Business Details
Sustainable Architecture and Urban Design Solutions
As a 100% employee-owned firm, we are committed to sustainable placemaking through architecture, urban design, and planning. Our collaborative, multidisciplinary approach prioritizes resilience, equity, and environmental stewardship across sectors like hospitality, housing, and public spaces. With studios in Portland and Oakland, we tackle complex urban challenges while fostering a culture of innovation and continuous learning.Our work reflects a deep understanding of context, from historic renovations to cutting-edge mass timber projects. We believe design should enrich lives, inspire change, and create spaces where communities thrive, backed by decades of experience and a shared ownership model that values every team member's contribution.
Services
Architecture
Urban Design
Planning
Interiors
Sustainability Consulting
Resilience Planning
Reuse and Renovation
Visualization
Workplace Design
Housing Development
Highlights and features
- 100% employee-owned with a collaborative design approach
- Specialized expertise in sustainable architecture and urban planning
- Proven track record in resilient and community-focused projects
- Innovative solutions for complex urban challenges
- Committed to environmental stewardship and social equity
Services
Architecture
We create innovative architectural solutions that balance aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability. Our designs prioritize occupant well-being while minimizing environmental impact through material selection and energy-efficient systems. From corporate offices to cultural spaces, we craft buildings that respond to their unique contexts.
Urban Design
Our urban design practice shapes vibrant, walkable communities through comprehensive master plans. We integrate transportation networks, public spaces, and mixed-use developments to create connected environments that support economic vitality and social interaction across metropolitan areas.
Sustainability Consulting
We provide expert guidance on achieving environmental certifications and reducing carbon footprints. Our consultants analyze building performance, recommend sustainable materials, and implement energy-saving strategies throughout project lifecycles to meet rigorous sustainability standards.
Resilience Planning
We develop strategies to protect communities against climate change impacts and natural disasters. Our approach combines infrastructure improvements, adaptive reuse of existing buildings, and data-driven risk assessments to create long-term resilience frameworks for urban environments.
Reuse and Renovation
We specialize in transforming existing structures through adaptive reuse solutions. Our team assesses structural integrity, updates systems for modern efficiency, and preserves historical elements while repurposing buildings for contemporary uses that extend their functional lifespans.
People
Stuart Colby
Principal, Workplace Studio Director
Stuart leads workplace design initiatives with 25+ years of experience creating innovative office environments that enhance organizational performance through human-centered design strategies.
Kurt Schultz
Principal, Housing Studio Director
Kurt directs affordable housing projects with a focus on equitable urban development, bringing 20+ years of expertise in creating dignified living spaces that address community needs and social challenges.
Lisa Zangerle
Principal, Hospitality Studio Director
Lisa specializes in hospitality architecture with 18+ years of experience designing welcoming spaces that balance aesthetic appeal with operational efficiency for hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
George Hager
Principal
George oversees complex urban projects with 30+ years of experience in large-scale planning, combining technical expertise with community engagement to deliver transformative infrastructure solutions.
Jacob Johnson
Media Contact
Jacob coordinates public relations efforts with 15+ years of experience in architectural communications, ensuring consistent messaging across media platforms while promoting the firm's sustainability initiatives.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer?
We provide full-service architecture including concept design, construction documentation, and project management across commercial, residential, and public sectors.
How do you incorporate sustainability into projects?
We integrate energy-efficient systems, sustainable materials, and passive design strategies while pursuing certifications like LEED and Living Building Challenge standards.
Do you work on historic building renovations?
Yes, we specialize in adaptive reuse projects that preserve historical elements while modernizing infrastructure and functionality for contemporary use.
What geographic areas do you serve?
While based in Portland and Oakland, we work on projects nationwide with recent experience in California, Oregon, and Washington State.
Are you employee-owned?
Yes, we are 100% employee-owned, which fosters shared responsibility and long-term commitment to quality across all projects.
How do you approach community engagement?
We conduct stakeholder workshops and public meetings to ensure designs reflect community needs while balancing technical requirements and sustainability goals.
