Your journey home starts here.

Matthew Milton Sr. is a design professional, project manager, community advocate, and founder of Milton 1 Design Studio. With more than two decades of experience in the design and construction industry, Matthew has dedicated his career to creating meaningful spaces that serve people, strengthen communities, and improve the built environment.

A native of Altadena, California, Matthew's passion for design began early and was shaped through years of hands-on experience in architecture, engineering, and construction. He earned a Bachelor of Architecture degree from Woodbury University, where he graduated at the top of his class and received recognition for his thesis project. Prior to Woodbury, he studied Architecture at Pasadena City College, where he was honored with the Pasadena AIA Award for Outstanding Student, and attended the University of Nevada, Reno on a Division I football scholarship.

Throughout his career, Matthew has worked on a wide range of projects, from residential homes and mixed-use developments to educational campuses and community facilities. His experience includes leadership roles with respected design firms, where he managed projects from conceptual design through construction administration, coordinated multidisciplinary teams, and guided clients through complex entitlement and permitting processes. Notable projects include major educational facilities, mixed-use developments, and residential communities throughout Southern California.

In addition to his professional work, Matthew has served as a university instructor, mentoring the next generation of designers and helping students develop their creative and technical skills.

The defining moment that led to the creation of Milton 1 Design Studio came in the aftermath of the Eaton Fire. As both a design professional and a fire victim who personally lost family homes in Altadena, Matthew experienced firsthand the overwhelming challenges families face when trying to rebuild their lives. He saw neighbors, friends, and clients struggling to navigate insurance claims, permitting requirements, agency approvals, and the emotional toll of starting over.

His goal was not only to design homes but to help restore hope, stability, and a sense of home for those affected by disaster.

Today, Milton 1 Design Studio specializes in residential, commercial, and community-focused projects throughout Southern California. Under Matthew's leadership, the firm is built on the principles of integrity, service, technical excellence, and compassion. Every project reflects his belief that great design is about more than buildings — it is about people, families, and the communities they call home.

As an Altadena native, former Division I athlete, educator, and design professional, Matthew continues to use his knowledge, leadership, and faith to serve others, helping clients transform challenges into opportunities and visions into reality.