about the firm
a/A architecture is a Portland-based architecture firm with a focus on healthy and higher-performance design. We advocate for a reduction in project scope to invest resources into intentional design, healthy materials, conscious building practices, and durable construction. We believe in less over more, quality over quantity, and rightsizing over upsizing. Acknowledging that not all spaces are designed and built to be equal means we find inherent value in investing in quality space first, before investing to increase it. This mindset has led a/A to design and finance the Catlin Keets Case Study; a pair of apartment-style townhomes intended to showcase what better buildings looks like, including:
occupant health
- maintaining healthy indoor air quality
- providing access to fresh air
- controlling humidity to avoid fungal & bacterial growth
- avoiding the use of off-gassing chemicals
- controlling the accumulation of dust & allergens
- use time testing building practices
ecological impacts
- sourcing local and sustainable harvested materials
- carbon sequestering building assemblies
- lower embodied energy & carbon
- reduced pollution during manufacturing & construction
- building into the circular economy
- eliminating toxic stormwater runoff
- reduced water usage
building durability
- material & building systems longevity
- performance increases
- resilience to fire, wind-driven rain, rodents & pests
- prevention of water & moisture intrusion
- less frequent maintenance or repairs
Smaller spaces have additional advantages. All else being equal, there is less to clean, less to maintain, less to condition, and less to furnish altogether; meaning less time, less money, and fewer resources spent on keeping your interior environment healthy and comfortable. These savings translate to a higher percentage of your construction budget being available to selecting better finishes, sourcing materials equitably, and investing in craft. Building smaller enables building better.
What 'smaller' means will be different for every individual, household, and situation. There is no one-size home that meets everyone's needs. When thinking of what size house space may be needed to meet yours, consider; what are the most important spaces for you and your family? Where will space provide the greatest value based on your habits, hobbies, and lifestyle? What less important spaces can be reduced, combined, or may not be needed altogether?
Quality materials and construction are investments that the homeowner must choose to prioritize. You don’t need a huge budget to build a sustainable, well-crafted home, but you do need careful planning and a design team that is committed to your vision while helping to define a project scope that is realistic in terms of what can be accomplished well.
