About
After more than forty years combined in the design and construction industry, we set out to do things differently. Building or renovating a home shouldn’t be overwhelming — it should be exciting. With our experience, we know how to simplify decisions, anticipate the right questions, and guide you through every step with confidence. Our goal is to make the process clear, educational, and enjoyable. As your trusted partner, we provide straightforward drawings, helpful guides, and practical resources that empower you to make choices confidently. By removing the mystery and uncertainty that often come with construction projects, we become your advocate — ensuring your vision is realized.
Mary Seed
Principal - Architect
Born and raised in Massachusetts, Mary received her Bachelor of Architecture from Syracuse University in 2005 which included a semester abroad in Florence, Italy. Upon graduating she moved to sunny Santa Monica where she spent the next 8 years at two award-winning residential firms working on custom homes throughout California. Trading the sunshine and traffic for clouds and bike commuting, she moved to Portland in 2013 and fell in love with the tree-lined neighborhoods. Since then, she's worked on a variety of commercial and residential projects in Oregon, Washington, and Montana, including buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Her love for technology and efficiency make her an expert problem solver, and she once completed the New York Times Mini Crossword in thirteen seconds. Mary lives in Portland with her husband and daughter. She is a registered architect in the state of Oregon.
Justin Smith
Principal - Project Manager
Born and raised in Colorado, Justin later spent a formative decade in Montana where he received a Master of Architecture degree from Montana State University in 2005. Immediately upon graduating, he began working on some of the region's iconic homes as part of a design-build firm founded by his thesis mentor at MSU. Spending a few years doing construction on complex projects greatly influenced his approach to design and architecture and he subsequently continued his education to become a Master Woodworker and Furnituremaker. This inspired Justin to found Louis + Jig, a bespoke furniture company in Portland, Oregon. An adventurer at heart, Justin has lived off a bicycle for months at a time, traveling from the Arctic Ocean in Alaska to Costa Rica. He has scaled some of the world's most iconic mountains, and skied or biked till his legs gave out. Justin's familiarity with construction practices, attention to detail, and nose-to-the-grindstone work ethic instill confidence in whomever he works with. He lives in SE Portland with his partner and dog.