As one of the first centers of its kind on the West Coast, the Center for Architecture + Design enhances public appreciation for architecture and design both locally and internationally through exhibitions, lectures, tours, film series and other programs that aim to reveal the richness of the design arts. Founded by the American Institute of Architects, San Francisco chapter in 2005, the Center for Architecture + Design celebrates the larger diverse design community and is a collaborative environment where design organizations and affiliates share not only space, but ideas.

The Center for Architecture + Design shares its home with the American Institute of Architects, San Francisco chapter (AIA San Francisco), the United States Green Building Council, Northern California Chapter (USGBC-NCC) and AIGA San Francisco. It is located within a state-of-the-art, 5,700 square foot space in the historic Hallidie Building, designed by Willis Polk in 1917.

Named one of the first LEED-certified spaces open to the public in San Francisco in 2007, the Center aims to educate architects and the general public about the advantages of sustainable design. Visitors are welcome to look for an architect, research current design trends, and learn more about the local Bay Area architecture and design community in the Resource Library.