Business Details
27 Years
experience
Your Trusted Seattle Architecture & Interior Design Partner
Since 1999, SKB Architects has been dedicated to crafting sensory-rich environments that connect people, businesses, and communities in meaningful ways. Founded by Shannon Gaffney, Kyle Gaffney, and Brian Collins-Friedrichs, our Seattle-based firm thrives on collaboration and a diverse portfolio where each project informs and inspires the next. We approach design with integrity, passion, and optimism, deeply invested in the process as much as the outcome. Every project is shaped by a respect for history, place, materiality, and community vitality. Our work reflects its people and surroundings, creating spaces that feel authentic, connected, and inherently of their place. With over two decades of experience, we combine technical expertise with creative vision to deliver solutions that balance functionality and aesthetic excellence.Our teams commitment to sustainability and social responsibility ensures every design contributes positively to its environment. We maintain transparency and open communication throughout every project phase, fostering trust and long-term relationships with clients. This dedication to quality and client satisfaction has established us as a respected leader in architectural design. Our extensive experience across urban, residential, hospitality, and workplace sectors demonstrates our ability to adapt to diverse challenges while maintaining a consistent standard of excellence.
Services
Full-Service Architecture
Interior Design
Masterplanning
Feasibility Studies
Construction Administration
Custom Element Design
Code Analysis
Visioning Development
Cost Analysis
Pre-Occupancy Surveys
Details
- Year established: 1999
Highlights and features
- We have over 20 years of experience in architectural design and urban planning.
- Our diverse portfolio demonstrates expertise across residential, commercial, and community projects.
- We prioritize collaboration, sustainability, and respect for local history in every design.
- Our team includes certified professionals with specialized knowledge in technical systems and sustainability.
- We maintain transparent communication and client-focused solutions throughout every project phase.
Services
Full-Service Architecture
Our full-service architecture covers every project phase from concept to completion. We integrate technical precision with creative vision to deliver functional, sustainable spaces. Clients benefit from our collaborative approach, ensuring designs align with their unique needs while respecting historical and environmental contexts.
Interior Design
We create interior environments that balance aesthetics with practicality. Our designs emphasize materiality, lighting, and spatial flow to enhance user experience. From residential to commercial settings, we craft spaces that reflect occupants' identities while optimizing functionality and comfort through custom furniture and finishes.
Masterplanning
Our masterplanning services focus on creating cohesive, future-ready communities. We analyze site potential and zoning regulations to develop strategic plans that enhance urban connectivity. Projects integrate public spaces, transportation networks, and sustainable infrastructure to foster vibrant, adaptable environments for long-term growth.
Feasibility Studies
We conduct comprehensive feasibility studies to evaluate project viability. Our analysis covers code compliance, zoning restrictions, and cost projections. This data-driven approach helps clients make informed decisions early in the process, identifying opportunities and challenges to ensure realistic, achievable outcomes.
Construction Administration
Our construction administration ensures design intent translates to reality. We monitor progress, review contractor submissions, and address field issues throughout implementation. This meticulous oversight maintains quality standards while managing timelines and budgets, guaranteeing final results meet original vision and specifications.
People
Shannon Gaffney
Founding Partner
Co-founder with over 25 years of architectural experience, specializing in urban revitalization projects that balance historical preservation with modern functionality.
Kyle Gaffney
Founding Partner
Brings expertise in sustainable design systems, focusing on energy-efficient building practices and material innovation for both commercial and residential developments.
Steve Olson
Partner
Specializes in large-scale urban projects, with a focus on creating pedestrian-friendly environments that enhance community connectivity and public space utilization.
Adelina Starace
Principal
Leads interior design initiatives, emphasizing human-centered spaces that combine aesthetic appeal with practical functionality across hospitality and workplace sectors.
Craig Knebel
Director of Technical Systems
Manages technical implementation of complex projects, ensuring structural integrity and compliance with evolving building codes and sustainability standards.
Questions
What architectural services does SKB Architects offer?
We provide full-service architecture, interior design, masterplanning, feasibility studies, and construction administration for urban, residential, and commercial projects.
How long has SKB Architects been in business?
Our firm has been creating innovative designs since 1999, combining over two decades of experience with contemporary design approaches.
What areas do you serve?
While based in Seattle, we work on projects across the Pacific Northwest and collaborate with clients nationwide through digital tools.
What makes your firm unique?
We blend historical sensitivity with modern innovation, prioritizing community impact and sustainability in every design solution we create.
How do you approach sustainability?
Our designs incorporate energy-efficient systems, locally sourced materials, and passive design strategies to minimize environmental impact while maintaining aesthetic quality.
Can you handle complex urban projects?
Yes, we specialize in transforming challenging urban sites into functional spaces that enhance cityscapes while respecting existing infrastructure and community needs.
