Business Details
37 Years
experience
Sustainable Architecture & Design Solutions in South Berwick, ME
Founded in 1989, Lassel Architects has dedicated over three decades to delivering sustainable and energy-efficient architectural solutions across New England. Our practice integrates renovation, historic preservation, adaptive reuse, and new construction with a commitment to advancing building science and cutting-edge technology. We prioritize client goals while emphasizing environmental stewardship, creating designs that harmonize with their surroundings and meet rigorous sustainability standards. Our team combines expertise in commercial, residential, institutional, and healthcare projects, ensuring each receives tailored attention to detail. With certifications including LEED AP and Certified Passive House Consultant (CPHC), we lead in energy-efficient design and advocate for carbon-neutral development through the 2030 Challenge.Our collaborative approach fosters innovation, blending creativity with technical precision to address unique design challenges. We serve clients from concept to completion, offering planning, site design, and energy consulting services that optimize functionality and reduce environmental impact. Our portfolio reflects a deep appreciation for New Englands architectural heritage and a forward-thinking vision for sustainable development. Recognized for excellence in design and community engagement, we remain committed to advancing small-firm architecture through advocacy and education. With offices in South Berwick, Maine, we continue to shape spaces that enhance human experience and environmental resilience.
Services
Architecture
Historic Preservation
Site Design
Planning
Sustainable Design
Energy Consulting
Residential Design
Commercial Architecture
Renovation
Multi-Family Housing
Details
- Year established: 1989
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of expertise in sustainable architectural design and historic preservation.
- Our team includes LEED AP and Certified Passive House Consultants for advanced energy efficiency.
- We integrate site-specific planning to minimize environmental impact and enhance functionality.
- Client-centric approach ensures tailored solutions aligned with project goals and budgets.
- Committed to the 2030 Challenge, prioritizing carbon-neutral design and development.
Associations and certifications
- LEED AP
- CPHC
Services
Architecture
Lassel Architects creates energy-efficient, site-responsive buildings that align with client visions and environmental standards. Our designs prioritize functionality, durability, and aesthetic integration with surroundings. We serve residential, commercial, and institutional clients, ensuring projects meet modern sustainability benchmarks while addressing unique spatial needs.
Historic Preservation
We specialize in preserving New Englands architectural legacy through meticulous restoration and adaptive reuse. Our approach balances historical integrity with modern functionality, employing research-driven techniques to extend the life of heritage structures. Services include material analysis, code compliance, and sustainable retrofitting for listed and culturally significant buildings.
Sustainable Design
Sustainable design is central to our practice, focusing on energy efficiency, resource conservation, and occupant well-being. We utilize passive house principles, renewable energy systems, and low-impact materials to reduce carbon footprints. Our team stays at the forefront of green building certifications and technologies to deliver future-ready solutions.
Energy Consulting
Our energy consulting services optimize building performance through passive design strategies and advanced technology integration. We conduct energy modeling, recommend renewable systems, and provide Passive House certification support. The goal is to minimize operational costs and environmental impact while enhancing comfort and resilience.
Site Design
We develop site designs that harmonize buildings with natural ecosystems, addressing topography, climate, and land use. Our holistic approach includes stormwater management, solar orientation, and habitat preservation to create functional, sustainable outdoor spaces that complement architectural projects.
People
Michael W. Lassel
Founder & Principal Emeritus
Founded Lassel Architects in 1989 with expertise in high-performance buildings. Holds a Master of Architecture from Ohio State University. Serves on AIA Maine and New England Regional Council boards. LEED AP certified and advocate for the 2030 Challenge.
Sarah Hourihane
Principal Architect
Licensed architect with diverse experience in residential and commercial projects. Graduated from Roger Williams University. Focuses on client collaboration and sustainable design. Lives in New Hampshire with her family, enjoying outdoor activities.
Michal Kaleta
Project Manager
Certified Passive House Consultant advancing sustainable practices. Originally from Poland, he contributes expertise in energy-efficient design. Enjoys New Englands lakes and outdoor lifestyle with his wife Joanna.
Simon Yates
Associate Principal
New Zealand native with international experience in high-end residential design. Joined Lassel after relocating to Maine. Specializes in integrating client vision with technical precision. Active in local coastal exploration with his family.
Rachel Smith
Office Manager
Manages client communications with a decade of architectural liaison experience. Holds a BA in Communication from the University of New Hampshire. Resides in Maine with her family, passionate about reading and community engagement.
Questions
What architectural services does Lassel Architects offer?
We provide architecture, historic preservation, sustainable design, site planning, and energy consulting for residential, commercial, and institutional projects across New England.
How does Lassel Architects approach sustainability?
Sustainability is core to our practice. We integrate passive design, renewable energy, and low-impact materials, adhering to LEED and Passive House standards to reduce environmental footprints.
Do you work on historic building renovations?
Yes, we specialize in historic preservation, combining modern functionality with heritage conservation through research-driven restoration and adaptive reuse strategies.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve New England, including Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and surrounding regions for both urban and rural projects.
Can you assist with energy-efficient building certifications?
Our team includes LEED AP and CPHC-certified professionals who guide projects through LEED, Passive House, and other sustainability certifications.
