Business Details
32 Years
experience
Sustainable Architectural Design for Residential & Commercial Projects
Founded in 1994 by Valerie C. Simpson, our architectural firm brings over three decades of expertise in sustainable design for residential and commercial projects. Our team combines deep technical knowledge with a commitment to environmental stewardship, specializing in custom homes, community spaces, and ADA-compliant commercial facilities. With professional experience spanning California, Hawaii, and international projects in Italy and Austria, we integrate global insights with local materials like bamboo and native ohia wood.Our work emphasizes collaboration with clients and communities to create functional, eco-conscious spaces that harmonize with their surroundings. Recognized for innovation in sustainable practices, we maintain affiliations with the American Institute of Architects and the American Bamboo Society while continuing to expand our impact across the Pacific region.
Services
Residential Design
Commercial Architecture
Community Projects
Sustainable Building
ADA Improvements
Details
- Year established: 1994
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of architectural experience with international project exposure
- Our team specializes in sustainable building practices using local materials
- We maintain active community involvement in Hawaii's architectural development
- Our firm holds professional registrations in both California and Hawaii
- We combine global design perspectives with regional environmental expertise
Services
Residential Design
Creating tailored residential spaces that harmonize with Hawaii's natural environment. Our designs integrate sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems while maintaining aesthetic appeal. Specializing in coastal and forest locations, we ensure each home meets both client needs and ecological standards through collaborative design processes.
Commercial Architecture
Designing functional commercial spaces that prioritize accessibility and sustainability. Our services include retail centers, educational facilities, and ADA-compliant renovations. We focus on creating environments that enhance business operations while maintaining environmental responsibility through innovative material selection and energy-efficient systems.
Community Projects
Developing community-focused architectural solutions for schools and cultural venues. Our approach emphasizes local engagement and cultural preservation while implementing modern sustainable practices. We collaborate with community groups to create spaces that serve educational and artistic needs while maintaining environmental integrity.
Sustainable Building
Implementing eco-conscious construction methods using bamboo and native ohia wood. Our sustainable practices reduce environmental impact while maintaining structural integrity. We incorporate energy-efficient systems and locally sourced materials to create buildings that minimize ecological footprints across residential and commercial projects.
ADA Improvements
Ensuring commercial spaces meet Americans with Disabilities Act requirements. Our solutions balance compliance with aesthetic design while maintaining functionality. We specialize in creating accessible environments that accommodate diverse needs without compromising architectural vision or sustainability principles.
People
Valerie C. Simpson
Principal Architect
Licensed architect with 30+ years of experience in sustainable design. Founded the firm in 1994 after working internationally in Italy and Austria. Specializes in eco-friendly materials and community-focused projects while maintaining active involvement in Hawaii's architectural community.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialize in?
We specialize in sustainable residential and commercial design, community projects, ADA-compliant renovations, and utilizing eco-friendly materials like bamboo and native ohia wood.
Do you work outside Hawaii?
While based in Hilo, we serve clients across California and Hawaii, with project experience spanning coastal, forest, and urban environments in both states.
How do you incorporate sustainability into designs?
We use locally sourced bamboo and ohia wood, implement energy-efficient systems, and prioritize environmentally responsible construction methods while maintaining design integrity across all projects.
What community projects have you completed?
Recent projects include the Puala'a Hawaii Kua O Ka La Public Charter School expansion and Seaview Performance Art Center, both emphasizing cultural preservation and sustainable construction.
How long has your firm been operating?
Valerie C. Simpson Architect & Associates has provided architectural services since 1994, with professional experience dating back to 1982 through international and domestic projects.
