Business Details
32 Years
experience
Seattle Residential Architecture & Sustainable Design Experts
Vandervort Architects has specialized in residential architecture in the Pacific Northwest since 1994. Our team brings over 30 years of combined experience in custom home design, multifamily housing, and sustainable architecture. We prioritize site-specific solutions that harmonize with natural environments while reflecting client needs. Our process integrates LEED-certified professionals and advanced BIM technology to deliver durable, energy-efficient structures. With deep familiarity in local building traditions and modern code requirements, we create designs that feel organically connected to their surroundings.Our commitment to environmental stewardship is demonstrated through award-winning net-zero projects like zHome. We maintain collaborative relationships with contractors to ensure projects meet budgetary and functional goals while preserving design integrity. Our work spans urban Seattle to remote San Juan Island locations, addressing diverse climatic and regulatory challenges. Recognized in regional and national publications, we combine technical expertise with artistic sensibility to produce architecture that evolves naturally from site analysis to completed construction.
Services
Custom Homes
Multifamily Housing
Sustainable Design
Remodels
Commercial Projects
Details
- Year established: 1994
Highlights and features
- 30+ years of Pacific Northwest residential architecture experience
- Collaborative process with LEED-certified professionals
- Specialized knowledge of local building traditions and codes
- Award-winning sustainable design expertise including net-zero projects
- Proven track record with complex waterfront and urban developments
Associations and certifications
- LEED
What people say
Amazing design
Great to work with
Creative solutions
On budget
Durable construction
Services
Custom Residential Homes
We create one-of-a-kind custom homes tailored to specific sites and client lifestyles. Our designs respond to Pacific Northwest environmental conditions while incorporating sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems. Each project receives personalized attention from concept through construction documentation.
Multifamily Housing
Our multifamily developments combine modern living requirements with environmental responsibility. We design for density optimization while maintaining connection to natural surroundings, meeting market demands for sustainable urban living solutions across the Pacific Northwest.
Sustainable Architecture
We integrate LEED-certified practices and net-zero energy strategies into all project types. Our approach balances environmental responsibility with functional design through material selection, passive solar strategies, and advanced building systems tailored to specific climate conditions.
Remodel Projects
We transform existing structures through thoughtful renovations that enhance functionality while preserving architectural character. Our process addresses code compliance, energy efficiency upgrades, and spatial reconfiguration to meet modern living requirements while respecting original design intent.
Commercial Architecture
We design commercial spaces that balance functionality with environmental integration. Our approach creates distinctive buildings for offices, retail, and community spaces that respond to site conditions while meeting business operational requirements through innovative spatial solutions.
People
David Vandervort
Principal Architect
David leads Vandervort Architects with 30+ years of residential and commercial architecture experience. He graduated from University of Washington in 1981 and became licensed in Washington State in 1993. His work focuses on site-sensitive design that integrates with Pacific Northwest environments.
Mike Butrim
Associate Architect
Mike contributes 25+ years of Pacific Northwest design experience. Licensed in Washington and California, he specializes in custom single-family homes and environmentally responsive architecture. He graduated from University of Washington with a Master's in Architecture in 1988.
Mark Wierenga
Associate Architect
Mark has been with Vandervort since 1995, bringing expertise in residential construction and multi-family housing. A Washington State University graduate (1992), he focuses on technical detailing and resource-efficient design solutions for diverse project types.
Brian O'Connor
Designer
Brian returned to Vandervort in 2015 after gaining experience with large-scale commercial projects. He holds a Master's from Washington State University (2009) and contributes diverse design perspectives to residential projects while maintaining connection to Pacific Northwest architectural traditions.
Laura Lundgren
Architectural Designer
Laura joined Vandervort in 2017 after graduating from University of Washington with a Bachelor's in Architectural Studies. She focuses on translating client visions into site-specific designs while working toward professional licensure in Washington State.
Questions
Do you specialize in specific architectural styles?
We don't follow specific styles but create unique designs that respond to each site's characteristics and client needs while respecting Pacific Northwest environmental conditions.
Can you work with existing home designs?
Yes, we have extensive experience with remodels and additions that enhance existing structures while maintaining architectural integrity and improving functionality.
How do you incorporate sustainability?
We integrate LEED-certified practices, net-zero energy strategies, and environmentally responsible materials tailored to each project's specific conditions and client sustainability goals.
What geographic areas do you serve?
We primarily work in the greater Seattle area, Kitsap Peninsula, Eastside, and San Juan Islands, with completed projects across Washington and select locations in other states.
Do you handle commercial projects?
While our focus is residential, we occasionally design commercial buildings including offices, restaurants, and community centers that maintain our environmental design principles.
How does your design process work?
Our process begins with a client questionnaire, followed by site analysis, conceptual design, and construction documentation. We maintain collaboration throughout with regular client and contractor coordination.
