ESCALA is a built environment design practice specializing in architecture, urban planning, landscape, and interior design. We offer a diverse and talented network of consultants to deliver creative, data-informed, and sustainable solutions across all project scales, from material objects to large scale urban developments. Our work integrates proprietary BIM and Geographic Land Assessment Models, developed using the latest AI-assisted design tools, to enable advanced analysis, visualization, and performance-based decision-making. Through this fusion of design and technology, ESCALA provides industry-leading services in project development, environmental design, and spatial strategy. Driven by a belief in collaboration and innovation, ESCALA partners with experts across disciplines to shape resilient, human-centered environments that respond to both local context and global challenges.
Photo credits: Professor Eric shen 2024
university of southern california
Tareq Alhalwani is an accomplished architect and urban planner With a Master’s in Urban Planning From the University of Southern California Price school of public policy, focusing on the Design of the Built Environment. His expertise extends beyond design, with advanced summer studies in water resources management, seawater desalination, and environmental engineering from IHE Delft Institute and Stanford University. He also holds a Bachelor’s in Architecture from the Southern California Institute of Architecture (SCI-Arc) and brings a rich blend of international experience in architecture, urban planning, and project management, having collaborated with numerous offices and institutes across different countries.
Tareq worked part-time for the City of Los Angeles Planning Department’s Zoning Integration Program (ZIP) team as a Student Professional Worker (SPW). He has contributed to significant projects, including a large-scale resort master plan near Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and various projects across Los Angeles County. His roles have ranged from project coordination to detailed architectural design, with notable achievements such as contributing to the master plan for Namal University in Pakistan, a project designed to support 10,000 students with a campus featuring housing and retail spaces. AN architect accredited by the Saudi Council of Engineers, Tareq has also completed the NCARB’s Architectural Experience Program, underscoring his commitment to professional excellence as he Currently works toward his California architectural license and exams.
With a decade of experience in 3D modeling and fluency across multiple platforms and workflows, Tareq brings technical sophistication to his work. Outside of work, Tareq enjoys playing squash, finding it the perfect way to stay active and unwind. As a delegate to the UNESCO 9th Youth Forum in Paris, he engaged with global leaders on critical issues like climate change and sustainable development, advocating for youth involvement in global solutions.
Tareq is a versatile professional dedicated to creating resilient, innovative, and culturally active urban spaces.
ESCALA 