John J Son is the founder of Studio Basho, a design studio recognized for its innovative, site-specific, and client-focused projects. With a B.A. in Cultural Anthropology, John’s early exploration of human behavior and societal contexts led him to discover a passion for architecture, inspiring him to pursue a Master’s in Architecture from the Harvard Graduate School of Design.  

John’s diverse background enables him to create spaces that are not only functional but also thoughtfully tailored to each client’s needs. His career has been marked by leadership in design, contributing to a range of award-winning projects, including residences, commercial spaces, schools, labs, museums, retail environments, exhibits, multifamily affordable housing, and mission-driven volunteer projects. He has worked at renowned architecture firms such as SOM, Gensler, Studio O+A, Leddy Maytum Stacy Architects, and The Miller Hull Partnership. Additionally, he has served as a critic at institutions such as the California College of the Arts, the Academy of Art University, and Harvard University.  

Having grown up in Hawaii, San Francisco, and Boston, John now lives near the coast of San Diego, California. He has also lived and worked in New York City and Los Angeles. Experiencing these very different places firsthand has shaped how he thinks about design, space, and daily life, and has given him a lasting appreciation for how people connect to their surroundings and to the environments they inhabit.  

Outside of his professional life, he is a lifelong surfer who finds inspiration and balance in the natural world, exploring coastlines near and far.

John J Son

Bashō, affectionately known as Bob, was a remarkable companion who accompanied John for 14 years, spanning the journey from his architectural education to his professional career. He was named after Matsuo Basho, the founder of the haiku poetry style, whose philosophy has been a source of inspiration in both life and design.

Much like Bashō’s poetry, which begins with a profound connection to his surroundings, the design process is rooted in understanding context—whether it’s the site, culture, or the needs of its users. His work serves as a reminder to create spaces that feel authentic, harmonize with their environment, and capture the essence of their setting.