We had the good fortune of connecting with Michael Robinson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Michael, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
We felt that there is always a need for thoughtful design and planning, especially in the underserved African American community here in San Diego and in the state of California.

What should our readers know about your business?
Robi4 Architecture & Planning Inc is a professional architecture firm with varied experience in all phases of building design including architecture, planning, construction contract oversight, construction management, facilities management, master planning, site development, and feasibility study preparation. Our journey has not been an easy one, but we have always maintained a “client empowerment attitude” in our client relationships. Establishing good relationships and doing good work is our mantra. The “client empowerment attitude” is a stalwart of our business model. We have always ventured to go straight into difficult situations and to continuously learn from and strive in those situations. The greatest lesson we have learned is to know that, the client is the most important entity of the Architect I Owner I Contractor triangle. Without a client there is no need for an architect. I would like for the world to know that we are here and we are happy to work with clients to help them achieve their dreams and goals in the built environment.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Sunday would start with church at The Rock Church in Point Loma. We would then have lunch at Point Loma Seafoods

Monday, we would visit Sunset Cliffs to view the ocean and then eat at one of the local restaurants, maybe Stone Brewing World Bistro

Tuesday, we will take a trip to La Jolla and enjoy breakfast at the Living Room Lounge

Wednesday, we would venture downtown to tour the Gaslamp Quarter and have a meal at one of my favorite locations, The Crab Hut

Thursday, we would visit the Hillcrest neighborhood and enjoy Louisiana cuisine at Louisiana Purchase

Friday, we would visit the north county and have a meal at Understory

Saturday, we can finalize our visit to the city of San Diego with a trip to Bowlegged B.B.Q. for great homecooked cuisine

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
In my life there are two great architects who inspired me on my journey. One is L. Quincy Jackson, Sr., AIA, the founder of the Architectural Engineering program at Tennessee State University in Nashville, Tennessee and the other is the illustrious southern California architect Paul Revere Williams, FAIA. I was particularly inspired by his book, “New Homes for Today.”  Lastly, I want to include my wife and partner, Carolyn D. Robinson, who always provides needed encouragement, love, and support in my life.

Website: www.robi4.com

Linkedin: Michael D. Robinson, AIA I NCARB I NOMA

Image Credits
All photos are the property of Robi4 Architecture & Planning Inc.

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