Business Details
35 Years
experience
Sustainable Architecture & Design Solutions in Boulder, CO
Founded over 30 years ago, our firm has pioneered a collaborative approach to modern architectural design rooted in sustainability and community engagement. Our team of architects in Boulder, Colorado and Managua, Nicaragua combines deep technical expertise with a philosophy that prioritizes ecological responsibility and human connection to nature. Through projects ranging from private residences to community developments, we integrate site-specific features with innovative design principles to create spaces that inspire and uplift.Our process emphasizes client collaboration, participatory workshops, and meticulous attention to environmental context. With a global portfolio spanning diverse climates and cultures, we deliver solutions that balance functional requirements with artistic vision. Our commitment extends beyond individual projects to advancing sustainable practices industry-wide through knowledge sharing and professional partnerships. We measure success by the lasting positive impact our designs have on occupants and ecosystems alike.
Services
Sustainable Architecture
Green Building Design
Community Development
Site Analysis
Construction Documentation
Interior Design Coordination
International Project Management
Eco-Friendly Renovations
Master Planning
Consultant Coordination
Details
- Year established: 1991
Highlights and features
- We have 30 years of experience in sustainable architectural design across diverse climates
- Our collaborative design process integrates client vision with ecological considerations
- We maintain studios in both Boulder, Colorado and Managua, Nicaragua for regional expertise
- Our projects feature innovative applications of passive solar design and natural materials
- We employ a participatory approach for community development projects
Services
Sustainable Architecture
Our sustainable architecture practice creates energy-efficient buildings that harmonize with natural environments. We employ passive solar design, local materials, and ecological integration techniques to minimize environmental impact while maximizing occupant comfort. Projects undergo rigorous site analysis to optimize orientation and resource use.
Community Development
We design inclusive community spaces through participatory workshops that engage all stakeholders. Our master planning approach balances private and shared spaces while addressing social, economic, and ecological factors to create vibrant, functional developments that serve diverse populations.
Site Analysis
Comprehensive site evaluations examine topography, vegetation, climate patterns, and existing structures. This data informs design decisions that respect natural features while meeting project requirements, ensuring buildings complement rather than disrupt their surroundings through strategic placement and material choices.
Construction Documentation
Detailed technical drawings and specifications guide construction with precision. Our documentation packages coordinate structural, mechanical, and interior elements while maintaining design integrity. We ensure all components meet regulatory standards and align with sustainability goals through rigorous quality control measures.
International Project Management
Managing cross-border projects from our Boulder and Managua studios, we navigate cultural, regulatory, and logistical challenges. Our bilingual team coordinates local contractors and consultants to deliver consistent quality while respecting regional contexts and resource availability across diverse geographic locations.
People
Dominique Gettliffe
Founder and Architect
With 30+ years of architectural experience, Dominique leads design innovation while maintaining technical excellence. His expertise spans sustainable construction methods and international project execution, ensuring each project realizes its full potential through creative problem-solving and meticulous oversight.
Alejandra Baltodano
Architect
Alejandra contributes technical precision and creative vision to projects, specializing in integrating modern design with ecological principles. Her international experience enhances our ability to address diverse climate challenges while maintaining aesthetic integrity and functional efficiency in every design solution.
Jordan Crawford
Architect
Jordan coordinates multidisciplinary teams throughout the design process, ensuring seamless integration of technical requirements with architectural vision. His collaborative approach strengthens communication between clients, consultants, and contractors to deliver cohesive, well-executed projects on schedule.
Lorraine Dority
Studio Manager
As studio operations lead, Lorraine manages business logistics while supporting project teams. Her organizational expertise maintains efficient workflow across international offices, ensuring resources align with project demands and client expectations throughout the design and construction phases.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialize in?
We specialize in sustainable residential design, community development projects, and eco-friendly renovations with expertise in passive solar design and natural material integration.
Do you work on international projects?
Yes, we maintain studios in both Boulder, Colorado and Managua, Nicaragua and have completed projects across North America, Central America, and Europe.
How do you incorporate sustainability into designs?
Our approach includes site-specific orientation, natural material selection, passive climate control strategies, and integration with existing ecosystems to minimize environmental impact.
What is your design process timeline?
Projects typically follow a three-phase process: schematic design (3-6 months), construction documents (6-12 months), and construction administration (duration varies by project size).
Can you handle both residential and commercial projects?
Yes, our portfolio includes private residences, cohousing communities, educational facilities, and commercial developments with equal attention to sustainability principles.
