Business Details
11 Years
experience
Residential & Commercial Architectural Design Services in Boise
At Northridge Architecture, we specialize in crafting spaces that harmonize visionary design with meticulous attention to detail. Founded in 2015, our firm brings a wealth of experience in both residential and commercial architectural design, rooted in a philosophy of listening to client needs and translating them into functional, aesthetically compelling environments. Our team, led by Principal Architect Kristen Colter, AIA and LEED BD+C certified, combines technical expertise with creative problem-solving to deliver projects that exceed expectations. From small-scale renovations to large master plans, we prioritize sustainable practices, code compliance, and innovative spatial organization.Our work spans diverse sectors including education, multifamily housing, and historical preservation, reflecting our adaptability and commitment to quality. With a focus on client collaboration, we ensure every project aligns with the user's lifestyle, business goals, and environmental context. Our portfolio demonstrates a track record of transforming challenges into opportunities, whether through adaptive reuse of existing structures or designing spaces that evolve with their occupants. We take pride in creating enduring value for clients while contributing positively to communities and the built environment.
Services
Architectural Design
Residential Projects
Commercial Projects
Educational Facilities
Master Planning
Details
- Year established: 2015
Highlights and features
- We offer 15+ years of architectural experience across residential, commercial, and educational sectors.
- Our team holds AIA and LEED certifications for sustainable design excellence.
- We implement a client-centric design process focused on functional, personalized spaces.
- Our expertise spans historical renovations to modern new constructions.
- We maintain deep local knowledge of Boise and Idaho building codes and climate considerations.
Associations and certifications
- AIA
- LEED BD+C
Services
Architectural Design
Northridge Architecture creates tailored residential and commercial designs that balance aesthetic vision with functional requirements. Our process begins with understanding client needs, followed by schematic planning, code analysis, and material selection. We specialize in translating complex spatial challenges into intuitive, enduring solutions for both new constructions and renovations.
Residential Projects
We design homes that reflect personal lifestyles while maximizing environmental advantages. Services include custom floor plans, exterior detailing, and interior finishes selection. Our expertise covers new constructions, additions, and renovations with attention to climate-specific materials and energy-efficient building envelopes as demonstrated in the Buchanan Cabin and Berry Residence projects.
Commercial Projects
Our commercial design services encompass tenant improvements, historical renovations, and new constructions. We focus on creating functional spaces that align with business operations while meeting code requirements. Projects include office layouts, retail spaces, and institutional facilities with integrated technology infrastructure and sustainable design elements.
Educational Facilities
We design learning environments that support modern pedagogical approaches through flexible spatial organization. Our services include classroom additions, library renovations, and campus master planning. We prioritize accessibility, safety, and adaptable layouts that accommodate evolving educational needs while maintaining aesthetic cohesion with existing structures.
Master Planning
Our master planning services create comprehensive development strategies for multi-phase projects. We analyze site conditions, program requirements, and environmental factors to develop phased implementation plans. This includes circulation patterns, building placement, and infrastructure coordination as demonstrated in the Nomads Landing Winery and Bishop Kelly High School 2020 Plan projects.
People
Kristen Colter
Founder, Principal Architect
AIA and LEED BD+C certified architect with 15+ years of experience in residential and commercial design. Specializes in sustainable practices and code-compliant renovations. Holds degrees in Architecture and Interior Architecture from University of Oregon.
Questions
What architectural services does Northridge Architecture offer?
We provide residential and commercial design services including new construction, renovations, tenant improvements, and master planning for educational facilities and multifamily housing.
Do you work on historical building renovations?
Yes, we specialize in historical renovations while maintaining code compliance and modern functionality, as demonstrated in the Boise City National Bank Building project.
Can you handle both small and large-scale projects?
We manage projects of all sizes from bathroom remodels to campus master plans, adapting our approach to each project's unique requirements.
Are you experienced with sustainable design practices?
Our founder holds LEED BD+C certification and incorporates sustainable strategies in projects like the Nomads Landing Winery gravity flow system.
Do you work outside Idaho?
While based in Boise, we've completed projects in Washington state including the Steiner Residence and Nomads Landing Winery in Manson.
Reviews (3)
Ronda Albrich
Sep 15, 2021
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Kristen has been amazing. She has responded to emails and phone calls so quickly and kindly. She is easy to work with and her quality of work is amazing. I had called several other architects prior to having the pleasure of finding her in a google search and I'm so glad I did. Her pricing is great while giving superb service. You won't regret choosing Northridge Architecture. Small business owners trying to get up and going can be a nightmare and Kristen made this step easy.
Chicago Connection
Nov 11, 2019
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We ave enjoyed working Kristen over the past decade on a number of commercial projects. She has been responsive, flexible in her approach to finding solutions, and above all creative. She's a true professional.
Colleen Braga
Oct 29, 2019
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I have worked with Northridge Architecture on two projects with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Ada County - both of which turned out amazing!! Kristen Colter is a talented architect and was involved closely from start to finish on both projects. She was great to work with and always made sure we were happy with how the projects were progressing. Her work on our Garden City Clubhouse renovation/expansion was fantastic, earning the project an award from the Idaho Business Review as a Top Project!! I highly recommend this company!
