Business Details
34 Years
experience
Sustainable Architecture & Design Solutions in Seattle
Living Shelter Architects has been a leader in sustainable design for three decades, founded in 1992 by Terry Phelan. Our firm specializes in creating environmentally conscious architecture that prioritizes energy efficiency, reclaimed materials, and innovative assemblies. In 2022, we joined forces with Seattle-based Board & Vellum to expand our capacity for deeply sustainable projects, sharing expertise in passive solar design, adaptive reuse, and net-positive construction.Our team holds prestigious accreditations including LEED, LFA, and CPHC, ensuring rigorous standards in every project. With Terry Phelans mentorship until 2024, we continue advancing approachable sustainability through architecture, interiors, and landscape design. Our portfolio demonstrates measurable outcomes like zero energy bills and carbon-neutral solutions, reflecting our commitment to responsible design for people and planet.
Services
Sustainable Architecture
Adaptive Reuse
Passive Solar Design
Net Positive Homes
Carbon Neutral DADUs
Details
- Year established: 1992
Highlights and features
- We offer 30 years of pioneering experience in sustainable architecture.
- Our team includes LEED, LFA, and CPHC accredited professionals.
- We specialize in net-positive energy homes with zero energy bills.
- We prioritize reclaimed materials and innovative, health-conscious assemblies.
- Our designs integrate passive solar principles and adaptive reuse strategies.
Associations and certifications
- LEED
- LFA
- CPHC
Services
Sustainable Architecture
We create energy-efficient buildings using reclaimed materials and innovative assemblies. Our approach reduces environmental impact while ensuring long-term cost savings for clients. Projects include net-positive homes and carbon-neutral DADUs.
Passive Solar Design
Our passive solar designs maximize natural light and thermal efficiency. By aligning structures with solar patterns, we eliminate reliance on artificial heating and cooling systems, reducing energy bills.
Adaptive Reuse
We transform existing structures into modern, sustainable spaces. This approach preserves architectural heritage while integrating energy-efficient systems and materials for updated functionality.
People
Terry Phelan
Founder
Terry Phelan founded Living Shelter Architects in 1992 and led the firm as a pioneer in sustainable design for 30 years before mentoring Board & Vellum's team.
Questions
What services does Living Shelter Architects offer?
We provide sustainable architecture, passive solar design, adaptive reuse, net-positive energy homes, and carbon-neutral DADU solutions tailored to eco-conscious clients.
How does the firm approach sustainability?
We prioritize LEED-certified practices, reclaimed materials, energy-efficient systems, and innovative assemblies to minimize environmental impact while maximizing long-term savings.
What makes your projects unique?
Our designs combine health-conscious spaces with measurable outcomes like zero energy bills and carbon neutrality, backed by 30 years of specialized expertise.
Are you affiliated with Board & Vellum?
Yes, we merged with Board & Vellum in 2022 to expand our capacity for sustainable projects while maintaining our core values and leadership.
What accreditations do your team hold?
Our team includes LEED Accredited Professionals, Living Future Accredited (LFA) experts, and Certified Passive House Consultants (CPHC).
