Greg Mottola
Partner & CEO, FAIA, MRAIC, NCARB“I’ve always felt that great architecture comes from a deep understanding of place and the people you’re designing for. Balancing rigor and intuition—being curious, asking questions, and striving to create spaces with emotional power—is an approach deeply ingrained in the work Walker Warner does.”
For more than three decades, Greg has shaped a human-centered vision of architectural leadership—one grounded in empathy, curiosity, and the belief that great design begins with listening. As a former Partner at Bohlin Cywinski Jackson, he views architecture not merely as the act of building, but as a means of forging deep, lasting connections between people and place.
Trips to New York City as a child sparked his fascination with the built environment and the quiet power of everyday experiences. That sense of wonder continues to inform his work, which is rooted in context and guided by the idea that the most enduring spaces are those that move us—functionally, emotionally, and over time.
Connection Through Design
East Coast Beginnings
I was born in New York City and grew up in the suburbs of northern New Jersey as it was experiencing tremendous growth and development in the 1970s. As a child, I spent my days exploring these places around my childhood home—many of which were construction sites where new homes were being built.
School Days
My fascination with urban landscapes continued into my college years, leading me to Carnegie Mellon University. I was attracted to Pittsburgh’s size, history, and grit. While at school, I experienced architecture in a global sense, laying the foundation for my burgeoning career.
On the Boards
During college, I started as a summer intern at Bohlin Cywinski Jackson and went on to design a number of interesting projects, including at my alma mater. I worked on several of them on the campus as a professional after I graduated. It was an incredible experience to contribute to the place where I went to school.
Giving Back
Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working on a wide range of public-facing projects. In 1994, the year I became a licensed architect, I led the historic renovation of the Harris Theater for the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust. Later on, I led the design of the Newport Beach Civic Center, which included the city hall and several additional buildings, along with a large team of talented architects.
Stillwater Vista
My work at BCJ brought me to California in 2003, where I joined the San Francisco office as a Principal when I turned 35. There I led projects across multiple typologies, including some extraordinary private residences, such as Stillwater Vista in Carmel. The property consists of a main residence, guesthouse, and a pool house, all tucked into a sloping hillside along the Pacific coast.
Building Together
To find success as an architect, you have to be an optimist, because we’re projecting a future that doesn’t exist yet. Clients put their faith in us to help establish a vision, and it’s up to us to bring those visions to life.
Sense of Wonder
Peter Bohlin was an incredible mentor to me. He’s a formidable character—soft spoken and kind, but also tough. I’ve learned a great deal from him and always admired his excitement, energy, and endless curiosity.
Sweeping Vineyard Views
In the spring of 2025, we completed a new tasting room for Auteur Russian River—one of my final projects with BCJ. It was the perfect endcap to 35 years with the firm.
All in the Family
Time with family has always been important to me. We enjoy traveling together and getting outside with our two dogs, Maisy and Sadie. We’ve called San Francisco home for the past 22+ years.
Enduring Inspiration
The late Bernie Cywinski taught me the importance of nourishing my soul outside of architecture, and photography and travel have helped me do just that. They keep me inspired, curious, and open to new horizons.
