Business Details
26 Years
experience
Sustainable Architecture Design Experts
Doerr Architecture is a full-service Colorado-based design firm dedicated to creating expressive, ecologically responsible buildings that harmonize with their environment and users' needs. Founded by Thomas Doerr in 2000, our practice combines over three decades of architectural expertise with a deep commitment to sustainable design principles. We specialize in passive solar design, net-zero energy homes, and historic renovations, leveraging advanced technologies like 3D modeling and energy-efficient systems to deliver cost-effective, durable solutions.Our team maintains direct client engagement throughout every project phase, ensuring personalized service and quality control while collaborating with trusted consultants to optimize structural, mechanical, and environmental performance. Recognized through professional awards and academic contributions, we provide comprehensive design services that balance ecological responsibility with aesthetic innovation, serving clients across residential, commercial, and institutional sectors.
Services
Residential Building Design
Commercial Building Design
Building Remodeling
Green Building Consulting
Historic Renovation
Computer-Aided Design
Furniture Design
Details
- Year established: 2000
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of experience in sustainable architectural design
- Our principal architect personally oversees every project from concept to completion
- Specialized expertise in passive solar and net-zero energy construction methods
- We maintain rigorous quality control through direct client collaboration
- Recognized contributors to green building standards and educational resources
Associations and certifications
- American Institute of Architects (AIA) Committee on the Environment
- Certified Green Points Architect
Services
Residential Building Design
Creating custom-designed homes that integrate passive solar principles and energy-efficient systems while reflecting client preferences. Our approach combines functional space optimization with ecological responsibility, using advanced 3D modeling to visualize solutions. Projects include new constructions and renovations that enhance property value through sustainable materials and construction methods that reduce long-term operating costs.
Green Building Consulting
Providing expert guidance on implementing eco-friendly construction practices and achieving energy efficiency goals. We help clients navigate green building standards while balancing budget constraints and regulatory requirements. Our consulting services include material selection, energy modeling, and certification support to ensure projects meet environmental performance benchmarks without compromising design integrity or functionality.
Historic Renovation
Preserving architectural heritage while modernizing structures for improved energy performance and contemporary living needs. Our approach maintains original design elements while integrating sustainable upgrades like insulation and passive solar features. We navigate complex approval processes to ensure historically sensitive renovations that enhance building longevity and environmental performance without sacrificing character.
Passive Solar Design
Specialized design approach that maximizes natural heating and cooling through strategic building orientation and material selection. We create structures that reduce energy consumption by 80-90% through optimized window placement, thermal mass integration, and natural ventilation systems. This approach combines technical precision with aesthetic considerations to create comfortable, visually appealing spaces that minimize environmental impact.
Net-Zero Energy Homes
Designing homes that produce as much energy as they consume through renewable sources. We combine ultra-efficient building envelopes with solar panel integration and energy-conscious systems to achieve net-zero status. These homes feature advanced insulation, high-performance windows, and smart energy management systems that eliminate utility bills while maintaining superior comfort and environmental responsibility.
People
Thomas Doerr
Founding Principal Architect
Licensed architect with 30+ years experience, Thomas holds a Master of Architecture from UC Berkeley and has taught at University of Colorado and Naropa University. He authored the Green Architecture Checklist, created educational resources on passive solar design, and served as AIA Colorado's Committee on the Environment chair.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialize in?
We specialize in residential and commercial building design, historic renovations, passive solar design, net-zero energy homes, and green building consulting.
How does sustainable design benefit homeowners?
Our sustainable designs reduce energy costs by up to 80%, improve indoor air quality, and create healthier living environments while minimizing environmental impact.
Can you work on projects outside Colorado?
Yes, we've successfully completed projects in multiple states and countries while maintaining competitive rates and direct client communication.
What makes your firm different from contractors?
We provide specialized design expertise and construction oversight that ensures quality control, competitive bidding, and adherence to your specifications.
How are design fees structured?
New home projects typically range from 5-10% of construction costs, while remodels are billed on a time-and-material basis with transparent pricing.
