Brooks was exposed to interesting architecture at an early age, by visiting family relatives with homes commissioned by William Wurster, Joseph Esherick and Frank Lloyd Wright. After receiving a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Oregon, he worked for six years with his uncle, Sandy Walker, a notable Bay Area architect. Brooks also spent a couple of years as a sole practitioner, expanding his architectural experience to include construction and real estate development.
In 1989, Brooks co-founded Walker Warner Architects and focused on custom residential design. While the work of the firm continues to evolve, the architecture is always inspired by an effort to design buildings that are site responsive and contextually appropriate.
Brooks is a native San Franciscan resident. He spends most of his free time with his family, including three young children, enjoying outdoor pursuits such as fly-fishing and skiing. He is also involved with the local community and is a board member of the Ploughshares Fund.