the most extraordinary projects for discerning clients worldwide. His career includes a decade as Director of Design at Masastudio and collaborations with Rick Joy, Thierry Despont, Kelly Wearstler, James Polshek, West Chin, and Stephan Jaklitsch, honing his ability to create designs that reflect clarity, material richness, and cultural resonance.

In 2023, Howard founded ATELIER X DESIGN with Lukas Peter to transform the design experience—guided by the principles of nature, culture, and joy—and build a studio from the ground up. Working with Aesop and private residential clients, the studio combines simplicity, materiality, and a sense of place to create enduring designs. At ATELIER X DESIGN, Howard continues to craft spaces where natural elements, cultural narratives, and joyful experiences converge to inspire and elevate.

Originally from Taiwan, Howard moved to Texas before pursuing architecture at the University of Houston and earning his Master of Architecture from Columbia University in 1994. In 2012, he reconnected with his college sweetheart, and soon after, they married and settled in Montrose/La Crescenta. Embracing a lifestyle rooted in nature and balance, Howard finds inspiration in the quiet beauty of his surroundings, allowing his work to reflect a deeper connection between design, environment, and the human experience.

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