Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Sustainable Architects in Portland, OR
Waterleaf Architecture has been shaping sustainable, community-focused spaces in the Pacific Northwest since 1952. Our team of licensed architects and designers prioritizes innovative solutions for commercial, residential, transit, and institutional projects, emphasizing seismic resilience, universal access, and environmental stewardship. As a certified B Corporation, we integrate business ethics with design excellence, maintaining LEED-accredited professionals and participating in sustainability coalitions like ZERO Oregon. Our collaborative process begins with listening to clients' needs, then crafting interiors and structures that balance functionality, aesthetics, and long-term viability.With decades of experience in historic preservation and adaptive reuse, we transform existing buildings into modern, code-compliant spaces while preserving community character. Our transit architecture projects demonstrate commitment to public input and livable communities, and our seismic upgrade expertise ensures safety without compromising design integrity. Recognized for Gold-certified sustainable practices by Portland, we continue advancing universal design principles through every project.
Services
Commercial Architecture
Winery Design
Transit Architecture
Higher Education Architecture
Residential Design
Adaptive Reuse
Seismic Upgrades
Details
- Year established: 1952
Highlights and features
- 60+ years of Pacific Northwest architectural expertise
- Certified B Corporation with triple-bottom-line focus
- LEED-accredited professionals on staff
- Community-driven design process with public engagement
- Specialized seismic upgrade and historic preservation knowledge
Associations and certifications
- B Lab
- U.S. Green Building Council
- Sustainability at Work
- ZERO Oregon
Services
Commercial Architecture
We create functional commercial spaces that balance aesthetics and practicality. Our designs prioritize energy efficiency, accessibility, and long-term value while reflecting each business's unique identity. Projects include seismic upgrades and adaptive reuse of historic buildings.
Transit Architecture
Our transit projects integrate modern functionality with community character. We design streetcar systems, bus stations, and rail facilities that emphasize public input, universal access, and environmental sustainability while improving regional connectivity.
Seismic Upgrades
We specialize in structural reinforcement for earthquake resilience. Our engineers address unreinforced masonry, system integration, and code compliance while preserving architectural integrity in both historic and modern buildings.
Adaptive Reuse
Transforming existing structures into modern spaces while maintaining historical elements. Our approach combines code upgrades, sustainability measures, and functional redesigns to extend building lifespans and preserve community heritage.
Higher Education Architecture
We design educational facilities that support learning and research. Our projects include classrooms, labs, residence halls, and performing arts centers that balance institutional needs with student experience and environmental responsibility.
People
Jon Styner
Partner
AIA and LEED-certified architect with decades of Pacific Northwest design experience. Specializes in integrating sustainability with functional architecture for complex institutional projects.
William Bailey
Managing Partner
NCARB-registered architect overseeing firm operations. Focuses on maintaining design excellence while ensuring practical solutions for clients' budgetary and functional requirements.
Ellen Krusi
Associate Partner
Award-winning architect recognized for innovative transit and community projects. Brings technical expertise to seismic upgrades and historic preservation initiatives.
Stephen Lapp
Partner
Design leader with specialization in commercial and residential architecture. Focuses on creating spaces that balance aesthetic appeal with environmental responsibility.
Don Logue
Consulting Architect
Senior advisor with extensive experience in adaptive reuse projects. Provides technical guidance for transforming historic structures into modern functional spaces.
Questions
What architectural services does Waterleaf Architecture offer?
We provide commercial, residential, transit, and institutional architecture with expertise in seismic upgrades, adaptive reuse, and sustainable design.
Are you certified sustainability experts?
Yes, we're a certified B Corporation with 27% LEED-accredited professionals and multiple sustainability awards from Portland.
Do you work outside Oregon?
While based in Portland, we serve the entire Pacific Northwest region including Washington and Idaho.
Can you handle historic building renovations?
Yes, we specialize in historic preservation with extensive experience in seismic upgrades and adaptive reuse projects.
What transit projects have you completed?
We've designed streetcar systems, light rail stations, and transit centers including Portland's Streetcar and TriMet projects.
How do you approach sustainable design?
Our sustainability focus includes energy efficiency, material selection, and design strategies that reduce environmental impact while meeting client needs.
