How can I submit a design to the Catalog?

If you’re interested in submitting a design, start by reaching out to info@foothillcatalog.org with the subject line “Concept Design Submission.” Our team will get back to you with more information and a design prompt based on your interests.

Does the Foothill Catalog provide design guidelines?

Yes! Our team will be in touch with a sample lot size, target square footage, local architectural style guide, and the community standards and zoning guidelines of Altadena or the Pacific Palisades to help you get started.

What happens after the concept design stage?

If your design is selected to be featured in the Catalog, we’ll proceed with a Standard Design Track agreement.

Standard Design Track
The Designer advances the concept design through Schematic Design (SD) (“the Work”). At that point, the plan is donated to The Foundation via a non-exclusive copyright transfer. The Foundation then assumes the role of Architect of Record (AOR) and is responsible for progressing the Work through Construction Documents (CDs), permitting, and licensing of the plans. TFCF is responsible for all costs associated with permitting and insurance. The original designer is credited as the Designer / Design Architect.

A note on the Independent Design Track —
Since our initial exploration of the Independent Design Track, we have made the decision not to pursue this pathway further at this time. As we continued to evaluate the structure, it became clear that challenges related to responsible control and the homeowner experience would make the track difficult to implement in a way that fully aligns with the Foundation’s goals. We continue to welcome participation in the standard design track - and for architects interested in developing their own pre-approved plans, the County’s pre-approval program is open to all for direct submissions as well.

What is the compensation structure? 

The concept design submission is a pro-bono exercise.

After a plan is pre-approved and published in the Catalog, Standard Track participants are compensated per home design licensed. 

Will designers and other professionals be credited for their contributions?

Absolutely - every contributor will be acknowledged as a designer or design architect on the materials they produce unless requested otherwise. Recognizing the work of architectural professionals, especially those who contributed to the community in a time of need, is a top priority for the Foundation.

Will the Foothill Catalog have errors & omissions insurance?

Yes, the Foothill Catalog Foundation will maintain continuous errors & omissions insurance and general liability insurance as acting Architect of Record.

How can I get involved as an Interior Designer or Landscape Architect?

We are beginning to work with interior designers and landscape architects to develop template packages that can be applied across several Catalog homes.

To get involved in this effort please contact us!

Are you hiring? 

To view our available positions and apply, visit our Careers page.