Business Details
45 Years
experience
Residential and Commercial Architectural Design in McCall, ID
McCall Design & Planning is a small architectural firm based in McCall, Idaho, specializing in residential and light commercial design. Our collaborative approach integrates site-specific factors, client vision, and technical expertise to create functional, climate-responsive spaces. We serve clients locally in Valley and Adams counties, as well as Boise, North Idaho, and Montana. Certified in passive home building, we prioritize energy efficiency, airtight construction, and indoor air quality.Our team combines decades of experience with a commitment to evolving building technologies, offering personalized service from initial concept through construction documentation. We balance creativity with practicality, ensuring projects meet both aesthetic goals and the demands of Idaho's mountain climate.
Services
Residential Design
Commercial Architecture
Passive Home Building
Project Management
Site Assessment
Construction Documentation
Outbuilding Design
Details
- Year established: 1981
Highlights and features
- We offer personalized architectural services tailored to Idaho's unique climate challenges.
- Our team includes a certified passive house professional with expertise in energy-efficient design.
- We maintain a collaborative process involving clients and builders throughout every project phase.
- Our deep local knowledge ensures compliance with McCall, Boise, and North Idaho regulations.
- We provide comprehensive construction documentation to minimize costly changes during building.
Associations and certifications
- Passive House Institute
Services
Residential Design
Creating custom residential spaces that balance aesthetic vision with functional needs. Our designs integrate site topography, climate considerations, and energy efficiency principles. We specialize in mountain modern, traditional cabin, and contemporary styles while maintaining strict adherence to building codes and sustainability standards.
Passive Home Building
Implementing certified passive house principles for optimal energy performance. This includes continuous insulation, airtight envelopes, triple-glazed windows, and heat recovery ventilation systems. Our designs maintain consistent indoor temperatures while reducing energy consumption by up to 90% compared to conventional buildings.
Commercial Architecture
Designing light commercial spaces including hospitality venues, office buildings, and mixed-use developments. We focus on functional layouts that meet business needs while complying with accessibility standards and local zoning requirements. Our approach balances aesthetic appeal with operational efficiency for commercial clients.
Project Management
Providing comprehensive project management from design through construction completion. Services include schedule coordination, budget tracking, builder communication, and on-site quality control. We act as client advocates while maintaining professional relationships with contractors to ensure projects meet design intent and performance goals.
Site Assessment
Conducting detailed property evaluations before purchase to determine development feasibility. Our assessments cover utility access, zoning restrictions, setback requirements, and environmental considerations. We provide clients with clear insights about potential challenges and opportunities associated with specific building sites.
People
Heather Susemihl
Architect
Licensed architect with 15+ years of experience at McCall Design & Planning. Specializes in residential projects and sustainable design. Holds a Master of Architecture degree from the University of Idaho and continues professional development in Chile while maintaining client relationships.
Luke Vannoy
Architect
Certified passive house professional since 2016. Brings expertise in commercial and residential architecture with LEED accreditation. Manages complex projects requiring energy-efficient solutions while balancing practical construction considerations and creative design requirements.
Courtney Snyder
Architect
Residential design specialist with experience in both architectural drafting and full-scale project management. Graduated from the University of Idaho with a Bachelor of Architecture degree. Combines technical precision with creative problem-solving for client-focused solutions.
Andrew Laidlaw
Founder
Established the firm in 1981 and practiced for 33 years before retiring in 2014. Developed deep expertise in mountain climate construction challenges that continues to inform the firm's approach. Maintains community connections while pursuing personal adventures in Idaho's wilderness areas.
Questions
What types of projects does McCall Design & Planning specialize in?
We focus on residential design (new construction, remodels, outbuildings) and light commercial projects including hotels, multifamily housing, and mixed-use developments.
Do you work outside of McCall, Idaho?
Yes, while we're based in McCall, we complete projects throughout Valley and Adams counties, Boise, North Idaho, and Montana.
What is passive home building certification?
Passive home certification ensures buildings meet rigorous energy efficiency standards through airtight construction, continuous insulation, and balanced ventilation systems.
Why hire a licensed architect in Idaho?
Licensed architects provide code-compliant, fully detailed construction documents that save money long-term through better energy performance and fewer construction errors.
What does your project management service include?
We offer site visits, progress reports, and direct builder support, particularly for out-of-state clients needing on-site oversight during construction.