Business Details
33 Years
experience
Your Trusted Architectural Partner in the Pacific Northwest
Designs Northwest Architects has been a leader in architectural innovation for over three decades, specializing in resilient and sustainable design solutions. Our firm combines modern and traditional architectural approaches to create structures that respond to both client needs and environmental contexts. With a team of fourteen professionals offering 250+ combined years of experience, we deliver comprehensive services including architectural design, feasibility studies, construction documentation, and interior design. Our expertise spans residential, commercial, civic, and ecclesiastical projects across the Pacific Northwest, from urban centers to rural communities. We prioritize personalized service throughout every project phase, ensuring alignment with client visions while exceeding building code standards.Our commitment to high-performance structures is evident in our resilient designs for tsunami-prone areas, fire-resistant zones, and flood-resistant constructions. We integrate sustainable practices like ICF construction and rammed-earth techniques to minimize environmental impact. Recognized with numerous awards and featured in architectural publications, our work demonstrates technical excellence and creative problem-solving. From initial planning to project completion, we maintain rigorous quality standards while fostering community engagement through collaborative design processes.
Services
Architectural Design
Feasibility Studies
Construction Drawings
Interior Design
3D Modeling
Resilient Design
Sustainable Design
Urban Planning
Space Programming
Construction Administration
Details
- Year established: 1993
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of architectural expertise in resilient design solutions
- Our team brings 250+ combined years of design experience to every project
- We provide personalized service from initial planning through project completion
- We specialize in high-performance structures exceeding building code requirements
- Our award-winning designs combine sustainability with disaster-resistant construction
Services
Architectural Design
Our architectural design services create functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces tailored to client needs and environmental contexts. We combine modern innovation with traditional craftsmanship for residential, commercial, and civic projects. Our team ensures every design balances creativity with practicality while meeting all regulatory requirements.
Resilient Design
Specialized in creating structures that withstand natural disasters including tsunamis, wildfires, and earthquakes. We implement elevated foundations, fire-resistant materials, and seismic reinforcement techniques. Our designs exceed standard building codes to protect investments in high-risk areas.
Sustainable Design
We integrate eco-friendly practices like ICF construction, rammed-earth techniques, and passive house principles. Our sustainable designs minimize environmental impact while maximizing energy efficiency. Solutions include solar panel integration, rainwater harvesting systems, and low-maintenance material selections.
Feasibility Studies
Comprehensive evaluations of project viability including site analysis, zoning regulations, and cost projections. We assess environmental factors, structural requirements, and regulatory compliance to identify potential challenges before construction begins.
Construction Administration
We provide continuous project oversight during construction phases to ensure design integrity and quality control. Our services include contractor coordination, material approvals, and on-site inspections to maintain compliance with design specifications.
People
Dan Nelson
Principal Architect
AIA-certified architect with extensive experience in residential and commercial design. Specializes in creating functional spaces that blend with natural environments. Leads the firm's design vision and client relations.
Tom Rochon
Senior Project Designer
Senior designer with expertise in complex architectural projects. Focuses on innovative solutions for challenging sites while maintaining aesthetic integrity. Mentors junior designers and oversees project timelines.
Matthew Radach
Project Architect
Licensed architect specializing in civic and ecclesiastical projects. Brings technical precision to every design while ensuring alignment with client values and community needs.
Russell Weiser
Project Architect
LEED AP and Ph.D. holder with expertise in sustainable design principles. Integrates advanced environmental research into practical architectural applications for energy-efficient buildings.
Kim Williams
Project Manager
Experienced project manager coordinating design teams and client communications. Ensures timely delivery of projects while maintaining quality standards and budget constraints.
Questions
What architectural styles do you specialize in?
We practice both modern and traditional architecture, tailoring designs to client preferences and environmental contexts while emphasizing functional, sustainable solutions.
Do you handle projects in high-risk areas?
Yes, we specialize in resilient design for tsunami-prone coasts, fire-risk zones, and earthquake-prone regions, creating structures that exceed standard safety requirements.
What services do you offer for commercial clients?
We provide comprehensive commercial design services including space planning, brand integration, and construction documentation for office buildings, retail spaces, and mixed-use developments.
How do you incorporate sustainability into designs?
We use ICF construction, rammed-earth techniques, passive house principles, and solar integration to create energy-efficient buildings that minimize environmental impact.
What areas do you serve?
We work throughout the Pacific Northwest, with completed projects in Washington State's urban centers, coastal communities, and mountain regions.
How do you approach community projects?
We involve clients in the design process to create civic spaces that reflect community values while ensuring functional, aesthetically pleasing results that enhance public environments.
