Hello.
As architects, designers, and human beings, we believe that the best design starts by understanding--and caring about--what matters to our clients. We listen. We learn. We welcome you into the creative process. The result is more than we could have imagined alone. And it’s more fun, too.
Drop us a line if you are considering a project and you would like to receive a copy of Part 1 of our insider’s guide to the design and construction process.
Experts and students
We bring experience to each project that is broad and deep. At the same time, we are experts at asking the right questions. Rather than limiting ourselves to a particular style, we approach each project with open minds, a fresh eye, and avid curiosity. In the end, our projects look different because our clients are different.
Close collaboration at any distance
Having a hard time finding a local design firm that’s just right for you? Thanks to new technologies, we are bringing our interactive, hands-on approach to a variety of projects across the United States. From new homes to remodels, from theaters to churches, from Michigan to California, Montana and Washington, we work on great projects (with great people!) wherever they may be.
Featured Projects
Tree House
Inspired by the hillside site and the owners’ childhood memories, this family home was designed to feel like a walk in the woods.
Queen Anne House
This Tudor Revival home was the dream of a local Seattle artist with a vision of creating a space for family.
Union Bay Residence
This waterfront Seattle residence is both a practical family home and an elegant oasis of space and light.
Your guides to great design
Part of our job is to help clients navigate the building process. First, we’ll lay out a project plan to fit your scope, schedule and budget. Next, we’ll give you the tools and skills to feel comfortable being a true partner in design. Throughout the process, we’ll help tackle obstacles and identify opportunities to create something really special. Below is a link to some thoughts and questions that often come up. Consider it a first step and call anytime to continue the conversation.
A few kind words.
“Working with DeForest Architects to design our home was a fantastic creative collaboration. We always felt that John and his team were working shoulder to shoulder with us — by turns acting as a teachers, serving as guides to our imagination, and working as remarkably creative architects — to help us imagine and design the home that we envisioned.”
— David M.
“DeForest Architects delivered extraordinarily high-quality work and made the design process enjoyable from start to finish. They took the time to learn about our family and how we live. They got to know our home, what we liked and what we wanted to change. Their ability to be creative and to bring insightful ideas to be considered was impressive. They were well-organized and attentive and their involvement throughout construction ensured accountability to deadlines and to quality work.”
— Brad M.
“When my husband and I decided to build our new home on Lake Michigan, we fell in love with a house designed by DeForest Architects that we saw on Houzz. Needless to say we hired them and what an amazing experience! They not only urged us to think out of the box but to also zero down on our thoughts, feelings, wants and needs. It was a fun, exciting, and rewarding endeavor. Distance was not a material issue in terms of cost or the superb quality architecture and design.”
— Nancy P.
Design in real time.
Follow along for insight and inspiration.
What’s next for you?
