Business Details
39 Years
experience
Your Trusted Architectural Partner in Seattle
Founded in 1987 by Stevan Johnson, Johnson Oaklief Architecture Planning (JOAP) has established itself as a leader in architectural design and planning. Our firm specializes in creating sustainable, functional spaces that enhance communities through expertise in feasibility analysis, educational and civic design, medical facilities, multifamily residences, and historic preservation. With decades of combined experience, our team prioritizes imaginative, cost-effective solutions that meet rigorous design standards while exceeding client expectations.We maintain strong relationships with local agencies and emphasize LEED-certified projects, ensuring compliance with evolving environmental regulations. Our work spans diverse sectors, including commercial, residential, and institutional projects, reflecting our commitment to delivering lasting value through thoughtful design.
Services
Architecture
Master Planning
Feasibility Analysis
LEED Development
Historic Landmarks
Community Engagement
Site Analysis
Phasing Strategies
Details
- Year established: 1987
Highlights and features
- We have over 35 years of experience in architectural design and urban planning.
- Our portfolio includes LEED-certified projects and historic preservation expertise.
- We prioritize client collaboration and community-centric design solutions.
- Our team has completed complex projects for institutions like Amgen and Washington State community colleges.
- We maintain strong relationships with local regulatory agencies in the Pacific Northwest.
Services
Architectural Design
We create innovative architectural solutions for residential, commercial, and institutional projects. Our designs balance aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability while meeting strict budget requirements. With expertise in Type V to Type 1A construction, we deliver code-compliant structures that enhance community value through thoughtful spatial planning and material selection.
Master Planning
Our master planning services focus on long-term urban development strategies. We conduct comprehensive site analyses and feasibility studies to create adaptable plans for mixed-use developments, transportation hubs, and public spaces. Our approach integrates climate resilience and accessibility considerations while aligning with municipal regulations and community needs.
Historic Preservation
We specialize in preserving historically designated landmarks through meticulous restoration and adaptive reuse strategies. Our team combines modern functionality with period-appropriate design elements while maintaining compliance with preservation standards. Recent projects include Seattle's Odd Fellows Hall and Saint Edward Seminary renovations.
LEED Certification
We guide clients through achieving LEED certification for sustainable building projects. Our expertise includes energy-efficient design, material selection, and documentation for certification. We've completed numerous LEED-certified projects for public facilities and corporate headquarters, ensuring environmental compliance without compromising design integrity.
Community Engagement
Our community engagement process involves collaborative workshops and public meetings to gather stakeholder input. We facilitate design charrettes and create visualization tools to help communities understand project impacts. This approach has successfully supported complex projects like the Seattle Waterfront redevelopment and various public facility upgrades.
People
Steve Johnson
Principal Architect
Founded the firm in 1987 after 14 years at Environmental Works. Recognized nationally for landmark architecture and affordable housing design. Served on Seattle Design Commission and led waterfront redevelopment efforts.
Jeff Oaklief
Principal Architect
Named principal in 2017 with 40+ years of architectural experience. Specializes in complex project coordination and management. Expert in construction types ranging from Type V to Type 1A. Active in Pacific Northwest sailing community.
Blake Williams
Senior Architect
15+ years of architectural experience focusing on human-centered environments. Manages medical, multifamily, and campus projects. Passionate about sustainable design and automotive racing.
Jennifer Harris
Architectural Designer
DeafSpace consultant with expertise in interiors and BIM modeling. Background in Kentucky, New York, and Connecticut projects. Accomplished multimedia artist and advocate for accessible design.
Vivianne Kim
Architectural Designer
Specializes in single-family and civic design with focus on sustainable solutions. Brings Hawaiian design principles to Pacific Northwest projects. Enthusiastic about hands-on construction and detail-oriented design.
Questions
What types of projects does Johnson Oaklief Architecture and Planning specialize in?
We specialize in multifamily residences, medical facilities, historic preservation, urban planning, and LEED-certified commercial projects across the Pacific Northwest.
How long has Johnson Oaklief Architecture and Planning been in business?
Our firm has been operating since 1987, with principals Steve Johnson and Jeff Oaklief bringing over 75 combined years of architectural experience.
Do you work on historic building renovations?
Yes, we have extensive experience with historically designated landmarks, including Seattle's Odd Fellows Hall and Queen Anne High School.
What geographic areas do you serve?
We primarily serve the Puget Sound region and greater Northwest, including Seattle, Tacoma, Everett, and Bellingham.
Can you handle complex, phased construction projects?
Our team specializes in intricate phasing and scheduling for projects ranging from mixed-use developments to large-scale campus planning.
