Here’s a concise overview of prominent Seattle architecture firms:
- Olson Kundig (Seattle): A globally recognized firm founded in 1966, known for residential masterpieces, cultural projects (e.g., museums), and innovative commercial designs. They blend rugged Pacific Northwest aesthetics with modern tech—think steel cabins on stilts or the Amazon Spheres’ biophilic vibe. With over 300 staff and 14 owners, they’re big on natural materials and sustainability.
- LMN Architects (Seattle): Established in 1979, LMN excels in public and urban projects—think the Seattle Convention Center or the Ocean Pavilion at the Seattle Aquarium. They’re a transdisciplinary crew (architecture, urban design, interiors) with a knack for community-focused, resilient spaces, often using mass timber and bold structural designs.
- Sellen Construction (Seattle): While primarily a contractor, Sellen’s in-house design influence is huge, especially on complex builds like biotech labs and high-rises. Founded in 1944, they’re employee-owned and often partner with architects to execute sustainable, tech-forward projects.
- Weber Thompson (Seattle): Since 1988, this majority women-owned firm tackles architecture, interiors, and landscape design. They’re known for multifamily housing, office towers, and sustainable builds—LEED APs and JUST certified. Projects like eco-friendly condos showcase their gutsy, user-centric style.
- SHED Architecture & Design (Seattle): A smaller studio with a design-build heritage, SHED specializes in residential and commercial work. They’re all about economy, craft, and high-performance buildings—think metal-clad homes with big windows or preschool play spaces at Pike Place Market.
- Graham Baba Architects (Seattle): Focused on urban interventions and adaptive reuse, they’ve shaped cultural spots like Chophouse Row. Their work spans commercial, residential, and public spaces, emphasizing context and community connection.
- Heliotrope Architects (Seattle): Founded in 1999, they craft low-impact, human-centric designs—custom homes, commercial spaces, and extensions like a 1930s Norwegian captain’s house. They prioritize sustainability and site harmony, earning nods in top design mags.
- Board & Vellum (Seattle): Started in 2011 by Jeff Pelletier, this firm integrates architecture, interiors, and landscape for residential and commercial clients. They’re client advocates, excelling in modern builds and historic renovations, with a Built Green membership.
- Coates Design Architects (Bainbridge Island, near Seattle): Led by Matthew Coates, they’re sustainability champs, designing homes and civic projects with green techniques. Think off-grid retreats or youth centers—practical yet elegant solutions.
- NBBJ (Seattle): A global firm with Seattle roots since 1943, NBBJ designs for tech giants (e.g., Amazon’s HQ), healthcare, and civic spaces like the Odessa Brown Children’s Clinic. They’re innovators in corporate campuses and community-focused architecture.