Business Details
11 Years
experience
Expert Architectural Design in Portland, OR
Founded in 2015, Thesis Studio approaches every project with a commitment to accessibility, creativity, and client collaboration. Our team of licensed architects and designers believes that elegant solutions exist for every design challenge, regardless of budget or scope. With extensive experience in residential and commercial projects, we specialize in transforming spaces through adaptive re-use, new construction, and interior design. Our process begins with listening to client priorities, then blending technical expertise with artistic vision to create spaces that reflect individual needs.We pride ourselves on transparency, timeliness, and fostering trust through consistent communication. Our work has earned recognition for merging historical elements with modern functionality while maintaining budget integrity. Clients value our holistic approach that combines architectural rigor with a humanistic perspective, ensuring every project becomes a source of lasting pride.
Services
Residential Renovation
Interior Design
New Construction
Commercial Design
ADU Development
Exterior Design
Design Consultation
Project Management
Adaptive Re-Use
Rental Investment Projects
Details
- Year established: 2015
Highlights and features
- We deliver projects on time and within budget with personalized architectural solutions
- Our team combines decades of experience in adaptive re-use and residential design
- We maintain transparent communication throughout every project phase
- Our collaborative approach integrates client vision with professional expertise
- We specialize in preserving historical elements while implementing modern functionality
What people say
On time and budget
Attention to detail
Creative solutions
Collaborative process
Stunning transformations
Services
Residential Renovation
Specializing in residential renovations, we transform existing spaces while preserving architectural character. Our team handles complete gut remodels, kitchen/bathroom upgrades, and structural modifications. Clients benefit from our expertise in integrating modern functionality with historical elements while maintaining strict budget controls.
Interior Design
Our interior design services create cohesive, functional environments tailored to client lifestyles. We handle material selection, spatial planning, and custom fixture design. The team's background in visual merchandising and residential styling ensures spaces that balance aesthetics with practical living requirements.
New Construction
From modern additions to ground-up construction, we deliver innovative new construction solutions. Our process includes site analysis, code compliance, and contractor coordination. Clients receive custom designs that optimize spatial flow while meeting long-term usability needs.
Commercial Design
We create functional commercial environments for retail, office, and hospitality sectors. Services include space planning, ADA compliance, and brand integration. Our approach balances operational efficiency with visually compelling spaces that enhance business objectives.
ADU Development
Specializing in accessory dwelling units, we handle design and permitting for backyard cottages and garage conversions. Our solutions maximize property potential while meeting zoning regulations. Clients receive efficient, stylish living spaces that increase property value.
People
Colin Jensen
Founder & Architect
Licensed architect with 15+ years' experience in residential and commercial design. University of Oregon graduate specializing in adaptive re-use projects. Founded THESIS Studio in 2015 to make quality design accessible to all clients.
Andy Barlow
Head of Interior Design
Interior design expert with background in real estate and visual merchandising. Joined THESIS in 2018, bringing empathetic approach to space styling. Specializes in creating functional, aesthetically pleasing environments tailored to client preferences.
Jen Malmberg
Designer
Residential redesign specialist with fine arts and engineering background. Focuses on interior styling and spatial optimization. Brings artistic perspective to projects while maintaining practical functionality for everyday living requirements.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer?
We provide full-service architectural design including residential renovations, new construction, commercial projects, ADUs, and interior design solutions tailored to client needs.
Do you work with clients outside Portland?
Yes, while based in Portland, we've successfully completed projects remotely for clients in Seattle and other Pacific Northwest locations through digital collaboration tools.
How do you handle project timelines and budgets?
We maintain strict budget controls and deliver projects on schedule through weekly progress reviews, transparent cost tracking, and proactive contractor coordination.
Can you work with existing design ideas?
Absolutely. We welcome client input and refine concepts through collaborative workshops, 3D renderings, and iterative design reviews to ensure final plans match your vision.
What makes your firm different?
Our humanistic approach combines technical expertise with creative problem-solving, treating every project - large or small - with equal dedication to quality and client satisfaction.
