Business Details
38 Years
experience
Innovative, Sustainable Architecture for Community Growth
Founded in 1988, our firm approaches architecture as a transformative force for community well-being. We specialize in creating spaces that address racial and socio-economic equity, prioritizing sustainable practices and thoughtful design responses to site contexts. Our holistic methodology integrates environmental stewardship with human-centered solutions across housing, infrastructure, and interior environments. With a team over 70% composed of minorities and women, we maintain a 51% minority- and women-owned business structure while advocating for equitable partnerships in every project. Our Just 2.0 certification and 2030 Commitment signatory status demonstrate our accountability in reducing environmental impacts through construction and operational phases. We focus on cost-effective design excellence for public projects while maintaining artistic integrity across affordable housing, water treatment facilities, and civic spaces.Our West Coast expertise spans three decades of seismic strengthening, campus modernization, and public infrastructure development. We believe architecture should create lasting legacies that promote health, preserve planetary well-being, and serve as foundations for community growth. Our documented policies ensure 20-30% utilization of minority-owned consultants while maintaining technical proficiency in laboratory design, transportation hubs, and senior living facilities. This comprehensive approach has earned recognition including AIA Oregon Merit Awards and DJC Building Diversity honors.
Services
Affordable Housing Design
Public Infrastructure Architecture
Interior Environment Design
Water Treatment Facilities
Seismic Strengthening
Campus Modernization
Transportation Hubs
Senior Living Facilities
Laboratory Architecture
Equitable Urban Development
Details
- Year established: 1988
Highlights and features
- 35+ years of West Coast architectural expertise in public infrastructure
- Certified Disadvantaged Business Enterprise with 51% minority-women ownership
- Just 2.0 certified workplace policies promoting equity and transparency
- Pioneers in sustainable design with 2030 Commitment environmental accountability
- Documented 20-30% utilization of minority-owned business consultants
Associations and certifications
- AIA Oregon
- Just Certification 2.0
- 2030 Commitment Signatory
Services
Affordable Housing Design
We create cost-effective, equitable housing solutions that address community needs while maintaining design excellence. Our expertise includes senior living, family-centric units, and permanent supportive housing. Projects incorporate energy-efficient systems and site-responsive design to promote resident well-being and long-term sustainability.
Public Infrastructure
Our infrastructure projects combine functional requirements with environmental responsibility. We design water treatment facilities, transportation hubs, and public campuses that enhance operational efficiency while providing educational opportunities for community engagement through integrated design elements.
Interior Environments
We craft human-centered interior spaces focusing on wellness and comfort. Our approach prioritizes natural elements and sustainable materials to create healthy environments in laboratories, healthcare facilities, and community centers that positively impact occupants' physical and mental well-being.
Seismic Strengthening
We specialize in upgrading existing structures to meet modern seismic standards while preserving architectural integrity. Our solutions incorporate advanced engineering techniques with minimal disruption to building functionality and aesthetic value across various public and private facilities.
Campus Modernization
Our campus revitalization projects integrate contemporary design with existing infrastructure. We enhance functionality through energy-efficient systems, improved accessibility, and multi-use spaces that support evolving institutional needs while maintaining historical context and environmental responsibility.
People
Bill Lanning
Principal
With over three decades of architectural experience, Bill leads strategic visioning and project oversight. His expertise in civic architecture ensures design excellence across complex public infrastructure projects while maintaining community engagement principles.
Jean von Bargen Root
Principal | Director of Sustainability
A LEED AP and certified Project Management Professional, Jean directs sustainability initiatives and environmental accountability programs. She ensures all projects meet rigorous green building standards while advancing the firm's 2030 Commitment goals.
Isaac Johnson
Architect | Senior Project Manager
As a licensed architect, Isaac manages complex housing and infrastructure projects. His technical expertise ensures code compliance and innovative design solutions that balance budget constraints with architectural integrity.
Taryn Wheeler
Director of Portland Housing
Taryn leads housing initiatives with focus on equitable urban development. Her projects address homelessness through dignified, community-integrated affordable housing solutions that combine functionality with artistic expression.
Greg Robley
Principal | Director of Water and Infrastructure
Greg oversees critical infrastructure projects including water treatment facilities and seismic upgrades. His technical leadership ensures operational efficiency in public works while maintaining environmental stewardship principles.
Questions
What architectural services does MWA specialize in?
We specialize in affordable housing, public infrastructure, water treatment facilities, interior environments, seismic strengthening, and transportation hub design.
Is MWA Architects committed to sustainable design?
Yes, we're 2030 Commitment signatories with Just 2.0 certification, prioritizing environmental stewardship in all projects.
What geographic areas do you serve?
We primarily serve Oregon, Washington, and California with three decades of West Coast project experience.
Does MWA prioritize diversity in architectural practice?
As a 51% minority- and women-owned firm, we mandate 20-30% minority-owned consultant participation in all projects.
What certifications distinguish MWA Architects?
We hold AIA Oregon Merit Awards, Just 2.0 workplace certification, and are recognized Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE).
