Business Details
Sustainable Architectural Design in Boulder, CO
Gettliffe Architecture has spent three decades refining a collaborative modern design approach rooted in inspiration, sustainability, and ecological responsibility. Our Boulder-based team works globally with clients to create structures that harmonize land, light, and climate with human needs. We prioritize community engagement, simplicity in design, and deep connections to nature through sustainable techniques. Our process emphasizes participatory workshops, precise site analysis, and integration of natural elements. With projects ranging from private residences to community developments, we deliver energy-efficient solutions that reduce environmental impact while enhancing human experiences.Our expertise spans international projects requiring cultural sensitivity and technical innovation. We maintain rigorous quality standards through continuous collaboration with consultants and contractors. Our 30-year track record demonstrates commitment to architectural excellence that balances artistic vision with practical functionality. We operate studios in both Boulder, Colorado and Managua, Nicaragua to better serve diverse geographic needs.
Services
Sustainable Architecture
Residential Design
Community Development
Green Building Consultation
International Projects
Site Analysis
Construction Documentation
Interior Design Coordination
Energy Efficiency Planning
Highlights and features
- We have 30 years of experience in sustainable architectural design
- Our collaborative process involves clients throughout the design journey
- We implement passive solar techniques and energy-efficient systems
- Our international team operates across multiple continents
- We integrate natural site features into every project design
Services
Sustainable Architecture
Our sustainable architecture practice integrates ecological principles with modern design to create energy-efficient structures that minimize environmental impact. We employ passive solar techniques, geothermal systems, and locally sourced materials to achieve LEED-certified results. Our approach balances artistic vision with practical functionality, ensuring buildings harmonize with their natural surroundings while meeting occupants' needs.
Residential Design
We specialize in creating custom residential spaces that connect occupants to nature through strategic siting and natural material selection. Our designs optimize natural light, incorporate thermal mass systems, and feature layouts that promote indoor-outdoor living. Each project receives personalized attention to match the client's lifestyle with environmental considerations in mountain, desert, and urban settings.
Community Development
Our community development services focus on creating balanced environments that integrate shared and private spaces. We conduct participatory workshops to ensure stakeholder input shapes master plans for cohousing, cultural centers, and mixed-use developments. Our designs prioritize walkability, green infrastructure, and social interaction while maintaining ecological sensitivity across 40-acre sites to urban infill projects.
International Projects
With studios in Colorado and Nicaragua, we deliver cross-cultural architectural solutions that respect local traditions while implementing modern sustainability practices. Our international experience spans eco-tourism facilities in Central America, desert homes in New Mexico, and community centers in Germany. We navigate diverse regulatory environments and coordinate global supply chains to maintain design integrity across geographic boundaries.
Construction Documentation
Our detailed construction documentation ensures precise realization of design intent through comprehensive CAD drawings and specifications. We coordinate structural, mechanical, and civil engineering documents while maintaining the project's sustainability goals. This phase includes material selection, finish schedules, and system integration to guide contractors through complex building processes for both residential and commercial projects.
People
Dominique Gettliffe
Founder and Architect
Dominique brings deep architectural expertise to every project, leading design initiatives that merge sustainability with artistic vision. With decades of experience in green building practices, he oversees project execution from concept to completion.
Alejandra Baltodano
Architect
Alejandra applies her broad architectural knowledge across all firm projects, focusing on sustainable material selection and energy-efficient systems. Her expertise enhances both residential and international development projects through innovative design solutions.
Jordan Crawford
Architect
Jordan collaborates on design and construction processes, specializing in integrating natural elements with modern architectural forms. He works closely with consultants to ensure technical precision in complex building systems.
Lorraine Dority
Studio Manager
Lorraine oversees studio operations with her diverse background in architectural administration. She coordinates project timelines and client communications while maintaining the firm's organizational efficiency.
Questions
What architectural styles does Gettliffe Architecture specialize in?
We focus on modern sustainable design that integrates with natural environments, using materials and techniques that minimize ecological impact while creating functional living spaces.
Do you work on both residential and commercial projects?
Yes, we handle residential homes, community developments, cultural centers, and international projects requiring sustainable design solutions across various building types.
How do you incorporate sustainability into your designs?
We use passive solar design, geothermal systems, locally sourced materials, and energy-efficient planning to create buildings that reduce environmental impact while enhancing occupant comfort.
Can you work on international architectural projects?
Yes, with studios in Colorado and Nicaragua, we manage international projects requiring cross-cultural sensitivity and sustainable building practices in diverse climates.
What is your design process timeline?
Projects typically follow a three-phase process: schematic design (3-6 months), construction documents (6-12 months), and construction administration (12-24 months) depending on project complexity.
How do you involve clients in the design process?
We use collaborative workshops, regular design reviews, and interactive 3D modeling to ensure client input shapes every stage of the architectural development process.
