Business Details
30 Years
experience
Sustainable Architecture & Design in Portland, OR
Terraforma Architects is a Portland-based firm dedicated to creating sustainable, high-performance buildings that harmonize with the Pacific Northwest's natural environment. Founded in 1996, we specialize in custom residential, commercial, and institutional projects rooted in West Coast Modern traditions. Our approach blends post-and-beam construction with locally sourced materials to create spaces that connect occupants to the outdoors.With over 25 years of experience, we combine innovative design with personalized service, prioritizing environmental stewardship through LEED-certified practices and energy-efficient solutions. Our team collaborates closely with clients to transform ideas into functional, aesthetically striking spaces that age gracefully while maintaining strict adherence to budgets and timelines.
Services
Custom Residential Design
Sustainable Architecture
Interior Design
Master Planning
Commercial Development
LEED Certification Consulting
Post-and-Beam Construction
Environmental Site Planning
Details
- Year established: 1996
Highlights and features
- We offer 25+ years of experience in sustainable modern architecture.
- Our designs prioritize environmental stewardship through LEED-certified practices.
- We use locally sourced, non-toxic materials in all our projects.
- Our team provides personalized service for custom residential and commercial needs.
- We maintain strict budget and timeline adherence with transparent communication.
Associations and certifications
- LEED-H Platinum
What people say
Thrills us every time
On time and on budget
Great ideas and suggestions
Captured ocean views perfectly
Unmatched attention to detail
Services
Custom Residential Design
We create bespoke residential spaces tailored to clients' lifestyles and site-specific conditions. Our modern designs incorporate natural materials and energy-efficient systems while maintaining strong connections to outdoor environments. With expertise in navigating complex zoning regulations and environmental overlays, we deliver homes that balance aesthetic appeal with functional practicality.
Sustainable Architecture
Our sustainable design approach integrates environmentally responsible materials and energy-efficient technologies. We specialize in LEED-certified projects that minimize ecological impact while maximizing long-term value. From material selection to site planning, we ensure every decision supports environmental stewardship and client well-being.
Interior Design
We craft interior environments using non-toxic, locally sourced materials that reflect clients' personal tastes. Our designs emphasize natural light integration and seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces. We manage complete interior projects from concept development to final installation coordination.
Master Planning
We develop comprehensive plans for large-scale residential and commercial developments. Our expertise includes environmental impact assessments, zoning compliance, and infrastructure integration. We create cohesive, future-ready communities that balance density with green spaces while maintaining architectural harmony across multiple building types.
Commercial Development
We design commercial spaces that combine functionality with modern aesthetics. Our projects include restaurants, retail spaces, and office environments that prioritize user experience while meeting business operational needs. We incorporate sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems to reduce long-term operating costs.
People
Andrew Montgomery
Principal/Architect
With 25 years of experience, Andrew specializes in sustainable architecture and master planning. He has received industry recognition for innovative environmental design solutions and led one of the first LEED-H Platinum residential projects in the United States.
Dana Montgomery
Interior Designer
Dana brings 15 years of expertise in creating functional interior spaces using natural, sustainable materials. She focuses on personalized design solutions that reflect clients' lifestyles while maintaining strict attention to detail and project timelines.
Questions
What architectural styles do you specialize in?
We focus on West Coast Modern design principles with post-and-beam construction, emphasizing natural material integration and seamless indoor-outdoor connections.
Do you work on both residential and commercial projects?
Yes, we handle custom residential homes as well as commercial developments including restaurants, resorts, and mixed-use spaces.
How do you incorporate sustainability into your designs?
We use locally sourced materials, energy-efficient systems, and environmentally responsible construction methods while pursuing LEED certification for eligible projects.
Can you work with clients outside the Pacific Northwest?
We've successfully completed projects for out-of-state clients through remote collaboration using modern communication technologies and local contractor coordination.
What is your design process timeline?
Project timelines vary by scope but typically range from 6-12 months for design development, with clear milestones established during initial consultations.
Do you handle both design and construction oversight?
We provide full-service design and can coordinate with selected contractors to ensure design integrity throughout the construction process.
