Business Details
Custom Architectural Design Services
At De Forest Architects, we believe exceptional design begins with understanding our clients' unique needs and aspirations. Our collaborative approach prioritizes active client participation throughout the design process, utilizing hands-on workshops, 3D visualization tools, and virtual reality to create meaningful spaces. With studios in Seattle and Lake Tahoe, our team brings decades of combined experience in residential, commercial, and public architecture. We emphasize sustainable practices while maintaining a strong commitment to craftsmanship and innovation. Our principals have worked on diverse projects across the United States, from modern remodels to custom homes and community spaces.We differentiate ourselves through our client-inspired methodology that transforms the design process into an engaging, educational experience. Our technical expertise ensures projects are delivered on time and within budget, with construction documents praised for their exceptional quality. This balanced approach of creativity, technology, and practical execution has earned us recognition in publications like The New York Times and Houzz.
Services
Residential Design
Commercial Architecture
Sustainable Design
3D Visualization
Custom Home Building
Highlights and features
- We offer collaborative, client-inspired design processes with hands-on workshops
- Our team utilizes advanced 3D visualization and virtual reality tools
- We work on diverse projects across the United States
- Our principals have decades of combined architectural experience
- We prioritize sustainable design practices in all our projects
Associations and certifications
- AIA
- LEED AP
What people say
Fantastic creative collaboration
High-quality work
Enjoyable design process
Impressive creativity
Well-organized team
Services
Residential Design
We create custom residential spaces that reflect each client's unique lifestyle and aesthetic preferences. Our approach combines innovative design with practical functionality, ensuring homes that are both beautiful and livable. From modern remodels to new construction, our team works closely with clients to develop spaces that enhance their quality of life through thoughtful spatial planning and material selection.
Commercial Architecture
Our commercial architecture services focus on creating functional, inspiring spaces that support business objectives. We design environments that enhance productivity while maintaining aesthetic appeal, working on projects ranging from office spaces to retail environments. Our team understands the unique requirements of commercial projects and delivers solutions that balance form, function, and budgetary considerations.
Sustainable Design
We integrate sustainable practices into all our projects to minimize environmental impact while maximizing efficiency. Our LEED-accredited professionals employ energy-efficient systems and eco-friendly materials to create buildings that are both environmentally responsible and cost-effective. This approach ensures our designs meet current sustainability standards while maintaining architectural integrity.
3D Visualization
Our advanced 3D visualization tools help clients better understand design concepts through immersive digital experiences. We use virtual reality and digital modeling to explore spatial relationships and make informed design decisions. This technology enables clients to experience their future spaces before construction begins, ensuring alignment with their vision.
Custom Home Building
We specialize in creating one-of-a-kind custom homes tailored to each client's specific needs and preferences. Our process emphasizes collaboration from concept through completion, ensuring every detail reflects the homeowner's vision. We work with trusted contractors to deliver high-quality results that meet both aesthetic and functional requirements.
People
John DeForest
Principal
AIA Principal with degrees from Yale and Harvard's Graduate School of Design. Founded De Forest Architects with a vision for collaborative design. Has over 30 years of architectural experience across residential and commercial projects.
Brett Smith
Principal
AIA Principal managing the California studio. Former carpenter and construction superintendent with 20 years of architectural experience. Specializes in bringing practical construction knowledge to design solutions.
Meredith Kelly
Associate
LEED AP Associate with experience in residential, industrial, and commercial projects. Focuses on sustainable modern design and material selection. Holds a Master of Architecture from the University of Washington.
Mark Slivka
Associate
LEED AP Associate with experience in custom residential and commercial projects. Specializes in construction phase coordination and historic building renovations. Graduated from Wentworth Institute of Technology.
Michael Knowles
Associate
Licensed architect with 25+ years of experience in residential and commercial projects. Emphasizes attention to detail and craftsmanship. Holds a Bachelor of Architecture from Washington State University.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer?
We provide residential and commercial design, sustainable architecture, 3D visualization, and custom home building services across the United States.
How do you involve clients in the design process?
We use hands-on workshops, 3D modeling, and virtual reality tools to ensure active client participation throughout the design journey.
Do you work on projects outside the Seattle area?
Yes, we work on projects across the United States using technology to maintain collaboration regardless of location.
What makes your firm different from other architects?
Our client-inspired approach combines technical expertise with interactive design tools and a focus on creating meaningful spaces.
Are sustainable design options available?
Yes, our LEED-accredited professionals integrate eco-friendly practices and energy-efficient systems into all our projects.
How do you handle project timelines and budgets?
We establish clear plans aligned with client goals and maintain regular check-ins to ensure projects stay on schedule and within budget.
