Business Details
40 Years
experience
Custom Residential Architecture in Seattle
AOME Architects, established in 1986, is a premier custom residential architecture firm based in Seattle, Washington. Founded by four partners and now led by Mark Elster, the firm combines decades of experience with innovative design practices to create homes that reflect clients' unique visions and lifestyles. Utilizing advanced BIM technology, AOME facilitates immersive 3D virtual modeling, enabling clients to visualize their projects before construction begins. The firm emphasizes personalized service, collaborative design processes, and adherence to sustainable practices, earning recognition through awards such as Best of Houzz from 2020-2023 and accolades from Luxe Magazine and the International Property Awards.AOME's dedication to client satisfaction, technical precision, and design excellence has solidified its reputation as a trusted leader in luxury residential architecture across the United States and British Columbia.
Services
Custom Homes
Home Renovations
Home Restoration
Energy-Efficient Design
Feasibility Studies
Details
- Year established: 1986
Highlights and features
- 38 years of experience in custom residential architecture
- Client-driven design using immersive BIMx 3D modeling
- Award-winning firm with 5/5 Houzz ratings 2020-2023
- National recognition from Luxe Magazine and International Property Awards
- Serves luxury clients across the U.S. and British Columbia
What people say
Second-to-none attention to detail
Easiest professional experience ever
Brought our vision to life
Award-winning design expertise
Seamless collaboration throughout process
Services
Custom Homes
AOME Architects specializes in creating bespoke luxury residences that reflect clients' unique lifestyles and aspirations. Through personalized collaboration and advanced BIM technology, the firm transforms concepts into functional, aesthetically striking homes. Their designs prioritize timeless aesthetics, sustainable practices, and cutting-edge innovation, ensuring residences that meet evolving family needs while maintaining market value.
Home Renovations
The firm revitalizes existing homes through seamless renovations that enhance livability and contemporary appeal. AOME's approach balances historical preservation with modern functionalities, integrating energy-efficient solutions and smart technology. Their expertise ensures minimal disruption to current structures while maximizing spatial efficiency and design cohesion for long-term enjoyment.
Home Restoration
Specializing in historic conservation, AOME Architects preserves architectural integrity while modernizing systems for contemporary living. The team meticulously restores original features using authentic materials and techniques, complemented by discreetly integrated innovations. This service caters to clients seeking to maintain historical character alongside enhanced comfort and functionality in heritage properties.
Energy-Efficient Design
AOME incorporates eco-conscious principles into every design phase, creating homes with reduced environmental impact. Their passive design strategies optimize natural light and ventilation, while advanced insulation and renewable energy systems minimize utility costs. The firm stays ahead of green building standards to deliver energy-smart residences that maintain aesthetic sophistication and long-term value.
Feasibility Studies
Before design begins, AOME conducts comprehensive assessments evaluating site potential, zoning regulations, and budget parameters. Their Requisites & Opportunities Brief process identifies challenges and opportunities to ensure realistic project scopes. This strategic approach prevents costly mid-project changes, providing clients with confidence in their investment through data-driven decision-making.
People
Mark Elster
Managing Director, Co-founder
Mark Elster, AOME's founding principal, has led the firm since 1986. With a Master of Architecture from the University of Washington, he specializes in luxury residential design and has received multiple industry awards. His approach emphasizes client collaboration and technical precision, ensuring each project reflects the homeowner's unique vision while maintaining architectural integrity.
Joey Osborne
Principal
Joey Osborne joined AOME in 2024 with nearly a decade of experience in high-end residential architecture. A licensed architect in Washington, he brings expertise in modern design solutions and construction documentation. His work focuses on translating client aspirations into functional, aesthetically compelling spaces that stand the test of time.
Brie Nakamura
Sr. Project Architect
Brie Nakamura serves as Senior Project Architect at AOME, overseeing complex residential projects from concept to completion. With extensive experience in luxury home design, she ensures technical accuracy and design excellence throughout the process. Her attention to detail and client communication skills contribute significantly to the firm's high satisfaction rates.
Michael Krause
Project Manager
Michael Krause joined AOME in 2022, bringing over 30 years of architectural experience. Licensed in Washington since 2004, he specializes in managing large-scale residential and commercial projects. His expertise in navigating regulatory requirements and coordinating multidisciplinary teams ensures smooth project execution for AOME's clients.
Will Beilharz
Chief Designer
Will Beilharz has been AOME's Chief Designer since 1990, contributing to hundreds of residential projects. With over 33 years of experience, he specializes in translating conceptual ideas into detailed construction documents. His deep understanding of both traditional and contemporary design principles ensures architectural excellence across all project types.
Questions
What makes AOME Architects different from other firms?
AOME combines 38+ years of experience with immersive BIM technology, personalized collaboration, and a proven process that ensures your vision becomes reality with minimal surprises.
Do you work on projects outside Seattle?
Yes, we serve clients across the U.S. and British Columbia, including locations like Aspen, Santa Barbara, and Whistler, maintaining consistent quality through virtual collaboration tools.
What budget range do you typically handle?
We specialize in high-end residential projects with budgets starting at $1.5 million, though our portfolio includes homes up to $25 million.
How do you incorporate sustainability into designs?
We integrate passive solar design, advanced insulation, and renewable energy systems while selecting eco-friendly materials to create energy-efficient homes without compromising aesthetics.
Can you help with historic home renovations?
Yes, our team has extensive experience in historic preservation, balancing original character with modern comforts through careful material selection and code-compliant updates.
What technology do you use for design visualization?
We employ BIMx software for interactive 3D modeling, allowing clients to explore their future homes through virtual walkthroughs on mobile devices or VR headsets.
