Business Details
Expert Sustainable Residential Architecture in Seattle
Located in Seattle's Ballard neighborhood, Whitney Architecture is a small independent firm serving the Pacific Northwest. Our four-person team combines extensive architectural expertise with a commitment to client collaboration. We believe exceptional design emerges from authentic partnerships, embracing client insights to transform aspirations into functional spaces. Specializing in sustainable residential architecture, we prioritize longevity, functionality, and budget-conscious solutions. Our Certified Passive House Consultants lead energy-efficient design innovations, including super-insulated envelopes and heat-recovery ventilation systems.With projects spanning modern eco-villages to historic renovations, we maintain quality through all phases from concept to construction. Our process emphasizes iterative design phases that adapt to project needs while maintaining strict code compliance. Sustainability principles guide every decision, integrating Built Green and LEED standards into residential projects. We serve diverse neighborhoods including Queen Anne, Bellevue, and Mercer Island, balancing modern aesthetics with environmental responsibility. Client relationships remain central to our practice, ensuring personalized attention throughout each project lifecycle.
Services
Residential Architecture
Passive House Design
Sustainable Construction
Permit Documentation
Energy Efficiency Consulting
Highlights and features
- Our team includes Certified Passive House Consultants with specialized energy efficiency expertise
- We maintain quality through all project phases from initial concept to construction completion
- Sustainability principles guide every design decision across residential and renovation projects
- Client collaboration remains central to our iterative, needs-driven design process
- We balance modern aesthetics with environmental responsibility in Pacific Northwest climates
Associations and certifications
- Passive House Institute US
- Built Green
- LEED
Services
Residential Architecture
Whitney Architecture creates custom residential designs that balance aesthetic vision with practical functionality. Our team guides clients through zoning regulations and building codes while prioritizing energy efficiency. We specialize in transforming living spaces through modern solutions that adapt to Pacific Northwest climates.
Passive House Design
Our Certified Passive House Consultants implement ultra-efficient building standards that reduce heating consumption by 90%. We integrate super-insulated envelopes, heat-recovery ventilation, and passive solar strategies to create comfortable, sustainable homes that meet international energy performance benchmarks.
Sustainable Construction
We incorporate LEED and Built Green principles into all projects, focusing on environmentally responsible materials and construction methods. Our approach minimizes environmental impact while maximizing long-term energy savings through advanced insulation techniques and thermal bridging reduction strategies.
Permit Documentation
Our firm prepares comprehensive permit documentation that meets local zoning requirements and building codes. We handle the technical specifications and regulatory submissions necessary for project approval, ensuring smooth transitions from design to construction phases.
Energy Efficiency Consulting
We provide expert guidance on implementing energy-saving features like airtight construction and high-performance windows. Our consultants help clients understand cost-effective solutions for reducing energy consumption while maintaining comfort and design integrity in residential projects.
People
Paul Whitney
Principal
With decades of architectural experience, Paul leads Whitney Architecture's design vision. He specializes in translating client aspirations into innovative residential solutions while maintaining strict sustainability standards across all projects.
Amy Kastelin
Office Manager
Amy ensures operational efficiency while maintaining client communication. Her organizational expertise supports the firm's workflow, enabling seamless project coordination between architects, consultants, and construction teams.
Leslie Lane
Project Architect
As a Certified Passive House Consultant, Leslie specializes in energy-efficient design solutions. She leads technical implementation of sustainability standards while ensuring practical functionality in residential architecture projects.
Mirta Villaran
Project Architect
Mirta brings technical expertise to residential design challenges. Her focus on material selection and construction detailing contributes to the firm's commitment to durable, low-maintenance living spaces that meet modern sustainability expectations.
Questions
What architectural styles do you specialize in?
We work without stylistic preconceptions, focusing on functional solutions tailored to client needs and site conditions while incorporating sustainable design principles.
Do you handle both design and construction documentation?
Yes, we provide full-service architecture including initial concept design, permit documentation, and construction phase support for residential projects.
What is Passive House certification?
Passive House is an international energy efficiency standard achieving 90% heating reduction through super-insulation, airtight construction, and heat recovery systems implemented by our certified consultants.
How do you involve clients in the design process?
Client participation is integral throughout all phases. We maintain collaborative workshops during preliminary design and regular consultations during development to incorporate client insights.
What sustainability standards do you follow?
Our projects integrate Passive House, LEED, and Built Green standards, focusing on energy efficiency, environmentally responsible materials, and climate-adapted design solutions.
Where do you operate?
While based in Seattle's Ballard neighborhood, we serve residential clients across the Pacific Northwest including Seattle neighborhoods, Bellevue, and Mercer Island.
