Business Details
15 Years
experience
Award-Winning Architectural Design in Seattle
Best Practice is a design-intensive architecture firm founded in 2011, based in Seattle. Our practice balances original, playful elements with functionality, believing that space design can catalyze creativity. With a small, nimble team spanning multiple project types, we deliver fresh, atypical solutions rooted in collaboration and innovation. Our work has earned recognition, including being named among Seattle's 25 Best Architecture Firms and receiving AIA Honor Awards. We champion good ideas from any source, fostering a studio culture that prioritizes creativity over rigid aesthetics.Our team of seven architects and designers brings diverse expertise to residential, commercial, and cultural projects across the Pacific Northwest. We emphasize sustainability, social justice, and local collaboration, achieving the JUST label for organizational transparency and equity. Our process integrates client vision with technical rigor, from feasibility studies to construction administration. With over a decade of experience, we combine formal architectural excellence with a relaxed, human-centric approach to design.
Services
Architectural Design
Residential Projects
Commercial Projects
Interior Design
Construction Administration
Details
- Year established: 2011
Highlights and features
- We've earned recognition as one of Seattle's 25 Best Architecture Firms since 2011
- Our collaborative process integrates client vision with technical expertise
- We handle diverse project types from residential to large-scale commercial developments
- We maintain a JUST label commitment to social justice and organizational transparency
- Our team includes AIA award-winning architects with teaching experience at top institutions
Associations and certifications
- Just Label
Services
Architectural Design
Our architectural design service creates innovative spaces balancing creativity with functionality. We specialize in custom solutions for residential, commercial, and cultural projects across the Pacific Northwest. Our process emphasizes collaboration, sustainability, and context-sensitive design.
Residential Projects
We design distinctive residential spaces including new constructions, remodels, and accessory dwellings. Our approach prioritizes livability, sustainability, and aesthetic innovation while respecting Seattle's architectural character and zoning requirements.
Commercial Projects
Our commercial architecture services create functional, inspiring spaces for restaurants, offices, and retail environments. We combine brand identity with practical considerations to deliver spaces that enhance business operations and customer experiences.
Interior Design
We offer interior design solutions that complement architectural elements while optimizing functionality. Our services include material selection, lighting design, and spatial organization tailored to both residential and commercial contexts.
Construction Administration
Our construction administration ensures design integrity throughout implementation. We provide site visits, contractor coordination, and technical support to maintain quality standards and adherence to project specifications.
People
Ian Butcher
Founding Partner
Ian Butcher, AIA, founded Best Practice after teaching at Cornish College. He holds a Master of Architecture from UW and specializes in blending creative design with practical solutions for diverse project types.
Kailin Gregga
Creative Lead
Kailin Gregga, AIA, LEED AP, serves as creative lead with expertise in architectural representation. They hold a Master of Architecture from Parsons and teach at UW, bringing innovative design approaches to the studio.
Kip Katich
Partner
Kip Katich, AIA, LEED AP, contributes extensive experience from New York and international projects. With a Master of Architecture from Parsons, he focuses on technical excellence and sustainable design solutions.
Sarah Elaine Smith
Principal
Sarah Elaine Smith, RA, brings expertise from Yale and Olson Kundig. She specializes in design leadership and manages complex projects, combining academic rigor with practical construction knowledge.
Emily Hamren
Associate
Emily Hamren, with a BArch from Cal Poly, contributes design skills developed through international experience at Behnisch Architekten. She focuses on material innovation and detailing in residential and commercial projects.
Questions
What architectural services does Best Practice offer?
We provide full-service architectural design including feasibility studies, permitting, construction documents, and on-site administration. Our services also include interior design and hardscape design for residential and commercial projects.
How does Best Practice approach the design process?
Our collaborative process begins with feasibility studies, followed by design options, material selection, and construction documentation. We use 3D models and diagrams to communicate design intent while maintaining client involvement.
What project types does Best Practice handle?
We work on residential (additions, remodels, new construction), commercial (restaurants, offices), and cultural projects. Our diverse portfolio includes award-winning work in Seattle and the Pacific Northwest.
How are architectural fees structured?
We charge hourly rates based on team roles, with potential fixed fees for larger projects. Our fees typically range from 15% of construction costs for architectural services, plus consultant and permitting expenses.
Does Best Practice help with contractor selection?
Yes, we assist in finding and evaluating contractors, leveraging relationships with local builders. We can also work with clients' preferred contractors to ensure project requirements are met.
What areas does Best Practice serve?
While based in Seattle, we work throughout the Pacific Northwest. Our projects span Washington state, with occasional work in other regions through remote collaboration capabilities.
