Design-Build in Practice: Transforming the Hoffman Retreat Center Through Integrated Project Delivery
Join AIA San Francisco for this Project Delivery Salon exploring how a fully integrated design-build model supported the adaptive reuse of the historic Santa Sabina Center in San Rafael—now reimagined as the Hoffman Retreat Center.
Originally constructed in 1939 by the Dominican Sisters, the 26,000-square-foot Tudor-Gothic facility was acquired by the Hoffman Institute in 2025 and underwent a comprehensive renovation led by Singular Builders. Serving as both Architect and Builder, Singular delivered programming, design, and construction through a single, collaborative team—streamlining decision-making while aligning design intent with budget, schedule, and constructability.
The project scope included reconfigured guest and staff accommodations to improve accessibility; upgraded restroom and bathing facilities; renovated classrooms and breakout spaces; ADA-compliant pathways; modernized mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems; and refreshed interiors and landscape. The result is a cohesive retreat environment that honors the property’s historic character while supporting contemporary use and long-term community engagement.
Barbara Shands, Project Executive and Director of Design
Barbara has over 25 years of experience as an architect working on institutional and commercial projects as well as highly detailed contemporary residences. Before joining Singular Builders, she held leadership roles as Founder and Principal of her own practice and Project Architect at a large San Francisco firm. Her passion for design and sustainability informs her approach to leading and overseeing projects from concept through construction. She sees every project as a puzzle and enjoys collaborating with cross-disciplinary teams to reach the intended goals and find innovative solutions.
Mike Tzortzis, President
Whether it’s a building, neighborhood or city, Mike likes to restore places to new beauty that will stand the test of time. He specializes in adaptive reuse and infrastructure projects, but is interested in anything wonderfully complex. Mike has almost 30 years of experience in the construction industry working on educational, commercial, and residential projects. With a degree in civil engineering, he started his career with a geotechnical engineering in Zurich, Switzerland.
5:30PM Doors Open to attendees
6:00PM Presentation Begins
7:00PM Presentation Ends
7:00-8:00PM Networking Hour
Thank you to our Series Sponsor:
Sponsorship Opportunities:
Join AIASF’s Project Delivery Salons to explore cutting-edge strategies shaping today’s built environment. From legal and risk management fundamentals to advanced approaches like Design-Build, Integrated Project Delivery (IPD), BIM, prefabrication, and AI-driven tools, these sessions spotlight the future of project delivery and collaboration.