Business Details
24 Years
experience
Portland Commercial Architecture Experts
Brett Schulz is a Portland-based architecture firm dedicated to creating meaningful, community-focused designs. With over two decades of experience since founding in 2002, our practice combines architectural expertise with client collaboration to deliver timeless solutions. We specialize in commercial architecture, multifamily housing, and non-profit/affordable housing projects that prioritize sustainability and urban livability. Our team approaches each opportunity with open minds, avoiding preconceived notions to create spaces that transcend stylistic trends. From vibrant workspaces that inspire productivity to affordable housing developments that address critical community needs, we maintain meticulous attention to detail while solving complex spatial challenges.Our commitment to environmental responsibility is evident in projects like the energy-efficient Gooseberry Trails development and adaptive reuse initiatives that breathe new life into historic structures. By integrating sustainable practices such as Earth Advantage-certified methodologies, we create buildings that serve both current and future generations. Our firm's deep Portland roots - with founder Brett Schulz being a lifelong local - inform our understanding of regional architectural needs and community dynamics. Through partnerships with organizations like Habitat for Humanity, we demonstrate our dedication to social responsibility while maintaining technical excellence in every project we undertake.
Services
Commercial Architecture
Multifamily Housing
Non-Profit Housing
Adaptive Reuse
Single Family Design
Details
- Year established: 2002
Highlights and features
- We offer 20+ years of architectural experience since 2002
- Our team includes licensed architects with Earth Advantage certifications
- We specialize in adaptive reuse of historic structures
- Our designs prioritize sustainable building practices
- We maintain deep local knowledge of Portland's architectural needs
Services
Commercial Architecture
We design engaging commercial spaces that foster connection and community. Our approach creates environments where people enjoy spending time, from restaurants to office spaces. Each project balances aesthetic appeal with functional requirements while maintaining contextual sensitivity to surrounding neighborhoods. Our portfolio includes award-winning developments that enhance urban environments through thoughtful design.
Multifamily Housing
Our multifamily housing solutions address urban density challenges while maintaining livability. We create thoughtfully designed apartment complexes that maximize space efficiency without compromising quality. Projects incorporate sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems while addressing affordability concerns through innovative design approaches that reduce long-term operating costs.
Non-Profit Housing
We specialize in designing affordable housing developments that empower communities. Our work with organizations like Habitat for Humanity creates accessible homeownership opportunities through innovative financing models. Projects like Gooseberry Trails demonstrate our commitment to creating energy-efficient, family-friendly housing that addresses displacement concerns in rapidly changing neighborhoods.
Adaptive Reuse
Our adaptive reuse expertise transforms existing structures into modern functional spaces. We preserve architectural heritage while updating buildings for contemporary needs, as seen in projects like The Heist restaurant conversion. This approach reduces environmental impact while maintaining historical continuity within communities through creative problem-solving and structural innovation.
Single Family Design
We create custom residential designs that reflect individual client needs while integrating with neighborhood character. Our approach balances personal expression with practical considerations, producing homes that are both distinctive and contextually appropriate. Each project emphasizes sustainable building practices and energy-efficient design principles tailored to specific site conditions.
People
Brett Schulz
Founder/Principal Architect
Portland native Brett Schulz founded the firm in 2002 after working at SERA and FFA Architects. Licensed architect with 20+ years experience in commercial and residential design. Graduated from Pratt Institute and brings both East Coast technical rigor and Pacific Northwest environmental consciousness to each project.
Jenny Rodriguez
Architect
Licensed Oregon architect since 2023 with expertise in sustainable housing. Holds Earth Advantage certification and focuses on affordable infill projects. Combines architectural practice with culinary creativity and outdoor pursuits, bringing diverse perspectives to design challenges.
Kristen Barrow
Licensed Architect
Texas native with Northeastern University architecture degrees. Specializes in urban design and equitable spaces. Balances professional expertise with circus arts and outdoor activities, bringing unique spatial understanding to architectural solutions.
Adelaide Holenstein
Architect
Portland-area native with Cal Poly Pomona architecture degree. Focuses on problem-solving across scales from master plans to detailed elements. Combines professional practice with creative nail art, demonstrating attention to detail in all endeavors.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialize in?
We specialize in commercial architecture, multifamily housing, non-profit/affordable housing, adaptive reuse projects, and single-family residential design.
How does your design process work?
Our collaborative process begins with understanding client needs, followed by conceptual design, development, and construction documentation. We maintain open communication throughout all project phases.
Do you work on sustainable building projects?
Yes, we incorporate sustainable practices in all projects, including energy-efficient systems, adaptive reuse of existing structures, and Earth Advantage-certified methodologies.
What geographic areas do you serve?
While based in Portland, we work throughout Oregon and the Pacific Northwest region on diverse architectural projects.
What makes your firm unique?
Our combination of technical expertise, sustainability focus, and deep Portland roots creates distinctive architectural solutions that address both client needs and community benefits.
