Business Details
38 Years
experience
Sustainable Architecture for Healthier Communities
Mwa Architects has been dedicated to serving communities through innovative architectural design since 1988. Our firm prioritizes sustainability, equity, and community impact, creating spaces that promote health and well-being. With over 35 years of experience, we specialize in housing, infrastructure, and interior projects that respond thoughtfully to environmental and social contexts. Our team values diverse perspectives, with 70% of staff identifying as minorities and/or women, ensuring inclusive design solutions. As signatories of the 2030 Commitment, we actively reduce greenhouse gas emissions in construction and building operations. Our Just 2.0 Certification reflects our commitment to equitable business practices, transparency, and social justice.We advocate for racial and socio-economic equity by designing spaces that foster connection and growth. Certified as a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) in Oregon, Washington, and California, we prioritize partnerships with minority- and women-owned businesses. Our legacy of beautiful, sustainable architecture demonstrates our mission to positively impact the world through design. This philosophy has earned recognition including AIA Oregon Merit Awards and DJC Building Diversity Awards.
Services
Housing
Infrastructure
Interiors
Affordable Housing
Sustainable Design
Details
- Year established: 1988
Highlights and features
- We have over 35 years of experience in sustainable architecture.
- Our team includes 70% minorities and/or women, ensuring diverse perspectives.
- Certified Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) in Oregon, Washington, and California.
- Committed to the 2030 Challenge for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
- Achieved Just 2.0 Certification for equitable business practices.
Associations and certifications
- 2030 Commitment
- Just Certification
Services
Housing
Mwa Architects creates affordable housing solutions that prioritize community well-being and environmental sustainability. Our projects include multi-family apartments and senior living facilities designed to foster social connection. We integrate energy-efficient systems and materials to reduce long-term operational costs while ensuring accessibility for diverse populations.
Infrastructure
We design resilient infrastructure projects including water treatment facilities, transportation hubs, and civic spaces. Our approach combines functional efficiency with sustainable materials to serve public needs for decades. Recent projects include biosolids digesters and stormwater management systems that enhance urban resilience to climate change.
Interiors
Our interior design services focus on creating healthy, productive environments for commercial and institutional spaces. We emphasize natural lighting, air quality, and biophilic design principles to improve occupant well-being. Projects range from office renovations to healthcare facilities that balance aesthetics with practical functionality.
Sustainable Design
We integrate LEED-certified practices and net-zero energy strategies across all project types. Our sustainability consultants develop tailored solutions for energy efficiency, water conservation, and material selection. This includes Just Certification compliance and alignment with the 2030 Challenge for carbon reduction targets.
Affordable Housing
We specialize in designing dignified, cost-effective housing for underserved populations. Our projects incorporate universal design principles and community amenities to promote social equity. Recent developments include mixed-use buildings with retail spaces and supportive services for residents.
People
Bill Lanning
Principal
Bill Lanning leads Mwa Architects with a focus on equitable design solutions. He champions community engagement in the design process and has overseen numerous award-winning housing projects that address social equity and sustainability.
Greg Robley
Principal | Director of Water and Infrastructure
Greg Robley specializes in water infrastructure projects, bringing technical expertise to complex public works. He manages large-scale facilities like biosolids digesters while maintaining MWA's commitment to environmental stewardship and community health.
Jean von Bargen Root
Principal | Director of Sustainability
Jean von Bargen Root leads MWA's sustainability initiatives as a LEED AP and PMP-certified professional. She develops climate-resilient design strategies and ensures compliance with the 2030 Commitment and Just Certification standards.
Alan Armstrong
Director of Portland Infrastructure | Senior Associate
Alan Armstrong oversees infrastructure projects in Portland with a focus on transportation and public spaces. His work emphasizes accessible design and sustainable materials to create lasting community assets across the Pacific Northwest.
Isaac Johnson
Architect | Senior Project Manager
Isaac Johnson manages complex architectural projects while advocating for diversity in design. As an AIA-certified architect, he ensures technical excellence in housing developments that prioritize both environmental sustainability and social equity.
Questions
What services does MWA Architects specialize in?
We specialize in housing, infrastructure, and interior architecture with a focus on sustainability and community impact.
How long has MWA Architects been in business?
We have over 35 years of experience since our founding in 1988.
Does MWA Architects prioritize sustainable design?
Yes, we are signatories of the 2030 Commitment and integrate sustainable practices in all projects.
Is MWA Architects a certified Disadvantaged Business Enterprise?
Yes, we are certified as a DBE in Oregon, Washington, and California.
How does MWA Architects support diversity?
Our team is 70% minorities and/or women, and we prioritize partnerships with minority-owned businesses.
