The collection contains architectural project files, blueprints, professional records, academic papers, portfolios, and biographical files that encompass the professional achievements of Robert Alan German (1957-2004). German, a San Jose State University (SJSU) alumnus, was a prolific Bay Area architect and industrial designer. After graduating from SJSU with a B.S. in Industrial Design and minor in Graphic Design in 1982, German’s career progressed steadily over the years from working as draftsperson for various architectural firms to managing Pyramid Design Group as its Principal Architect. The bulk of the collection (1990-2003) is comprised of blueprints, project files, and administrative records that document German’s process of designing and managing various commercial and residential projects. The 24”x36” blueprints reflect the sundry designs of German’s residential projects and remodels, which incorporated orthodox styles such as American Craftsman, Spanish Revival, Victorian, and Colonial, as well as Modernist constructions reminiscent of those produced by Frank Lloyd Wright and Joseph Eichler. The rest of the collection includes German’s professional records that document the administration of Pyramid Design Group and his academic and personal papers.

Robert Alan German (1957-2004), a San Jose State University alumnus, was a prolific Bay Area architect and industrial designer. German was born on February 20, 1957 in Hawaii. Having finished Vintage High School in Napa, California in 1975, German was accepted to San Jose State University, where he completed his Bachelor of Science in Industrial Design, along with a minor in Graphic Design, in December 1982. During his studies at SJSU, German was introduced to drafting techniques and design theories in Industrial Design courses, such as Model Making, Contemporary Home Design, and Solar Energy Theories, as well as in various art and art history courses.

9.75 Linear feet (9 boxes, 6 flat file drawers)

Copyright has been assigned to the San Jose State University Library Special Collections & Archives. All requests for permission to publish or quote from manuscripts must be submitted in writing to the Director of Special Collections. Permission for publication is given on behalf of the SJSU Special Collections & Archives as the owner of the physical items and is not intended to include or imply permission of the copyright holder, which must also be obtained by the reader. Copyright restrictions also apply to digital reproductions of the original materials. Use of digital files is restricted to research and educational purposes.

The collection is open for research.