Business Details
38 Years
experience
Your Trusted Architects for Sustainable Community Design
MWA Architects is a West Coast-based firm dedicated to creating architecture that serves the essential needs of communities through innovative, thoughtful, and respectful design. Founded on principles of equity, sustainability, and social responsibility, we approach each project with a holistic vision, ensuring our work fosters positive, lasting impacts. Our team prioritizes racial and socio-economic equity by designing spaces that promote healthier, happier lives for all individuals. We specialize in affordable housing, public infrastructure, and interior environments, with a legacy of sustainable architecture that responds to site contexts and supports community growth. As signatories of the 2030 Commitment, we actively reduce greenhouse gas emissions in construction and building operations.Our Just Certification underscores our commitment to transparency, equity, and socially just practices, with a diverse team comprising over 70% minorities and/or women. We advocate for minority- and women-owned business partnerships, utilizing 20-30% such consultants on every project. Our work spans decades, reflecting a deep understanding of cultural, environmental, and functional needs. From housing stability to infrastructure modernization, we deliver design excellence that balances cost-efficiency with enduring value. Rooted in our values of community, creativity, and responsibility, we strive to create a society where all benefit from beautiful, healthy architecture.
Services
Affordable Housing Design
Public Infrastructure Architecture
Interior Environment Design
Sustainable Building Solutions
Community-Centric Development
Details
- Year established: 1988
Highlights and features
- We have decades of experience in affordable housing and public infrastructure design.
- Our designs prioritize sustainability and community impact through the 2030 Commitment.
- We hold Just Certification for equitable workplace practices and social responsibility.
- Our team includes 51% minority- and women-owned leadership with DBE certification.
- We utilize 20-30% minority- and women-owned consultants on every project.
Associations and certifications
- Just Certification
- AIA Oregon
Services
Affordable Housing Design
We specialize in designing affordable, income-restricted, and senior housing that addresses community needs. Our approach balances cost-efficiency with durable, culturally responsive architecture to promote housing stability and social equity. Projects include family-centric developments and permanent supportive housing.
Public Infrastructure Architecture
Our expertise spans water treatment facilities, transportation hubs, and civic buildings. We create functional, modern infrastructure that prioritizes operational efficiency, public engagement, and environmental sustainability. Projects integrate seismic upgrades and public art for lasting community value.
Interior Environment Design
We craft safe, healthy interior environments focused on wellness and human-centered design. Our work includes renovations and new builds for healthcare facilities, laboratories, and community spaces, emphasizing comfort and sustainability.
Sustainable Building Solutions
We reduce environmental impact through energy-efficient designs aligned with the 2030 Commitment. Our strategies include renewable materials, carbon footprint reduction, and certifications like Just 2.0 to ensure long-term ecological and social responsibility.
Community-Centric Development
We advocate for inclusive design that addresses racial and socio-economic equity. By collaborating with diverse stakeholders, we create spaces that foster connection, accessibility, and cultural relevance, ensuring benefits for all community members.
People
Bill Lanning
Principal
Bill Lanning leads MWA's architectural vision, focusing on sustainable design and community impact. With decades of experience, he champions equitable solutions for housing and infrastructure projects across the West Coast.
Greg Robley
Principal | Director of Water and Infrastructure
Greg Robley specializes in public infrastructure, directing complex water and transportation projects. His expertise ensures functional, resilient systems that meet community needs while prioritizing environmental stewardship.
Jean von Bargen Root
Principal | Director of Sustainability
Jean von Bargen Root leads sustainability initiatives at MWA, aligning projects with the 2030 Commitment. As a certified Just practitioner, she advances equitable policies and eco-conscious design practices across all projects.
Taryn Wheeler
Director of Portland Housing | Senior Associate
Taryn Wheeler oversees Portland housing projects, focusing on affordable and supportive developments. Her work emphasizes design excellence and social equity, ensuring housing solutions that uplift vulnerable populations.
Isaac Johnson
Architect | Senior Project Manager
Isaac Johnson manages architectural projects with a focus on community engagement and technical precision. His leadership ensures designs meet functional, aesthetic, and sustainability goals for diverse clients.
Questions
What types of projects does MWA Architects specialize in?
We specialize in affordable housing, public infrastructure, and interior environments, prioritizing sustainability and community impact.
Is MWA Architects committed to sustainable design?
Yes, we are signatories of the 2030 Commitment and integrate green practices to reduce carbon footprints in all projects.
Does MWA Architects support diversity and equity?
Yes, we are a certified Disadvantaged Business Enterprise with 51% minority- and women-ownership, advocating for inclusive partnerships.
How does MWA Architects engage communities?
We collaborate with diverse stakeholders to ensure designs reflect cultural, environmental, and functional needs of local populations.
What certifications does MWA Architects hold?
We hold Just Certification for equitable practices and are affiliated with AIA Oregon for professional architectural standards.
