Business Details
41 Years
experience
Trusted Architects in Kirkland, WA
Merrick Lentz Architect has been delivering architectural and planning services since 1985, combining decades of experience with a commitment to professional excellence. Our firm approaches every project with meticulous attention to design, functionality, and client-specific requirements, ensuring results that align with both programmatic and budgetary goals. Licensed in 12 states, we serve diverse sectors including commercial, residential, religious, and nonprofit projects while maintaining core values of service, integrity, and excellence.Our team of licensed architects brings specialized expertise across construction types and project phases, fostering long-term client relationships built on trust and proven results. With a national reach and western US focus, we prioritize deep understanding of client needs to create impactful architectural solutions.
Services
Architectural Design
Urban Planning
Commercial Projects
Residential Development
Nonprofit Facilities
Religious Buildings
Tenant Improvements
Hospitality Architecture
Retail Spaces
Medical Facilities
Details
- Year established: 1985
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years of architectural experience across 12 licensed states
- Our team holds expertise in 10+ building typologies including commercial and residential
- We maintain strict adherence to client budgetary and programmatic requirements
- We provide nationwide service with localized market knowledge
- Our principals have managed complex projects from concept through construction
Services
Architectural Design
Our architectural design service creates functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces tailored to client needs. We handle projects from initial concept through construction documentation, ensuring compliance with local regulations and sustainability standards. Our team collaborates closely with clients to develop innovative solutions that balance creativity with practicality for commercial, residential, and institutional buildings.
Urban Planning
We provide comprehensive urban planning services for mixed-use developments and community spaces. Our approach integrates zoning requirements, traffic flow analysis, and environmental considerations to create sustainable urban environments. This service includes master planning, site analysis, and coordination with municipal authorities to ensure projects meet both client objectives and public needs.
Commercial Projects
Our commercial architecture service specializes in retail spaces, office buildings, and mixed-use developments. We focus on creating functional layouts that enhance customer experience while optimizing operational efficiency. The service includes space planning, material selection, and coordination with engineers to deliver code-compliant commercial spaces that align with brand identity.
Residential Development
We design custom residential spaces that combine aesthetic appeal with practical living requirements. This service covers single-family homes, multi-family developments, and luxury residences. Our team addresses structural integrity, energy efficiency, and interior functionality while maintaining compliance with local building codes and neighborhood design guidelines.
Nonprofit Facilities
Our nonprofit facility design creates functional spaces for shelters, community centers, and religious institutions. We prioritize accessibility, safety, and cost-effectiveness while addressing specific program needs. This service includes needs assessment, space planning, and budget management to deliver facilities that support organizational missions and serve vulnerable populations effectively.
People
Craig Chaney
Principal Architect
Licensed architect with 30+ years of experience in diverse building typologies. Specializes in project management from concept through construction, ensuring alignment with client goals and regulatory requirements.
Jason Beagle
Principal Architect
20+ years of expertise in commercial and residential projects. Licensed since 2001, with technical proficiency in multiple construction methods and client-focused design solutions.
Rick Lentz
Owner Emeritus
Founder of MLA with 40+ years in architecture and planning. Established firm reputation for excellence in diverse project types before transitioning to retirement in 2025.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer?
We provide full-service architecture including design, planning, and construction documentation for commercial, residential, religious, and nonprofit projects across the United States.
How long has your firm been in business?
Merrick Lentz Architecture has been operating since 1985, with our founding principal establishing the firm that year after prior planning experience since 1971.
In which states are you licensed to work?
We hold architectural licenses in 12 states including Washington, Oregon, California, Texas, Florida, and other western states for nationwide project capabilities.
What project types do you specialize in?
Our expertise spans restaurants, retail spaces, religious buildings, nonprofit facilities, multi-family housing, medical offices, and commercial developments with customized solutions.
How do you approach client collaboration?
We prioritize understanding client needs through initial consultations, followed by iterative design reviews and transparent communication throughout the project lifecycle to ensure expectations are met.
