A polarization splitter rotator (PCR) can include a substrate, a primary through waveguide formed in the substrate having a custom tapered top region over a bottom region, a secondary cross waveguide formed in the substrate having a custom body shape, and a gap between the primary through waveguide and secondary cross waveguide. The custom tapered top region forces the TM mode to convert to a TE mode and cross into the secondary cross waveguide.