Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Sustainable Architecture Solutions in Portland, OR
Founded in 1952, Waterleaf Architecture has dedicated over six decades to crafting innovative, sustainable design solutions across the Pacific Northwest. Our collaborative approach prioritizes listening to clients and integrating their vision with our expertise in commercial, residential, transit, and higher education sectors. As a certified B Corporation since 2016, we uphold rigorous standards for social and environmental responsibility, transparency, and community impact. Our team of LEED-accredited professionals and skilled architects specializes in adaptive reuse, seismic upgrades, and universal design, ensuring projects meet both functional needs and sustainability goals. We actively engage with local communities to advance sustainable practices, reflecting our commitment to a triple bottom line of people, planet, and profit.With a legacy of award-winning projects like the Amaterra Winery and Portland Streetcar, we combine technical precision with creative problem-solving to deliver spaces that resonate with their unique environments. Our culture fosters collaboration, balancing environmental stewardship with professional excellence, while our partnerships with organizations like the U.S. Green Building Council reinforce our leadership in sustainable architecture. From historic renovations to cutting-edge transit infrastructure, we create enduring spaces that enhance communities and prioritize accessibility for future generations.
Services
Sustainable Architecture
Adaptive Reuse
Seismic Upgrades
Interior Design
Transit Infrastructure
Historic Restoration
Universal Design
Community Planning
Winery Architecture
Higher Education Design
Details
- Year established: 1952
Highlights and features
- We have over 60 years of experience in Pacific Northwest architecture.
- Our firm is a certified B Corporation committed to social and environmental impact.
- 27% of our team are LEED-accredited professionals.
- We specialize in adaptive reuse and seismic upgrade projects.
- Our collaborative approach prioritizes client vision and community needs.
Associations and certifications
- B Lab
- U.S. Green Building Council
Services
Sustainable Architecture
We create energy-efficient buildings that minimize environmental impact through LEED-certified practices and locally sourced materials. Our designs prioritize natural lighting, ventilation, and renewable energy integration. Clients benefit from reduced operational costs and spaces that align with their sustainability values.
Adaptive Reuse
Transforming existing structures into functional modern spaces while preserving historical elements. Our approach reduces waste and maintains community heritage. Clients gain cost-effective solutions that meet current building codes and sustainability standards.
Seismic Upgrades
We reinforce buildings to meet modern seismic safety requirements without compromising architectural integrity. Our engineers address structural, mechanical, and finish elements comprehensively. Clients receive enhanced safety and compliance with minimal disruption to existing structures.
Transit Infrastructure
Designing accessible, sustainable transit hubs including light rail stations and bus centers. We incorporate community input to create user-friendly spaces. Clients benefit from improved public transportation networks that enhance urban connectivity and reduce environmental impact.
Winery Architecture
Creating functional, aesthetically pleasing winery spaces that integrate with surrounding landscapes. Our designs optimize production workflows while enhancing visitor experiences. Clients receive spaces that reflect their brand identity and support sustainable viticulture practices.
People
Jon Styner
Partner
AIA and LEED AP BD+C accredited architect with decades of experience in sustainable design across commercial and institutional projects throughout the Pacific Northwest.
William Bailey
Managing Partner
NCARB-registered architect specializing in project management and client relations, with a focus on delivering complex institutional and transit projects on time and budget.
Stephen Lapp
Partner
Architect with extensive expertise in historic preservation and adaptive reuse projects, ensuring modern functionality while maintaining structural heritage.
Ellen Krusi
Associate Partner
Award-winning architect specializing in transit infrastructure design, with notable contributions to Portland's streetcar and light rail expansion projects.
Richard Aanderud
Partner Emeritus
Retired partner with a 40-year legacy in shaping the firm's sustainable design philosophy and mentoring emerging architects across multiple project typologies.
Questions
What architectural services does Waterleaf Architecture specialize in?
We specialize in sustainable commercial, residential, transit, and higher education projects, with expertise in adaptive reuse, seismic upgrades, and universal design.
Is Waterleaf Architecture Architecture a certified B Corporation?
Yes, we became a certified B Corporation in 2016 and renewed our certification in 2018, demonstrating our commitment to social and environmental responsibility.
What geographic areas do you serve?
We primarily serve the Pacific Northwest, including Oregon, Washington, and parts of Northern California.
How does Waterleaf Architecture incorporate sustainability into projects?
We integrate LEED standards, energy-efficient materials, and community-focused design principles to ensure environmental responsibility in every project.
Can you handle historic building renovations?
Yes, we specialize in historic restoration and adaptive reuse projects that preserve architectural integrity while meeting modern sustainability standards.
